om21braz
Veteran Member
If you're looking at used, the Deere GX325 began having the diff. lock in about 2006. That's the smallest older model with it that I know of.What is the smallest deere lawn tractor that has one?
If you're looking at used, the Deere GX325 began having the diff. lock in about 2006. That's the smallest older model with it that I know of.What is the smallest deere lawn tractor that has one?
GX325 is belt driven and IMHO I'd say it would compare best to the X500 series - maybe a little more rugged. I believe you have to go to the older 400 or X400 series at a minimum to have shaft drive.Is the gx325 belt driven or shaft driven?
Does it compare to the x500's or x300's?
(I wish the ol 320 was still in the line up). That's the size/strength of a machine I'm looking for.
If you want an exceptional tractor and even greater value, take a look at a 2003-2005 GX345 or 355 (diesel) with differential lock. These tractors were way overbuilt, and considered by a lot of JD fans, as one of the best lines of L&G tractors JD has ever put out.
The older X5xx series are also outstanding machines, and available with 4 wheel drive and diesel engines. These tractors are about 6" longer then the 345 and about 250 lbs heavier, with larger 26" rear tires. I think JD stopped producing this line about 2006. It was replaced with the X7xx series.
A nice GX345 will run about $3000-3500 with low hours. The X5xx series will be about $1000-1500 more, depending on the hours and condition. Either one, you will not be disappointed.
I am not a big fan of the new X5xx. I looked at them myself, and just don't think the quality is there. Just my opinion. The X7xx is a whole other story, a lot bigger and A LOT more money.
With your size property I would think the X500 will/should be all you will need for a long time. Please remember this is a garden tractor and design for a heavy workload. The upgarde to the HDAP wil make short work of those hills. The X534/540 are great machines, but do you really need to have a smaller turning radius of about 5 inches? (more to break) same thing with the power steering & hyd lift. The X500 is a easy machine to use and maintain. this thing should last you 20+ years if taken care of.
Kiteflyer said:I looked at the gx345 and they do look nice. What did you not like about the new x5xx's?
It would help to know where you live, but if it's anywhere near western Kentucky - here's a nice one I just noticed in a local free paper. If it had been available last year, I might have purchased it, rather than the considerably more expensive and less substantial new X500
//greg//