X485 AWS

[BiggieB]

I initially was on the market for a sub-compact - BX or New Holland, but I quickly found out that turning radius is virtually non existent. I stopped by the local Deere dealership and hopped on a X485 AWS - WOW. This machine can almost turn on a dime, and it has some beef to it.

Does anyone know the reliability on the AWS system?
How will it handle pushing snow?
Also, would you go Kawi 25 liquid cooled or Yanmar Diesel 24 liquid cooled?

I have about an acre and a half, trees, will push snow on a 700 foot driveway, and will haul wood. Live in Maryland.

Your input will be great, and if anyone has prices, that will be helpful when I go back to the dealership.

Thanks!

 

[chevy]

My brother has an X485 AWS & is very happy with it. He does not use it to push snow though. I owned & used a 425 AWS for 7 years. I was very happy with it & did not have any problems at all. I also pushed alot of snow over that time & it worked very well for that also. In the fall of 2001 I traded the 425 AWS for a regular steer 455 diesel & this year I got a JD 2210 to replace the 455. I would never go back to a gas engine. The diesels have alot more power, run cooler & use less fuel.

Chris

 

[beenthere]

The AllWheelSteer (AWS) of the Deere, is rock solid. Even the early 400's have stood the test of time.

I think you will be impressed with the manueverability of the AWS especially when plowing snow. I've had AWS, for over 6 years now.

(yep, and everything LGinIA said too /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif )

 

[LGinIA]

I recently traded in a JD 445 for a new X485 AWS w/62C mid-mount mowing deck. Initial observations:

The new 62C mowing deck throws up a lot of grass clippings and dust as compared to the 445's 60 " deck. JD is now offering a anti-blowout kit (2 metal plates installed under the deck lip, similar to what is used on the mulching kit) to help with this known problem. Ask your dealer to throw this kit in, otherwise it is a $35 part kit. The deck gets loaded with grass clippings after a lawn cutting and will require removing the spindle covers for proper cleaning.

The new X485 AWS (25hp) uses more gas than the 445 (22hp) which was also electronic ignition. I did'nt think the 3 extra HP or 2" wider deck would matter that much for fuel consumption, but it does.

I also have lots of trees to mow around and the AWS is really handy (turn slow or you will tear up the grass). Plenty of power and rides great.