Is 445 a versatile tractor?

[Spudth]

I've had a Jetstar 3 super as our main tractor for many years. We use it to mow hay with our Hesston 1120 mower conditioner, bale hay into small square bales with our Case 445 baler and do some cleanup with a 6' brush mower.
My question to everyone is how does a Minneapolis Moline 445 compare to the Jetstar 3 super? There is one available locally and other than slight difference in ground speed (which concerns me) I'm thinking of buying it as a back-up.

 

[T.R.K.]

I have both, a wide front Jetstar3 and a 445 Universal. (not utility) It might bother you that the 445 seat is so much lower. You straddle the transmission like on most older Fords. The Jet3 seats you higher. No pto brake on the 445, so the pto spins all the time, unless it is hooked to something. I can't remember if the Jet3 has a pto brake or not. If the 445 has power steering, it probably won't be quite as responsive as the Jet3.

 

[Spudth]

Thank You. We have a MF35 diesel. Its a bit tight but not a big step up. Pto brake isn't a killer as my equipment should stop it. Yes it has pkwer steering. My jetstar 3 "power" steering has a problem. When the system is lower on fluid while driving in 5th gear I have to rotate the steering wheel constantly.
What about ground speed baling and mowing. My jetstar 3 is a bit slow baling in 1st gear and while cutting hay I can have the same issue. Its practically impossible to run continously with the torqamplifier unlocked. It seems to heat the gear oil. I'm not sure if theres a restriction on using it?

 

[Alan K]

I have a 445 universal that I use for cutting hay with a Number 5 JD sickle mower. I also use it for raking hay. As T.R.K. mentioned you do sit lower. It is a challenge to see the rear of a square baler lol. Usually use my M670 Super for that duty but mostly round bale.
Does your brush mower have a shear pin or slip clutch on it? The reason I ask is I have a parts 445 that has a "twisted" pto shaft. I'm guessing they used it on something that didn't lol.
It would be a nice addition to your Jet Star 3. I don't think you would regret it. If you do get it post some pictures.

 

[JOCCO]

My opinion, they are very similar just different sheet metal. There is more to it than that. I don't think you will go wrong, and I would grab it if price is right. I also have a case IH 445 baler.

 

[JOCCO]

I have both, a wide front Jetstar3 and a 445 Universal. (not utility) It might bother you that the 445 seat is so much lower. You straddle the transmission like on most older Fords. The Jet3 seats you higher. No pto brake on the 445, so the pto spins all the time, unless it is hooked to something. I can't remember if the Jet3 has a pto brake or not. If the 445 has power steering, it probably won't be quite as responsive as the Jet3.

My jet star 3 has pto brake.

 

[molinegb]

Jet Star 3 has much better steering and hydraulics. Common Versatile tractor.

 

[Spudth]

I have a 445 universal that I use for cutting hay with a Number 5 JD sickle mower. I also use it for raking hay. As T.R.K. mentioned you do sit lower. It is a challenge to see the rear of a square baler lol. Usually use my M670 Super for that duty but mostly round bale.
Does your brush mower have a shear pin or slip clutch on it? The reason I ask is I have a parts 445 that has a "twisted" pto shaft. I'm guessing they used it on something that didn't lol.
It would be a nice addition to your Jet Star 3. I don't think you would regret it. If you do get it post some pictures.

I think its a Massey Ferguson mower with a shear bolt. Not a fan of clutches.

 

[Spudth]

Jet Star 3 has much better steering and hydraulics. Common Versatile tractor.

I own the Jetstar 3 super. I'm looking at a 445 as a backup.
Thanks