#380 Plow conversion to a 4110 - Machine Underground -Tractor & Commercial Equipment Discussion Forum

**Kennyd** · 12-07-2007, 07:21 PM

A little history:

The 380 plow was available for the older x55 series tractors (655,755,855,955). It was not a real Quick-Attach model, as compared to what is available today, But it was built like a tank! I estimate the weight to be about 400 pounds.

The x55 series tractors where compacts, just like my 4110, and the new 2520. Nobody seems to understand why JD did not adapt the 380 blade (now known as the 74 or 84 series and are true Quick-Attach) but rather chose to use the 54" blade from the L&G tractors that are a joke when compared to the 380, 380a, 74, and 84 witch are/where available in 60", 66", 72", and 84" width's. There is also side and top extension wings available for them. The unit I purchased was a 66".

So, 3 years ago I built a FEL mounted blade from a Meyers Poly-Plow and added a electric diverter to angle it. I used this setup for 2 seasons, but was never really satisfied with this setup. It made the overall length of the machine to long, and steering was always a problem due to the geometry-the front end always wanted to rise up, and I think the blade was just to far in front of the front wheels.

I started looking for a used front QA setup to fit my machine on eBay, Craigslist and at different JD dealers, and I was going to convert the FEL plow to a frame mount like GunMaker did. But I just never found a deal I was happy with...So last March, looking on Craigslist, I saw an add for the 380 plow for $400.00 reasonably close to home. I then researched the he** out of it, went and looked at it and bought it. The main reason for the sale was that it was a PITA to change over from the FEL to the plow and the owner didn't want to deal with it (He had purchased the tractor (755) with the blade and FEL with the house). All the FEL bracket had to be removed and the plow brackets had to be installed, about a 2-3 hour job.

Here are the pictures from the add:

**Kennyd** · 12-07-2007, 07:27 PM

I then modified the front mount to fit into the hangers on the frame of the tractor where the MMM bracket or the QH mounts. And shortened up the rear and welded 1/2" plates that reached the mounts for the MMM. It is now pretty close to being Quick-Attach, there are no bolts-only pins that hold it on.

I don't have pictures of the whole modification process, but here is some of the final project.

**gunmaker** · 12-07-2007, 07:40 PM

That's a great job, Kenny!

**Kennyd** · 12-07-2007, 07:41 PM

Two more, and also two of the FEL plow that I had made.

I still need to get some final pictures with the hoses and all installed. I used this setup 1 time so far and the results where wonderful! It was fun to plow, not work like it was with the other setup.

I truly feel that this is the perfect setup for my tractor

**Kennyd** · 12-07-2007, 07:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gunmaker

That's a great job, Kenny!

Your to quick!

Thanks!

**gunmaker** · 12-07-2007, 08:22 PM

Looking over your project, I think you have the perfect candidate for further experimentation. IN other words, ya wanna be a guinea pig???

I've been thinking lately of the front 3pt hitch that JD has on the 3320 (spring purchase, I hope), and wondering if the i-Match could be adapted to fit and be useful. Seeing your hitch, makes me think you might be gulible enough to buy into another project. (Did I just say gulible

) At any rate, you see any use in implements you could use coming and going.

**Kennyd** · 12-07-2007, 08:33 PM

The only thing I think would be good on the front would be a de-thatcher maybe? Possibly a landscape rake? What are you thinking?

**gunmaker** · 12-07-2007, 08:42 PM

Yeah...or the rear blade (I've seen this commercially), and perhaps a scarcifer set-up (like a box-blade without the box) using suitcase weights for ballast. My thought for personal use is the scarcifier set-up on the front, and then either the blade or rake on the rear. I think this might work well for digging up and replanting a lawn. (you know how much a harley rake is!!)
I don't think that the i-Match would have to be altered, just need to fab an adapter to go between the front hitch and the i-Match.
Another benefit is, you could have power up and down, using the fel hydraulics.

**Kennyd** · 12-08-2007, 04:36 PM

Just a follow up, I took these today.

lincolnvt · 12-08-2007, 06:16 PM

Kenny
Unbelievable - that is excellent work buddy! Can't wait to see her in action. Again, great job Kenny

Brad