dustycoyote
Bronze Member
I am looking to purchase my first tractor and would like some advice on what to consider.
I have a half acre slightly hilly of just grass. I think for that size I would be fine with the lower end lines sold at the box stores but I also want to buy a snow blade for it as well. I am concerned about how a tractor will hold up when being used for pushing snow. My driveway is only about 50x60 and is completely flat. It is rare that we get more than 6 or 7 inches at a time.
I am considering the Husqvarna YT46LS or even possibly the YT42XLS. I've done a lot of research (like everyone else) and have initially settled on these because of the locking differential that Husky offers. I did not see it available on any other makers' lines (including craftsman which is obviously a line of Husky mowers). Also, these two models have the Kawasaki engine which seems pretty universally to be a well respected engine (and accepted as a good upgrade to the B&S).
I'm kind of concerned that these units appear to have no frame/structural upgrades from the less expensive units. they also have the same k46 tuff torq transmission/drive system that the lower priced units have. It seems to me that even though Huskys verbiage on their website (as well as what the dealer is telling me) infers that these units are built more heavy duty than the lower end (big box store) units, the only thing I see that is a real upgrade to the durability/ruggedness of the machine is the engine. All the other differences are just the added features, conveniences, thingees, and doo-dads. (With the exception of the fabricated deck on the XLS of course).
I know everyone is partial to their specific brand of mower but I would like any feedback/help on specific build qualities or features that might direct me to a better buying choice for my use or to confirm that one of these units will be the best choice for me.
Will these units work well and prove durable, specifically for my usage?
Am I over-purchasing? (for what I am doing, could I go down to a lower model and be just fine?)
Is there a compelling reason to consider a different brand or a more expensive model?
Will the fabricated deck on the XLS be a useful for me (only a half an acre) or would I be just fine with the reinforced stamped deck? (Its 400.00 extra and I hate to spend it if it is overkill for my useage but am happy to pay if it a worthwhile upgrade, even for a small yard).
Would I be better spending a little more to get a Craftsman garden tractor that doesn't include the locking diff but has a beefier trans-axle setup (hydrogear G7) and is rated for earth engaging tools??
Also, Does everyone think that the electric PTO engagement is worth paying extra for? Is it a valuable feature/convenience?
Any other thoughts that an expert/experienced person thinks would be valuable for a newbie like me.
Appreciate any help,
Happy "tractoring" everyone!
I have a half acre slightly hilly of just grass. I think for that size I would be fine with the lower end lines sold at the box stores but I also want to buy a snow blade for it as well. I am concerned about how a tractor will hold up when being used for pushing snow. My driveway is only about 50x60 and is completely flat. It is rare that we get more than 6 or 7 inches at a time.
I am considering the Husqvarna YT46LS or even possibly the YT42XLS. I've done a lot of research (like everyone else) and have initially settled on these because of the locking differential that Husky offers. I did not see it available on any other makers' lines (including craftsman which is obviously a line of Husky mowers). Also, these two models have the Kawasaki engine which seems pretty universally to be a well respected engine (and accepted as a good upgrade to the B&S).
I'm kind of concerned that these units appear to have no frame/structural upgrades from the less expensive units. they also have the same k46 tuff torq transmission/drive system that the lower priced units have. It seems to me that even though Huskys verbiage on their website (as well as what the dealer is telling me) infers that these units are built more heavy duty than the lower end (big box store) units, the only thing I see that is a real upgrade to the durability/ruggedness of the machine is the engine. All the other differences are just the added features, conveniences, thingees, and doo-dads. (With the exception of the fabricated deck on the XLS of course).
I know everyone is partial to their specific brand of mower but I would like any feedback/help on specific build qualities or features that might direct me to a better buying choice for my use or to confirm that one of these units will be the best choice for me.
Will these units work well and prove durable, specifically for my usage?
Am I over-purchasing? (for what I am doing, could I go down to a lower model and be just fine?)
Is there a compelling reason to consider a different brand or a more expensive model?
Will the fabricated deck on the XLS be a useful for me (only a half an acre) or would I be just fine with the reinforced stamped deck? (Its 400.00 extra and I hate to spend it if it is overkill for my useage but am happy to pay if it a worthwhile upgrade, even for a small yard).
Would I be better spending a little more to get a Craftsman garden tractor that doesn't include the locking diff but has a beefier trans-axle setup (hydrogear G7) and is rated for earth engaging tools??
Also, Does everyone think that the electric PTO engagement is worth paying extra for? Is it a valuable feature/convenience?
Any other thoughts that an expert/experienced person thinks would be valuable for a newbie like me.
Appreciate any help,
Happy "tractoring" everyone!