How much $$ does AWS add to L&G tractor?

Zebrafive · Jun 26, 2015

Does AWS (all wheel steer) add anything to the cost of a USED L&G lawn & garden Tractor? Such as a 445, 455, X475, X485. X495, X724, X744 verses two wheel steer. How much more should I expect to pay for AWS verse 2WS on the same model? Or does it not command any extra $$ ?

Kyle_in_Tex · Jul 8, 2015

On the X300 vs X304, the price is $800 more. I think the AWS will hold it's value when selling.

Eric102 · Jul 9, 2015

Usually there are rebates for new JD AWS models so it often doesn't cost the original purchaser that much extra for the AWS. My example was a X739 which retailed for $650 more than a X738 that was identical except for the AWS. There was a $600 AWS rebate at the time so I got it for only $50 more. Today the rebate is $300 for the AWS models so it would cost the buyer $350 extra which isn't really all the much for what you get.

How that translates into the used market would be a wild guess but I would think it adds value to a used mower if the AWS system is in good condition.

beenthere · Jul 9, 2015

I was willing to pay that, and more, when looking for a diesel 455 that had to have AWS.

I wouldn't be without AWS unless the tractor was in super condition and low hours. Have three with AWS now, and have had one since 1995.

Zebrafive · Jul 10, 2015

Eric102 said:
Usually there are rebates for new JD AWS models so it often doesn't cost the original purchaser that much extra for the AWS. My example was a X739 which retailed for $650 more than a X738 that was identical except for the AWS. There was a $600 AWS rebate at the time so I got it for only $50 more. Today the rebate is $300 for the AWS models so it would cost the buyer $350 extra which isn't really all the much for what you get.

How that translates into the used market would be a wild guess but I would think it adds value to a used mower if the AWS system is in good condition.

Good info Thanks!

beenthere said:
I was willing to pay that, and more, when looking for a diesel 455 that had to have AWS.

I wouldn't be without AWS unless the tractor was in super condition and low hours. Have three with AWS now, and have had one since 1995.

I have never had AWS. I think my next mower will have it. Thanks for posting your opinion.

jenkinsph · Jul 10, 2015

I can't tell you how much it added to the price as I did not compare them that closely when buying. I can tell you the 4x4ws makes the mower very maneuverable and good to use on slopes or flat land. It does take a little getting used to, you have to pay attention that you don't steer the rear wheels into a wall or curb when turning. Overall I prefer it to two wheel steer for sharp turning ability.

CinderSchnauzer · Jul 10, 2015

I went from a 25 hp Craftsman with 2WS and RWD to JD X739 with AWD & AWS & HDAP tires. There is no comparison in maneuverability around tight objects and ability on slopes. Can now drive all the way along top of sloped hill and finish balance of cut by driving straight up, turn 180 deg at top and drive straight down. Never would have tried that with the Craftsman.

ruffdog · Jul 10, 2015

beenthere said:
I was willing to pay that, and more, when looking for a diesel 455 that had to have AWS.

I wouldn't be without AWS unless the tractor was in super condition and low hours. Have three with AWS now, and have had one since 1995.

I agree. After trying them at the dealer, I bought a x744(diesel 4x2 AWS) and dad got a x749(diesel 4x4 AWS) with a snow plow. Both have the 62" decks. It sure is nice to be able to turn tight and eliminate most of the trimming.

Kyle_in_Tex · Jul 10, 2015

CinderSchnauzer said:
I went from a 25 hp Craftsman with 2WS and RWD to JD X739 with AWD & AWS & HDAP tires. There is no comparison in maneuverability around tight objects and ability on slopes. Can now drive all the way along top of sloped hill and finish balance of cut by driving straight up, turn 180 deg at top and drive straight down. Never would have tried that with the Craftsman.

Those X739s with AWD and AWS always make me drool a bit.

jenkinsph · Jul 12, 2015

The four wheel steer makes a big difference in trimming time. When switching from two wheel steer to four wheel steer I purchased a trimmer mower with caster front wheels too. I found the GT does a good enough job that the walk behind trimmer mower is seldom used. Does not leave much for a string trimmer either. While you can use a two wheel steer to trim just as close it takes a lot more time to do it.