4040 or 4050

Looking for a lower hour 4050 or 4040, which would you advise? Is the 15 speed powershift in the 4050
a good solid transmission or would the Quad hold up better?
Thank you, Charlie
 
Individual history of each tractor you look at will be most important. As far as preferences go I would prefer the 4050 with 7.6L (466) engine and 15 speed Powershift. Just a little better in my mind but the 4040, QR transmission, and the 359 in the late 4050 are nothing to be afraid of. Any tractor even low houred can be an issue if routine maintenance has not been performed or if it has been abused. The 359 in the late 4050 might be preferable for jobs not maxing out the power output therefore conserving fuel although I never considered the naturally aspirated 7.6L (466) to be especially thirsty. In general your choices are pretty good barring apparent condition.
 
I have a JD 4040 and like it but if I had a choice I would take a JD 4050 over it even with just a quad range transmission. The reason it the JD 4040 has a 404 engine. It is just an updated JD 4020 motor. It is not near as good of starting motor as the JD 466 in the 1983-85 JD 4050s. The 359 motor in the 1986 and newer JD 4050 is a good motor too. It actually is much quieter than the non turboed 466 in the earlier JD 4050s.

The 15 speed power shift is one of the best transmission JD ever built in my opinion. The quad range is rock solid but not near as easy to operate as the 15 speed.
 
Finding a nice low houred one will be a challenge but they are out there but expect to pay a premium.The 4050 is more desirable due to the powershift having 15sp plus engine options.The 359T is very efficient and 466 is proven. I would go one step up and get a 4055 with 466w/turbo it will be quieter,more efficient than naturally aspirated 466 but not as efficient as 359T,interior seems to be better but also cost more money as the 55 series bring an extra premium.
 
Massey 860 combines with V8 engine have a big delco 12V and are easy to find. I put one on a 730 Diesel.
 

Not exactly what youre looking for, but just saw on the FB Marketplace in St. Louis a 5020 for sale for $8K. Looks like a hoss.

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/597279520607808/?ref=feed_rhc
 

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