HP required for offset flail mower, and radio install?

[Ry_Chonder1862]

We just got an MX5400 (used to live in Santa Cruz, but now Nashville on 20 acres). You're gonna want more HP. The bigger tires on the MX vs the L4802 and the marginal cost difference made me step up. I also like how the gear shifter is setup.

I have the Novatractor BCRM175 hydraulic articulating flail (sometimes referred to as a ditch bank mower). Its the best of the cheaper ones, otherwise get a Del Morino or Peruzzo, but that's $3300 vs. over $8k.

The MX does drive like a Cadillac! We got an Eterra hydraulic auger and a root grapple as well. Good luck!

 

[stgarrity]

I’ve driven a couple of neighbors’ L3201s and L3901s and had no stability problems, but trying to find an MX to drive!

 

[PoTreeBoy]

Most all my points have been made. But if you buy an L, buy used. That way, when you come to your senses and decide to buy the MX, you can get your money back !

Keep your eyes open for a good used machine. For sure get hydrostatic transmission and 4 wheel drive.

 

[JasonW]

I went from a L3800HST to a MX5100DT and now have a M6040 Hydraulic shuttle.
I should have skipped the MX and went straight to the M. Still have both the MX and M.
I was limited at the time by my truck and trailer, but was still overweight with the MX.

I’ll go against some and say skip the backhoe. You could buy all of your other implements for less than what the backhoe cost. And you can always rent a mini X for your projects. Or find an older 2wd backhoe complete your project then sell it.

I bought my M this past march for under $30k with 800 hours. I added the creep speed gear set(which I highly recommend) I use it every time changing implements, 3pt and forks/bucket.

The hydraulic shuttle on the M’s are completely different(better IMO) than the gear drive on the MX and smaller models.

There are plenty of used machines out there for way less than new.

 

[Runs With Scissors]

I’ll go against some and say skip the backhoe. You could buy all of your other implements for less than what the backhoe cost. And you can always rent a mini X for your projects. Or find an older 2wd backhoe complete your project then sell it.

Not surprisingly sir, I will respectfully disagree.

Get the BH.

I have only 3'ish years experience with my 'only TLB' ever, but I will say that the BH is great tool to have handy.

I can't begin to explain how many times it has come in handy in a "spur of the moment" situation.

Although I do agree, they are expensive. No doubt about it.

My 'informal poll" is not scientific, but most people that responded, were glad they bought it.
https://www.orangetractortalks.com/forums/threads/backhoe-owners-poll.65214/
https://www.orangetractortalks.com/forums/threads/backhoe-owners-poll.65214/


And as usual, Clemenza agrees,