Looking for feedback on John Deere X500. I looked at the X320 & X500 at local dealer the other day. I might go back on the weekend and test drive. My scenario is strictly for mowing (I have larger tractor w/ Loader for bushhogging, snow removal, playin' in the dirt and other chores). I mow about 2 1/2 to 3 acres. The terrain is a little rough in spots with some hills and slopes. It is not a finely manicured suburban type lawn. Due to the terrain and the fact that there are not a significant amount of obstacles to mow around, I am not considering a zero turn. I have been using a box store mower (L130) for 10 years which I think I have got my moneys worth out of and I am looking to upgrade. I like the differential lock on the X500 vs. the X320. I don't feel I need the additonal hydraulic lift features, power steering, etc of the X540 or other more premium models. Basically, I am looking for a heavy duty machine that will perform my stated tasks quickly, efficiently, reliably, etc and last a long time with proper maintenenance (which I will be performing myself).
X500?
- Thread starter peterc38
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OregonCraig
Bronze Member
I highly recommend the X500. I bought one because I have hills & slopes and I used the differential lock all the time. I've never owned an X3xx, so I can't comment on their capabilities, but the X500 is very capable, especially if all you want is a dedicated mower. It's powerful enough to cut tall grass and stable on slopes (despite all the warnings to never sidehill, sometimes you have to). I never felt I needed power steering on the X500, and the hydraulic deck lift is unnecessary as well. The X500 has a spring-assisted left-side pedal to raise the deck. It's easy to do and faster that the hydraulic lift on my X758, which is an advantage if you get your blades unexpectedly on some rock or root. I have mowed up measured slopes of 25 degrees (used a slopemeter to measure) without a problem. Do not drive down this amount of slope. I did, and lost traction, basically skiing down. No damage to the X500, though. The only other deficiency that I encountered was that it didn't have the ability to pull a 17P cart full of firewood up a different slope of 23-25 degrees. It had the power, just not the traction with turf tires.
The X500 is the best bang for the buck in the JD line up. The concept of diminishing returns certainly applies once you move up from the X500.
The X500 is the best bang for the buck in the JD line up. The concept of diminishing returns certainly applies once you move up from the X500.
mikehaugen
Elite Member
The x300 series seems small to me. I felt cramped when I test drove one once. It was a nice mower, but just too small. I actually felt better on a simplicity regent.
I am a big guy, but not huge... about 6' and 220 lbs.
I am a big guy, but not huge... about 6' and 220 lbs.
bigpinwheel
Bronze Member
I think an x500 is perfect for what you're describing. I do all that and much more abusive tasks with mine and have for 8 years. It's a great machine.
TnWV
Platinum Member
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- 2003 Zetor 4341 w/FEL, 1970 MF 150, 2012 JD X530
I mow some pretty steep hillside with my x530, and it is very stable. I have the HDAP rear tires and the traction is great. I only need the diff lock in a few spots where I have to turn sharp up hill. Once it engages the mower will really climb. I always said I didn't need power steering on a mower, but now that I have it, it's one of my favorite features. With or without power steering, you will be pleased with the X5 series. They are a really nice mower. Good Luck!
Thanks, I had read about the HDAP tires and that is my preference for the rears. Now I just need to decide if the JD green will clash with my orange Kubota
rekees4300
Elite Member
I've had X500 with HDAP tires for 3 years. Yard is similar to yours. Recommend it highly.
BuilderML
Gold Member
My father in law had an x500. To me it was a waste of money to use as a lawn mower for his property. The diff lock was nice i will give it that. $5K for a lawn tractor to cut grass in my view is not worth it. Yes i know its a "garden tractor". The deck was a pain in the axx to get off and on. He has since sold it and is now with a zero turn. For the money you are looking to spend to buy this unit to cut grass take the time and talk to a few dealers about a zero turn unit. Ask the dealer if you could demo a unit on your property to make sure it will handle the task. People can say what they want but there is nothing better to cut grass and seeing how that is what your looking to do with it i highly recommend you check out a quality zero turn. They do take alittle getting use to driving them but once thats done your off to the races. Have fun shopping.
Scooby074
Super Member
I had a x540. It was the sweetest driving mower Ive ever had. Great traction on my hills. And the hydraulic system was very useful.
I now mow with a commercial ZD zero turn, but that x540 had every bit as good a cut and was much more comfortable on the hills. The ZD is considerably heavier built and much faster however.
I now mow with a commercial ZD zero turn, but that x540 had every bit as good a cut and was much more comfortable on the hills. The ZD is considerably heavier built and much faster however.
drhjmacleod
New member
I would highly recommend an X500. I have had a few other riding mowers (JD L110 & a Simplicity Broadmoor) and my X500 is by far superior. Of course it costs more, but you get what you pay for. I could never mow my slope side to side with my other two mowers, but the X500 is so stable I can. With the HDAP tires, I have great traction both going up hill and down hill.