john deere 540s

[thumper]

hello guys. ive been looking into a newer machine than my 440a. the 440c or d would be a great choice, but maybe not enough of a change. i also like the 540b, does any one have input on the 540e or g series? there isnt any local to look at. the pictures i have seen of a 540e was beside a 540b and it looked huge!  almost looks like the same size as a 640? any input appreciated

[Autocar]

I don't know the numbers well enough to tell you but for sure the 540 is a sweet machine and I have also been around the 640 and your right it is over width probably 9 foot 6 inch or 10 foot but the 540 will fit on a 102 inch trailer with room left over. Well maybe I should say with 28 tires  ;D

[treefarmer87]

i know they are kinda pricey. but they are nice

[Mark K]

I've run a 540d and a 640d, both with powershifts. If I were to chose I think i would go with a 540 because there easier to move, more nimble in the woods and easier on fuel. The 640d would pull one heck of a hitch though but is to big for most woodlots I cut. I think the 540e runs a 6 cyl. motor like the 640d and is close to the same size if not bigger. There are alot of 540b's around here, usaully can find one between $13-25k depending on condition.

[adirondack harvester]

I have a 540B skidder now.  I used to own a 440B and it was a great little skidder.  The 540B will certainly pull more wood and you get a lot less of the tail wagging the dog if you know what I mean.  And the 540B can move pretty well through the woods.

[thumper]

good looking 540 a harv. hopefully within a year i can be able to upgrade. where you at and how much you asking? thanks

[acl2]

I have seat time in a 440c, a 540b, and most recently a 540g. I really like the 540g, it does have the 6 cyl and does burn more fuel than say a 540b but it is twice the machine. I think the g is very user friendly and is fairly nimble in the woods. It is much more stable than our 540b, and will pull much more in a trip. It is harder to carry a saw along in it, the 540b you could haul a saw between the arch and winch, but there is no room for that with the g. I have been carrying the saw inside, which is not the best but it works. You will also have more issues with moving a g compared to a b. Ours is better than 9ft wide, and alot heavier than the b. A 102" trailer is almost a must, and a wide load permit.

[thumper]

thanks for the input men. i was scared of the 540 e/g being so large. also kinda sucks that these are the smallest (newer) john deere skidder.  i want a newer machine but i dont think any of my work would require such a beast.  i may just go the 440 c/d or 540b route.

[acl2]

i would suggest the 540 e/g, although they may seem big looking at them they are still easy to get around the woodlot and have much more pulling power and a 440 or 540b.