LS Tractor
MT2 Series: MT226HE

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the LS MT226HE and who is it built for?

The LS MT226HE is a 24.6 horsepower compact tractor in LS Tractor’s MT2E Series — the most updated generation of their mid-range compact lineup. It is built for Colorado property owners managing between 5 and 20 acres who need genuine loader lift capacity, a stable 4WD platform, and a machine that handles year-round work without stepping up to the larger and more expensive MT3 series. Horse properties, hobby farms, small livestock operations, and rural residential acreages on Colorado’s Front Range are the sweet spot for this model.

How much can the MT226HE actually lift?

The front loader lifts 1,965 lbs — nearly double what the sub-compact MT125H can handle. The 3-point hitch lifts 1,808 lbs at the hitch end with a Category I connection. Bucket digging force is 3,663 lbs with a digging depth of 97.2 inches when paired with a backhoe. For Colorado buyers moving hay bales, gravel, manure, and snow, this is a meaningful real-world difference from anything in the sub-compact class.

What engine does the MT226HE use and is it good for Colorado’s altitude?

The MT226HE uses a 3-cylinder MHI (Mitsubishi) liquid-cooled diesel engine with 80.4 cubic inch displacement, producing 24.6 gross horsepower at 2,500 RPM. It is naturally aspirated and Tier 4 compliant without requiring a diesel particulate filter or DEF fluid — a significant advantage at Colorado’s elevations. DPF-equipped engines at altitude clog faster, require more frequent regeneration cycles, and add maintenance complexity. The MT226HE avoids all of that entirely.

What is the difference between the ROPS and cab version of the MT226HE?

The ROPS version has a foldable roll-over protection structure and is open to the elements — lower cost and ideal for fair-weather or occasional-use operation. The cab version adds a fully enclosed climate-controlled operator environment with redesigned AC, improved headroom, better forward visibility, a new hood with 20% more grill airflow, and LED headlamps. For Colorado buyers operating through winter — which on the Front Range means months of sub-freezing temperatures — the cab pays for itself in productivity. The block heater option is strongly recommended in the cab version for cold-start reliability below -20°F.

Does the MT226HE come with rear remote valves?

Rear remote valves are an optional add-on, not standard. This is the most common thing owners wish they had added at purchase. Rear remotes are essential for hydraulic top links, grapple buckets, hydraulic tillers, and any remote-actuated implement. Adding them after purchase costs significantly more than ordering them upfront. Ask Legacy Tractors to include rear remote valves in your purchase package.

How does the 3-Range HST work compared to a 2-Range?

The MT226HE’s 3-Range Hydrostatic Transmission gives you three distinct speed bands — low for precision loader and implement work (0–3.02 mph), mid for most field tasks (0–6.18 mph), and high for light travel and hauling (0–13.91 mph). The smaller MT125H uses a 2-Range HST. The extra range gives you finer speed control across a wider variety of work without sacrificing the ease and simplicity of a clutch-free hydrostatic drivetrain.

Is the backhoe attachment worth it on the MT226HE?

This is one of the most debated topics in the LS MT226 owner community. The honest community consensus is to skip the backhoe and consider renting a mini excavator when you need digging work done. The tractor-mounted backhoe is limited in mobility and digging range compared to a dedicated excavator, and most owners report that they dig a few times a year at most — making rental more cost-effective. The loader and 3-point hitch attachments are where the MT226HE truly shines for daily property work.

How does the MT226HE compare to the Kubota L2501?

Both compete in the same 24-26 HP compact tractor class. The MT226HE offers a higher loader lift capacity (1,965 lbs vs. Kubota’s comparable figures), standard 3-Range HST, standard LED lighting, standard TF-LCD instrument panel, and a lower base price at most dealers. Kubota has a longer established dealer network nationally, but Legacy Tractors in Fort Collins provides the same level of local service and warranty support for LS buyers in Northern Colorado. Multiple forum owners who cross-shopped both brands report choosing the MT226HE specifically for the price-to-feature ratio and the dual-pedal foot controls over Kubota’s single-side configuration.

What is the price of the LS MT226HE and what financing is available?

Market pricing on the MT226HE ranges from approximately $21,000 to $33,000 depending on configuration, cab option, and included attachments. At Legacy Tractors in Fort Collins, the MT226HE qualifies for 2.99% financing for 120 months on select MT2 models. Select configurations may also qualify for 0% financing for up to 120 months. Cash purchases qualify for up to $8,000 in LS cash rebate incentives. Contact Legacy Tractors for current on-lot pricing and package availability.

What implements are compatible with the MT226HE?

The MT226HE is compatible with a wide range of Category I 3-point implements including rear blades, box blades, rotary tillers, landscape rakes, finish mowers, brush hogs, subsoilers, and post-hole diggers. The mid PTO option enables mid-mount mower deck compatibility. For loader work: buckets, pallet forks, grapple buckets (requires third-function valve kit), and push blades. For snow removal: rear snow blades and front snow pushers. Legacy Tractors can advise on the best implement package for your specific Colorado property and workload.