mower update

[Brett Hartwig]

So, I went to 3 dealers today. Checked out JD first, not sure though...for the price I wasn't real impressed with what you got B&S engine, stamped deck, etc. Plus, the guy said the mowers he has for residential use are the same as the ones you would find in Home depot, lowes, etc. Always heard to stay away from those. Next, I went to an implement dealer who deals in Dixie Chopper. Didn't drive one, but they sure seem well built. 54" deck on the Zee 2 would be $4299, molded and welded deck, Kawasaki engine. Like that one so far from what I've seen. Lastly, went to a dealer of Bad Boy, took a 60" mower for a few minute spin around the property. Very nice, electric deck lift, well built. Price is just over $5000, a little higher than what I was hoping. Gotta give it some more thought I guess.

 

[Kevin Lang]

I hadn't heard that advice about staying away from riding mowers at home depot.



On that, I'd just like to add that, since the bona fide tractor "gave up the ghost", I've been using a home depot-bought 48" JD mower to mow a somewhat hilly ~7 acre field. I've racked up 33.6 hours on it and it still, knock on wood, works. I wouldn't recommend that mower for anything larger than a suburban yard but even though it is way too small for the job it works well. I'm not sure if my deck is stamped but I know that I've stamped on it and it is still going strong :grin:



Though I definitely criticize JD for having exposed belts to drive the mower deck. That's poor engineering IMHO. I also take the mower deck measurements with a grain of salt as the 48" mower doesn't cut a 48" swath of grass...which is why I've spent over a day of my life using it. :angry:

 

[EddieS'04]

My brother works on small engines. He has said, the larger B&S motors are good. Make sure it has an oil pump and filter system. Personaly IDK, just his experiance after 10yrs of, working on many brands of machines.

 

[Brett Hartwig]

Went out and drove the DC 2354 today, I think I am going to go with this one. Guy said the Kawasaki engine is much better than the B&S. Thanks for the opinions

 

[Bill Faulder]

 

[Bill Faulder]

Where are you located ? We have a Dealer on Dixie Choppers in Urbana, Ohio that I have heard gives good deals.



Bill

 

[Brett Hartwig]

I am in Freeport, IL. Can get it from the DC dealer for $4299 + 230 tax.

 

[Bill Faulder]

Doesn't sound bad , plus a good Dealer close by is must, at least for me.



Good luck in whatever you decide.