John Deere 2305 MMM 62C - How hard to install?

[justman777]

Hello all!

I have a 2008 model John Deere 2305 and I'm considering putting on a MMM to tackle some of the mowing on my 5 acres. I have very sandy soil, and I currently pull a 60 inch LandPride finish mower. The finish mower cuts well, but tends to sink down in the sand and create ruts with the tires when backing or turning. Thinking a MMM that floats would be better.

The challenge I have is the cost... The dealer quoted me $2900 for the 62C deck, with tax and installation included. However, I can order one shipped to my door for a little less than $2000. I tried to get the dealer to bring the cost down, but they wouldn't budge. Said the majority of the difference is tax and shop labor ($100 an hour) for installation.

So...the question is...how difficult is it (really) to install one of these decks? Can a reasonably mechanically inclined person (like me) do it? Or...is it best to let the dealer install it?

Welcome all comments or suggestions!

 

[bigtiller]

Are the 2 decks in the same condition, assuming they are used? They are fairly easy to install if you are doing it on concrete.

Are you sure your dealer is wanting to charge you $1000 for labor. That seems high. Does the cheaper delivered price have all the connecting parts?

 

[justman777]

Both decks are new, so no wear consideration. Not sure on the exact total labor from the dealer, but I agree....$1k seems high to install a deck. I suspect the labor is quite a bit less, but they're not willing to come down on the price of the deck. And as far as I know, the delivered price includes all connecting parts.

 

[KennyG]

The parts are pretty much bolt on but you are bolting to the frame so it's big stuff. Are you looking at independent lift? These tractors had two options, one that attached to the 3 point and and an independent lift one that tied into the SCV (joystick). The independent lift will mean that you are connecting into the hydraulic system. There is also an additional enhancement that adds a valve to the SCV system so you can switch between loader and mower without disconnecting hoses. All this adds up.