Questions on 5610 options

[Rolando]

I'm working through the options on the 5610. It looks like you still have to order the Deluxe version, which includes as part of the Deluxe Road Package a "lower engine guard". Is this the same as the "Lower Debris Guard" option or the "Lower Engine Cover" option? The words don't quite match either one. Whichever one is not included, do I also need to get the other?

The Lower Debris Guard price is $718.16. "Protects engine and fuel tank section under cab from mud and other debris."

The Lower Engine Cover price is $350.79. "Covers engine oil pan, includes metal cover, mounting brackets and hardware."

What about this "Hose Guide Kit" for $32.56? The description is: "Guide installed on left side of Bob-Tach to keep attachment hoses away from the front tire." I will be getting the big 29x12.5 Turf Tires with the wide fenders, it that makes any difference. At $32 it doesn't matter, but I'm wondering if there's a down side.

What do you think about the Step kit at $252.17? I don't have a problem getting onto my 'C' now, but I wonder about the higher deck on the 5610 with the big tires and how I'll feel about it 12 years from now when I'll be approaching the big 'seven-oh'.

I'm having to deal with quite a lot of sticker shock. Depends what kind of a discount the dealer is willing to offer whether this deal happens. I'll let you know. In the meantime, I would appreciate any comments.

Thanks

 

[radman1]

Do not order the lower debris guard. From what I have heard, it is basically a flat piece of way overpriced metal.

I thought the lower engine cover/gaurd was included on the deluxe package? Ask your dealer. I think that is a fairly critical piece and is the only protection for the bottom of the engine.

The step kit is also way overpriced but I find it useful and would order again or make one. It is a big step up and down from the TC d series. The step only hangs down 6-7" but makes a big difference if you get in a out a lot. I had the dealer install it. Talking with the mechanic, it was a bit of a pain to install because it required drill a few holes through some tough metal. It can be mounted at various postions under the TC. Have them install the step as far possible toward the outside edge of the TC. Mine is flush with the outside of the TC door/fram. It is easier to use that way. When getting out, I face forward and use the back of my shoe/heel to catch the edge of the step. Makes it easy to get in and out.

I have the hose guide kit. I had no clue what it was when I order it. It is a 4" D shaped ring that easily bolts onto the back of attachment carrier of the TC. It holds the hoses away from the tires/fender. With some attachments I use it and with others I don't. I do use it with my 90" mower. You do lots of mowing and would probably need it. Again somewhat overpriced for what it is, but not expensive. There is no downside ordering the hose guide. If you ever rub the hoses on the tires, you will wish you had it.

I got a 20% discount on the TC 5610 and any attachments. I think 15-18% is realistic plus any rebates. It was kind of special arrangement between me and my dealer. I traded in a Genie 40' manlift that I bought at an auction for cheap and didn't use anymore. He put the lift in his rental fleet. It worked out well for both of us.

 

[Rolando]

There is something that is included in the Deluxe Package. My problem was that they mix the wording between the two options so that I wasn't sure which they were talking about. The two options are "Lower Debris Guard" and "Lower Engine Cover". But what they describe in the Deluxe Package as being included is a "Lower Engine Guard" which is a mix of the words in the two items listed as options. I gather from what you're saying that whatever is included in the package is the option worth having and I just shouldn't order anything else?

You're comment about the 90" mower deck reminded me that you probably got the new design that uses the rear wheels pivoting as the safety cut off rather that cables across the top like the old design. It also has a black and white wheel on one of the blade spindles to let you know that the blades are turning. Is that the design that you have? What's been you're experience with it? Are you happy with it? I have the 72" deck now and want to get the new 90" deck with the 5610.

 

[radman1]

I think the lower engine guard and lower engine cover are the same, but ask you dealer. I did not order an engine guard and my TC has a nice big heavy duty plate covering the bottom.

I have the newer style 90" mower. It rocks. Seem to have plenty of power to run it. It will leave a rough cut in tall grass, but that has been my experience with nearly any mower. I use it on occassion like a light duty bush hog rotary mower. I don't cut brush with it but cut tall weeds, sunflowers, cockleburr and velvet weeds. I removed the safety shut off on the mower. Raise it 6-8" and it would shut off. I figured if I always raised a rear finish mower 2', I should be able to raise the bobcat mower.
As you are aware, it is much easier to mow with mower in front than in the rear. Also, it has a better cut since the tires don't run over the grass prior to cutting.
The only downside to consider is the width of the mower on a trailer. The mower wheels will just fit on the width of a standard, low deck trailer with fenders. The rest of the mower hangs over the sides. Therefore, the mower has to sit in front or behind the fenders. I have a 24' trailer and it is not an issue. Too short of a trailer could be an issue to get the proper weight distribution of the mower and TC.