[Joe]

Well after a three month wait, my 1026R has finally arrived, will be delivered Monday, they were setting it up today but I got to drive it for a few minutes. As this is the first 1026R I have ever seen I will try and give you my first impression: (some comments are based upon comparison between my uncles 2210 and the 1026R)
Larger than what I had expected!
Not as plastic as I had been lead to believe based on some comments on this and other forums. Yes, the hood could be stiffer but don't drive with it up anyway!

 

[Joe]

OK! as I couldn't get all my comments to post, let me try it this way:

Typical John Deere quality, gear shift is smooth and precise, engine runs extremely smooth. The seat and tilt steering are leaps ahead of the 2210. Tilt function is a lot easier to operate than the tilt was on my 3520. Tried some close circle turns, this thing will turn on a dime, can’t wait to see how this translates in turning around my trees. Transmission was precise and extremely smooth, no jerking going from forward to reverse and back again.
The 7-Iron deck is something else, once installed on the tractor there is not much room underneath. For those anticipating buying the 60” 7-Iron would recommend the auto-connect, the drive shaft can be connected but it is extremely tight. One thing I noticed is how close the rear tires are to the deck, can’t be much more than and inch of clearance between the tire and deck.

 

[Joe]

Remainder of my comments:

Auto-connect, this is slick, just make sure it is set up properly also tell your dealer to save the set up instructions.
Sorry for this being so long, it’s been a long wait and wanted you to know my first impression. I’ll post more as I become familiar with the tractor (both good and bad), and oh yes “Pictures” coming in the next few days.

 

[glc]

Congrats Joe on your new machine:good2:
Sounds like the wait was well worth it.
Seems your auto-connect doesn't have the issues that some other owners dealt with.


Greg

 

[Joe]

Congrats Joe on your new machine:good2:
Sounds like the wait was well worth it.
Seems your auto-connect doesn't have the issues that some other owners dealt with.


Greg

One thing the setup technician told me was to always place the PTO selector in the REAR PTO position when connecting and disconnecting the deck, he said this allows the mid PTO to spin freely and allows the male/female splines to free wheel and align.

 

[Joe]

Well, it's home, attached are a few pictures, sorry the quality is not good, it was starting to rain so I had to hurry, will post more in a few days. If there is any particular view or shot you would like, let me know and I will try and get if for you.

 

[RandyM]

That is really nice Joe. :thumbup1gif: It's funny, it took me awhile to get use to seeing my machines with the loader brackets. Now, tractors look funny without them. Oh, action shots are great.