8 or 12 speed on the M7060

[PoTreeBoy]

You've owned and operated both and all you can say is what is completely obvious. Was the 8-speed a problem mowing the same parcel compared to the 12 speed? Did you often have to stop and change range with the 8-speed but didn't with the 12-speed? Mowing is a low bar in terms of these machines so you couldn't stay in high range with the 8-speed and four forward gears weren't enough?

I think creep option is absolutely relevant but you're entitled to your opinion as I am to mine.

I've run an eight speed M7040 hydraulic shuttle some, mowing pasture and moving round bales mostly.
As for 8 vs 12, I don't think it's going to change your range shifting. Aren't the six speeds spread over the same MPH as the four? More speeds would allow you to maintain engine/PTO speed, but I think the cutter still cuts fine at 350 or so, and this size tractor has plenty of torque for a 7' cutter. If you were baling hay, that may be different. Eight sure beats the 3 I started on!
With that said, if I were buying new I'd check out the 12 speed. But if a good used 8 speed showed up, I'd give it a good look too. Kinda depends what you'll be using it for.
Are all the creep gears slower than low range? If so, tilling is about all I could see it being used for.

 

[SDT]

I've run an eight speed M7040 hydraulic shuttle some, mowing pasture and moving round bales mostly.
As for 8 vs 12, I don't think it's going to change your range shifting. Aren't the six speeds spread over the same MPH as the four? More speeds would allow you to maintain engine/PTO speed, but I think the cutter still cuts fine at 350 or so, and this size tractor has plenty of torque for a 7' cutter. If you were baling hay, that may be different. Eight sure beats the 3 I started on!
With that said, if I were buying new I'd check out the 12 speed. But if a good used 8 speed showed up, I'd give it a good look too. Kinda depends what you'll be using it for.
Are all the creep gears slower than low range? If so, tilling is about all I could see it being used for.

Creep speeds are useful for certain implements, e.g., transplanters, etc., but are not intended for high power tractive loads.

 

[mcmxi]

Are all the creep gears slower than low range? If so, tilling is about all I could see it being used for.

From the M6060/7060 owner's manual.