JD Dealer vs Lowes/HD

[tld]

Is there a difference in the machines these stores carry?

Thinking about replacement cost of The GT275 I mentioned.

 

[mikgran]

Is there a difference in the machines these stores carry?

Thinking about replacement cost of The GT275 I mentioned.

The only model that are carried by both the dealers and the big box stores are the D series. They are the same wherever you buy them.

If you have a GT 275, then the X500 series is comparable as far as transaxle and frame strength go. The next line down is the X3xx series. Most parts of the country, JD is offering $500 off all X series tractors through the end of Feb.

But if all you need is to mow an acre or less, the D series will be suitable. Just get the D130 or 140 which has the K46 transaxle. The less expensive models such as the D110 have the T40 which is not very rugged.

I know that my response is more than you were looking for, but I just wanted to make sure that you knew that there is a huge difference between the GT275 and the D series.

Good luck in your decision.

 

[Rgilbert]

I would stay away from the k46 trams axle, there have been alot of issues after 50 hours or so. Beginning with the x310 and up the rear end is upgraded

 

[mikgran]

I would stay away from the k46 trams axle, there have been alot of issues after 50 hours or so. Beginning with the x310 and up the rear end is upgraded

TLD has not really indicated what his needs are, or his budget is for a new tractor. I`m always a bit hesitant to suggest to someone that they have to spend $3500 or better to mow their lawn.

As far as the K46 goes, it will last for years when used for it`s designed purposes. Less than two acres and reasonably flat land is what it was designed for. People run into problems when they start using their LT like a GT. I`ve read horror stories about K46 failures, but have known many more people who have hundreds of hours on them with no problems whatsoever. Many 10 yr. old JD LT series w/K46`s are still in service and run fine today.

Just my .02 worth

 

[Rgilbert]

I had a 2010 LA165 that the dealer recommended to me that would be perfect for my needs. I cut two properties one is .5 acre and fairly flat, the other is .25 of an acre and hilly. I spent 3200 for tractor and bagger, 82 hours later, it would not pull any type of incline after about 20 mins of use. After researching the issue, I discovered the issues with the k46 not being serviceable and having issues. I bought the LA 165 because it had the same trans as the entry level x300 series and a bigger hp rating on the engine. Yes I was trying to get the biggest bang for my buck without spending X series dollars. I wound up trading it in on the X310. The dealer gave me $1000.00 for it, wrong time of year to trade but I didn't want to have continued issues with the trans. If I would have know the difference in quality, I would have never purchased the "big box" John Deere. It is not the same machine that is exclusive to the traditional JD dealer. I am just trying to keep someone from making the same mistake I did!

 

[jenkinsph]

I would stay away from the k46 trams axle, there have been alot of issues after 50 hours or so. Beginning with the x310 and up the rear end is upgraded

I agree with the above.

With only light duty work my L130 started to slip (slow down) around 200 hrs. Now at 275 hours it runs about 60% as fast as new.

While some may have better luck with theirs doesn't matter to the people whose transmissions fail prematurely. I would recommend getting the x310 and up with the better K58H transmission.

 

[mikgran]

I agree with the above.

With only light duty work my L130 started to slip (slow down) around 200 hrs. Now at 275 hours it runs about 60% as fast as new.

While some may have better luck with theirs doesn't matter to the people whose transmissions fail prematurely. I would recommend getting the x310 and up with the better K58H transmission.

Guys, I respect your opinion and certainly agree that the X310/ K58, with 27% more torque and being serviceable, is a solid choice for an LT. :thumbsup:

My reasoning is that if his budget has him looking at HD or Lowe`s machines, then at least steer him toward the more durable model. I`m looking forward to more input from TLD regarding the particulars of his needs.

As far as the whole K46 reliability issue goes, JD and many other brands have been using these for 10 years now. If they were the ticking time bomb that some make them out to be, then JD would NOT be putting them in the X300`s and X304`s, which come with a 4yr, 300hr warranty. That would make no sense from a business or reputation standpoint.

 

[tld]

Thanks. I was looking for something comparable to the GT275. I've been impressed with the machine and can't blame JD (too much) for the hood, as I nudged the garage with it. The deck got beat up from the Florida sand getting sucked up in it. Motor is still strong.

 

[murphy1244]

The best no service trans is the K-66

 

[mikgran]

Thanks. I was looking for something comparable to the GT275. I've been impressed with the machine and can't blame JD (too much) for the hood, as I nudged the garage with it. The deck got beat up from the Florida sand getting sucked up in it. Motor is still strong.

The Gt 275 hoods were never known for their durability. The Gt 275 is a real workhorse. The K71 transaxles are very rugged and with an occasional fluid change will last indefinitely. Is yours the 17 hp Kaw single or twin?