All Wheel Steer

[jaydee325]

I'm thinking about retiring my trusty John Deere 325 garden tractor after 23 years of great service. So, just starting the research into a new tractor.

The All Wheel Steer models in the X5XX range are interesting and appear to be quite handy. I'm concerned with the added complexity of such a system.

I'd like to hear from those of you who own a Deere AWS tractor. Please share the good or bad!

 

[ruffdog]

I had test driven the Deere AWS tractors because I loved my supersteer TC33D tractor. I ended up buying a x744 AWS and it is mostly my wifes tractor because she LIKES mowing and does it on her own. I would say it was worth buying....wouldn't you? My dad needed something to mow/plow his property too. He has many obstacles to mow around and needs maneuverability when plowing around his garage. He bought a x749 AWS. I did trade the TC33D in on my toolcat and it is also a AWS vehicle. Can you guess that I like equipment that turns sharply? I have NEVER had a issue with the AWS on any of the units and NO, they are not even getting loose or sloppy.

 

[beenthere]

Have had at least one (now three) AWS for last 25 years..would NOT be without it. Never one problem with the linkage. Very robust.

Sidehills are easier to negotiate, turn-arounds quicker, backing up equipment easier, seeking better traction easier, steering front mounts (blade, broom, blower) easier, parking easier, and the list can go on.

 

[Spindifferent]

I have a 2016 X584 and I love it. I have many serpentine edges and trees to mow along, and the maneuverability of the AWS makes this very easy. Power steering with a spinner on the steering wheel makes all the turning a breeze. I considered zero-turn units for my mowing, but I needed the tractor for pulling a dump cart and other utility tasks.

I have the 54" Accel deck on it and it cuts very well. No concerns or issues from me regarding any of the hardware needed for the AWS.

If you need both maneuverability and utility in a lawn tractor, then the AWS units are a good tool for the job. Highly recommend.

 

[Zebrafive]

I have a JD x485 AWS. I would buy AWS again. Over 600 hours and still tight steering. I am guessing the rod ends will last 1000 hours.

 

[CobyRupert]

Do any of you AWS'ers install tire chains in the winter for a plow or snowblower?
Any problems with chains rubbing when turning?

On my non-AWS, I have to be careful to not leave too many links dangling on the inside so they don't snag on bolt heads.

 

[beenthere]

Coby
Cut the chains so they fit the tires and leave NO links dangling on the inside. just sayin....

 

[randyandrewsberg]

I love my AWS 455 , the only disadvantage I can think of is I have trouble plowing or mowing right up against a fence in a long straight line just because as you steer the front away from the fence the rear moves closer. That being said, I’ve never hit anything but I didnt expect that the first time I was using it.

 

[Spindifferent]

Do any of you AWS'ers install tire chains in the winter for a plow or snowblower?
Any problems with chains rubbing when turning?

No tire chains needed here in Texas. Maybe for mud, but not for snow.

 

[jaydee325]

All,

Thanks for the input.

Good point on chains as I will want to use a snowblower on any machine I get. I'll be sure and ask that question when I get to a dealer to look.

 

[mike48130]

I have a X485 AWS and it's great. I think the manual says to lock the rear end for snow plowing, or I read it somewhere. I think it requires tools. I believe you need to pull the link that goes to the rear knuckle and bolt it to the frame, then they are locked. Mine is a 2004, so maybe better or easier technology now.

 

[mike48130]

No tire chains needed here in Texas. Maybe for mud, but not for snow.

I was just looking at the weather, that may not be a true statement this week. Not sure if the storm will make it far enough south to hit you.

 

[beenthere]

I have a X485 AWS and it's great. I think the manual says to lock the rear end for snow plowing, or I read it somewhere. I think it requires tools. I believe you need to pull the link that goes to the rear knuckle and bolt it to the frame, then they are locked. Mine is a 2004, so maybe better or easier technology now.

mike
Have never heard or read of such a thing. There is a rear diff lock to be used only when traction is needed on occasion..
Your comment implies that somehow the steering mechanism is locked/bolted solid.. don't see how that is possible at all.
Certainly isn't in the operators manual.
Maybe someone will chime in who knows more about this.

 

[ruffdog]

Lock the rear steering? That doesn't make sense as it is better for the rears to follow the front tracks.

 

[oldnslo]

My son has an X749 with around 1200 hrs that he had to replace all of the swivel joints and tie rod ends. Through Deere very expensive after market was $250 - $300. His biggest complaint is loss of ground clearance from all the linkage but does like it for maneuvering vs his gx 345

On his the rear tires rub if turned fully but I suspect tires are oversized.

On his you can remove one or two pieces of linkage and lock the rear steer. Did this to drive it home when linkage fell apart.

 

[jaydee325]

The Deere online Implements and Attachments brochure states that for both the TerraGrip Traction Belts and the Tire Chains, a wheel stop adjustment is necessary for the AWS on the X500 models and references the Tractor Manual. The X700 series require wheel spacers.

 

[Gittyup]

I think there are nuance differences in the AWS systems on different models.

I ran a 425 AWS for 20+ years. Never an issue with the linkage. Extremely reliable; just keep the u-joints greased. Though it did reduce ground clearance. On that tractor, to use chains (which I did for all 20 years), you have to have wheel spacers installe.

When I moved up to my X739 AWS, I ordered spacers for it. However, I quickly found out that you cannot use the spacers with a 54" deck, meaning you would have to remove them to put the deck on. The tires would hit the gauge wheels. So I returned the spacers because I had no plans nor needs for chains and wasn't about to pull the wheels off twice a year to install/remove. Also on the x739, the AWS linkage is above the axle. So it doesn't affect ground clearance. I've been using the X for 6 years. No issues with the AWS. I think, because they offer spacers, that they are needed for chains, at least on the X7xxs. I would check with the dealer.

The other issue with chains and AWS is that they must be tight or there is risk of getting them caught up in the mechanisms. As I said I ran chains for 20+ years on a AWS without a problem, but I did put bungies on them and twist-wired them on every year. That is actually the only reason I moved up to the X739. I got tired of putting chains on every year. And the 4WD with HDAPS and some suitcase weights will go through just about any snow without an issue.

AWS is great plowing snow too. You can steer with the backs when the front tires get light. You can actually push snow sideways pretty nicely too. As you can tell, I'm a big fan of AWS.

 

[jaydee325]

I know I started this thread almost 8 months ago! What can I say, takes me a while to make a decision.

I took delivery of an X584 yesterday afternoon. I put about an hour on it mowing a very shaggy lawn!

A few initial impressions:

What a difference 23 years makes. Hadn't realized how worn the 325 was. Not only is the X584 smoother and tighter, but quiet!

AWS really cuts down on the backing up to get around tight areas.

The Accel Deep deck is also head and shoulders above the old deck for cut quality.

I also got the 47" snowblower. I mounted it today just to make sure the dealer delivered all the parts. It's a beast compared to the old 42 snow thrower. While I will never hope for winter, I also can't wait to try this thing!!

Love that "new tractor smell"!!

 

[IndyJay]

I love my AWS 455 , the only disadvantage I can think of is I have trouble plowing or mowing right up against a fence in a long straight line just because as you steer the front away from the fence the rear moves closer. That being said, I’ve never hit anything but I didnt expect that the first time I was using it.

Old post but want to add for anyone coming across this. When I first got my x394 I got it up against a fence that was on a slope. Once. After that I started mowing in reverse along that stretch of fence and never had another issue. Remember going forward, steering away from fence takes rear wheel into fence. In reverse the rear wheel takes you easily away without front wheel getting tight.

 

[ArlyA]

I'd like to have one of these, especially since Husky quit building my center actuating mower!! Can you get it in awd?