45 loader

Steadite · May 11, 2006

Just wanted to input my 2cents on this subject.

I've been reading here that some have been disappointed with loaders on their Xseries garden tractor. I was nearly talked out of it but decided to take the plunge anyhow as I really wanted one. Well, after only 2 days I can say it's the most useful thing I've ever owned. It's more than enough for a homeowner with some acreage who wants to move heavy stuff around. Easy to take on and off (don't really want to mow with it on: altho u can), can lift anything I'm likely to throw at it and seems very nicely designed for its intended purpose. I'm a very happy customer.

x585guy · May 11, 2006

I have a 45 loader for my X585 and overall I am pleased with it. Some people say it is a very high priced "wheel barrel" because you can use it just like one. You will find out as time goes on that there are alot of things to use the loader with. When I first got mine, I did have a problem with it. It would not lift my weght (well below the 385lb limit) to full height so I had my dealer to look at the problem. They tested the pressure on the Hyds and ended up putting shims in the pump and now it has 1300 psi coming out of the pump and it will lift 640lbs to 48+ inches off the ground. They had to stop going higher becuse the machine was getting a little tipsy!
When I bought the loader, I had them to weld two chain hooks that I use now to lift the mower deck with so I could either look at, clean or remove the blades to sharpen them. If you are planning on keeping your X series garden tractor for a long time, yes the loader is worth it in the long run. Enjoy your toys!!! Russ

Rob_H · May 13, 2006

Steadite I'm with you. In the real world these little loaders aren't that useful, but for 2-5 acres, moving mulch, light excavating, moving dirt and snow they're great.

I have a '01 445 with the model 40 loader that has less capacity than the 45. If you're interested in upping the capacity, there are a number of threads on weekendfreedommachines.com about replacing the 1.5" or 1.75" cylinders with 2" cylinders to up the lifting capacity to about 1,000# without mods to the hydraulics. I'm thinking about the cylinder swap.

A key to getting the most out of these is adequate ballast. I have filled rear tires, 140# of wheel weights and 240# of suitcase weights, and it still gets interesting from time to time.

Oh yeah - get a toothbar to get the most out of them - HUGE difference in what you can do.

Good luck!

Rob

JohnnyTractor · May 13, 2006

Got my X485 on Friday. So far, it's very nice - though my wife stole most of the seat time this weekend!

I'm interested in the 45 Loader. Can you tell me what you paid for yours?

Bremsster · May 14, 2006

I agree with the other posters, its one of the best tools I have purchased. Ours is on a two wheel drive X475 and still works as well as I could have hoped for. Had ours for one year, and wouldnt hesitate on buying it again. Make sure you ballast it correctly.

x585guy · May 14, 2006

Hi johnnytractor, I paid $3200.00 for my 45 loader and that included the suitcase weights hanging off the "click-n-go" bar and the rear tires filled with CC. Any other questions, feel free to ask. Have a great day! Russ