I just found your other post in the general buying/pricing section. For your needs, you may want to consider going with the CK20HST like I have. Your wife will like the HST, it will be easier for you both to learn and use. They have about the same HP, but the CK20HST (not manual) has an independent PTO which is much safer because the momentum of a spinning mower can not push the tractor forward. The CK also has a slip clutch so that if you push the clutch in, you will hear the clutch slipping and the mower can't push you into something. I think if I were going to decide between the 2554, 1914, and CK20, I would have to again buy the CK20HST. The 2554 has been discontinued in favor of the forthcoming CK25 man and HST model. However, the 2554 has more HP, and the weight which will help you use that HP. My CK20HST has done most everything I've wanted it to do. When pulling some trees, I could use a little more HP, but I'll be using my BH for most of that soon, so it's not a problem. A boxblade on the back should give you the rear weight you need. I do not have loaded tires at this point, but I may load them for better traction. It also does not put undue stress on the mechanism to load the tires whereas some front weights can. The loader should be enough front weight when using your brush cutter/shredder. I know it's hard to decide. As for the dirt floor dealer, mine has a lot of dirt, and an inside concrete floored area. He was pretty new to Kioti and I've watched him grow rapidly in the last 2 months. I have not needed any service, but I trust that they will be able to provide it. That guy you spoke of has 20 years? He's doing something right. You may be able to haggle a little on price if you think there's not enough difference, but make sure you're talking about comparable: Tractor, weight, lift, etc. so that you're not misleading yourself about price. A truly comparable two tractors between the Ks should find the Kioti has some more weight, 24" behind lift capacity, loader capacity and a little cheaper price, but not always. Good luck, John