Ken_CT
Gold Member
- Joined
- Aug 19, 2004
- Messages
- 483
- Location
- CT
- Tractor
- BX23, Hustler Mini Fastrak 42 w/mulch kit, Wheel Horse 14-38XL
Hi,
I have a Kubota BX23 and a 10 year old Toro Wheelhorse 38XL-14 that I use for mowing. I'm interested in getting a new mowing machine, but I can't make up my mind on what type to get. I will be mowing about an acre with some areas with moderate hills that I will be mowing across.. I was leaning toward a ZTR, but from what I've heard so far they are not the best for side hills. I am also strongly considering getting the XL Cyclone Rake, so that has to be taken into consideration in my decision. There are also some wooded areas where the Cyclones power vacuum pickup hose attachment would be terrific. There are a lot of flower gardens and tight areas in my lawn so I don't want anything bigger than a 44-46" deck. I also want to go to a better quality machine than the 'Bigbox" models, but I don't want to spend a fortune for a commercial unit. I originally liked the Toro ZX440 ZTR, but I heard they are not going to make them anymore. Can anyone confirm this? I am also considering the JD X304, which has 4 wheel steering, but I understand the transmission has been downgraded in the 2008 model. Since I will be towing the cyclone rake, that makes me a little nervous. So many choices, so much to learn. At least I'm not in a big hurry. The Toro is getting older, but it still works well. I mulch the grass, but bag the leaves, and it is a pain to have to empty the bagger so often, and with all the obstacles in the lawn it is difficult to get a pattern going. Every time I have a long straight run my wife wants to plant something in the way
. Since I already have a BX23 the new machine will only be for mowing. I know I could get a belly mower for the BX23, but beside being too wide, taking the FEL & backhoe off every time to mow would get old really quick. I would appreciate input from people who have either of those units, or possibly other recommendations, and why. Thanks in advance.
Ken
I have a Kubota BX23 and a 10 year old Toro Wheelhorse 38XL-14 that I use for mowing. I'm interested in getting a new mowing machine, but I can't make up my mind on what type to get. I will be mowing about an acre with some areas with moderate hills that I will be mowing across.. I was leaning toward a ZTR, but from what I've heard so far they are not the best for side hills. I am also strongly considering getting the XL Cyclone Rake, so that has to be taken into consideration in my decision. There are also some wooded areas where the Cyclones power vacuum pickup hose attachment would be terrific. There are a lot of flower gardens and tight areas in my lawn so I don't want anything bigger than a 44-46" deck. I also want to go to a better quality machine than the 'Bigbox" models, but I don't want to spend a fortune for a commercial unit. I originally liked the Toro ZX440 ZTR, but I heard they are not going to make them anymore. Can anyone confirm this? I am also considering the JD X304, which has 4 wheel steering, but I understand the transmission has been downgraded in the 2008 model. Since I will be towing the cyclone rake, that makes me a little nervous. So many choices, so much to learn. At least I'm not in a big hurry. The Toro is getting older, but it still works well. I mulch the grass, but bag the leaves, and it is a pain to have to empty the bagger so often, and with all the obstacles in the lawn it is difficult to get a pattern going. Every time I have a long straight run my wife wants to plant something in the way
. Since I already have a BX23 the new machine will only be for mowing. I know I could get a belly mower for the BX23, but beside being too wide, taking the FEL & backhoe off every time to mow would get old really quick. I would appreciate input from people who have either of those units, or possibly other recommendations, and why. Thanks in advance.Ken
