Re: WD 45 or WD (?) wanted

In short the WD-45 has quite a bit more power. The engine was bored and/or stroked to give more cubic inches.
In addition I believe all '45s had the snap coupler and traction control system. Only the late model W-D's had snap coupler.
My dad had both models, if your brother is planning any heavy filed work (plowing and disking) definitely go for the '45. If it's typical puttering around on his 5 acres (mowing, blading, SMALL baler) the WD will do just fine (at least in my opinion).

Larry

: In short the WD-45 has quite a bit more power. The engine was bored and/or stroked to give more cubic inches.
: In addition I believe all '45s had the snap coupler and traction control system. Only the late model W-D's had snap coupler.
: My dad had both models, if your brother is planning any heavy filed work (plowing and disking) definitely go for the '45. If it's typical puttering around on his 5 acres (mowing, blading, SMALL baler) the WD will do just fine (at least in my opinion).

: Larry

Most of what Larry wrote is partly correct. The 45 is newer, replacing the WD in 1953. The engine has 1/2 inch longer stroke (4 x 4.5 as opposed to 4 x 4 to give 226 cid instead of 201). All WD's have the traction booster system along with the 45's while only newer WD -45's came factory equipped with the snap coupler...most WD's and early 45's had it added on later to be exactly like the newer 45's.