Kubota has introduced the narrow 106hp M5102N tractor aimed at those working in specialist fruit, vineyard, vegetable and solar park applications.
This latest model brings several upgrades compared to its predecessor, the M5001N. These include a revised cab complete with Category 4 filtration; front-axle suspension and front PTO; hydraulically adjustable rear linkage stabilisers and lift rods; and reduced cost of ownership through improved diesel particulate filter (DPF) and emissions control efficiency.
Power comes from Kubota’s V3800 engine. A 3.8-litre four-cylinder turbocharged diesel that delivers 346Nm of torque and 106hp, and is equipped with an EU Stage V compliant emissions package that uses AdBlue.
Importantly, the emissions control module is neatly packaged under the bonnet, avoiding the need for external mounting of components such as the AdBlue tank and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) canister that could impact the operator’s view from the cab. And with a diesel filler at the rear of the tractor and an AdBlue filler under the bonnet, it is almost impossible to mistake the fill points.
“Packaging is very important on a tractor that is governed by its physical size,” Kubota UK’s product manager for M-series tractors, Jonathan Rook, said. “And this narrow model does not disappoint. On its narrowest wheel and tyre combination, the M5-102N can be slimmed down to just 1.2m wide to suit row-specific tasks.”
Latest emissions control technology sees the M5N able to perform DPF regeneration at much lower RPM and using much lower temperatures compared to its predecessor. Requiring only 1,100rpm to complete, considerable fuel savings are available compared to the previous model’s 2,000rpm. A DPF service is not required until 6,000 hours and engine oil changes are every 500 hours.
Power is channelled through a 36×36 transmission that uses six speeds in three ranges, with a two-speed power split available in each of the six manual speeds. Electronic shuttle control and a declutch button add to the functionality, and the tractor’s 40km/hr road speed is achieved at reduced rpm.
Up front, a portal front axle with bevel gear incorporates Kubota’s switchable Bi-Speed turn that increases the front wheel speed once the steering angle exceeds 35 degrees. When engaged, Bi-Speed turn tightens the turning circle by pulling the nose of the tractor in the direction of steering. The front axle can be equipped with an optional suspension system which provides 95mm of travel that is damped by accumulators, and for the first time on this model a factory-fitted front linkage and PTO is also available.
M5102N operators get a cab that provides an almost flat floor design, making the most of internal space and comfort, and also appealing to the tallest of operators. An uprated air-suspension seat is also part of the standard specification.
“Good packaging and practical use of space have made this one of the most generous operator environments on the market for this size of tractor, without needing to make the cab taller,” Mr Rook added. “A huge amount of detail has gone into producing this new model, and with almost every mechanical component made in Japan by Kubota, we are expecting the same legendary reliability as other models in the Kubota range.”
The dashboard combines an LCD panel with traditional gauges, and thanks to electronic engine control, operators can set two engine speed memories. With electronic engine speed monitoring and control, power-demanding tasks can be better maintained without excessive fluctuations in engine speed.
Air conditioning is fitted as standard, while those who prefer fresh air can choose to open either of the two curved rear corner windows. Both front indicator assemblies are on spring-loaded brackets, allowing them to be twisted inwards, 90 degrees, for added protection.
The tractor is now equipped with a stationary PTO function and LED lighting, and when it comes to hydraulic services buyers have the choice of manual or electronic spools and the option of ISObus implement control through Kubota’s seven-inch or 12-inch K-Monitors.
“Up to five mechanical spools can be fitted, with individual flow control easily reached inside the cab thanks to a 68.3 lit/min fixed-displacement pump,” Mr Rook said. “In addition, the availability of a mid-mount spool valve kit makes it easy to operate front-mounted equipment.
“The Cat II rear linkage offers a 2.3t lift capacity and electronic lift control for ease of set-up, and the tractor can also be equipped with hydraulic rear linkage stabilisers and hydraulically adjustable lift rods.”
Kubota’s M5-102N is priced from £58,868 (correct at June 2023) and a range of Kubota Care warranty packages are available offering up to five years and 5,000 hours of cover.
