Best mower for the $$

thechknhwk · Jun 14, 2004

Just wondering what the consensus would be for the best/biggest tractor/mower I could get for 1500 or less. Thanks.

Bob_Skurka · Jun 14, 2004

Cub Cadet and JD both have units at that price point. Consumer Reports says they are pretty good, better than the other brands. Troy Built, owned by the same company that owns Cub Cadet was also rated well. Prices for Cub & JD seem to be the same at a tractor dealer and at Lowes or Home Depot, but the local tractor dealer will probably give you better service and may deliver it for free.

I believe a 42" mower deck and about 18hp engine would be in those units.

tough451 · Jun 14, 2004

Having used both in that range I would pick the Cub.

thechknhwk · Jun 15, 2004

Thanks for the input guys, I was leaning towards the Deere since I have a 10% off coupon for home depot.

WoodstockSoxFan · Jun 26, 2004

Hope I am not too late, but I would be weary of purchasing the JD at Home Depot. I am struggling with the L110 which I purchased last year. The JD name and 12 months interest free enticed me. The bagger on the unit has performed poorly and now with only 16 hours, the unit will not start. I traced the problem to the starter. However, the only way I can get this covered under warranty is to transport the tractor an hour away to a JD dealer. Home Depot takes no responsibility for service. This has been a nightmare and I sure wish I had purchased locally.

DAP · Jun 28, 2004

The reality ... in my opinion, 65% of the time, ya get what ya pay for.

Most of the remaining 35% you get less than what you paid for and the remaining fraction means you got real lucky or more than you paid for.

That being said, a superb purposed mowing machine will set most of us back at least 4000 - 6000 for new unit. This price commands longevity, performance, safety, durability and ease of operation.

Mostly, ya do get what ya pay for and 1500 will get you a machine that bites into the criteria listed above.