445D vs 545D

[Greg Reed]

What's the difference between the 545D and 445D tractor/loader. Looks like engine spec is the same? Any other differences? Is the wheelbase longer? Heavier?

Also, what about 445C to 445D?

Thanks,

 

[RickB]

Horsepower is different IIRC the 445D has a 192 cu. in. engine and the 545D has the 201. 445 may have smaller diameter loader lift and bucket cylinders lowering lift and curl capacity. Very little difference between the C and D series, obviously the C precedes the D.

 

[UPFord]

Per the Ford spec sheet for 445C and 545C, 445C has 4000 lb. lift capacity at full height, the 545C has 5000 lift capacity at full height.
445C has 52 net HP vs 545c has 62 net HP.
In 2WD version, 545C has heavier 10,000 lb. 8 lug front axle vs 9,000 lb 6 lug axle.
In 4WD both tractors have the 13.860 lb. front axle.
445C has 0.87 CY bucket, 545C has 1.0 CY bucket.

Operating weights and other drivetrain, hydraulic pumps, etc are the same. I believe the relationship between the D models are similar.

 

[Greg Reed]

Great info, thanks!
Will be going to look at a 445C in the next few days. 4WD, shuttle trans. No cab, looks like it has been stored outside. What are the main points to look out for on these models?

Price is 10500, sound reasonable?

I've got a MF 40 Ind right now, but looking to 'upgrade' to 4WD.

 

[UPFord]

Look for the usual. Oil in radiator or antifreeze in oil. Check all oil compartments for signs of moisture. Check the brakes for strong ability to stall the torque converter in the lower gears.
I have a 445C 2WD and it is a great loader tractor.
The 8x8 shuttle (with PTO) is better than the 4x4 shuttle, (no PTO available. Check the function of the declutch pedal on the left foot board and the TC lock up (button on the end of the F N R shifter) works properly. Look at the front drive axle closely, parts are available but pricey. If you have cold winters, check that the Thermostart works well.

 

[Sean in PA]

(quoted from post at 09:29:06 12/24/15) Great info, thanks!
Will be going to look at a 445C in the next few days. 4WD, shuttle trans. No cab, looks like it has been stored outside. What are the main points to look out for on these models?

Price is 10500, sound reasonable?

I've got a MF 40 Ind right now, but looking to 'upgrade' to 4WD.

$10,500.00 around here would get you a good 4WD TLB (Case 480 E or something similar) of the same vintage. Price does vary by region though, so you need to check around locally to see what others are selling for. Around here that tractor with just the loader would be in the $7000.00 to $8500.00 price range depending on overall condition, including the tires.

 

[RickB]

Make doubly certain the front axle center section holds oil, particularly at the rear center trunnion. You DO NOT want to buy the parts to fix that leak.

 

[UPFord]

I've seen several low hour Ford 445/545 C or D model 4x4 Tractor loaders with PTO and 3 point on sale for around $10,000 to $12,000 in Northern Illinois and Wisconsin. Also several 445C or D's in 2WD for $6500 to $8000. I paid $6500 for an 1800 hour 445C 2WD, 4-post ROPS, with new rear tires, in December 2014.
So $10,500 seems like a decent price for the Midwest area.....depending on condition!!!!.

Then there is a low hour 1991 Ford 345C 2WD on CL in the Chicago area for $20,000 LOL.

 

[Greg Reed]

How easy is it to add a remote valve or two on these models? Is there a "power beyond" port on the loader valve you can tap in to? And a convenient port for the return line? My MF Ind has this - essentially the same ports would be used for the backhoe versions. Seems like a better option over the top cover/3pt hydraulics, as the pump flow should be higher.