Best year for Ventrac.

[Raw Dodge]

I was just working on my 72 inch ventrac deck from around 2004. I'm replacing the caster bearings and a tire. Since I had the caster off I put it next to my dad's older deck.. And noticed that his casters are much beefier and the rims internal bearings are much stronger and bigger.. I'm not sure if this was a cost-cutting move only or to save weight.. I haven't had any trouble with my casters even know they are much thinner, although my machine only has a little over 500 hours on it and my dad's ventrac deck has several thousand hours on it.. It is my opinion ( and my dealers) that the best ventracs made were made between 04-2011 . The 4231G. My dealer says this old workhorse outperforms the new 32.5 kubota gas overall. The low end torque is much stronger on the diahatsu/vanguard.. All those machines really needed was a good set of hydraulic hoses.. Anyone else notice any cost cutting or weight saving moves...

 

[Raw Dodge]

Here are some images to show the extent of the weakening of the components... There is huge difference in the strength of the old vs newer spindle. Both these decks are 72"..

 

[BKBrown]

I've had 2 - 4231 Gas Liquid cooled units.
The first built on 11-03-04 (traded in with about 900 hours)
The 2nd built 6-27-11
Neither unit had or has anything I feel is weak and the 2nd one seems to have some things stronger than the 1st.
This machine is a beast and everyone is impressed with the sturdy build and what the machine will do.
The only thing I wish was a little better is the Hydro pressure and I understand why Ventrac has limited it
because some people might abuse the extra power.
I have not looked close at any newer than the 2011 as I expect this one will outlast me.