I'm looking for a new JD lawnmower, X300 - X500

[Grumpa Wally]

My 2006 L120 is still running good but I am looking to get a newer model. I want power steering, 48" deck and real bearings in the front wheels, not bushings. The parts guy said the X390 had power steering but I don't know about front wheel bearings. Any advice on X300 or X500 mowers two wheel drive?

 

[tomplum]

They will have ball bearings in the front wheels. Best advice is to spend some time both looking through the catalog and on the tractors to get a feel your what you need and want. Different decks, transmissions etc. The all wheel steer is a real nice feature if you have the use for it.

 

[buickanddeere]

Below the X370 the lightweight cheapo K46 transaxle is used , stay away from it . The X370 uses an improved transaxle but still lightweight . The X380 and up use a decent medium duty transaxle .
We have people whimpering on here and other sites who did not do thier research and have a busted K46.

 

[Grumpa Wally]

I had some time to visit the dealership today and they are assembling an X390, 48" deck for me, should be ready Friday. Thanks for the advice.

 

[Grumpa Wally]

I am really liking the X390. The hydraulic deck lift/lower is convenient and quick. The power steering is one finger easy turning. I like the fuel cap being beside the seat, instead of under the seat, it makes for cleaner fueling. It has a really tight turning radius and the larger tires grip well. The deck has an adapter for washing out underneath. I just connect the hose, turn on the water and engage the blades. I haven't used it, so I can't comment how effective it is at cleaning the underside. I also like the spring loaded deck pulley guards. I raise the guard and blow out the grass/leaves with air pressure.

 

[jgayman]

I am really liking the X390. The hydraulic deck lift/lower is convenient and quick. The power steering is one finger easy turning. I like the fuel cap being beside the seat, instead of under the seat, it makes for cleaner fueling. It has a really tight turning radius and the larger tires grip well. The deck has an adapter for washing out underneath. I just connect the hose, turn on the water and engage the blades. I haven't used it, so I can't comment how effective it is at cleaning the underside. I also like the spring loaded deck pulley guards. I raise the guard and blow out the grass/leaves with air pressure.

The general consensus of those in the know is to forget about the deck washout port. Pure marketing gimmick. Its effectiveness is marginal at best and mixing water and hot spindle bearings is the best way known to reduce the life of the bearings.

 

[beenthere]

As jgayman points out, in addition to the hose connection is the wet, slimy green mess that gets washed out.. and what to do with it (that is nearby where the water hose is at). Major mess, IMO

I prefer to keep the mower deck dry and just use the air pressure hose to clean off the dust and debris after EVERY mowing. Never a problem keeping clean and running well.

 

[bu11seye]

I am really liking the X390. The hydraulic deck lift/lower is convenient and quick. The power steering is one finger easy turning. I like the fuel cap being beside the seat, instead of under the seat, it makes for cleaner fueling. It has a really tight turning radius and the larger tires grip well. The deck has an adapter for washing out underneath. I just connect the hose, turn on the water and engage the blades. I haven't used it, so I can't comment how effective it is at cleaning the underside. I also like the spring loaded deck pulley guards. I raise the guard and blow out the grass/leaves with air pressure.

I have the same machine and love it. After I hit 70 years old my arms and legs got a bit tired and achy - hurrah for hydraulics!

 

[Tractorable]

I’ve had an X590 for the past two years and really like it. No problems and the power steering and hydraulic deck lift are really nice. Get one of those twist knobs on the steering wheel and you’ll be home free.

I added a mulching kit to the deck which I’ve decided I’m not a big fan of. If the grass is too thick or damp I can hear the mower clogging up and the spindles start to groan. Also, the cut isn’t as good as a non-mulching deck, but the lack of windrows is nice. I only got it to avoid blowing grass clippings into the flower beds.

 

[bigtiller]

My deck washout port was getting stepped on when getting on/off the 2720 so before I sprung an ankle I removed it and filled the hole with a short chrome carriage bolt.