Hi Chuck,
By now you may have bought you TC 24DA which you should be happy with. At the end of last year, I bought a TC-23 for my wife. It had FEL and 60 inch mmm. It is in the same family, new model as the TC-21 and 24. I also have a 1530, same family as the TC 33. It has super steer and a 60 inch mmm.
The TC-23 was bought to fit in some tighter places and be a bit more manageabe for my wife. It mows nicely, and was priced fairly, but it is just adequate with power. Our TC-23 has the hydrostatic transmission. I would not do any serious mowing without a hydrostatic. There has been past posts in this forum on hydostatic use with these small tractors. The TC-23 seems a bit easier to tip than my 1530.
If price is not an issue, I would consider the TC-33. It does so many things better. Also in terms of HP ratings, there can be a very big difference between a smaller engine and a larger cubic inch engine rated at the same HP. My 1530 is rated at 24 HP but has tons more pulling power (torque). It is large enough to take some good sized implements. I rototill with a 65HP rated Landpride tiller.
In terms of mowing, I have always liked the MMM instead of the rear PTO unit. With the rear mount, you are mowing grass that has been knocked down by both sets of wheels, and in my opinion, the cut quality is not as good. Yes, the rear mount is easier to remove, but with a little practice, you should be able to mount and dismount your mmm in about 5-10 minutes. Email me for some pointers. I have removed the deflectors on both decks and the lawn looks great. Caution, you are more prone to throwing objects this way, but it has not been an issue for me.
We are on our 5th NH and have been happy with the attitude and assitance of NH and our dealer.
Jon
