The wear thing is the reason I think the JD combines are going to have to really improve or they will be replaced by other makes. I don't see how anyone can afford to replace a $300,000 dollar machine every 2000 hrs. An Axial flow with 2000 hrs is just broke in good. Currently running a 1480 with over 5000 hrs and it is a very dependable machine. Granted, we have replaced parts, however, the rotor and cage are still original and we just put in our first set of transition cone vanes. Economy is a very good reason to own these machines. P.S. we are looking to upgrade to a "new" 1688 with 3000 hrs or so. Chads