jenkinsph
Super Star Member
I think it is a nice looking machine.
What gauge metal were the decks made out of before? They are 9 gauge now.
The 7 iron decks are 7 gauge metal.
I think it is a nice looking machine.
What gauge metal were the decks made out of before? They are 9 gauge now.
The 7 iron decks are 7 gauge metal.
That makes sense:laughing: 9 gauge is still really thick for a deck.
And the HC autoconnect deck is a big plus. <snip> The mower deck is a sticking point for me. Can't decide.
Just so you know -- the autoconnect is an OPTION on the 2013's (it doesn't come standard). I think the cost is relatively low though.
If I'm going to spend $13k on a tractor like this I'm going to not quibble over 2 or 3 hundred for autoconnect. I have years of experience taking these type decks off and on. Not hard is true, but not all that convenient either. So if you want to use tillers, scrapers, rakes or other attachments where youd want more ground clearance on a regular basis I think you would grow to appreciate the autoconnect. I know I'd take mine off more often if I had autoconnect. Now if you only take it off once or twice a year, there would be no advantage.
My understanding also is hat these new decks are far better than the standards decks on last years models. That is most important to me: durability and cut quality. Autoconnect is just a little sweetener on top.
Ok, I may be a new member but I have been following this site for some time and this thread particularly.
The new 54" and 60" HC decks were designed to mimic the 60" 7-iron deck which owners have raved about. The deck material is only 9 ga. verses the 7 ga. of the 7-iron, as previously noted, but is still made of heavier ga. material than now older decks. Not that the older decks were bad, just stating the newer ones are heavier.
I specifically asked my JD dealer about taking advantage of the great pricing deal on a 2012 model X748 and then purchasing one of the new 60" HC decks when they became available. He told me the the new HC decks are NOT backwards compatible. They will only fit the 2013 models.
In the mean time, after receiving information from several sources about the new X700 Signature Series GTs, I have decided to wait and purchase a new X758. The new HC deck along with the optional auto connect feature, and several other refinements convinced me.