CC 2180 2186-48 or 2518-48

jmak · Apr 30, 2005

I have .75 acres with hills to mow and am trying to decide between the following tractors:

New 2004 CC2180 with 42 inch deck - $2300
New 2004 CC2186 with 48 inch deck - $2800
Used 2002 CC2518 with 48 inch deck - $2300
(88 hours excellent condition)

Can anyone tell me the difference between the 2186 and the 2518. It looks like they have the same specs. Which one is the better value. Would the 2180 work better on the hills due to the lower center of gravity?

Thanks

JTKub · Apr 30, 2005

The 2180 has the smaller tires, the 2186 and 2518 have the same larger tires but may have different engines (briggs vs kohler?) not sure on that. AFAIK, the transaxles are the same, the all aluminum transaxle with spin-on filter, dipsitck, etc. Not sure about the 2002, but you cannot mow in reverse with the 2004's (without some switch/wiring modifications). That 2180 is ideal for less than an acre.
G/luck
Joel

gamble77 · May 1, 2005

I agree, the 2180 seems like the logical choice here.

skysoldiervn · Jun 1, 2005

I live in NC and the new 2005 LT 2042 with bagger, front bumper and taxes was right at $3,150.00. This is from a preferred cub dealer. The 2005 also has the cast iron transmission instead of aluminum. Check the 2005 prices since the LT 2186 is not the LT 2042. /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif

ducati996 · Jun 2, 2005

Im under the impression the 2518 always had the cast iron tranny similar to the larger 3000 series....

jmak · Jun 3, 2005

Well, I finally purchased the 2180 with Super Lugs on the back, Turfmasters on the front, gator blades, and high back seat. It easily climbs the slopes I was worried about and all I need now is for my new lawn to grow so I can see how well it cuts. Thanks for all the info on this thread and elsewhere in this forum.

MrWiggles2 · Jun 15, 2005

I have a 2180 and it is the best tractor I've owned. The Vanguard is really the gem of the tractor. I've upgraded the wheels and tires, seat, so it looks more like a 2500 series tractor. I'm looking for a good sleeve hitch and some rear implements. They are tough tractors you'll love it.