Test Drive Error

forestcreature · Jan 4, 2002

terry,

the added weight and width of the 60" gave me a more stable ride on the sideways slopes.

the control was referring to the rear mounted mowers.

forestcreature · Jan 4, 2002

yes, the 60" is mulch-able. and you can even use that vacuum trailer thing.

bigpete · Jan 4, 2002

<font color=blue>JD mechanics are saying it is just overall much more rugged in nature than the 54"</font color=blue>

The 60 truly is. I guess that's what I was trying to indicate with my previous epistle-length post. I'm sure the same is true for the 'Bota decks. You should look at the two decks side-by-side. The guide wheels (8" vs 5"), guide wheel supports, gear box support, etc., on the 60 are so much more solid and heavy, I'm certain you will be convinced of the added value for the added expense. I'm guessing that's why you went with the 4100 over a smaller tractor in the first place. Tres is right-on with the versatility. You might think the 54 was easier to handle, but it puts a lot of obstacles closer to your tractor. The 60 is for the JD 400 series and up, exclusiveley. The 300 series can carry the same 54.

I know you are saving your poker change for your deck. Have you looked for an "experienced" 60 to save a few bucks? Like other commercial-grade decks, the spindles and guide wheel bearings will wear first. Barring rust or abuse, I wouldn't be afraid to buy one that was well maintained. Could save you up to $1,000. /w3tcompact/icons/wink.gif

Have a great weekend.

Nuru · Jan 4, 2002

BigPete, oh yes I am looking for an "experienced" 60" MMM. I just have not had any good leades locally or non-locally. i guess I will have to try a littel harder.

Nuru

Nuru · Jan 4, 2002

That is good on the mulch attachment. The rear bagger/vacuum attachment is just too expensive for the single use.

Nuru

bigpete · Jan 4, 2002

You might try http://jplan.com/tractor/index.sht . I vaguely remember seeing a couple of JD 60" decks on ironsearch when I was ramming around looking for a sprayer awhile back.

forestcreature · Jan 5, 2002

Mulch thing is called a 'tricycler mulching attachment".
This is 3 blades and a chute cover. [no prices listed]
In case you do not have one, I would recommend getting a copy of the jd 'grounds care equipment purchasing guide'. Lots of toys listed here, several tractor models and walk behind stuff too.

bigpete · Jan 5, 2002

There are three baffles that come with the kit also. Along with the double-cut blades and chute plate, they change the airflow to keep clippings suspended under the deck so they can be cut and re-cut. On the 60, there is inly one hole that needs to be drilled. The only downside to using the Tri-Cycler is that it takes five extra minutes each time you cut to remove clippings from the baffles, especially if the grass is a little wet. The Grounds Care Purchasing Guide is a fun wish book and casual reading. I have already pestered my dealer for the 2002 copy, whenever it comes out. I posted some deck specs from the Guide earlier in this thread.

Nuru · Jan 5, 2002

ForestCreature, thanks for the info, I am aware of the correct name for the mulch kit, as I bought them for each of my previous units.. I will get a copy of the "grounds care equipment purchasing guide'", as you are correct that it is a good source of information.

Nuru