Green Tractor Talk banner
Cancel

Just ordered a 1025R - Some details and general questions inside

6984 Views 51 Replies 22 Participants Last post by  Shrek, 
T
Hi everyone -

I recently ordered a 1025R and had some general questions. But first, a little background...

I live on a 3-acre property of which about 2 are mowed. I originally purchased an x758 a few years ago, and although it's an amazing garden tractor for mowing, I've been wanting a tractor with more utility. Specifically, I've been wanting a loader, grapple, and the ease of purchasing other attachments. I do have the grapple from Innovative Tractor Attachments for the x758, and although it's strong and useful, I want something bigger with more utility. I also need a machine that will allow me to mow as I don't have the space or desire for two machines at this point.

So, I decided to contact my local dealer and he made me a great deal on a trade-in for a 2021 1025R. I ordered it with the following attachments/items:

120R loader (NSL) with 53" bucket, Deere ballast box, 54D mower deck with load-n-go brackets, Frontier AV20F grapple, 3rd SCV valve kit, Front quick hitch along with a 54" plow, Seat cover, and the R3 radial ply tires (Versaturfs).

I decided on the NSL loader as I won't do much, if any, pallet work or truck loading/unloading. I also researched and watched all TTWT's videos and wasn't convinced it would be an upgrade for my personal use. Most of my work will be with the grapple and using the loader for mulch, dirt, stone, etc.

I decided on the front quick hitch for plowing as opposed to a loader-mounted plow as it works a lot better for some space limitations I have in the winter. I've used a front quick hitch on the x758 for a few years and it works out very well, so I'll stick with that system for now for winter duties.

I'm planning to fill my ballast box with concrete. The loader manual states there should be a minimum of 580 pounds from the rear hitch and I think the concrete-filled box is a good and simple option for my needs. I'm planning to remove the loader/grapple and ballast box whenever I mow the lawn.

Now for a few questions....

Is it worth picking up the iMatch for ease of attaching/detaching the ballast box? I was also thinking I might purchase a Heavy Hitch for winter plowing as I have some suitcase weights that were used on the x758. I know the Heavy Hitch attaches well to the iMatch. I don't want to purchase a bunch more suitcase weights for ballast when using the loader, but I think my existing weights along with the Heavy Hitch would be adequate for plowing duties. I guess another option would be to use the ballast box while snow plowing, although this seems excessive.

I have some slopes on my lawn that the x758 mows with ease. I'm assuming the 1025R will be a little more of a challenge, but I'm not too concerned. Is it worth having the rear tires filled to help with stability? I've sent an e-mail to my Deere dealer to see if they sell Rim Guard. I don't want to go the route of wheel spacers at this point. I hear some mixed opinions on whether or not these put too much stress the axle.

My last question (for now!) is about my current Deere 17P cart. The cart currently attaches to the x758 frame with a single pin through the drawbar. How would I attach the 17P cart attach to the 1025R? I read some people use a cross drawbar mounted to the iMatch, but I thought I'd ask for some more opinions.

Any suggestions for other crucial items I might be missing are welcomed. I looked into the single point hydraulic connection for the loader, but I don't think it makes sense right now as it doesn't account for the 3rd set of connections for the grapple. I will also be looking to buy some equipment from KBOH in the near future.

Thanks for reading this long post!
See less See more
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 4
21 - 40 of 52 Posts
alanaka24
TPS said:
Thanks for the reply! I have considered a box blade, but I think that might be a future purchase for me. Although, taking a look, it does look very useful! What make/model box blade do you have?
Click to expand...
I have the BB5060 which is the 5 footer. I've read mixed reviews about using the 5 footer with the 1025 but I've had no problems at all handling it with a full box of material with my 2025. I believe mine weighs in at approx 420lbs with no extra weights on it.
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 2
eicy3
I was in the same boat as you. I had a 758 with a Buford Bucket, Original Tractor Cab, 3 pt with Imatch, blower, blade, 3 pt seeder and landscape rake. It mowed fantastic but as I've tried to do projects I got frustrated. I'm keeping the imatch and implements, sold the cab and am trying to sell the Buford Bucket online. I traded the 758 for a 1025 with cab (Iowa winters suck and I'm old), loader, box blade, and quick attachment for a new broom. I also doubled my suitcase weights to 8. I bought a z545 to handle the mowing.

I also have a heavy hitch with a weight bar that has a receiver for pulling my wagon and trailer.

Anyone looking for a gently used Buford Bucket?
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 1
T
alanaka24 said:
I have the BB5060 which is the 5 footer. I've read mixed reviews about using the 5 footer with the 1025 but I've had no problems at all handling it with a full box of material with my 2025. I believe mine weighs in at approx 420lbs with no extra weights on it.
Click to expand...
Awesome info! How do you like the Heavy Hitch tooth bar? I see it on your list of attachments in your signature. That's another aftermarket item I am considering.
Reply
Save
Like
T
eicy3 said:
I was in the same boat as you. I had a 758 with a Buford Bucket, Original Tractor Cab, 3 pt with Imatch, blower, blade, 3 pt seeder and landscape rake. It mowed fantastic but as I've tried to do projects I got frustrated. I'm keeping the imatch and implements, sold the cab and am trying to sell the Buford Bucket online. I traded the 758 for a 1025 with cab (Iowa winters suck and I'm old), loader, box blade, and quick attachment for a new broom. I also doubled my suitcase weights to 8. I bought a z545 to handle the mowing.

I also have a heavy hitch with a weight bar that has a receiver for pulling my wagon and trailer.

Anyone looking for a gently used Buford Bucket?
Click to expand...
Sounds like a great setup! How do you like the 1025 as compared to the x758?

Which box blade did you go with for the 1025? Do you use the box blade for rear ballast when using the loader?
Reply
Save
Like
MarkEagleUSA
TPS said:
Mark, thanks for the reply! In layman's terms, does that mean the ballast box/contents should not exceed 758 pounds? Or is the limit 1177 pounds?

If I might ask, what do you use on your tractor for rear ballast and how much weight do you have for rear ballast when using the loader?
Click to expand...
I would say 758 since the weight of the ballast box is behind the pins.

My box is filled with 480 lbs of cement bricks (plus the weight of the box which I think is around 80 lbs).I can hang some suitcase weights on the side of the ballast box if I need more.

I also have filled tires and 72 lb wheel weights.
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 3
alanaka24
TPS said:
Awesome info! How do you like the Heavy Hitch tooth bar? I see it on your list of attachments in your signature. That's another aftermarket item I am considering.
Click to expand...
Honestly, while most folks around here love it I sort of prefer the bucket without the tooth bar most of the time. For specific tasks it's great, it's been really helpful to have for digging out all the honeysuckle bush in my woods and around the property. If you have some really hard ground it's great for digging into that. For general digging though, I prefer the bucket without it. I can get cleaner lines and I feel I can be more precise with a nice clean edge on the bucket vs. having the tooth bar on. It's definitely worth having if you think you'll run into situations where you'll need a more aggressive edge but it's not cheap so make sure you'll have use for it. I'll probably get stoned alive by the guys around here for not absolutely loving it though. :LOL:
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 2
eicy3
TPS said:
Sounds like a great setup! How do you like the 1025 as compared to the x758?

Which box blade did you go with for the 1025? Do you use the box blade for rear ballast when using the loader?
Click to expand...
I'll let you know! Should be delivered Thursday or Friday. In a previous life I had a 2210, so I know what these are capable of. I'm really looking forward to the cab for next winter.

I went with the standard duty 48" (not the L model). I intend to use it for maintaining our HOA recycled asphalt roads and was concerned that the L model wouldn't be up to the task.
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 1
eicy3
eicy3 said:
I'll let you know! Should be delivered Thursday or Friday. In a previous life I had a 2210, so I know what these are capable of. I'm really looking forward to the cab for next winter.

I went with the standard duty 48" (not the L model). I intend to use it for maintaining our HOA recycled asphalt roads and was concerned that the L model wouldn't be up to the task.
Click to expand...
As for ballast, I plan to use the box blade an may try to rig weight bar for the box blade for when I need some extra ballast.
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 1
D
TPS said:
In layman's terms, does that mean the ballast box/contents should not exceed 758 pounds? Or is the limit 1177 pounds?
Click to expand...
So what that means is that at the end of the lower 3 point arms, the hitch system can lift 1177 lbs. As you move weight further away from the ends of the arms, the capacity goes down because the hydraulic lift has to work against the leverage of the arms. Most tractor manufacturers will specify lift at the arms and also 24 inches behind the arms, this is because no implement actually mounts directly over the arms, they are always at least slightly behind them.
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 2
T
I've been considering some more flexible and adjustable options for rear ballast as opposed to the JD ballast box filled with cement. I'm also concerned with how low the ballast box will be to the ground while doing loader work.

I watched some of the TTWT videos and he recommends the Heavy Hitch Offset Weight Bracket for the 1025R. I would get (8) 70 pound weights for a total of 560. This combined with the iMatch (70 pounds) and Heavy Hitch (52 pounds) would give me about 682 pounds of rear ballast. I would also be able to remove weight as needed for other duties like snow plowing, etc.

Since I have space limitations in my garage, I would also be able to remove the 3-point hitch and use the Heavy Hitch cart to store the Heavy Hitch, iMatch, and 3-point hitch if I need the extra room or if I'm mowing.

I assume there's no issue with mowing without the 3-point hitch attached?

I'd go with the Heavy Hitch Dual Weight Bracket with (16) 42 pound weights, but based on the TTWT videos, it appears the dual bracket loaded with 16 weights can rub against the 3 point arms when lowering it.

So many options to consider!
See less See more
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 3
C
I also just purchased a 1025R with the 54D mower. I had seen the load-n-go brackets on a 60" deck on the dealership lot and was expecting that option on my 54D as well. However when I went back to the dealership to pickup my new tractor with attachments, was told the load-n-go brackets are not available for the 54D mower deck.
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 1
T
Chuck NH said:
I also just purchased a 1025R with the 54D mower. I had seen the load-n-go brackets on a 60" deck on the dealership lot and was expecting that option on my 54D as well. However when I went back to the dealership to pickup my new tractor with attachments, was told the load-n-go brackets are not available for the 54D mower deck.
Click to expand...
If you have a model year 2020 or newer 1025R with a 54D, you should have the newer mower deck (model# 700CLV). The load-n-go ramps are compatible with these newer 54D mower decks. Here is a link to the ramps on the Deere store...

BXX10321: Load-N-Go Attachment For 1 And 2 Series Compact Utilty Tractors | BXX10321

Load-N-Go ramps make it easy to move your Autoconnect Deck with your John Deere Loader. For use on 54D AutoConnect 7-Iron Mower Decks for MY20 and newer 1 Series Tractors and 2025R Tractors. Not compatible with the Power Flow bagger option due to an interference fit issue.
www.johndeerestore.com www.johndeerestore.com
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 4
C
TPS said:
I've been considering some more flexible and adjustable options for rear ballast as opposed to the JD ballast box filled with cement. I'm also concerned with how low the ballast box will be to the ground while doing loader work.
Click to expand...
The ballast box, obviously, does not need to be filled with cement. Over the past 6 years I have used play sand (loose), gravel, brick pavers, scrap steel, and finally, my suitcase weight collection. I have a crane scale, so I can pick up the ballast box with the loader and see exactly how much the loaded box weighs. I settled on the suitcase weights because the weight is easy to adjust down if needed by just lifting out the appropriate number of 42 lb weights, plus it gives me room in the box to carry various tools for the job I am doing that day. There's even room for a small cooler with beverages.

Concrete has the disadvantage of being fixed in place, and leaving little room on top to carry anything, like chains, for example.
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 2
C
TPS said:
If you have a model year 2020 or newer 1025R with a 54D, you should have the newer mower deck (model# 700CLV). The load-n-go ramps are compatible with these newer 54D mower decks. Here is a link to the ramps on the Deere store...

BXX10321: Load-N-Go Attachment For 1 And 2 Series Compact Utilty Tractors | BXX10321

Load-N-Go ramps make it easy to move your Autoconnect Deck with your John Deere Loader. For use on 54D AutoConnect 7-Iron Mower Decks for MY20 and newer 1 Series Tractors and 2025R Tractors. Not compatible with the Power Flow bagger option due to an interference fit issue.
www.johndeerestore.com www.johndeerestore.com
Click to expand...
I guess I'll be spending some more money.... LOL Thank you!
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 2
T
ClydeLogan said:
The ballast box, obviously, does not need to be filled with cement. Over the past 6 years I have used play sand (loose), gravel, brick pavers, scrap steel, and finally, my suitcase weight collection. I have a crane scale, so I can pick up the ballast box with the loader and see exactly how much the loaded box weighs. I settled on the suitcase weights because the weight is easy to adjust down if needed by just lifting out the appropriate number of 42 lb weights, plus it gives me room in the box to carry various tools for the job I am doing that day. There's even room for a small cooler with beverages.

Concrete has the disadvantage of being fixed in place, and leaving little room on top to carry anything, like chains, for example.
Click to expand...
Definitely awesome info. Thank you!

I’m going to go with an iMatch, Heavy Hitch Offset, and (8) 70 pound suitcase weights. This will give me 560 pounds plus an additional 100 pounds or so from the hitch and iMatch. I like the flexibility of this setup. I’m also getting the Heavy Hitch cart for even more flexibility when I want to remove the weights, hitch, and even the iMatch with the 3 point hitch.
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 1
C
TPS said:
and (8) 70 pound suitcase weights.
Click to expand...
I wish I was young and strong enough to wrangle those 70 pounders around!
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 3
MattL
TPS said:
Mark, thanks for the reply! In layman's terms, does that mean the ballast box/contents should not exceed 758 pounds? Or is the limit 1177 pounds?

If I might ask, what do you use on your tractor for rear ballast and how much weight do you have for rear ballast when using the loader?
Click to expand...
BB if located at the pins (end of the 3pt arms, balls) it'll lift 1177lbs, assuming the weight is at or between the pins and tractor. At 24" behind, it'll lift 758, the Ballast box will be somewhere between 18-24" depending behind the pins - so you'll have some extra margin over 758, however the further back the weight is located, the lower it'll lift. For the 3pt, the further out the weight is, the heavier it is to lift.

Edit: If you put on an Imatch, it'll move the weight further back, lowering lifting capacity. This actually helps with rear ballast- since it's moving weight back, increasing the effectiveness of the weights. However most implements that the 1025R will run well won't push the 3pt limits with an iMatch - or similar quick hitch.
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 2
F
I use a 1025r with a 60D mid mount mower to mow the front 2 acres of my property. I brush hog the 3 acres of pasture land. Some of the property is hilly, up 15% degrees (not slope, degrees from level). I'm comfortable going up and down always in 4 wheel drive. Wouldn't even try to mow side slope. I've got Carlisle Trac Chief tires, pretty aggressive tread and glad for it. The aggressive tread doesn't mess up the lawn running the 60d without the front bucket. I'll sometimes mess up the pasture land when running the brush hog with bucket attached...but it's a pasture.

On ballast: I built my own ballast for about $175. It's a 520 lb reinforced block of concrete with galvanized pipe used to make connections to the iMatch hitch. Get the iMatch, it's worth it. I've never had an issue with a filled bucket of gravel or soil with this amount of ballast. Also have a box blade, but the concrete block is smaller so easier to move in tight places.
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 1
V
I was going to get a blast box because it was a lot cheaper. The dealer that I got my Frontier blade showed me the difference with the Heavy Hitch. The one big thing he showed me was getting on and off a trailer witht eh HH vs. a box. The box hangs very low and makes it a bit more difficut to get on and off. It also sticks out the back a lot farther.
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 1
T
I ended up adding an iMatch to my 1025R order. I also ordered the Offset Heavy Hitch along with (8) 70-pound weights. The Heavy Hitch, iMatch, and weights will give me around 680 pounds of rear ballast. I like the idea of the Heavy Hitch better than the ballast box.

I was also deciding between the 54D and 60D mowers. I'm 90% sure I'm going with the 60D. The dealer will have them both in stock, so I just need to make a final decision for when the tractor arrives.
Reply
Save
Like
  • Like
Reactions: 3
21 - 40 of 52 Posts
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Green Tractor Talk
A forum community dedicated to John Deere tractor owners and enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about towing, PTO’s, reviews, attachments, modifications, troubleshooting, maintenance, and more!
Full Forum Listing
Explore Our Forums
Sub Compact Utility Tractors (SCUT) Implements & Attachments Lawn & Garden Tractors Medium Frame Compact Utility Tractors (MCUT) Large Frame Compact Utility Tractors (LCUT)

Top Contributors this Month

View All
Gizmo2
Kbar
ejb69
Recommended Communities
Community avatar for Weekend Freedom Machines
Weekend Freedom Machines
27K+ members
Community avatar for AVS Forum
AVS Forum
1M+ members
Community avatar for Climbing
Climbing
NEW!
30+ members
Top