Z445 questions...

[reel magic]

Hi everyone - first post!!! I've been looking at ZTR's for a while now and have decided to purchase a John Deere Z445. The machine seems comfortable and a very good friend of mine who is a farmer won't let me buy any other brand (just kidding). First let me tell you what I'm cutting, 2.5 acres flat, St Augustine around the house, mixed weeds & wild grass (bahia & others) away from the home. Some tress, some open areas. I have three questions, first is should I go for the 48" deck or the 54" deck and why? BTW I measured and based on the JD spec sheet, the 48" deck would get between about 4 or 5 trees the 54" won't, but there isn't really much grass as there are many pine needles on the ground in those areas. Secondly, is the high capacity deck still an option on this mower? And last but not least, what is your overall feelings on this mower? I've only used one other ZTR and it was a commercial Toro. BTW I'm coming form a Craftsman 42" rider. Thanks for your help.

 

[reel magic]

Any help will be greatly appreciated, I need to get a mower this week!

 

[txzrider]

I am sure someone will be along with experience on JD ZT's ... I was going to say that I had to pick my deck size by the smallest opening I had to go through... other than some issue like that, I would get the biggest deck I could.

 

[reel magic]

I know there are some z445 owners on this forum...I'm hoping to pul the trigger on one this week. Just looking for some input. Thanks.

 

[Popeye]

Looked at the specs. It would depend on the price but I don't like stamped decks. I think you might get more mower for your money if you look around a bit first. Just my .02
48' should be fine is will fit between the trees. Less trim work to do.

 

[xp14629]

Wonderful machines. Look at a 465 before for the comfort. Yes the high cap deck is still available and the only way I would go. The stamped deck will not be a problem as long as you are not going to get into commercial mowing. It will outlast the other brands by far.

 

[Popeye]

Wonderful machines. Look at a 465 before for the comfort. Yes the high cap deck is still available and the only way I would go. The stamped deck will not be a problem as long as you are not going to get into commercial mowing. It will outlast the other brands by far.

I would respectfully disagree with a couple of your statements. For the price of that Z445 you can by a SnapperPro commercial mower. Heavier frame,commercial Kaw FX series engine,commercial ZT3100 tranny, with a welded deck. It will be running long after a Z400 series will bite the dust. Stamped decks can indeed be a problem they bend. You can stand on mine.

 

[reel magic]

Thanks everyone for your help. I went down to the John Deere dealer this morning and bought a Z445 with a 48" deck. I did contemplate moving up to the Z645, but in the end decided for my once a week in the summer and maybe once a month in the winter cuts that it wash't $1200 well spent. The dealer agreed. Brought her home and put her right to work, cut all 2.5 acres and it looks great. Machine handles fantastic and the 27HP Briggs is quiet - much quieter than the 23hp that comes on the Z425. Also, I was glad I went with the 48" deck as it fits nicely in the garage and gets between most of my trees.

 

[talley2191]

Is the Briggs the only engine option for these?

 

[reel magic]

Yes it is the only motor available.