JD 4400 Question

[dodgeaspen]

I'm considering a 4400 Compact tractor to plow snow and dig some holes. Are there any things to look out for with this model? Also- do you have to come to a complete stop and clutch for the shuttle shift? It's a 12 speed transmission.

Thanks

 

[leon]

The 4 gears and the F/R shift are synchronized so, using the clutch, can be shifted on the go. However, the 3 ranges are not synchronized and using the clutch, usually require a complete stop, or nearly so.

http://www.tractordata.com/farm-tractors/003/6/8/3687-john-deere-4400-transmission.html

 

[machineryman]

yes you have to clutch to use the shuttle...recommending stopping to prevent whiplash....look for the improved front end....

 

[jacksun65]

Very dependable plastic hood and panels can be a pain when they get old and brittle. They are still available just replaced mine. check the trans housings for cracks or
leaks should be none. brakes sometimes rust up and stick other than that good little tractors, by the way they were built by yannmar.

 

[leon]

Well, pretty close, but not quite right on that made by Yanmar part. Yes, the engine and transmission are from Yanmar in Japan, but the tractors are assembled at Augusta, Georgia. Just check the serial number tag.

 

[machineryman]

The engine was built by Yanmar to John Deere specifications. Other parts are produced wherever. I had problem with lift on my the control valve was replaced (part only) by John Deere. It would jump while lifted up...defective. Good hydraulic pressure...can be some problems with pump valves and hood and panel cracking. First models had a crappy front end and John Deere got me a replacement front end. Personally I also have a John Deere 990 that I like as much if not more.

 

[machineryman]

I would agreed, probably all these parts were made overseas somewhere....

 

[leon]

Just a thought, but you might want to look at the JD model line up that preceded the 4000 series - I'm referring specifically to the all-hydro transmission "55" series. (655, 755, 855 and 955) Great for mowing (belly or 3-point), snow blowing and loader work (front wheel assist option strongly recommended). There's a stop-to-shift range box behind the hydro so it has good high-speed transport. Also has front and rear 540 independent pto, or you can use both at the same time. Also the loader can go on even with the mower on. I have a '96 model, also made at Augusta, GA. The earlier "55" series were made in Horicon, WI. All the "55" series have Yanmar engines and Yanmar/Kanzaki transaxles. I've had my '96 model 855 with MFWD for 15 years. The only trouble I've experienced was a cotter pin wearing through on the loader joy-stick linkage and an oil cooler line rubbing through and leaking where it rubbed against the frame. Oh, I run into the Diesel fuel "algae/slime" problem once, but that was my fault. Still, a fuel drain in the bottom of the tank would help, but unfortunately it doesn't have one.

 

[dodgeaspen]

Thanks for all the information.

Perhaps the 55 series would be a nice option for the hydro.

I'm also looking at a NH 2120 so I'll go post on the Ford side for opinions on that.

 

[jd2cylman]

I can tell you from experience that the Ford/NH 2120 is a good tractor; providing that it hasn't had the crap abused out of it already. If it has a loader on it pay close attention to the clutch. Is it a shuttle trans? Some of those had an issue with a one way sprag clutch in the driveline going bad. Not too hard a fix, if it has the updated shafts already. White grill screens or black(later)?

 

[dodgeaspen]

The two I'm looking at are NH with the black screen. Is that how you tell if it has the updated shafts?

Its a shuttle trans.