JD 455 Lifespan? Help Needed!

[gunmaker]

I've had my 425 since 93, with minimal problems. I've got 850 hrs on the meter now. One thing to look at on this era of the 400 series is the seals on the hydrostatic transaxle. The problem areas seem to be where the connections to the forward/reverse pedals enter the trans axle. These seals will wear/harden and start to seep, then leak. This repair is a bit more expensive, or one could just do a re-build over the winter. They are great tractors, and I've always wished I'd gone for the 455 instead of the 425.

 

[jcmseven]

Our local college traded in a 455 with over 5000 hours on the clock last year to our local dealership. The machine was sold to another customer within a week for $4900 or so, if I recall. These machines, with proper care, have very long lifespans. Ther machine you are looking at would last 10+ years more in normal use. I assume the AWS would be slightly more-likely to cause trouble than the standard rear axle, but I have no experience there. KD--unless you just need that new machine, I would not trade your 455. I wish I could find one locally. My neighbor has a pristine one, but he ain't selling.

John M

 

[Klorinth]

I took the leap and agreed on the JD455! I am now a a Green owner. lol

I decided that the possible life span of this machine was worth the expense. I'm only getting the tractor and deck, but at a much better price than any other 400 series I have been able to find, in this condition. I enjoyed the smooth, quiet, responsive ride too much to walk away

So I have been able to get the machine I need and have AWS as an added bonus. Once I have finished with site preparation on the new property, I will have as many as +500 trees to take care of. Imagine the turning LOL

Anyway... Thank you all very much for all of the help you have given me. I'm sure I will need more help soon. I am of course still very much a newbie

Rayan