X 739 opinions

/ X 739 opinions #1  

Jamming

Gold Member
Joined
Jan 4, 2012
Messages
372
Location
Northern Washington
Tractor
John Deere 3033R
Looking at purchasing a X 739 Fuel injected gas, Or maybe the Diesel. Slightly more money for diesel. But i am looking at the 4 Wheel steer for sure. Have about 6 acres of fairly bumpy terrain to mow and here Washington state the grass grows like mad for about 5 months and tired of backing up with my Ys 4500. Any comments on the 739 would be greatly appreciated.
 
/ X 739 opinions #2  
Just got my X739 last week but haven't mowed yet (rain) so can't comment on that aspect but just driving it around its amazing how tight the big beast can turn compared to way smaller 2 wheel steer lawn tractors. The all wheel drive is going to be great on my hilly bumpy terrain and while testing it on hard pavement could detect no front wheel binding on full lock turns so it shouldn't tear up the lawn like some small 4 wheel drive tractors might.

Didn't want another diesel so the X739 was perfect for me since I wanted AWD and AWS.

I went with the 54HC deck and power flow bagger.

Purchased mine in Mt. Vernon, WA.

L. Front.jpg R. Front.jpg JD X739 008.jpg
 
Last edited:
/ X 739 opinions #3  
I have the 60" HC which gives an uncut circle of 6". If you want AWD/AWS then X739 is the only option, except a used X749. Based on previous posts, it does not sound like there are any new X749's still in the system. Diesel may be more fuel efficient, but reportedly by dealer also a bit more noisy. Only have 8 hours on mine, but very impressed. Lots of power, better ride and quieter than previous 25HP BS Craftsman. Cut actually seems to look better than 72" MMM 7-Iron on 3320. Power steering is great upgrade from previous. Have not had any need to remove deck yet, so cannot comment if it works as easy as the videos. Also no need for me to load it with "tractor type" options, since I have the 3320, so no comment on those things. Craftsman had a key override for reverse. Will probably jumper or wedge the JD eventually, but so far not that much backing up so have not bothered. With limited use to judge, I would not be willing to give up either AWD or AWS to move to diesel. DW does not like diesel fumes, but does like to drive the lawn tractor around with a cart, so she is happier with gas. Almost instant starts with the fuel injection. For me this was basically a giant yard toy that was a want rather than need, however, once past the price tag, and when used within the design limits, I think the x739 is a great machine and would highly recommend.
 
/ X 739 opinions #4  
I just bought a x744 and it is very good at turning with NO turf scrubbing. It does bounce some on the rough parts of the yard compared to my Cub Cadet 982. I have the tire pressures the same at 10/7 but the front bounces more. I haven't had it long enough to say it is the weight(1116cc diesel), tires, chassis stiffness or ?
 
/ X 739 opinions #5  
Don't bother with the auto connect, the standard mower deck drive shaft is very easy to remove and install, and other than that the deck removal and install are the same between the two systems. In fact, my dealer encouraged me not to get the auto connect since they can sometimes be a bit fussy with tractor drive over alignment.
 
/ X 739 opinions
  • Thread Starter
#6  
Did you buy yours from washington tractor? Same place I am working with jerry?
 
/ X 739 opinions #8  
Did you buy yours from washington tractor? Same place I am working with jerry?

Yep, Washington Tractor, worked mainly with Benson and then Dave after Benson got shipped out to Thailand. They were ultra busy 4 weeks ago when I ordered it but still managed to get a 9% off MSRP with no setup fees and 0% financing.
 
/ X 739 opinions #9  
Spinner Knob, TY26583, works great if you have to mow around trees much. I still like holding the wheel for straight runs though.

Rear 1.25" Receiver, AM129530, works but was not very close tolerance. I cut the welds apart and did some machining and rewelded it. It is very nice now.

It will be very important to know how to adjust the mower deck for cutting quality. As things wear in, deck adjustments will change.
 
/ X 739 opinions #10  
I have 51 hours now on my X739. Bought just before Xmas. Plows snow without chains like a dream. The 400+ lbs of weights probably helped with this. But, no chains and that was a must. I have the 54" deck. Cuts real nice. Very powerful. But noisy. Hearing protection is a must with this deck.

AWS is a must for me. I used a 425AWS for 19+ years, and won't go away from AWS, at least not while on this property. AWS also makes snowplowing easier as you retain steering when the front gets light.

You can't get a new tractor with Diesel, AWS, and AWD. Pick any two. I actually prefer the gasser anyway.

Mine has the 3PH. On the hitch I have an Omni transformer that will hold up to 8 suitcase weights with a trailer receiver and basket. I also purchased a 40 gallons, 10' boom sprayer, a 3PH plug aerator, and 3PH dethatcher. Love the 3PH versatility.

I agree the autoconnect isn't necessary. However, the 54" deck just barely fits in front of the rear tires. Make sure the gauge wheel cam locks are down before driving on/off the mower. And you can't use wheel spacers with the 54" deck. If you need these for chains, you'll have to take them off when you put the mower deck on. Bad design decision, in my opinion. I liked the spacers for the wider stance even though not using chains. But, would want to always leave them on like I did on my 425. Not possible on the X739. BTW, the HDAP tires are the bomb!

Love the backup/rear implement lights, and 12 Volt outlet/switch. Seat switch is a PITA. Changing the oil is OK, but no nearly as easy as the 425 I owned. The AWD mechanisms limit access to the valve stem. Comfortable ride. Wish it sat lower to get under branches easier.
 
/ X 739 opinions
  • Thread Starter
#11  
I have 51 hours now on my X739. Bought just before Xmas. Plows snow without chains like a dream. The 400+ lbs of weights probably helped with this. But, no chains and that was a must. I have the 54" deck. Cuts real nice. Very powerful. But noisy. Hearing protection is a must with this deck.

AWS is a must for me. I used a 425AWS for 19+ years, and won't go away from AWS, at least not while on this property. AWS also makes snowplowing easier as you retain steering when the front gets light.

You can't get a new tractor with Diesel, AWS, and AWD. Pick any two. I actually prefer the gasser anyway.

Mine has the 3PH. On the hitch I have an Omni transformer that will hold up to 8 suitcase weights with a trailer receiver and basket. I also purchased a 40 gallons, 10' boom sprayer, a 3PH plug aerator, and 3PH dethatcher. Love the 3PH versatility.

I agree the autoconnect isn't necessary. However, the 54" deck just barely fits in front of the rear tires. Make sure the gauge wheel cam locks are down before driving on/off the mower. And you can't use wheel spacers with the 54" deck. If you need these for chains, you'll have to take them off when you put the mower deck on. Bad design decision, in my opinion. I liked the spacers for the wider stance even though not using chains. But, would want to always leave them on like I did on my 425. Not possible on the X739. BTW, the HDAP tires are the bomb!

Love the backup/rear implement lights, and 12 Volt outlet/switch. Seat switch is a PITA. Changing the oil is OK, but no nearly as easy as the 425 I owned. The AWD mechanisms limit access to the valve stem. Comfortable ride. Wish it sat lower to get under branches easier.


Looking forward to getting the new mower, two weeks left. "Seat switch is a PITA" In what way, No delay? or? Thank you for the comments.
 
/ X 739 opinions #12  
Looking forward to getting the new mower, two weeks left. "Seat switch is a PITA" In what way, No delay? or? Thank you for the comments.

Seat switch is just under the fabric with a big ball-like plunger actuator. If you lean off the center of the seat, the switch will disengage the mower deck immediately. There is a tiny delay before it will stall. I took my switch out and added a spacer to make it less sensitive. Helps only marginally because of how it is designed now. It's not enough to have weight on the seat assembly. If weight is not dead center on the seat (on the ball), it will disengage. Even when looking backwards, I've had it open up. Safety overboard, in my opinion. The old design was just fine. I also suspect the seat will not last as long with the plunger pushing on the fabric all the time.
 
/ X 739 opinions
  • Thread Starter
#13  
Seat switch is just under the fabric with a big ball-like plunger actuator. If you lean off the center of the seat, the switch will disengage the mower deck immediately. There is a tiny delay before it will stall. I took my switch out and added a spacer to make it less sensitive. Helps only marginally because of how it is designed now. It's not enough to have weight on the seat assembly. If weight is not dead center on the seat (on the ball), it will disengage. Even when looking backwards, I've had it open up. Safety overboard, in my opinion. The old design was just fine. I also suspect the seat will not last as long with the plunger pushing on the fabric all the time.

Sounds like a jumper wire fix to me.
 
/ X 739 opinions #14  
So far I haven't had any of the seat switch issues noted by Gittyup, but I only have 6 hours on the mower so maybe as the seat wears in they might start showing up.

I can mow in reverse looking back on either side or mow on a steep side slope where my weight isn't centered on the seat and it hasn't produced a shutdown yet. In fact I can get up off the seat for about a second or two before it begins to shutdown.

As for the RIO switch the ball point pen cap solution works great for reverse mowing.
 
/ X 739 opinions #15  
Sounds like a jumper wire fix to me.

I'm not one of those safety freaks, but I think the seat switch is a very good idea and I would never outright defeat it. It's just too easy to fall off if doing any kind of slopes sideways, which I do. It's a pain at times, but not so much so that I'd bypass the switch. It's not worth dying or loosing a limb.
 
/ X 739 opinions
  • Thread Starter
#16  
Well minor update pics later. Got my mower 2 days ago and have 2 hours on it. I can put very little weight on the seat and it runs without a hiccup. So not sure about any seat switch problems on my mower as of yet. Read a few negative comments about the reverse speed mine goes plenty fast in reverse and figured out that you don't have to hold the switch down just hit it and mow backwards no problems there. I will leave it for now. I dont care for the metal rods in the bags . There like a tent pole and come apart at one end if you grab the bags from the side loaded with grass. Will use some stainless rivits to fix that problem. Overall this is a mower in a class of its own. Very well buildt and looks like a beast with the brush guard installed. Very quiet was my first impression and the fuel injection is instant start. Pics soon. Thank you for the input. I feel I made the right choice.
 
/ X 739 opinions #17  
Looking at purchasing a X 739 Fuel injected gas, Or maybe the Diesel. Slightly more money for diesel. But i am looking at the 4 Wheel steer for sure. Have about 6 acres of fairly bumpy terrain to mow and here Washington state the grass grows like mad for about 5 months and tired of backing up with my Ys 4500. Any comments on the 739 would be greatly appreciated.

Get the diesel, the diesels sip fuel compared to the gas guzzlers. If you keep the tractor long enough the fuel savings will pay for it.
 
/ X 739 opinions #18  
Get the diesel, the diesels sip fuel compared to the gas guzzlers. If you keep the tractor long enough the fuel savings will pay for it.

No way you'll ever break even on the fuel consumption unless you putting dozens of hours per week on the tractor. And you can't get 4WD and 4WS in a diesel :(
 
/ X 739 opinions #19  
Well minor update pics later. Got my mower 2 days ago and have 2 hours on it. I can put very little weight on the seat and it runs without a hiccup. So not sure about any seat switch problems on my mower as of yet. Read a few negative comments about the reverse speed mine goes plenty fast in reverse and figured out that you don't have to hold the switch down just hit it and mow backwards no problems there. I will leave it for now. I dont care for the metal rods in the bags . There like a tent pole and come apart at one end if you grab the bags from the side loaded with grass. Will use some stainless rivits to fix that problem. Overall this is a mower in a class of its own. Very well buildt and looks like a beast with the brush guard installed. Very quiet was my first impression and the fuel injection is instant start. Pics soon. Thank you for the input. I feel I made the right choice.

Congrats on the new mower!

Did you get the 3 bag or 2 bag collection system? On my 2 bag the metal frames are very solid and don't come apart when grabbed from any side.
 
/ X 739 opinions
  • Thread Starter
#20  
Well i have 19 hours now on my X 739 i am impressed with its power and handling . The only complain is the back tires hitting the drive on deck brackets when the mower is all the way up and you turn hard. Thinking of cutting a bit off with my plasma and re painting the bracket. Looks like just the very corner should solve this problem. Air in the tires is correct so it seems weird that JD has not addressed this problem. I haven't had any seat switch sensitivity problem yet. The three bagger is built very well, solid as a rock and i fixed the minor problem with some stainless rivets.
 

Marketplace Items

WACKER NEUSON LIGHT TOWER (A63569)
WACKER NEUSON...
Woods Rotary Cutter (A63116)
Woods Rotary...
John Deere Gator TX4x2 (A62177)
John Deere Gator...
2001 PETERBILT 378(INOPERABLE) (A63569)
2001 PETERBILT...
Arrow Quip 10' Heavy Duty Bow Gate (A64047)
Arrow Quip 10'...
Wacker Neuson AR14H (A60462)
Wacker Neuson...
 
Top