Newbie 790 2WD Question

PhilG · Sep 12, 2004

Hello, I am a newbie to the tractor scene but am pretty sold on the 790. My question is .. I really need/want a FEL for immediately doing things like moving brought-in piled dirt, loose gravel, and yard debree movement. I am of the opinion, for what I want out of a FEL, I don't "really" need require 4WD. I understand the benefits, but to be honest, I am trying to avoid the cost. The local deere shop often sells the FEL on 2WD but of course recommends the 4WD. The majority of usage will be to run a finishing mower. However, since I was injured in a motorcycle accident, the FEL would really help me get some things done that I simply struggle doing. Also, I am looking at turf tires. Can anyone offer advice on the 2WD versus 4WD for the FEL for what my needs are? Also, would you recommend the power steering for the 2WD?

Thanks for your time.

Phil

yellowsocks93 · Sep 13, 2004

I would bite the bullet and get the MFWD on the 790. I owned a 790 and had the 4x4 on it and used it a lot driving around in the winter time. The 790 will be not as useful with the MFWD for loader work. When I take the 990 out of MFWD I can't go nearly as far into a snow pile when it is in 2wd. I do finish mowing with the 990 and having the MFWD does not hurt the turing radius any nor tear up the turf when out of MFWD.

RoyJackson · Sep 13, 2004

Do you expect to do any type of snow removal?

I'd sure go for the MFWD. The 790 is a great tractor but it is a bit light. Even with filled tires, mine runs out of traction sometimes.

But, if you're not going to push any snow or do any digging, 2WD might do the trick. I think you'll regret not have that front assist though.

But if you get a loader, get the power steering! I use my loader for lifting things more then "loader" work (except for snow removal). For strictly lifting and moving heavy items, I could probably get by with the 2WD. But I wouldn't buy this tractor without MFWD.

RobS · Sep 13, 2004

I'll second what the others are saying. If you were NOT going to get a FEL I'd say you could get away with 2WD but the FEL makes 4WD almost mandatory on such a small, light tractor.

As soon as you pick something up with the loader it unloads the rear tires. You can use all sorts of rear weight (and you should) but it will still lose rear weight and traction with a load in the bucket. Lose the traction and the tires spin making a mess out of whatever you are working on.

Not sure the cost difference but you'll be MUCH happier with 4WD /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

Dave4410 · Sep 13, 2004

4wd is not needed for the loader work you described. If necessary, you can lower the air pressure in your rear tires and get all the traction you could ever want for doing loader work. The two functions you would need 4wd for would be excavating and working in snow. Because you will be mowing and loading, R4 tires on all 4, are in my opinion, the ones that will provide the traction you'll need. You should get power steering. You're buying the 790 to make life easier and get some projects done that you wouldn't otherwise be able to accomplish. You don't want to be struggling with your steering wheel.

JDdude · Sep 13, 2004

The 4 wheel drive will hold its value as far as resale, plus you will have the benefit of it when you may need it. The tractor will be more versitile...Power steering is a must on any tractor and it will increase resale value.

PhilG · Sep 13, 2004

Thanks for all the advice . . I rarely see snow here (central Louisiana). I will get quotes for the FWD as well as power steering . .I have been told also that for the kind of material handling I need to do . I could use a dirt scoop on the back . .never even seen one used.

Phil

stuart · Sep 13, 2004

Spend the money and get the 4 wheel drive. It is worth it. I have gotten stuck a number of times while in 2 wheel drive and when I could not get out of the fix in 2wd I always can get out in 4 wheel drive. I would not buy a tractor without it. Just one man's opinion.

JDgreen227 · Sep 13, 2004

I can't imagine using a FEL on ANY tractor without power steering...it's a MANDATORY item for me to have. And while you actually don't need the MFWD for your purposes, I think you should spend the extra $$ and get that option also. IMO, having four wheel drive capability is one of the most important options you can specify for a CUT. You would not believe the number of times my JD has been hung up while mowing a ditch or hauling a heavy load in the FEL bucket, or even backing up a 25 degree grassy slope into my barn. In 200 hours of operating my tractor I have engaged the MFWD at least fifty times to get enough traction ON GRASS to get moving.

Resale value will be greatly enhanced by both PS and MFWD and you will receive more use from your tractor. Better to have those options and not need them, than need them and not have them....

/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif