90hp. On the used market these 18F/18R powershuttle tractors typically boast a lift capacity of 4,100kg when assistor ram rear linkages are fitted – check whether assistors are in place – with two remotes coming as standard. Specifications for the ME series can be more varied than on subsequent M40 models, this reflecting a far greater emphasis on non-ag tractor sales when the ME was current. So, confirm the spec of a used buy before going to view it. Turf tyres, of course, are always a clue to the tractor’s original use, but don’t dismiss such a tractor if its features are otherwise in line with what you’re after. For yard work, cleat ag tyres aren’t necessarily a ‘must’. Even though it’s newer, the M40 series is not as scarce on the used market as you might think, because increased sales have helped to build up the second-hand supply. This, in part, is down to dealers suggesting farms now buying Kubota tractors exploit the manufacturer’s long standard warranty, swapping for a new model when the factory warranty expires. More regular swapping is also encouraged by solid residuals. Although we reckoned it would be the 95hp M9540 that would be the top seller in the M40 series (profi test 6/09), the smaller models have actually sold well, too, with strong demand from dairy units seeking a compact yard tractor and loader combination; the M7040, in particular, is a popular yard workhorse. The range-topping M9540 shares its basics with the 60, 70 and 85hp M6040, M7040 and M8540, so all M40 models can initially be considered in much the same way: the main point of separation is that the 60 and 70hp models have a 15F/15R speed box with powershuttle as standard, while the larger tractors feature a 36F/36R transmission with a Dual Speed half-gear splitter. Only the M6040 unit is offered with a ROPS frame instead of the standard cab, the latter being a commonly taken choice within the amenity sector. Although the transmissions, hydraulics and running gear are largely shared between the ME and M40 series, the actual tractor specifications of early ME models may suggest otherwise: the top two M40 models drive through the enhanced 36F/36R Dual Speed transmission as standard rather than the 18-speed unit of the ME. That said, both are based on pretty much the same gearbox. Side by side, the revised styling and cabs of the M40 make them appear to have a more modern and ‘westernised’ design. The M40 also has a different Stage IIIA engine with direct injection, which was an interesting move, as Kubota stuck with indirect injection power units for longer than most of the mainstream manufacturers. The mechanically governed E-CDIS power unit, with four valves per cylinder, is well liked by most operators. On top of that, the 3,769cc (3,331cc on the M6040 and M7040) turbocharged engines were said at launch to be more frugal than the ‘three vortex’ indirect injection power units of the outgoing ME series. In practice, though, fuel use relates more to how the tractors are operated. On yard work, users suggest an ME is typically more economical than the M40, but that the later tractors have marginally greater output. In other words, any extra thirst out in the field tends to be offset by a better overall performance. Turning attention to the cab, engine noise is well controlled in both the ME and M40. If you’re not familiar with these tractors, don’t be excessively concerned by what can appear to be suspicious gear noise, as the transmission can grumble. The push-button Dual Speed splitter on M40 and the clutchless shuttle of both the ME and M40 are key features, and both systems have a good dependability record. Up front, Kubota has tweaked how it offers loader packages. Its LA1353 has become an increasingly common fit to the M9540, and the combination works well, providing clear load visibility up to the loader’s full 3.35m lift height. The Kubota package includes a loader joystick that integrates neatly into the cab with a useful lock to prevent accidental operation. Shockless Ride damping and hydraulic self-levelling appear on the Kubota options list, quick attach and release coming as standard. Hydraulic flow measures 64.3 litres/min, (41.6 litres/min on the ME5700, M6040 and M7040), and there are two rear remotes as standard. Two double-acting valves and a third valve are options, and one of the valves can be switched to single-acting if required. Rear lift capacity is rated at 4,100kg on the M8540 and M9540, although the ME8200 and ME9000 offer the same when an external assistor ram is fitted (not on all tractors); without the assistor ram, capacity drops to 2,700kg. The rear linkage is Cat I and II on the sub- 80hp tractors and CAT II-only on the more powerful models. Quick-hitch linkage ends should be on all M40 models and most ME tractors, but check. The M105S and M108S I The M105S is equipped with a 3.8-litre Stage II E-CDIS compliant engine with wastegate and intercooling. Rated at 105hp, the power unit has a solid reliability record, and it shouldn’t be too thirsty, either. The M108S has the same swept volume, but in addition brings advanced electronic engine management and exhaust gas recirculation to enable it to meet Stage IIIA emission standards. The M108S should provide fractionally more oomph, but in practice most users suggest there is little to choose between these two tractors in work. The M108S sips a little more, a pay-off that many will recognise as being part of making modern power units cleaner. Even so, the later tractors still aren’t excessively heavy drinkers. In the cab, the M108S has a tidied layout, but still feels dated in comparison to the M40 series. As with the M105S, an air-suspended seat comes as standard along with a two-speed pto. On the M105S, a 540/540E pto was standard in the UK, whereas the M108S has 540/1,000 speeds with 540/ 540E as an option – perhaps an odd choice for a tractor targeting livestock users. In common with the M40 series, the larger tractors run on portal front axles that deliver a compact turn: we measured a radius of 3.80m for the M9540, so expect a similarly tight arc for the more powerful M105S and M108S models. What to look for I Specifications tend to be similar across a given Kubota range, thanks to the company listing a standard package with relatively few options – front fenders, weight packs, an extra spool valve, but not much more. A pick-up hitch was standard on all ME/M series tractors except the ME5700. As with all tractors, overall condition helps to identify an example that has been cared for, but, for the most part, even a hardworked Kubota should stand up well if it has been serviced. Incidentally, service intervals are set at a modest 200 hours for the engine and 300 hours for the transmission oils on the ME and M105S, these recommendations being extended on the M40 series and M108S to 300 and 600 hours, respectively. Kubota dealers reckon most users are happy to tackle routine servicing, although dealer servicing as per schedule is required to comply with the terms of the three-year warranty. Tip: Don’t skimp here and risk falling foul of Kubota warranty conditions; the package is worth protecting. Cosmetically, the orange finish can fade to different shades on the ME, with the M40 generally retaining its factory colours better. The M105S and M108S models can also lose their shine, but the actual paint holds on well. Just check the grey on the chassis, because this can suffer on any tractors left permanently caked in damp muck – a condition undoubtedly familiar to many. Take a look at the exhaust system: the paint on all models soon gives way to a rusted finish. Although this can look scruffy, the exhaust itself shouldn’t be a problem on regularly operated tractors. Where issues can arise is on exhaust systems that aren’t used for extended periods, so inspect this area with care. With the tractor warmed through, the gear shifts should snick home cleanly; just be aware that the shift across the gate can feel a little stiff against the lever’s spring pressure. As previously mentioned, the transmissions can be on the noisy side, although this appears to be the ‘norm’. The shuttle should provide a smooth, well-modulated direction change, with the same slick action applying to the Dual Speed shift fitted to M105S and M108S tractors. Key wear areas are the same as for any tractor, but do watch for excessive play in the front axle of any machines equipped with a loader. The pto can also weep oil, so this area will need remedial attention if more serious leaks are spotted. Summary: ME, M40 and M105S/ M108S tractors may not be the most obvious small 100hp choice, but as a used buy these Kubota models do have much to recommend them. Physically compact, generously specified and highly regarded for their dependability, they’re not too tricky to find as a used buy, either. As a rough guide to second-hand prices, ME9000 tractors sell for upwards of £14,000, a loader adding up to £2,500, depending on spec. A really clean, low-hour ME9000 should command nearer £16,000, and the ME8200 can cost similar money. The younger and more modern M40 series typically retails from upwards of £20,000 for a tidy sub-2,000hr M9540 unit, with the lower powered M8540 selling for £1,500 to £2,500 less. Models equipped with a loader are in demand and should fetch a premium of around £3,000+. The smaller M5040 and M6040 also hold their money, so expect to pay upwards of £15,000 for a low-houred example with a loader. With thanks to: J Davies and Son, Pencader, Carmarthenshire, and David Blackwood, Robert Fox and Phil Brooks, Kubota UK.