Aluminum parts?

[jd4310man]

Does anyone know exactly why Deere uses aluminum in the axle housings and transmission cases? I had a 4110, 4310, and now a 3203 and all three use aluminum transmission parts.
Why doesn't Deere use cast iron instead? Wouldn't cast iron be stronger and add counter-weight?

 

[jd110]

Actually, I think they use aluminum to try and keep overall weight of the compacts lighter. These tractors are widely used by landscapers, and contractors that need to get into congested neighborhoods by use of trailers. Some customers complain when the tractors are too heavy and they need to buy larger trucks and trailers which are more expensive and harder to maneuver. The demand is for lightweight, high horsepower tractors. If you need the additional weight, you need to move up to a regular utility style tractor. IMHO.

 

[sandman2234]

Aluminum is also easier to cast, due to the lower melting temps of the alloy, which computes to less operating costs in keeping a furnace going.
David from jax