IS OLDER BETTER THAN NEWER? JOHN DEERE 4066R VS 4720 TRACTORS

I might get rid of my favorite tractor, my 4066R. Now I had one before this one, and I sold it and immediately regretted that decision. Luckily, I found another very similar set up and bought it straight away. Now I once again am considering getting rid of my 4066, this time for its predecessor the John Deere 4720. That's right, I might swap it for an older tractor! Why would I do that? You'll have to watch the video for all the things I'm considering.
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This video is for entertainment purposes only. Good Works Tractors (Good Works Lawn & Power, LLC) cannot be held responsible for content found in any video. Always reference your owners manuals, use extreme caution, and proceed at your own risk.

[@GoodWorksTractors]

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[@jean-philippegagnon9189]

I work at a Deere dealer and as much as I like the 4R, i'd say go for the 4720 just because of that MSL loader and the non-DPF engine, that's just ideal for what you do with the tractor. But as i would say to my customers, why not keep both? hahaha

[@paulmollise1856]

Love my 4720, have 3,4,5 SCVs, couldn’t justify a new one with the DPF, being a diesel mechanic and dealing with the emissions now I would only go there if I had too

[@meds4all]

Pre emissions all day! I personhaving deal with these emissions systems in the trucking industry feel one of two things is happening. 1. You playing down the issues 2. They don't have the issues all the other vehicles are having with these systems. If anyone asked me now if they should get a diesel for towing once and awhile vs gas, I tell them gas. The emissions are not worth the extra cost and headaches they cause, and now out weigh the benefits of a diesel for towing. One day they will figure it all out, but from what I've seen they're not there yet. Cummins has told me the extra back pressure these systems are making basically take 75 to 100 horses to push the exhaust out, which means it doesn't pull as it should as it's being robbed of power. This was 3 years ago not sure if that number has changed one way or another. Take the corvette for example, after the energy crisis in the 70's and emissions being added to gas engines, it took until the 2000's to get the horse power numbers they were making before. Up side fuel economy is way up but it took 30 year's to find the power working with the emissions.

[@Gcousino823]

As a 4720 owner, I guess I’m glad to see not much has changed from mine to the 4066 model. I still love my tractor and won’t replace it until Deere makes significant changes- not that they necessarily have too. Thanks and I always enjoy watching your videos.

[@deanbarr5740]

4720 I like it. Very nice tractor. Like you, the age doesn't matter very low hours. The very first kubota l bought was 25 years old when I bought it, it only had 700 hours on it and still a lot of life left in it. They make em pretty good anymore. Great video.

[@GoodWorksTractors]

I agree, most of these machines are pretty darn reliable these days!

[@jimhance6648]

I would go with the older model. I can’t think of any reason to keep the complexity of the new model with the emissions equipment as long as the old tractor is in fine shape. Also, having the capability of the mid mount mower as well as I expect a mid PTO would be pretty cool for a future project.

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Yeah, hard to argue with that!

[@scottmccrea3136]

Love my 4720. Bought it 2 yrs ago. It is awesome. Great video!!

[@TelescopeJunky]

That is so unique seeing a belly mower on such a large tractor! Both look great, tough choice! I cannot wait to see your future videos with either in action. 🙂

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Haha, it is a tough choice. I think I've made my mind up though!

[@gotchagoing8843]

I'm hating my belly mounted quick attach JD mower. I've always had rear, (cat one) mowers to get in between my trees etc. When I can afford a 5ft rear mount finish mower, I will buy one and sell all the 'belly mount stuff, and the mower to go along with it. That will be a real happy day for me.

[@danielmeyer403]

I would keep the 4066R. The hours is important, as well as parts availability as the years go by. First off I wouldn't spend the money to equip a 1025R for "lawn mowing" (that's pronounced menial task-hour generating). For what the mower deck costs, you can get 2 JD riding mowers, or 1 zero-turn mower. Why put that kind of hours on a $20,000.00 machine to cut grass. That means I sure as hell wouldn't do that with a 4 series tractor that's $50k. Not to mention all of the mower linkages to have to work around. Your better connected than about anybody to the JD pipeline. Wait until you find a MSL for the 4066R. My $.02. The hitch assist is way cool too.

[@helloeveryone906]

I'll take one If you don't want it. 🙂 having a tractor better than no tractor.

[@nathandeere]

I have a 4066 with the nsl loader and had a 4052 with the msl loader. Yes the msl is nice for forks but the drawbacks I found with it were taking the loader off was a pain and the biggest was the bucket would not rack back as far as the nsl.

[@donaldpyles2891]

Shouldn't give up so quickly on your idea to buy orange! :) Nice to see someone who represents most men and our desire to always be on the lookout to upgrade our stuff. Great video!

[@JamesTyreeII]

I bought a brand new John Deere 4052R cab tractor with R-1 Ag tires and had it until late summer 2019 to run a 6 foot bush hog mower for a field mowing business which was basically every year from April through October and I put on more than 300 hours a year. I really like the soft touch Electronics and the nice tight linkages from the R series and your updated cab has the Second step and the handle outside of the cab to get in, which is a big improvement. I agree that the one piece hood as well as the wraparound brush guard on the 4000 Twenty series was better. I had to clean out the air conditioner by having the roof removed pretty much once a year and so that was not a very good design and it’s hard to clean out the small condenser fan area in the back of the cab very well. If it were me, I would keep the 4066R. I have the seat from the 5025 series cab like you have in your 4720 and the cloth didn’t get worn out and loose like in yours, but I really appreciated the adjustable backseat angle. I wonder what it’s like to sit in the soft velour cushion of the seat that comes in the 4066 our long-term… It looks like it would be very comfortable, but maybe not as durable…

[@FloridaDeere]

I think the 4720 all day long, ever since the unicorn video, I have liked that tractor, truly a big boy and jack of all trades with the belly mower and the MSL loader. Not to dis the 4066, which of course is very nice.

[@GoodWorksTractors]

I tend to agree with you!!

[@SethHalstead]

I have a 4720, so this was an interesting comparison, but I love my tractor and definitely wouldn't trade it for the newer version.

[@aarongaal8168]

I really like my 2009 4720. It currently ( 2023 ) has 1740 hours on it and I use it for commercial snow in the winter and for my tree service in the summer, I can easily put 8 hrs a day on it and have done all my regular maintenance - with a bit of overkill. Every 200hrs I do a 400hr service ( with the transmission service ) and I find the self leveling loader to be invaluable for the work I do with mine. I would like a bigger tractor but realistically I don’t “need” a 5 series tractor

[@jbvt3726]

Biggest complaint with my 4320 is the lack of ethrottle. But the MSL loader outweighs that in my opinion. Made almost the same switch as last summer as i had a 4052r with NSl loader.

[@phalanx3803]

there should be a kit to convert the loader to self leveling. all it needs is the connecting arm and the bell-crank the loader coupler has the bracket for self leveling on it already so no need for welding.

[@pgiinc]

I have a 4320 cab with turf tires I love it

[@roblong6518]

Both great machines, but keep the 4066r. It's already set-up with the add on's you want/need. 👍

[@GoodWorksTractors]

It will definitely be some time to get the 4720 caught up should I go with that.

[@NickMuzzio]

4720 ftw! It also has genuine jd motor instead of yanmar! No dpf also means you can put around at low rpms without adversely affecting dpf and causing more regens. Saves fuel too!

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Valid points there, thanks!

[@JamesTyreeII]

Also, the fully opening hood. Love the soft touch buttons of R series, vs. plastic buttons and switches of 4000 Twenty series.

[@belindakt]

Believe the self leveling front end loader would be a keeper LoL

[@jethrobodine9867]

That 4720 with mid mount would be my choice. My 3+ acres doesn’t warrant that large of a tractor but it would make quick work of mowing everything every couple weeks

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Haha, no doubt about it!

[@waynemartin4477]

Hey Dude, love your channel. You give it to us straight. I own a 2006 4720 hydro and I love it. Yes I am hard on equipment, not in a malicious way but I expect it to do what I need. I have 30 ac. to care for with horses, goats and so on. But I do not have a CAB. Wish I had selected the cab option when I bought it. Anyway I would like to trade or sell mine for a well equipt cab model. Can you help. Thanks Rick from Walterboro SC

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Hi John, glad you enjoy our videos. Unfortunately, I've got very little tractor inventory right now. Demand is sky high, inventory scarce. Wish I could help!

[@BobsOutdoorActivities]

Interesting video. Overall, keep the 4066.

[@toddholland5612]

I love the 4720 and wish I had one with the MSL loader. Is there a weight difference with these? just curious. I like your NEW old machine. keep the 4720, you can get another 4066r anytime

[@johnossendorf9979]

I'll always choose a gear drive with a power shuttle for a general purpose tractor. Hydro's shine slightly brighter in a few specific areas which don't make up for their higher up front, maintenance and fuel costs. Also, be it a lot or a little hydro's costs power.

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Thanks for watching!

[@JamesTyreeII]

The e hydro with the engine management system is amazing!

[@drewfisher4753]

From my perspective you've already sold yourself on the 4720! Maybe I am wrong, but just the tone in your voice, that's where I am placing my bet! Take it from someone who just talked themselves into a new tractor! Side note,,, I've talked myself into many toys and machines..... And I hear that "on the edge of selling myself", in your video! Peace! And enjoy yourself in what ever you decide! ..... Go slow at first and have fun,,, like someone once told me! :^ ) Take care~ Drew

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Haha, I kind of did, didn't I? Too funny. Thanks Drew!

[@DavidM-yv9js]

Keep the 4066R. You have it set up your way!

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Yeah, that would definitely be the easiest solution!

[@BG-vq9fd]

I think 4720 for self leveling loader as long as HP & GPM similar.

[@hgleason9089]

I would be interested in the 4720 when you decide to sell it.

[@johndougherty373]

We are getting a 2023 4066R in Wyoming

[@phild9813]

Self leveling loader is kind of a detractor for me. But I really do like the idea of not having the emissions. However the extra cost for the belly mower would make me buy the newer version I think.

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Fair points all around.

[@budguy8829]

The 4720 looks like the better tractor with the mid pto, self leveling loader, and the pre emissions. Too bad the loader doesn't come off you might have been able to put a front snowblower on it.

[@GoodWorksTractors]

The loader is removable. Could potentially outfit with a snowblower.

[@douglaspost5097]

Can those self leveling arms be fitted to an older tractor? I have a 2005 JD 4520 that I think I might like that when I use my pallet forks.

[@LoganWillmert]

Could you look into the details of the 4th and 5th SCVs on the 4720 a bit more? I'd love to see what the previous owner found that's not the joystick diverter to add those on.

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Shoot me an email and I can forward what was sent to me.

[@LoganWillmert]

@@GoodWorksTractors I sent you a message through your website contact form. Thanks!

[@ggallant1]

Can I add those toggle switches for top and tilt on my 3R? Currently I have the electric diverter - activate it and then use the loader joystick to operate the top and tilt cylinders.

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Good question, you'd have to talk to Deere about that.

[@andrewanderson1436]

4720. That loader will save the day more than once.

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Really want that loader.

[@n1cholas.w]

Hydraulic down pressure on the 3 point? That’s my guess. Edit: man I was way off! I’d go with the older tractor!

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Haha, not a bad guess though! Still haven't had a 4 Series with that optional feature.

[@JamesTyreeII]

Not only can one purchase a hydraulic down pressure kit for the three point hitch on the 4000R series, But one can purchase a front three point hitch and a PTO kit and even a set of four tracks for use in rice or cranberry bogs

[@ZachLobdell]

4720, that self leveling loader will make all the difference for moving different things around the house but the 4r has more power for the bigger pto implements. I would choose the 4720

[@talanpomeroy4475]

Pre-emissions FTW

[@rfb7117]

I have a 2014 4720 I purchased new and it has been a GREAT tractor. Have 900 hrs on it. I do not have the self leveling bucket, but have added a cab and 3rd and 4th functions. It has a 4 way bucket, air seat, cruise and additional things I have added. Would the 4720 you have with the mid pto run a snow blower on the front? I also would like to know which PTO link you would recommend....PTO Link or PTO solution? thanks, Bob

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Hi Bob. The mid-PTO should run a front-mount snowblower. I recommend the PTO link. As far as I know it’s the original and the only tool-less option out there. Thanks for watching!

[@oklahomachris6298]

Since ya asked if keep the newer one can’t say exactly why cause I’ve not researched a lot on the difference in the two but it’s lower hours is all I can go off of and doing all the switching. But if I knew the older one was a better tractor I’d keep it instead hours or not considered. In the sale market I’d think the newer one would be easier to sale later also then the newer one unless someone showed up w cash. Anyway my two cents lol. thank you for the quick hitch it’s still wrapped up since tractor is in shop still for the 4th time. 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@GoodWorksTractors]

It's a tough choice for sure!

[@johnspoon923]

4066R owner here! Do you sell that deluxe grill guard? I can see that helping when the grapple is in use.

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Unfortunately I don’t sell it. You’ll have to buy directly from John Deere.

[@lilyt8578]

Great video. You are right about the choice it could be hard. Another thing your spot on about is the hours. My dad had several compacts starting with a 955,4400, 4410.3520. model numbers changed but roughly the same or closely the same in the specs. Also just like his ford expeditions people found out he was trading they where lined up to get his tractor or suv because of the way he maintained the car or tractor. Thanks again, have a great day to you guys and be safe. Tim

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Good stuff Tim and spot on. Have a good day!

[@JamesTyreeII]

I am a tractor and dizziness and have been since the late 1980s and I have not really liked John Deere tractors since the mid-1990s when you had the 55 series at the 70 series called back to utility tractors. The loose Steering wheel tilt and loose shift linkages and all of the plastic made me not interested in buying a tractor until the 4000 or series came out with the tight shift linkage is and the soft touch electronic buttons. The only thing that I would change would be to have the hood from the 4020 series for easier access.

[@decline1129]

Anyone find out info on those hydraulic switches that were added to the 4720? Those are clean

[@CTD03]

You ever look at yanmar yt359? Id like to see your comparison between johnny 4066. If your going older. 4520. 2009-14. Needle in haystack. 60hp I guess both would be a good comparison.

[@GoodWorksTractors]

I haven't, but might look to do so sometime in the future.

[@CTD03]

@@GoodWorksTractors sounds like a plan.

[@cayman9873]

Pull the belly mower for future use or sale

[@petercampbell4220]

Expensive but the "older" 4720 have 8 way adustable rear wheels.

[@66Oliver]

His are fixed dish. Not very adjustable compared to the older wheel.

[@stephenphilbrook6239]

The self-leveling loader would be super handy I'd think.

[@GoodWorksTractors]

It will definitely be handy for our type of usage.

[@paulmollise1856]

It has its good and bad points, I had a 4710 without the SLL, then got a 4720 with it, sometimes you need to roll back and can’t, mainly doing grapple work, I would go without it if I did it again

[@Gcousino823]

@@paulmollise1856 I agree. I have that exact same setup too. It’s great for pallet work but when using a bucket, it doesn’t roll back far enough IMO.

[@seangezell]

Just put the self leveling loader on the 4066!

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Something about going a little more old school that's intriguing me...

[@PatrickDKing]

Keep'em both :)

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Ha! Can't say that scenario didn't run through my head!

[@arlisspropertyservicesllc5943]

A mmm on a 4 series???

[@apollorobb]

id keep the 4720

[@wesleycurry9118]

Can both of those tractors lift a round bail ?

[@unclebuck5957]

I have been looking for a 2025r , 2032r used so far only found a 2032 with mower and backhoes $ 27500 not interested in backhoe

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Hard to find equipment these days

[@mr.gtmsworld2494]

I’d take either one over my 3520! Hey Courtney what’s the difference in the 4044 and the 4066???

[@JamesTyreeII]

Horse power… 44 vs 66 horsepower approximately and the 4066 R has an inter poker not found on the 4044R and 4052R

[@lilredcummins]

The self-leveling loader and the DPF free engine are winners for me. The mower might be a bonus for the right person.

[@GoodWorksTractors]

I agree

[@cayman9873]

I would keep looking for the kubota

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Ha, maybe so!

[@Bob-vb8lc]

Decisions, decisions, decisions. It's never easy. Good luck Cortney lol

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Thanks :)

[@sammarsh6021]

Almost 7000 hrs on my 4052r and dpf problems are a issue

[@GoodWorksTractors]

I'd expect issues with nearly everything with 7,000 hours. I'd venture a guess that only 1-2% of 4 Series tractors have that kind of time on them.

[@sammarsh6021]

@@GoodWorksTractors I’ve owned it since new. The problem is I cleaned the dpf and now can’t get the codes off. 7000 hrs ain’t bad. I’ve got 700 on my 1025r. I’m saying stay away as long as you can from emissions

[@mjwford1]

My vote is keep the 4066

[@dwalke26]

4720 has the John Deere engine and the 4066R has the Yanmar engine.

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Yes sir

[@harrimanfox8961]

I'm pretty sure both have Yanmar engines

[@phillipstough8946]

4720 all dayyyyy.. I miss mine every day since i sold her. I sit in my office and wonder if shes being treated right, If she gets to play in the dirt daily and kept in the barn at night...

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Haha! That gave me a chuckle. I hope the same thing.

[@fsman2306]

Idk why but I would just get a case

[@GoodWorksTractors]

😂

[@Gene2713]

Send the 4720 to me and keep the 4066!

[@GoodWorksTractors]

😂👌

[@MichaelPicher43]

Swap the loaders?

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Considered it, but we’re not sure the 4066 will receive the 400CX without some adapters.

[@matthopper7411]

4720 for me

[@brianrice6993]

4720 looks newer. What is the difference in power? Or lifting ?

[@GoodWorksTractors]

The solid detail job from my father-in-law probably helps it look newer. Or did you mean the design?

[@robkenny1529]

Long shot, but do you still have that 4720?

[@GoodWorksTractors]

I do, thinking I might be selling soon!

[@robkenny1529]

@@GoodWorksTractors fantastic! I will give you a call today. Thanks.

[@rags8855]

Pretty sure the 4720 is a more rugged machine. I believe it weighs significantly more than the 4066

[@markschmaus5580]

1st on Hump Day

[@gotchagoing8843]

Keep the OLDER machine. This is coming from an old dairy farm geezer.

[@cjbotkin1]

Old is fine. I'll take the one that you don't want.

[@GoodWorksTractors]

😂👌

[@jmwilson614]

Is the 4720 for sale?

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Negative. Keeping it and selling the 4066r.

[@hgleason9089]

Is the 4066R sold?

[@Jayhawk226]

If I had the acres and money the older one is more appealing due to the mower. But I have neither..

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Thanks for watching!

[@leswebb311]

4720 I like better

[@rogergoodrich4906]

Keep the 4066R. It has backup assist

[@GoodWorksTractors]

You mean the external Hitch Assist controls? I’ve never actually used that except for making videos. Using a quick hitch makes attaching a 3PH attachment so easy.

[@LegoWormNoah101]

I would stay with the old tractor. It'd be reliable and there when I needed it, with only one fuel cost. The new one would likely have planned obsolescence, unnecessary complexity, refuse to work if something's even slightly off, and has that unnecessary DEF. To summarize: Old = loyal worker New = crybaby

[@JamesTyreeII]

I used my new 2015 JD 4052R cab tractor and NEVER had any problem with the emissions system

[@JamesTyreeII]

There is not Diesel Exhaust fluid in the R series.

[@LegoWormNoah101]

@@JamesTyreeII because it's under 75 HP?

[@K31011]

No one wants a belly mower had one on both of my JDs and both left new when I sold them.

[@legoninja1093]

I'd keep the 4066r in my experience older equipment is better quality

[@The1025RChannel]

But the 4720 is the older one.

[@legoninja1093]

@@The1025RChannel oops sorry about the mixup

[@MrDerek19871987derek]

I think I know what you are going to buy new 😆

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Haha, yep. One of the bigger checks I've written. It's an amazing machine though!

[@MrDerek19871987derek]

It really was sweet!!!

[@pleasantridgelife5948]

4720 all day ! !

[@etrain757]

I hate the 4720, AC is awful, 3 point is terrible, 3 point lock is terrible, gear selector is terrible

[@jeffgriffith490]

John Deere motor Versus Japanese made motor I would do the John Deere motor

[@GoodWorksTractors]

I don't think you could go wrong either way. Yanmar engines are extremely reliable.

[@jeffgriffith490]

@@GoodWorksTractors Just my opinion🧐

[@brianbarclay4316]

Keep the 4066, just swap the loader.

[@GoodWorksTractors]

Not sure the loader swaps without extra parts.