rookie, my understanding is, that only the CAM GEAR is actually plastic, and that makes it a much less intimidating repair (and less expensive). I might have missed something in the dialogue of some old threads. Perhaps enginetech will bounce some ideas into this thread, he seems to befit his handle pretty well.

Yes. Just the camshaft from my reading.

Is there any other difference except for the cam between newer 1999 vs. older 1993 model?

$1000 extra is quite some money,but replacing the cam could cost maybe 5-600 easily. besides I am losing power flow bagger and AWS.

cannot decide. what would you choose?

njrookie

njrookie: I'm well aware that in today's economy everyone's budget is stretched. Mine falls into this category too.

You're looking at 6 years difference between the tractors. You're also looking at 350 hours (barely broke in) compared to 700 and knowing the camshaft gear has to be replaced.

You've already said the camshaft gear is easily $5-600.00 not counting what else you might find once you get started. That's a lion's share of the $1000.00 difference right there.

I've never had AWS, and with my Simplicity's close turning radius, I certainly don't need it. I also mulch with gator blades, and wouldn't dare bag now. But, that's me.

For the difference between these two tractors, I'd say the 1999 model is probably the better buy even if you have to pay the extra. I just found a 425 on craig's list in my area (not interested FYI - just looking) with 430 hours, and they want $5250.00 for it! Go figure.

I also saw a front end loader for a 425, but I can't remember what the price was for it.

So, I'd say they are capable machines if you keep up with the maintenance.

Right now, I'm sticking with my Simplicity. I like it, it is paid for, and it does a great job for mowing and moving mulch, etc. when I have my Johnny Bucket Jr. installed on it.

Whatever your choice, make sure you drive it, check the oil ahead of time. Notice if the oil looks lighter on top then on the bottom of the oil stick. This may indicate the owner just topped off the oil. Put your hand on top of the engine and see if it is still warm. If so, this could be an indication the owner just started it up and let it run. These are old automobile sales tricks.

Good luck with your journey, and enjoy the ride!

***"Yes. Just the camshaft from my reading."***
This is not the same as the old song wherein the lyrics are: "You say Toe-may-toe, and I say Toe-mah-toe"!!
The "Cam gear" and the "Camshaft" are two very separate and distinct components. Replacing a worn, chipped, or just "suspect" cam gear does not require replacement of the camshaft. The parts and labor for replacing just the cam gear should be considerably less than for replacing the entire camshaft AND cam gear. UNLESS.....Kawasaki and Deere are "sticking it to" the consumer. Do some more research into that "Cam gear vs. Camshaft" thing before jumping in blindfolded.
Most of the other points you cite are subjective and can only be decided by the buyer. Objectivity applies to whether you are willing, AND able to perform repair procedures (like replacing the cam gear) yourself, or if you will neccessarily use professional shops for those things. The AWS adds a whole "tier" of complexity with numerous additional "parts" to maintain and/or replace.

Keep in mind you are looking at a super heavy duty garden tractor and from what you describe as your needs it does not look like you really need that. It's going to be much heavier, it's going to use more gas, and be more expensive to repair. Now all that is fine if you need a heavy duty tractor. say to use a front end loader, or a big garden tiller, but it doesn't sound much like you do.

Still, if it's what you want, go for it.

Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but I understand you lose a lot of ground clearance with the AWS apparatus under there. That COULD be and issue depending on your terrain. My vote is to skip the AWS version and go with the much newer, less used std. model.

thanks all for the contribution. while I do not plan to till, a johnny bucket does look like a nice thing to have in the future.

we live on 2.5 acres of very hilly lot. some part 20-30 degrees for long stretch of length. it puts lots of pressure on my old craftsman when pulling 150 lbs of weights on the aerator. since a good Craftsman GT will cost more than $2500, I figured a low-hour 425 will pay off over time.

i am not handy for engine at all and will be depending others/dealers.

as to the power flow bagger, how much can i sell it for?

njrookie

actually i have idea what a camshaft or a camgear is. i thought they were just the same thing. now you can see i will never be the mechanic to maintein the JD properly.

I followed everyone's advice here and accepted the 1999 JD 425 offer. It does NOT come with any attachment. It is used by a homeowner (sole owner) strictly for cutting grass in the past 10 years. i guess that explained the low hour of usage on the engine.

i will arrange a pickup as soon as possible with the seller and will report back after that. hopefully it will go through smoothly this time.

njrookie

If I were you, I would be looking at a 445 over a 425. The price is about the same but the 445 will mow circles around the 425. In taller grass it will mow 2/1. I wouldn't buy anything for 3k that is going to need engine work right away. If you are going to pick between the 2 425's the newer one with 350 less hours would be my choice.

The serial number is

M00425A062897

Does that make it a 1998 model? Should I have the CAM problem? I am a bit concerned.

njrookie

I "think" 60,000 + is a 1999 model. Does it have RIO? (have to pull PTO knob up to mow in reverse). 1999 models were the first to have that.

Tractor Data dot com says the 60000 serials are 1998 models. It may have been sold new in 1999 thus adding to the confusion. When I was shopping for my 455 I just added 92 to the first digit of the serial number to confim the model year. As to the power of a 425 or 445; with the 48" deck the 425 is fine. If you are looking at a 54" or 60" move up to the EFI engine in the 445.

howie,

There is no way a 445 will mow in taller grass 2:1 as well as possibly have problems with sub-zero temps as many fuel injected owners will attest. That is cyber-hype. :)

Cheers

JDFANATIC

I saw this on ebay:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&item=200363402959

312 hours 2001 JD 425 with FEL 40 for $5000. Sounds like a reasonable deal. The only problem is that the seller is in Maine, and it is pickup only.

Anyone in Maine interested in the loader? I do not want the loader. We can "split" the deal/tractor if you like.

I get the tractor and you get the loader.

njrookie

Here is a link that might be useful: ebay JD425

Hey nj,How much are you looking to sell the loader for?Shoot us an email ifly@kingston.net Thanks