The Changes in the GC1700s in 2018 - steering, seat, couplers - an open house

[coldsteelva]

Definitely a better guard for the hydro filter and mid PTO, but still no protection for the HST fan blades.

Why do they not do that?

 

[AxleHub]

Definitely a better guard for the hydro filter and mid PTO, but still no protection for the HST fan blades.

Why do they not do that?

Cold,

1st off, the Massey GC fans are much better protected than the Kubota BX units. In addition if one needs repair it is a fraction of the cost to repair compared to the BX line because it is far less labor needs and much less difficulty. .

As to why they don't protect them more. . . If they had more protection, it would make much greater buildup of grass or leaves and result in failure or hydro overheating.

If protection is a big need, then an under shield for the back would give you that without creating buildup around the fan area. I believe Bro Tek makes them at a moderate price. For all the GC models.

 

[fxdb96]

The backhoe joysticks & steel cover for the valve manifold is different than my old one also. I really hope the valves are the same since the old ones worked nice.

 

[bartjoebob]

Does the new steering wheel and seat make it less of a reach to the steering wheel? It almost feels like the steering wheel is between my knees.

Does the seat to hydro pedals seem cramped to others who are tall?

I am 6'2" and have the early 2017 GC1705 with the shorter steering wheel. The height of the steering wheel is no problem with reach or ergos. When using the loader joystick, my hand is right next to the steering wheel. I often rest my wrist on my knee when operating the loader too. I do scoot the seat a little closer but it does not cramp space for operating pedals at all. That's the advantage of side by side pedals as opposed to a heel pedal for reverse like the BXs. I do have to be mindful not to bump the key with my knee when swinging on and off the machine. But there is plenty of room. I can also reach the quick high levers from the seat in this position. I didnt like any of the tractors that had armrests and the joystick lever right next to the seat. The arm rests are too low to rest my elbow and operate the joystick without dangling my arm or slouching. The GC series is very comfortable, it was the best feeling tractor out of Kubota BX, Deere 1023, and Kioti CS for me. Hope this helps

 

[bartjoebob]

That is definately an upgraded guard. Is this unique to the TLBs only or do the non backhoe versions have this too?

PS... Youve got some grease on the garage floor. :thumbsup: