I am close to getting a JD 535E (54" deck) at Lowes, which, with a 10% off coupon I have, would cost $3600. (it has, supposedly, been set up by the local JD dealer.) It comes with a 2 yr/200 hr warranty.
I called a local JD dealer (different dealer than the one offering the 2016 mower mentioned in a different thread... we got JD dealers all over the place up here). This dealer has a 2019 535M with a 54" deck and a 4 yr/400 hr warranty that would cost $4399.
The dealer sales person says the 535M is a better machine with better components than the 325E.
But, when I compare specifications online, they appear to be identical but for the "M" having a better air cleaner (cyclonic) and a taller seat. The machines weigh the same, they both have a 724cc M44 ELS engine (?), Tuff Torq TZ17-D hydros, same tires, same everything.
Is the M a better machine or is the sales guy blowing some smoke?
The extra two years of warranty does a value (?). But, if Lowes accepts the 10% off coupon, the price difference between the E and the M is $800. That is a lot for a upgraded air cleaner, 3" of seatback, and two extra years of warranty... if the two machines are fundamentally identical in all other regards.
Is the "M" a better machine? Is the extra two years of warranty, 3" of seat, and a "cyclonic" air cleaner worth an extra $800? (or if I can't use the 10% coupon, an extra $400?
(the price of a JD 4yr/400 hr warranty from JD is $250)
I called a local JD dealer (different dealer than the one offering the 2016 mower mentioned in a different thread... we got JD dealers all over the place up here). This dealer has a 2019 535M with a 54" deck and a 4 yr/400 hr warranty that would cost $4399.
The dealer sales person says the 535M is a better machine with better components than the 325E.
But, when I compare specifications online, they appear to be identical but for the "M" having a better air cleaner (cyclonic) and a taller seat. The machines weigh the same, they both have a 724cc M44 ELS engine (?), Tuff Torq TZ17-D hydros, same tires, same everything.
Is the M a better machine or is the sales guy blowing some smoke?
The extra two years of warranty does a value (?). But, if Lowes accepts the 10% off coupon, the price difference between the E and the M is $800. That is a lot for a upgraded air cleaner, 3" of seatback, and two extra years of warranty... if the two machines are fundamentally identical in all other regards.
Is the "M" a better machine? Is the extra two years of warranty, 3" of seat, and a "cyclonic" air cleaner worth an extra $800? (or if I can't use the 10% coupon, an extra $400?
(the price of a JD 4yr/400 hr warranty from JD is $250)