Thinking about a 790 4WD need feedback

[scmac]

I currently have a 1950 8n that I have used for the past five years on my 6 acre property. Tired of working on it every time I get ready to use it and I need a new dependable tractor. I think the JD 790 is the one I have my eyes fixed on. I've recently went to the dealer and test drove this fine machine and I like it. Is there anyone that could give me some experienced information on this tractor it would be greatly appreciated. My usage information is as follows:

6 acres
Mowing/Brush Cutting
420ft driveway
grading required
snow plowing
small food plotting/gardening with possible use of small disc

Thanks /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif scmac

 

[alaskanjdeere]

Welcome to the site.
I too looked at the 790, seem's to be a well built tractor for the price. I really liked the steel fenders, but my feet felt cramped. I liked the open platform and Hydro trans of the 4x10 series better so I went for the 4410.
Good luck in trying to choose, It only took me TWO years /forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif

Shawn

 

[_RaT_]

Decent power, well made, small loader for it's size and for me, very tight quarters and I'm not that big.

 

[RobS]

I've had my 790 for a couple of years now. It's been great and it will definitely handle what you've got in mind. Like others said, it's a bit cramped but you'll have to be your own judge there. Also, loader and tph specs are relatively low but it's never been a problem for me. The 790 is a great value in a tractor. If you want to know anything more specific ask away /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[RoyJackson]

"Also, loader and tph specs are relatively low but it's never been a problem for me. "

Relatively low, compared to what?

Seriously, if the Loader and 3PH can pick up the heaviest implement one uses, then the capacity is quite adequate.
My little 670 (predecessor to the 790) can pick up the heaviest implement I own with no problem. That implement is a 60" medium duty Land Pride cutter (weight is a litle over 600 pounds).
The loader can lift it too, but it's a bit iffy due to the size of the cutter, not the weight.
So far, never had not enough power...even at 19 Gross HP.

Now traction is a different story...but I'd need a bigger tractor for that. Since scmac wants to do some grading, that might be a concern.

Even digging with the loader...remember, without a toothbar, it's a loader, not designed as a digging machine. Even with a toothbar, the FEL's digging ability is not the greatest. You want to dig...get a back hoe or excavator.

Sorry about being long-winded, but I get a little tired of reading the 790's capacities are a little low. If the machine can lift and operate the implement you intend to use, then it's fine.

The only implement I'd like that is probably a little beyond the PTO power of the 670 is a chipper...maybe.

As far as being a bit small in the operator station, that depends on the individual. I like the close access to all the controls, but since I've a gimpy leg, the gearshift lever catches my boot laces if I'm not careful. That wouldn't be pleasant going off the machine face first.

All in all, that 790 is a robust little tractor that will last for a long time and would be an excellent choice for a home owner with 5 or 6 acres to maintain.

BTW, Rob...didn't you get a #7 backhoe for your 790?

 

[RobS]

<font color="blue"> "Also, loader and tph specs are relatively low but it's never been a problem for me. "

Relatively low, compared to what?
</font>

Compared to other similar hp tractors. You're absolutely right though Roy, it may be low but it's more than adequate to get the work done.

Yes, I did get a #7 hoe for my tractor and love it. Used it yesterday in fact to do some preliminary excavating for a retaining wall I'm planning. Ah yes, the beauty of owning the hoe vs. renting. I can take the time to dig a test footer to confirm all my measurements before ordering my materials /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

I didn't intend to sound negative at all on the 790 but anyone doing a simple comparison is going to see that the 790 has lower loader and tph specs than many other tractors. Roy and I, as well as countless other TBN members, will openly attest to the 790's capabilities. Don't let the printed numbers deter you, go by your needs and the ability of the machine to meet those needs /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[_RaT_]

I think the loader that the 790 has is small for the size of the tractor and perhaps why Roy is tired of seeing posts to this affect. Compared to many other tractors in the same size and HP, it is pretty light. But, if having a loader that is only needed for light work, it would be fine. The on/off ability of it is also a bit cumbersome compred to other models. But, again, consider how much the 790 costs and it's a minor compromise. All in all, especially for the price, the 790 fills a very nice market need. Plenty of power and good performance overall. If your needs are mowing, occasional loader use and dragging other 3 pt hitch implements is what your after, the 790 could be the tractor for you. I don't have a 790, but my neighbor does and I often show him how to do the things he wants to do with it. Once I removed the loader for him, he could not believe how much easier mowing is. He now wishes he had at least gotten a hydraulic top link. It's something to strongly consider if your thinking about any tractor.

 

[RoyJackson]

"I don't have a 790, but my neighbor does and I often show him how to do the things he wants to do with it. Once I removed the loader for him, he could not believe how much easier mowing is. "

Guess he never read the manual, eh?

Admittedly, the first time one drops the loader off, it's a bit intimidating. I was a bit more concerned about re-installing it though.

Of course, now it's a piece of cake and stays off most of the spring, summer and autumm. Much easier when I mow, but I do need it on when I'm using the cutter for a counterweight.

I do have a pretty big job for the Loader this summer though. Got to smooth out a powerline right of way the the power company has neglected. Not in a big hurry, so it'll take a few weekends of reasonably good weather. Kind of looking forward to it since most of my loader work so far has been hauling or lifting various things.

 

[scmac]

Iwould like to thank everybody for the helpful information on the jd 790 especially about the foot cramping in the seat area.when I tested it yesterday I slid the seat back as far as it would go and at the time I really wasn't thinking about leg room, but in hind sight it was a little cramped.but then again I haven't even had brakes on my old ford for about five years know, so I'm not to awefully worried about leg room. I think I'll fit quite nicely behind my new deere. well I've got three dealers close to home so know I guess all I have to do is try to start a price war and see who I can get to give me the best deal. well thanks again everybody, hopefully I can post again soon and tell everybody how well I like my new green machine, that is when I get it. scmac /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif

 

[yellowsocks93]

If your doing finish mowing you'll like the 60'' deck available. I had one on my 790 and it cut great plus the tight turn radius was really good for around trees.