JD eHydro vs Powr reverser

[berobert]

Wondering if anyone has experience with the operation of these two transmissions?

I have test driven the eHydro on a new 4320 and really like it, but now the dealer has a used 4320 with a PowrReverser tranny. I would be using the tractor for a lot of snow plowing in winter and really don't like the idea of clutching and changing gears but the dealer says this setup works very much like the eHydro for fwd/rev direction changes.

Any pros/cons of the two would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

 

[ctlguy]

the powr reverser is the best choice for Loader work (lots of back and forth and the desire to fluctuate the throttle). For snow removal you may be happier with the hydro, esp if driving a tractor is not something you have done a lot of. The only clutching that has to be done on a powr reverser is when shifting gears for direction change, there is no clutching. Also the "E" portion of the e-hydro, when engaged, will help with keeping engine rpms at peak operating to aid in not stalling out the tractor, the reverser does not.

 

[beenthere]

My opinion, would be the ehydro...without a doubt.
Unless you have a real desire to clutch, and take the use of one hand out for shifting...get the easier to use (even with a FEL) ehydro.

 

[defed]

this is what i thought too, but when i went to look at my 4300 (2001) w/ power reverser, you still have to clutch to change directions, but don't have to be stopped. it is still pretty nice compared to straight out manual tranny, and comfortable to use. in fact, when i get into my truck (automatic), i reach for the reverser lever and almost shift while still moving. unless they added a hydraulic clutch on newer models that eliminates clutching for direction change.

never used a hydro on a CUT, so can't comment on that.

 

[dieselfreak]

this is what i thought too, but when i went to look at my 4300 (2001) w/ power reverser, you still have to clutch to change directions, but don't have to be stopped. it is still pretty nice compared to straight out manual tranny, and comfortable to use. in fact, when i get into my truck (automatic), i reach for the reverser lever and almost shift while still moving. unless they added a hydraulic clutch on newer models that eliminates clutching for direction change.

never used a hydro on a CUT, so can't comment on that.

That sounds like a sync shuttle. One the Powr reverser, I thought you had not need to clutch it.

df.

 

[defed]

i guess mine does say 'synch reverser' on it, as opposed to 'power reverser'. the word 'power' would seem to indicate that it reverses automatically. i think mine was advertised as power reverser, and i thought somewhere it said so, but i must have never realized the terminology difference until now. some of the terminology is confusing...synch reverser, synch shuttle, power reverser, etc, especially amongst different mfg's who label things slightly differently.

i wonder now if any 4300 had power reverse.

 

[RoyJackson]

i wonder now if any 4300 had power reverse.

Most I've seen advertised (including yours, defed) were just advertised as having "reverser" transmissions. Do you have the operator's manual for your 4300? What does that call your transmission?

 

[defed]

you may be right Roy, i do remember the 'reverser' part in the ad for sure, but not if it said sync or power, or neither.

tech manual says synchreverser, so i guess that pretty much means NOT power reverser.

 

[jeffster]

I think there are advantages to both. I was going to get the hydro but got a great deal on one with the PowrReverser and I don't regret it at all. So, as far as operation of mine with the 12 speeds:

1. Clutchless shifting forward to reverse. I love this and it is so nice. Works in any range or gear.
2. Clutch on the fly shifting of the 4 gears within a single range. So, if you are in Low range, you can shift from gears 1-4 while moving just like a vehicle.
3. Range changes require the tractor to be stopped. Once in the range, you can of course shift on the fly for gears within the range or do clutchless directional changes.

Personally, I really like it. Sometimes it can be a pain finding a gear that is just right for the job, but normally it only takes me a few seconds.

 

[defed]

ok, so my synchreverser is the same as power reverser EXCEPT the need to clutch when changing directions. everything else operates as jeffster's power reverser. so basically i have synch shuttle (so you can ignore my previous comments about changing directions), which they should just use more plain terminology.

2 problems i have w/ shifting gears on the fly which may apply to power reverser as well?

1. by the time i get the next gear, i'm practically stopped anyway :laughing:

2. going to a lower gear is not smooth. even when 'almost stopped' i can't grab a lower gear w/o double clutching. ie: clutch and shift to neutral, release clutch, clutch again, then shift to lower gear.

i think hydro would be nice for finish mowing. like jeffster said, sometimes it's hard to find the right speed. the 2 closest speeds on mine are in different ranges, one is too slow, one is too fast. specs state that they are only 2mph difference, but sure seems like more than that.

i like the shuttle (same for synch and power minus clutch) for loader work. only issue here is i want to go into the pile slow and powerful (low range, low gear) but it is TOO slow when backing out and moving around. in this case, i usually use the same gear, just change ranges for more speed.

 

[ctlguy]

all 4300 series reverser tractors where the sync reverser. Was not until 10 series that you got the powr version.

 

[jenkinsph]

Another vote for the ehydro transmission, to me it is the easiest to operate all the way around. I would also recomend the upgraded cruise for $99. This allows your right foot the ability to control the forward and backward motions of the tractor leaving a hand to steer and a hand to operate the fel or hitch.

 

[YesDeere]

Just getting out of a 790 and into a 4310 was all I needed to see. Hydro is unbelievable. Don't ever want to shift again, reverser or not. Now the only thing better is the e throttle, that is brainless. That on the 4720 is the smoothest, easiest tractor to drive I have seen. Just like a car with an automatic. Hit it and go

 

[jenkinsph]

YesDeere,
The upgraded cruise I mentioned addresses the ethrottle issue as I know it. Depressing the footpedals increase the engine speed if selected with the rocker switches. Works very well for most jobs, where it is not desirable I turn it off and use the hand throttle.

This feature is available for the 4320 the OP is interested in. The economy pto is available for the 4520 and 4720 and I find this useful too.

 

[JDGreenGrass]

I think there are advantages to both. I was going to get the hydro but got a great deal on one with the PowrReverser and I don't regret it at all. So, as far as operation of mine with the 12 speeds:

1. Clutchless shifting forward to reverse. I love this and it is so nice. Works in any range or gear.
2. Clutch on the fly shifting of the 4 gears within a single range. So, if you are in Low range, you can shift from gears 1-4 while moving just like a vehicle.
3. Range changes require the tractor to be stopped. Once in the range, you can of course shift on the fly for gears within the range or do clutchless directional changes.

Personally, I really like it. Sometimes it can be a pain finding a gear that is just right for the job, but normally it only takes me a few seconds.

If I ever upgrade this type of "shifting" is the way I would go.

I am easily confused on all of this, as well.

Jeffster....Thanks for putting it in plain English for me.

 

[jeffster]

You bet, glad to help!

 

[1ID]

well after using my father in laws Mahindra hydro tranny in the hills, I went with the power reverser on my JD3320 and doubt I would ever go with the hydro tranny. I never touch the clutch from forward to reverse and am not losing the power that a hydro tranny robs. I wish JD would make the Power reverser trans with a cab model, that would probably be the only way I would get another tractor. I would say drive both and see which one YOU like better. After all YOU are the one that has to be happy with it.

 

[GreatWhitehunter]

the powr reverser is the best choice for Loader work (lots of back and forth and the desire to fluctuate the throttle). For snow removal you may be happier with the hydro, esp if driving a tractor is not something you have done a lot of. The only clutching that has to be done on a powr reverser is when shifting gears for direction change, there is no clutching. Also the "E" portion of the e-hydro, when engaged, will help with keeping engine rpms at peak operating to aid in not stalling out the tractor, the reverser does not.

This reply cracks me up. A hydro is much better suited for loader work. That's why heavy equipment uses hydro's.

Matt

 

[jenkinsph]

well after using my father in laws Mahindra hydro tranny in the hills, I went with the power reverser on my JD3320 and doubt I would ever go with the hydro tranny. I never touch the clutch from forward to reverse and am not losing the power that a hydro tranny robs. I wish JD would make the Power reverser trans with a cab model, that would probably be the only way I would get another tractor. I would say drive both and see which one YOU like better. After all YOU are the one that has to be happy with it.

1ID,
You are comparing the Mahindra hydro not the Ehydro, I wouldn't test drive a Dodge automatic to form opinions of a Chevy or Ford automatic.

Power reverser transmissions and E hydro transmissions are both very good to say "that would probably be the only way I would get another tractor." is kind of silly, in my opinion. Personally I would be happy with either one but for these small tractors the Ehydro is my preference.

 

[jenkinsph]

This reply cracks me up. A hydro is much better suited for loader work. That's why heavy equipment uses hydro's.

Matt

I agree Matt, lots of people don't have a clue and haven't had enough seat time with an Ehydro transmission to have a real opinion. The Ehydro is a great choice for the small 3000 and 4000 series tractirs and I think would be good for any size with alot of manuevering. What do I know though since I have had both for numerous years.

I finally brought my 110 home this past weekend if you still want pics of the hoe removal let me know. Currently I am at the lake on a fishing trip but will be home later this weekend. Let me know I will be glad to oblige you.