We all have a budget, just ask my Financial Adviser(aka, the wife). Fortunately, I was able to convince her that a Commercial grade ZTR was a good retirement investment:0)
Like I said, I was shopping for a ZTR that had a lot of Commercial grade components and the XL didn't meet that requirement very well. But Gravely don't make no junk and that XL should be able to meet your expectations for cut quality!! How much area are you cutting weekly and how long have you had your Gravely. If I were you, I would try some of the suggestions and if it still not giving a satisfactory cut have the deadler take a look. BTW, one of the Pros on the forums(user Ric) posted a chart for recommended cutting height for different types of grass. I can't seem to find the chart in a search right now, but below is a quote form one of his posts. Maybe you just need to try 2 or 3 different heights and see which looks best(I cut my Fescue at 2.5 inches and I tried 2 3/4" once and it looked TERRIBLE). It's sometimes just finding the right height for your specific law. Ric's quote:
"Warm-season grasses like Bermuda, Zoysia and Centipede grass are usually better cut short, 1 to 2 inch range depending on the variety and with a reel mower not a rotary.
St. Augustine grass should be cut higher, between 3 1/2 and 4 inches, preferably 3 3/4 inches.
A cool-season grass such as Fescue and Kentucky Bluegrass, are usually best cut higher generally in the 2 to 3 inch range."
Hope you get it right where you want it!!!!