Innovative Ladder Design Offers Easier Combine Access

Innovative Ladder Design Offers Easier Combine Access Sometimes, necessity truly is the mother of invention. For one inventive farmer, an older Massey Ferguson combine’s access ladder, with its angled design and sturdy railings, sparked an idea. “The Massey ladder made climbing up and down much safer than the straight, vertical ladders found on most John Deere models,” says Ron McDonald, an Iowa-based farmer. The insight inspired McDonald to reimagine access for Deere combine operators, many of whom struggle with the factory-installed steps, especially when working behind a 6-row head. McDonald’s solution is the EZ Climb Ladder, a custom-built extension ladder designed to replace Deere’s original steeply angled steps with a more farmer-friendly alternative. The EZ Climb Ladder extends down and backward over the tires toward the rear of the machine. The steps are closely spaced for comfort, and the unit uses the combine’s existing mounts, swinging out from a pivot point near the cab. It includes a sturdy standard outside railing and the option of a second inner railing. An additional bottom step swings up for convenience and is secured by a sturdy latch system for extra support. What began in McDonald’s shop next to a Deere dealership has grown over the past seven or eight years. Today, he produces around 40 ladders annually, with word spreading through social media and satisfied neighbors. The EZ Climb Ladders cover a wide range of Deere models, including the 9400, 9500, STS, 600 and 700 series, and the X9. Even Deere has shown support, occasionally delivering combines to McDonald’s shop for installations. The ladders are welded as a single piece on a custom jig, then sandblasted and powder-coated for durability. Perforated steps and platforms are rated for heavy use, and each ladder is designed to mirror standard Deere equipment. The EZ Climb Ladders sell for between $4,000 and $4,500 and can be picked up at McDonald’s shop or shipped anywhere in North America. Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Ron McDonald, EZ Climb Ladder, Maquoketa, Iowa (ph 563-357-0813).

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