Newbie 790 2WD Question

[Bellville]

Phil, if there is any way you can afford the MFWD get it. I did not think I needed it when I was tractor shopping, but it has gotten me out of many a tough spot.

On one occasion I was moving a large amount of treated 2x6 with the FEL and had to back up a slight incline, even though I had my box blade on for counter weight I was just spinning the back tires, (engaged the differential lock and spun both tires), put it in 4 wheel drive and she backed right up.

I know it is quite a bit more cost, but if you can go it you will have a tractor that is so much more capable.

Best of luck and let us know how you make out.

 

[Ledgemere Farm]

I have 12.4 x 24 R1's on the back of my Cub Cadet and I almost never use 4WD. I am a strong advocate for using 4WD to get OUT of trouble, not INTO it. 4WD helps allot with steering when you are pulling an implement. It's also a big help in the woods when you are pulling out stumps or a log. Sometimes, just that extra little purchase is all you need. 4wd is nice for sure, but you can get away without it. If you were to load your tires and throw on a weight box you'd be OK if you had R1 tires. TURF f tires will spin and you WON"T be happy. That said, you would PROBABLY be OK with 2WD for moving a load of loam or gravel with turf tires, but you certainly won't get a good bite if you intend to do any excavating, especially in loose or rough soil. If there is any way possible, go for the 4WD if you are set on getting turf tires, even if it means holding off a little while. Good luck!!! /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

 

[ipwanab]

Phil;

Get the 4wd. there are many times on the slightest of inclines or wierd situations where my 790 will not move without the 4wd engaged. A good example is making a backup when mowing to get under a tree or such and the rears will just spin without the fronts helping,(this doesn't happen on level ground) but it does't take much slope to cause slippage. I also think that 4wd get's you ps.

 

[JATO_RaT]

"Phil, if there is any way you can afford the MFWD get it. I did not think I needed it when I was tractor shopping, but it has gotten me out of many a tough spot. "


I'll second that and add that if you can't afford it, find a used tractor that has it. There have been a few fellas here that almost seemed to advocate 2WD (PruntyC) but for every one, there must a hundred that surely support 4WD. You can easily resell a 4wd, but 2WD will probably have a smaller market.

The need for 4WD will become quite apparent when you don't have it, that need will come up often. My experience anyway. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

 

[bczoom]

PhilG

I'm with everyone else on getting at least the 4WD, especially if you're going with the turf tires. Are you considering a mid-mount mower or rear finish mower. If MMM, you'll definitely prefer the power steering.
As for FEL, if you can swing the $, I'd consider it also.
You said the "majority" of use will be for running a mower. What other things would you be considering using it for?

 

[mainiak1]

I'm a 790 owner too I try not to use 4WD as much as I can.
My field is fairly level and I find myself in 4WD 30% of the time. I have turf tires. I think the loss of traction while in 2WD is magnified because tractors do not have suspension to help.
My 4WD Jeep on the other hand I use 4WD .001% of the time. Please believe what others are saying, their trying to save you alot of frustration.

 

[Henry]

Pretty consistent advice.... I own a 790 w/turf tires, loader, and belly mower. I always run in 2WD for mowing and always run 4WD for running the loader.

For mowing, it tears up the turf in 4WD
For loading, I seem to need the extra traction with 4WD

I suggest you go for it! Tell your wife that thousands of middle-aged tractor owners insist that you buy the 4WD /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif