BX2230 vs G1800

ancho · Apr 11, 2015

I'm hoping this is a silly question -- but I need some reassurance or guidance from those who have more experience than I do.

I've been running a G1800 for the last 2 years, with a 60" deck from a G1900 (I think the largest deck sold on the G1800 was a 48"?). On our prior property (6ac, mostly flat) it performed very well, but our new property is not as simple (10ac, a few mild slopes but nothing too crazy). Primary duty is mowing and dragging the pastures with a chain drag that weighs somewhere around 150 lbs. Mowing or dragging alone, not a big deal, but doing both simultaneously puts a strain on the machine.

So, I've found what I think is a good deal on a BX2230 with low hours, comes with a 60" MMM and a FEL. My initial thoughts based on the specs (40+% increase in HP, 4WD) would be that it would correct the shortcomings of the G1800 on our property, but before I plunk down the money for the BX, I was hoping to get some feedback on the improvement I can expect.

Thanks!

David_Kb7uns · Apr 12, 2015

Have a BX2230 with a 60inch and a G2160 with the 60inch decks and they both are the same model deck, that is suspended with gauge wheels and the metal belt covers I have friends that are having pulley problems on the 4 bolt flange decks with the plastic covers.

I think the G2160 is real similar to the G1800/1900 but it has the power steering added.

The G2160 has a bit of trouble with the PTO belts wearing and slipping easier and a little less power but it turns tighter then the BX but will get into more places where a ROPS will get in the way and spins the tires easier on hills or wet grass.

The BX2230 does not turn as tight but goes up hills better in 2 or 4 wheel drive and will handle thicker grass before things bog down. The BX does burn more fuel for the same area cut. The G2160 drives more like a sports car where the BX is closer to a truck but taking the FEL off does help a lot and just leaves you with the turn radius to deal with.

Have a neighbor that went from a Deere 420 to the BX2350 and his complaint was the Kubota not having a hopper style bagger.

Also have a 6ft chain harrow that the bx2230 pulls fine in low range along with 5ft rake, 4ft box blade and a 4ft rear 3pt blade.

David