JD445 AWS Loader Question

[smartguyz]

Hi guys -

I am about to purchase a JD445 with All-Wheel-Steering, but just noted that the #40 Loader will not fit on AWS units, which would force me to purchase a 2WS version. Is there some physical limitation on installing the loader, or does Deere simply feel it is unsafe to operate a loader with AWS? (e.g. is the AWS model missing some mounting points, etc. for the loader)

Also, I've been told that only a 4-wheel-DRIVE (not steer) unit is really useful for regular loader use. This would force me to the X5 series, which is REALLY spendy. I'd have to jump ship and go to something like a Kubota BX1500 if I needed all that and around $10K. What do you guys think?

-Rob

 

[prosperity]

First, the reason for not having the loader on the AWS is because of stability.
Next, you are correct in that using a loader with 2WD will work, but if you want to dig or push you will be limited with traction. Also realize that you would have to have some kind of ballast on the rear of the machine if putting a loader on.

You'll have to decide what you need your machine for most. The AWS is for mowing convenience only. If you really need a machine with a loader, you'll have to forget the AWS. If you really need to do loader work that entails digging or pushing, then you'll need 4WD.

When looking at the cost of a 4WD with loader (BX1800/BX2200/JD2210) also remember that you are getting a diesel also. That has some to do with the cost of those sub-compacts.

 

[BrentB]

A couple of years ago I used the schools 445 2wd with loader to help fix up the cross country course. The loader on the 2wd machine is a joke. It could not load the bucket from a pile of loose soil, and so we wound up scooping dirt into the bucket by hand. It then could not lift the bucket without two men helping to lift it so we could dump it into a pickup.

I have a 4200 4wd with 420 loader, and so can really speak for the benefits of 4wd.

I would not recommend the loader on a 2wd machine at all.

Brent

 

[Will_C]

I don't know what the pricing is now, but I know three years ago when I bought my BX2200, the cost was actually less than a 4?? Deere. The diesel JD was around $11,000 for the tractor and MMM, and I paid $10,500 for the BX. That was when the BX's were brand new, many here on TBN have reported paying less.
I really don't know why you would consider paying that kind of money for the JD, or any color garden tractor, when a sub-compact is not that much more or equal in price. If you are considering a FEL, I remember the JD price for the garden tractor was comparable to the BX FEL.
Perhaps JD has really lowered their prices on the 400 series, otherwise, I don't know who would buy them, compared to what you get on a sub-compact (not brand bashing,pick whatever color sub you like) /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif
Will