I agree totally with the above post, so what did I buy? Well, I purchased a used X744 with a 62 inch deck. I know it's overkill, but with the 62" deck, it has less than 70 hours on it. The 62" deck will cut 6 inch radius, 52" will cut 12 inch radius and the 48 will cut a 13 inch radius. I really am not looking that hard at the mowing aspect, but the snow removal. I can use it to plow some of my neighbors driveways.
Why the X744?
1) X700 have a higher resale value, especially the diesel
2) Diesel uses less fuel and the fuel tank is 6.5 gallons vs the 5 gallon on the gas
3) Diesels motors last longer, at 1000 hours look at rebuilding the gas motor
4) Tractor weighs more which is beneficial with snow removal and the diesels torque will be helpful.
5) It is a direct drive to the mower deck, granted the deck itself is belt driven
6) It's hydraulic all the way
7) It has a better frame, the X500 series shares same frame as the X300, so you are at the upper limits
8) Much nicer Driver Controls
9) I will have it forever, not need to even think about upgrading at 60 years of age
10) It's a Boy Toy and a nice one.
So, am I partially insane, maybe, but happy with the decision.
PS: I will not have it for awhile since I'm having it shipped in from a Dealer in the Midwest. I will report then on my likes and dislikes.
