John Deere X475 AWS vs. X485 AWS

Mower_Man · Oct 19, 2004

I am looking to purchase either the x475 or x485 aws models with a snow blade and a 62" mower deck. I mow approx. 5-6 acre every week and push approx. 1500 yards of snow.

Can anyone who owns either of these models or knows alot about them recommend one over the other? Basically I would like the Pro's and Con's about each. If anyone is in a similar situation I would appreciate a response.

Thank you all in advance,

Soon to be owner of a x4?5 aws
currently using JD 755 4wd diesal

beenthere · Oct 20, 2004

Just a bit more power in the X485 and fuel injection, so do not have to choke to cold start. I have the X485 and I like it a lot. Had the 425 AWS, the 445AWS, and now have the X485 AWS. Size wise they are both the same. So HP a bit different but suspect it might be noticed a bit with the 62C mower. With the snow blade, ask specifically for the new 'model' that doesn't have down pressure on the blade when the lever is in 'float'. That's right, there was down pressure when in float, go figure. Something to do with a design change in oil coolers, that inadvertently caused this problem. New models have decreased that pressure. I actally had another set of ears welded onto the blade lift to connect the ram to, so it will fully extend and always have blade float. For pressure (moving dirt) then the ram can be re-positioned on the 'old' ears.

Good luck with your choice. I don't want to suggest which one for you, but I know which I would pick (again). /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

h20camper · Oct 21, 2004

Do you truly require the AWS (lots of obstacles)? If not, for the money, with the amount of mowing & plowing you have, I would seriously look at the 2210. I had purchased x485 (non-AWS) and returned it (JD 30 day promise) to get the 2210. For the extra money, it's a more capable tractor. I'm not knocking the x series stuff, they're very nice. But for anything other than mowing (blade, any hydraulics) the 2210 would be better. But if you are convinced with the x4*5 series, get the x485 over x475. EFI and a few other options (I can't recall) make it a better choice. Those were the two machines I debated over initially.

Dutch445 · Oct 21, 2004

Good question about the AWS, how much time will it really save? Have you driven a 2WS X series? They have a great turning radius as they are, especially compared to the 755.

There is one oddity of the AWS when doing snow removal. If you have a deep pack of snow, and you drive alongside this snowbank, if you turn your rear wheels will kick into the snowbank. I have one customer that has modified his AWS system and locked his rear wheels in a straight direction for winter time. He just unhooked the linkage that connects the front to the rear steering systems. He didn't like having that rear end kick into the snowbank and making a mess of his nice cleaned driveway...

If you have been using the 755, why such a downsize? Keep in mind that no garden tractor is going to push the amount of snow that a compact tractor will, (as good as the X series are). The added horsepower of the 485 shouldn't affect snow removal, but may help with heavier grass duties with the 62" deck. I think there is a seat difference in the 2 machines, the 485 having a nicer suspension under it.

But, yes , both machines are great.
Good luck

/forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif

Nuru · Oct 23, 2004

The consideration of stepping up to a 2210, is a good one. I am an advocate of stepping up to the 4000/4010 series. Overkill is the order of the day for me. More power, quicker to do the job, and longer value retention! /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif

inseeme · Oct 24, 2004

I would definitely go with the 485. I have one and love it mine is not an all wheel steer, i would consider if you really need that or not. Are you going to get a bagger, i have the 3bag system with blower and it works great. good luck!!! /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

Mower_Man · Oct 25, 2004

I really appreciate all of the input.. it seems the majority agree that x485 is better than the x475 so I have ordered one. I didnt upgrade to the 2210 due to the deal I got off a great JD dealership.

Got the X485 AWS with blade coming from JD should have in 1-3 weeks for only.........$6200. I think I got the best deal known to man I will let everyone know how it all works out with doing all the work I'm going to make it do. I will let everyone know what dealership I got it from though so I can give them something in return for the great deal. Its a JD dealership located in London, OH.

Dutch445 · Oct 25, 2004

WOW,

That's either an insanely good deal, or a mistake.
Is that the tractor, and the blade, and the deck?
Brand new?

Or is that the trade difference after you trade in your 755?

/forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

Mower_Man · Oct 27, 2004

That is the Tractor Blade and 62"deck with .8 hours after a trade in on 755.

You mentioned that you had a customer that unhooked the linkage to make it so the back wheels didnt turn during the winter... Is that easy to do, and does it do any damage or put extra stress on the front steering?

awlchu · Oct 28, 2004

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( Its a JD dealership located in London, OH. )</font>

What a small world! I just picked up a X485 w/54in deck from the same dealer a week ago. I was going to buy a GX model and then I saw the X485.....hugh difference in design and features.

This is my first JD ever. And the dealer treated me very well (sales support). I took advantage of the 12month free financing.

I also considered the AWS model. Then I realized that I designed my lawn with bed radii greater than the turning radius of the X485. Thus little to no trimming required.