2005 Series 1000 vs. 2000?

[cowboy2005]

I've been researching the lawn/garden tractors for a bit now and have really been impressed with the cub cadets. However, I'm a bit uncertain whether the 2000 series are worth the extra $1000 on average over the 1000 series counterparts (based on engine, deck size, etc).

The shaft drive vs. belt is obviously one of the more notable items, but is it worth it? I here that the replacement drive belt is around $25 and can last several years depending on use. Also the 2000 series indicate that they have welded frames. What does the 1000 series have in this case?!

My specific needs are for a lawn tractor that will last many (25+) years, cut lawn around an acre in size, pull a lawn plug style arreator and hold up to the rather hard and bumpy lawn I have. That's really my bigger concern as my self-propelled lawn mower really has takin' a beating from my lawn. Parts rattle loose, the wheels and other related parts need to be replaced every 2 or 3 years. Would a non-welded frame fall apart in a few years under these conditions?

Other then that, I can't see why the 2000 series would be desired. I do understand that the 1000 series really was created in the last 5 years to compete in the large retail stores, but does that mean they won't last?!

I was currently looking at the LT1046 or maybe the LT2180. Any thoughts or experience with comparisons of these two lines would be greatly appreciated.

thanks!

 

[DmansPadge]

I think that the 1000 series would hold up fine under normal conditions and would give 15 years or service if kept up. But.. if you want a 25+ year machine I would look at the 2500 series. Like you said, they are shaft drive. They also have larger commercial engines, thicker frames, thicker decks, etc. The 2500 series also has a heavy duty cast iron tranny. All and all, they are heavier built machines that you can assure will last longer than a belt drive model built with thinner materials. The 2005's are starting to get to the dealers. I would look at them unless you can get a good deal on an '04. I believe the '05 2000 series will have the heavy duty transmission. If you're going to buy a tractor that you want to keep for a long time I would suggest spending the extra money now for a better machine. I think that Cub Cadets offer a lot for what they cost.

 

[cubmaster]

If I were you I'd go with the 2000 series or greater, I have a GT2523-54 and love it VERY solid Mower, the difference in welded frame from 1000 to 2000 series is kinda like a car and truck, the truck has a body on frame design which is more ridgid and a car is a unibody where the frame is the car structure itself. By that description you can be the judge for what you need the 2000 plus series are much more heavier built and will last alot longer.

 

[IN75MILES]

Cowboy, I have the Lt 1018. I have an acre to cut and a 200 foot driveway to plow. This unit is enough for my needs. I wish I could have gone larger but realistically, the 1018 was an ideal fit. I have some accessories for it and it hasn't let me down yet. I do have to wonder if the belt drive will last but I can't see why it wouldn't, yet maybe the LT 1024 would be a good fit for you for the drive shaft feature. I just plowed snow today and got it done rather quickly. I have the Cub 46" blade, wish I had the blower, but again, being practical, this does the job.

 

[cowboy2005]

Thanks guys... there's some good insight you gave. I took a look at the 2000/2500 series models for 2005. Seems they are simplifying the model line this year. The GT-2544 (20 hp 44 inch deck) seems to be the newer model in my price range at around $3000. I'll have to get out to the dealer for a test drive when the ground thaws out around here.

On a related note, I've noticed that mulcher options aren't available for all deck sizes and models?!? Any idea why? I would rather mulch and would think some kind of plug would be available for all decks.

 

[cubmaster]

mine has the 54" deck and it has a mulch plug available but I don't see the need. I have very thick grass and it cut up the grass so fine it looks like the texture of wood shavings from a chain saw. there trade mark name on their larger decks it cyclo cut and it does a good job at getting rid of those clippings.

 

[cadet]

I agree. I have the 1018 with a 42 inch deck and it chops the grass up very fine, particularly in light of the fact that I only mow about half as often as I should.

 

[tiny1]

I was just at my local dealer Saturday looking at the '05's. I was considering the 1000/1500 series which they said would last with proper maintenance about 10 years. Where as the 2000/2500 would last 20 years. As mentioned before, the 2000/2500 are a stronger built tractor because of the frame, transmission, deck etc. FYI, LT1050 $1999, SLT 1554 (New for '05) $2399, GT 1554 $2799, GT 2550 $3499. They had a few leftover '04 2186 for $3100. In my casr, I am planning on getting the GT2550, mainly for the durability. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[cowboy2005]

update... I heard from the dealer that a mulch plate / kit is included with the GT-2544 and that is why it is not listed as an accessory.

 

[edwardsilva]

I just bought a 1042 with the bager ,went with the small 42 in deck due to the bager works best with small decks . The 19 horse kohler works great for a single.Bought at lowes with 12 month same as cash and 10% off . Also got the Agir-Fab spiker seeder spreader all on the 10% off and the 12 same as cash. You get the 10% off when you sign on line for move in 6 month deal on line . For the money it seems to be a great mower ,power wise seams to be great match.