Advice on a new tractor

nepahunter · Jul 24, 2015

I recently purchased my first home on 5 acres (approx 3 yard and 2 wooded). I purchased a cheap used craftsman I was hoping to get a couple years out of before upgrading to a a nicer machine possibly even a sub compact tractor. Well after 2 months of mowing with the craftsmans I've had it with it, and decided I am going to upgrade now. I grew up mowing and snowblowing with my dads jd 445 so I am more than likely going with a jd. My budget is between 5-6k and I would prefer a new machine but would go used for the right options. I will be mowing 3 acres mostly slopes and I will be snowblowing a 350 ft driveway.I would love bigger machine with options for a loader and brushhog but I imagine even used that'll put me out of my budget. Thanks for the help!

beenthere · Jul 24, 2015

A used 445 with mower deck should easily fit your budget. They are the preferred model for me.. 425, 445, and 455 all-wheel-steer and 54" deck.

There were design changes after this series that, IMO, went downhill.. especially going to the one-piece hood.

There are low hour tractors of this vintage around and well within your budget or less.

Will_C · Jul 24, 2015

I agree with beenthere- those Deeres are great machines, and you can find a real nice one in your budget.

Will

nepahunter · Jul 24, 2015

Thanks for the input guys! I really like my dads 445 and it has certainly been a workhorse for almost 20 years! I have considered a 425 or 445 they just don't seem to go for reasonable prices around my area. I did see one with a blower attachment included for 5200 but I believe that had approx 1100 hours. I want my investment to last for many years to come and I'm not sure how many years are left in a 20 year old gas tractor.

beenthere · Jul 25, 2015

Don't give up.. I ran across a 425 on CL that was at 400 hours, and the price $3500. I bookmarked it, but just looked and it doesn't come up anymore. That was May 21, 2015, just a couple months ago.
I drove to Ohio 4 years ago to buy my 455 off eBay, at 400 hours and $5500. About an 8 hour drive, but was AWS and 54" deck. So far, has been well worth it. Goes forever on a tank of diesel. The 445 I used to have was a real gas guzzler, but a great tractor. My son has it now. Wish you luck.