LX5 versus MX5

[Rayder]

I have an LX5 that I run on a 4320. I've got about 3 hours on the LX5 and I'm on my 3rd shear bolt. Both times the bolt went when accidently scalping just plain old dirt.

I had an LX4 with a lower HP tractor, and never went through a shear bolt ... when it would scalp, it would just suck power out of the tractor. The 4320 however doesn't give in that easy.

I was reading another post where somebody was talking about the MX5 going through anything. Question: is a slip clutch standard on the MX5? I went with the LX because I only use it 6 or 7 times a year. But having to be tender with the thing isn't something I care to do.

Should I upgrade or look into putting a slip clutch on it? Any clue on how much it would cost to convert the LX5 to a slip clutch (I'm assuming that is an option)?

 

[green4710]

I cant help you on the mx5, but I have an mx8, and that thing is great. Slip clutches on it. I scalped pretty good once, and pulled the rpms about to off. Ive went through some pretty big stuff, and never a problem. Slip clutches are never hot either. I think the MX line of mowers are pretty tough.

 

[Sadler]

I believe the slip clutch is standard on all the MX cutters. I have the MX6 with my 4120, and the clutch has saved me quite a few times when I accidentally hit dirt. The MX6 seems to be able to cut through about anything I need and is very tough. Highly recommended.

 

[txhawg]

According to the Deere site, a slip clutch driveline is an $85.00 option for the LX5. I don't know if it is that cheap after having already purchased one with a shear pin, but I wouldn't guess it's that much more. It is standard on the MX line.

I paid a little more for the MX5 because I knew I would be cutting more than just grass. I can tell you I am impressed with the monster. I bought it to work some raw, pretty heavily wooded 12 acres, and so far it has surpassed any expectation I had for it. Being a weenie with my brand new tractor, I backed over some of the larger stuff. It literally made rather large youpons disappear! I mean nothing left. My only complaint is that it didn't come with chains front and back. I am going to order them next week, since the rubber strip on the front scrapes away some of the softer soil on uneven ground.

I know it's easy for me to say, because it's your money, but if you decide to upgrade you won't be disappointed.

 

[KennedyDiesel]

For limited use, I'd consider ading the clutch to what you have. I went with the MX5 because I have other plans for future mods, but the LX is plenty for most.

Had I gone with the LX, I'd have added the clutch, stump jumper pan and HD tailwheel.

 

[rockyridgefarm]

I have an MX cutter. Now my 4310 is too wimpy for an MX6 (just don't tell IT that!) so I first ordered an LX cutter. My dealer said I was stupid and ordered the MX anyway. Well, He felt sorry for me and then got me the LX. Not too sorry, cause he told me to take that LX home and try it and then bring it back and get the MX. He was right.

After you add the slip clutch and chain set to about any cutter, the cost almost as much as the MX. Now that is not to say that a Woods, Midwest, or Bush Hog would not be quite satisfactory. But if you wanna stick with Deere...

Skip the LX. Even if all you are doing is light grass cutting.

The MX stump jumper is far better.

The MX blades are significantly better.

The double deck design is self cleaning.

But by far the most important:

The sidewalls are TOO skimpy on the LX!!!

They are 1/8" thin! The first time you swing a little wide and thump a fense post, tree or bamboo tiki torch; you will dent the sidewall. The second time it'll dent far enough that the blades will be grinding on the sides.

If your LX is still that new, tell your dealer its time to trade before it looks like a Shinny can .

 

[GalwayBoy]

I've yet to take delivery on my 4120 etc /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif , but I chose the MX6 over the LX. I have about 10 acres of pasture to maintain, along with some lawn and some horse trails through the woods. While I first balked at the price of the MX, I figured that I would never need to purchase another cutter in my lifetime. It's said to be virtually bombproof.

I had briefly considered a 6' RFM, but have numerous areas of exposed ledge rock, which would surely put my expensive to replace spindles in peril. A RFM would also not be suitable for the trails.

In addition to the reasons that you've stated, the MX has a substantially higher blade tip speed. I'm hoping that the increased speed will provide an improved quality of cut on the grass areas. It's a bit more than I care to mow with my Gravely.

I'm hoping to have my cake and eat it too....

 

[rockyridgefarm]

<font color="green"> In addition to the reasons that you've stated, the MX has a substantially higher blade tip speed </font>

I meant to say that as well. I think it does cut better

Even on my 4310!

 

[Rayder]

I wasn't aware of the MX having a higher blade speed. Is this accomplished through different gearing on the cutter?

 

[GalwayBoy]

From the Deere website-

LX6-
Blades

Thickness, in. (mm) 0.5 (13)

Width, in. (mm) 3 (76)

Type Suction

540 RPM 14,960 (76.1)

Material Flow System Max Flow

Diameter, in. (mm) 15.51 (394)

Type Oval pan-type



MX6-
Blades

Thickness, in. (mm) 1/2 (13)

Width, in. (mm) 4 (102)

Type Suction

540 RPM 17,040 (86.6)

Material Flow System Max Flow

Diameter, in. (mm) 24.7 (628)

Type Round Stump Jumper




Different gearbox ratio.

Produces 2080 Feet/Min more than the LX6 Quite likely the fastest tip speed on the market. I don't recall FPM of the Land Pride and Woods units offhand, but I looked into them as well. Didn't come close.

Now if I could just take delivery on it and check out my theory!

Jon