Thanks, Friends - JD 990 Ordered

farmlegend · Aug 1, 2006

Fellas, thanks much for all of your contributions to this splendid forum. Through the shared experiences of many, I've been able to access tons of practical, real-world data covering the gamut of topics relating to CUTs that's really, in its totality, impossible to derive from anywhere else all in one place.

Last week, I ordered my first-ever tractor from the nearest JD dealer to my farm (Godfrey Bros. in Jonesville, about 11 miles), and, based on what I've seen here and elsewhere, I got a fair deal, which is all I was looking for. Here's what's on its way:

JD 990 MFWD
300CX loader, 61" bucket
R1's, filled with "beet juice"
MX5 rotary cutter
Canopy
I-Match
Rear flood lights
Toolbox

Plan on using the machine for bush hogging, establishing and maintaining wildlife food plots, and Lord knows what else I may think up. Next year, I plan on adding a rotary tiller to the arsenal. When she shows up, I'll be sure to show some pics, in case anyone's interested.

Question - I've got lots of hills on my place; would it make sense to set it up with the wheels at the widest possible setting? At this point, I am not a highly skilled operator, and it seemed like this would be the safest way to go.

Couldn't have done it in such a short time frame without you guys!

gizmo · Aug 2, 2006

Congrats. I have had my 990 for nearly three years and it has been a flawless machine. The move up to a machine with a FEL was the biggest benefit. I traded up from a 2WD 850 which has a very similar setup, so the gear issue was not a problem. I have since aquired a HST lawn tractor, but I still like shifting gears on the 990. I feel like I am driving it instead of it driving me.

cast_and_blast · Aug 2, 2006

Congrats! I agree, this forum is a wonderful resource that I look forward to using throughout my tractor-ownership days.

Scott

tarscraper · Aug 2, 2006

Farm,

I also have a very hilly piece of property. So much so I actually considered selling my 990 to switch to Hydro of some flavor. I was really discouraged with my handling of the machine properly on hills. I finally spent some real time this last weekend fixing my driveway and I have to say I am finally feeling comfortable with it now. Its just lack of experience on my part. I just had to learn to do things differently..maybe even more slowly. I am now recommitted to keeping my 990. Its a good machine. I am going to add a backhoe shortly.

Becareful not to hit the clutch while on a hill..she will start to run away on you. Don't get nervous if you do. Let the clutch back out slwoly and the gears will keep your speed uniform to the selected gear/range. The brakes need a firm push to stop this machine properly. best advice I can give...go slow... you will learn a rythm over time.

Mr. Roy Jackson is a great resource of information on here. He owns a 790 and I have never seen him stumped with a question. Seek him out if you need some good answers. I have.

I had my tires spun to the wide side. Do it. There is no regrets. It helps make the machine much more stable. I also loaded my tires. Do that also. It adds weight nice and low. Helping to keep you stable.

Congrats!!

Tom

farmlegend · Aug 29, 2006

Delivered today.

Too much fun!

gordon21 · Aug 29, 2006

Beautiful rig. It is the big brother of my 790. The only suggestion I have is to spend the additional $38 and get a second rear work light. There are mounting holes on both fenders. It takes about 5 minutes to install yourself with the factory made wiring harness.

The JD work lights are extremely well built, have a rubberized housing and come with a complete harness. Bolt it on and click the harness and you're done.

tarscraper · Aug 30, 2006

farmlegend said:
Delivered today.

Too much fun!

Congrats..it looks great and very familiar!! The more seat time I have had on my 990 the better I like it. I just ordered the 8b backhoe (with mechanical thumb) with an 18" bucket. I expect to have it by 3rd week of september. I will post pics and report in when I get it.