Thoughts on this X485

[rexwagon]

It has 480 hours on it and is being sold by a local JD dealer. I have not seen it in person yet but it looks good in the photos. They are asking $5800 for it but are willing to negotiate.

My big question is should I be concerned about the rust on the seat base? And do I really need an X485? Of course not really but I have 2+ acres of flat to hilly yard plus would like to plow snow and haul wood etc. How reliable are these? Any concerns about the EFI? Do they hog gas?

Any info would be great.

Should I have posted this in the buying advice section?

 

[jcmseven]

I would not be concerned about the rust. The scissor base is not that expensive if needs to be replaced. The 485 is a very reliable machine. The Kawasaki engine is a great motor and the x series tractors are a pleasure to use. As for fuel economy the Kawasaki engines are known for good power and generally poor fuel economy. I have had a 485 and a 720. Neither did well on fuel. When mowing they both used around 1.5 gallons per hour. This is not horrible but not good either. The fuel injection has been largely trouble free and went through it's toothing with the previous generation 445.

John M

 

[buckshot721]

Got one with about 200 hours on it, not a bit of problems. Also have a 54'' deck that cuts great. Rides like a caddy, better than my 2305 or 425. It likes its gas, but keeps on going. Just keep the regular maint with the fuel filter.

 

[Deadman]

EFI scares me.
I bought a X475 to stay away from the EFI. I didn't want to HAVE to take it to JD dealer to service the fuel system in future.
X475 has been a Beast. Burns 1 gal per hour when mowing with 54C deck in heavy grass.

 

[Dutch445]

we see very few problems in the EFI system, although
my SO limped my X585 home this summer when it was
out of fuel, and took out the tank's fuel pump!!!!!
expensive lesson, but if it stalls and is out of fuel,
DON"T keep running it!

otherwise they are a great rugged tractor, great on hills,
i mow a very steep hill, (and did nicely with my 445 also)

very good for snow removal and hauling etc. I hook up my
5x8 trailer and head up in back to grab firewood a couple times a year.

if you use it on steeper hills, or get snow equipment for it, weights
give you some stability and traction, i used loaded tires instead of
weights.

 

[beenthere]

Great tractor but I'm not impressed with the price tag. At least $500 too high IMO.
If it was All wheel Steer, then that price would be a little bit more tolerable.

I have the X485 and it has been very reliable. Not as impressed with it compared to my 445 that I sold to my son (he won't sell it back ). But I have since picked up a 425 and 445 to replace it.

As to the EFI (fuel injection), has been no problem on the 445's I owned nor the X485.

 

[Todd NE WY]

Check machine finder and look at similar hour machines. Also what is the prevailing rate in your area, check Craigs list. I am in WY and just sold one with about 420 hours for $3500. I had bought it 2 years ago and used it in the summer, I only paid $4500 for it with just over 350 hours.

Todd

 

[rexwagon]

Saw the tractor today and it's nice. To make. Quick sale dealer will take $4800 for it. Currently in MD dealers are asking at least $6500 for comparable 485.

Should I be concerned about the rust of the seat structure? She looks like she was kept outside. Engine is a little dirty but runs really smooth and quiet.

I was really set on an 05 GX345 until I saw this X485.

 

[par4n1]

Dont rush into just anything. Look around and be willing to drive a few hours. When the dealer drops his price that fast there is room for even more. I just found what I was looking for after I almost bought 4 or 5 others.
Cheers

 

[rexwagon]

What did you buy? And i'm not rushing. Just ask my wife, she wants to kill me as I've been looking for several months now. Was set on a new X500 but I like the idea of power steering and hydro lift.