Traditional Riding Mower. Which Model?

[Twoinchcut]

Hello,

I am in the market for a new riding lawn mower. I have about 1.5 acres to cut - so I don't need one of the high end lever steered models, but a more traditional style lawn mower.

I tend to favor the John Deere's, since I've had good experiences with them in the past.

As I've shopped around, I've noted that the John Deeres sold at Lowe's are "LA" models, and the ones sold at the dealership are "X" models.

These have similar horse power and deck sizes, with a couple of extra features on the "X" models that I don't necessarily need.

The price difference between the big box "LA" models, and the authorized dealer "X" model is more than substantial, however (the "X" being much more expensive).

Although, I want to save money, I have a couple of people telling me that the "X" model is commercial grade, and it will last for 25 years, etc, etc.

If there is really a big quality difference, I'm willing to pay to get it - but I can't look at them and tell if there is or not.

I've been looking at Consumer Reports, and trying to surf the web - but I have had a hard time getting any info shedding light on this question.

If anyone has an opinion, or at least can point me to a good source of unbiased information, I'd be most appreciative.

Also, is there another brand that gives you more bang for your buck than JD?

Thanks in advance.

 

[KennyV]

Hello Twoinchcut...
Welcome to this usually informative and often entertaining forum..

The models that have the SAME model number, will be the same no matter where you buy them.

There will be a HUGE difference between a commercial grade and any other.

There are home owner/residential machines and within that group you will find low end, average. and high end models...
Most residential lawns are smaller than 1 and a half acre... The lower end mower is going to work itself too hard so you might look for a bit more than the average mower... :smile:KennyV

 

[jenkinsph]

Twoinchcut,

There is a wide range of Deere traditional riding mowers on the economy end is the Deere D100 and on the high end the X749 is at the top. I currently have both an L130 (2005) and an X749(2010). Big difference between the two. I use the X749 along with larger tractors and backhoes for building landscapes. The L130 is used only for mowing and fertilizing.

If you wan't to buy something durable with a good engine and longer lasting tranny I would recommend the X320 for open areas or the X324 all wheel steer model if you have lots of trees to manuever around. When you buy models below this point the transmissions seem to have premature failures. I would skip all but the cheapest of the D series (these replace the LA and L models) because these have the cheaper and more problematic hydrostatic trannies. The D100 is a gear model which doesn't have the problem.

To recap it is best to buy a X320 and up to get the benefit of longer life transmissions and better engines too. These use a Tuff Torq K58 transmission which seems to hold up well. This will cut 1.5 acres of smooth lawn in about an hour give or take for obstacles.

 

[Briana]

Hello, I have moved your post to the Mower Buying & Pricing Forum. You will have better luck finding assistance there. :wink:

Thanks for joining LawnMowerForum!!!