[tullybrewing]

First time Deere owner here. Just ordered a 2011 2520 last week and took advantage of their 2500.00 off the machine with 2x implements. I took the 200CX FEL w/ balast box and 62D MMM. I upgraded the mechanical lift to the independendant lift, upgraded the 53 inch material bucket to a 61 inch and also added a block heater. The only thing I couldn't get them to throw in to sweeten the deal was the iMatch hitch - that will have to come later. I stopped by my dealer this afternoon and the CUT was sitting out front while they wait for for the hydraulic lift. While I was there I went over the machine with a fine tooth comb and took notice of the Serial # on the CUT. Does anyone know how to decipher JD serial #s? I know it may sound petty, but I'm a complete DETAIL freak. My purchase order is for a 2011 2520 and I want to ensure I'm getting what I ordered and not some left-over 2009-2010 model. I know it's new, as it has 5 tenths of an hour on the hour meter. I'd likely take it, but if I know it's not a 2011 model from the serial # I might have an extra bargaining chip to get them to add the iMatch.

 

[tullybrewing]

Hello Tully and welcome. What was your rationale for getting the independent lift over the mechanical? Consider getting the hydraulic diverter valve for the FEL if getting the indpendent lift.

Chris-
My rationale for the independant lift was that I had two competitive quotes for the same machine and they included the IL over the mechanical lift. When it came to negotiating my purchase price, I got my dealer to upgrade from their original quote. Some of the information I've read here on DT has indicated that the mechanical arms are subject to bending if left on the tractor if you don't remove them completely. The only negatives I've read on the IL is the hyraulic bleed-down which sounds like their's a fix for. I'll likely invest in the diverter long-term if it becomes a hassle. I intend to do my mowing with the FEL removed, so losing the tilt on the bucket while the IL is being used isn't a show-stopper for me. The other negative on the IL lift is if I had the backhoe implement. I guess if I had one, I'd have to remove the IL to make room for the backhoe subframe, but that too is well down the road for me.