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The Japanese manufacturer Kubota did not have a tractor series to bridge the gap between its flagship M7003 and the practical MGX series, so it was time to launch one.
The M6002 was unveiled in February 2020 and includes three models, ranging from 123hp to 143hp.
Its goal is to strike the right balance between yard and field work so that livestock and mixed farms can use it for whatever work they see fit.
To this end, Kubota’s engineers provided it with a compact ratio and a compact turning radius, and equipped it with an enhanced walking device, a powerful hydraulic system and a huge lifting capacity comparable to its size.
In addition, it can also be equipped with an Isobus-compatible in-cab terminal so that the operator can run modern equipment without the need to display images on an additional screen.
Most of the foundation of M6 is built from scratch, rather than modifying existing models.
This includes a new internal 24F/24R semi-power shift transmission and a larger rear end than the one used in MGX.
Another feature that makes it stand out from the practical siblings is the stronger version of the company's portal front axle.
This retains the dual steering function for sharp turns, while allowing for heavier loads and the installation of front links and pto.
The load-sensing hydraulic system is also standard, instead of the old gear pump, plus a higher specification interior with a joystick controller.
There are more factory-friendly loader options to choose from, and they can be better integrated into the tractor.
A keen observer will notice that this is not Kubota's first M6 series. However, the model before it was a slightly different beast.
It is essentially a low-spec version of the M7, of which only a few have been sold in the UK, and the only components shared with the current version are the engine and the cab frame.
The introduction of the M6002 during the global pandemic meant that tractors were slow to reach the dealership, but they have been flowing into the farm for most of 2021.
Unlike the M7 and the former M6 from Dunkirk, the M6002 is manufactured in the company's factory in Osaka.
However, the design was completed in France, and Kubota stated that it was developed specifically for the European market.
In order to understand its performance, we tried the full range in a series of tasks, including plowing and loader work.
See also: 10 scraper tractor options for dairy farms of all sizes
All models in the M6 series are equipped with the same 6.1-liter four-cylinder Kubota engine, which is used in the largest MGX and the entire M7 series.
Its four-cylinder displacement is quite impressive, and the top-spec M7 runs at 175 horsepower during the boost, so the M6 should not bear any pressure.
Due to the large bore and long stroke, it can also run at relatively low speeds, and the maximum torque is only available at 1,500 rpm.
As a result, the practice work is surprisingly comfortable.
24F/24R semi-power shift, three gears and eight gears (optional crawling gearbox)
480/65R24 front and 650/60R38 rear
The M6-142 we tried in the plowing mission has enough torque to rumble at low speeds, even with five furrows; the only thing to note is that it is a fairly light ground.
The power output is roughly the same as the 123, 133 and 143hp models. As far as we know, all three models are mechanically the same.
This means that adjustments and specification changes are the only factors that make them unique.
Each has a 20hp boost function, but this is only suitable for transportation and kicks above 20kph.
The new joystick controller contains two engine speed memory buttons (more on this later), which are easy to set up and use.
With the help of diesel particulate filter (DPF), diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR), the engine complies with Tier 5 emission regulations.
In order to reduce the maintenance burden, the service life of the DPF was extended by 6,000 hours before it needed to be cleaned, and the engine needed to be repaired every 500 hours.
The M6 only provides a 24F/24R semi-power shift gearbox. According to the one installed on the MGX, it has eight power shifts in three ranges.
An additional crawling box is also provided, which can increase the ratio to 32.
The device is made by Kubota and has a thicker internal structure than the MGX version, making it more suitable for towing cultivation kits and towing heavy trailers.
The eight power shifts can be set for automatic operation, and the responsiveness of the shift can be adjusted relative to the load on the tractor.
There are eight power shifts, meaning that there are many ratios that can work in the field without having to interrupt the drive to change the range.
To manually shift gears, the driver only needs to push the new joystick forward or backward, and once the power shift is exhausted, press the button to continue moving to the next range. When doing so, it will automatically speed matching gears.
Buyers who choose to use a 7-inch K display can get more features, including the ability to set the starting gear in each range and the ratio to switch to when the speed is matched.
Unfortunately, people without a screen cannot use the start gear option.
Another feature that differs from MGX is the brake stop function, which means that the clutch is not required to be used when stopping.
This is a convenient addition, but it is not as refined as some competitor systems and lacks sensitivity adjustment.
The maximum speed is set to 40 km/h. In order to reduce fuel consumption, the tractor should reach this speed when the engine is running at 1,640 rpm.
In this power category, Kubota can provide buyers with a 3.25 ton front link and power output device for the first time, both of which come from a new cooperation with MX.
Kubota's engineers made a stronger version of the portal front axle with bevel gear drive, making it possible to increase the connecting rod.
Choosing to do this—rather than using a Dana axle like the M7—allows them to retain the two-speed steering setting, which helps make the tractor turn smaller.
When the front wheel rotates more than 35 degrees, the system works by engaging the second gear set.
As a result, the speed of the front wheels relative to the rear wheels was increased by 15%, thereby pulling the tractor's front wheels.
It cannot be used on hard surfaces and may stain the turf, but it is useful for maneuvering in damp yards, where a little tire scrub will not cause too much attention.
Loader options have also been added, providing five Kubota brand MX models instead of the single internal option of MG-X.
The largest model offers a lifting height of 4m to pin and a lifting capacity of up to 2,400kg.
Kubota has not yet manufactured a new cab frame for the M6002, but it does have some modified internal structures that make it stand out among similar products.
These include different instrument panel surrounds and armrests mounted on the seats, which is where the M6's own palm-shaped joystick controller is located.
This is the standard configuration of all models, and its functions include shifting and operating the rear linkage, as well as accommodating the engine speed memory function and forward reversing shuttle.
It's very convenient to use. The only cumbersome element is the shuttle, which needs to be activated by pressing the second button behind the joystick.
The main left shuttle lever is more user-friendly, with a comfortable shape and a clear neutral position-it just lacks a parking position.
Therefore, a handbrake must be used, because the handbrake extends into the foot space and is easily stained with dirt.
Choosing the K monitor screen brings more options for transmission settings (as described earlier), as well as the ability to run Isobus tools, partial controls, and variable rate applications.
The rest of the cabin is simple and easy, with manual spool rods and moderately selected buttons to set the main functions.
In a high-horsepower tractor, the quality and finish of the material will be a bit poor, but it is enough for a tractor of this caliber.
M6s does not have an automatic steering function, but Kubota does provide a steering wheel-mounted system for those who need it.
The rear lifting capacity of the M6 series is 7 tons, and the optional MX front link is rated to carry 3.26 tons.
The rear linkage control is controlled by a button on the joystick, and the depth control is handled by a small knob on the armrest.
This is not very convenient for farming and other tasks that require regular adjustments, and it lacks physical depth to stop. However, it applies to most other duties.
The machine towing capacity of the M6 is supported by a smoother hydraulic system than the company uses on the MGX series.
It has a load sensing pump of 115 liters per minute, instead of a gear pump, it can provide up to four manual spool values.
Four power output speeds are standard-540, 540e, 1,000 and 1,000e-which is generous for this class of tractor.
For a long time, low-spec loader tractors have been Kubota's strong points, but the arrival of the M7 in 2015 shows that the company can provide higher horsepower and a good technical level that rivals the big guns.
The M6 occupies the middle position and retains the most important qualities of a courtyard tractor-compact turning radius, simple control and compact proportions-while introducing some arable land-level functions, which means it can maintain its position on the spot.
Compared to some four-cylinder competitors, the large-bore engine feels good, its size has impressive lift capabilities, and the load-sensing hydraulic system is a welcome upgrade.
Buyers will also appreciate the wider range of factory-installed loaders offered and the fact that they can be equipped with front linkages and power take-offs.
Some new features-such as the brake stop function-lack the functions provided by competitors, but considering all factors, it seems to be a strong competitor.
The retail price of the basic M6-122 starts at £76,099 and can go up to £82,454.
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