Test drive

[firemansteve6921]

I went to my local John Deere dealership yesterday and test drove two mowers. first one was a brand new x320 and it was much nicer than my LA145. the second one I tried out was a brand new z445. with a budget of 5 grand I'm torn on what one to buy. either one will work for what I want. I need a mower and that's all. nothing to pull, no ground engagement no plowing just mowing. I feel comfortable on the x320 but after getting used to the zero turn controls I can get the job done quicker. both have a 54 inch deck which is larger than the 48 on the LA145. they are both priced about the same. I do not have any steep hills on my property that will cause an issue. The other option is a used x500. it has around 600 hours on it but he said it runs and drives just fine. I wasn't able to see it due to being in the shop. I like the thought of the x500 because of the lockable rear diff but its also a used tractor. What are some pros and cons of the 320 and the z445? any help will be appreciated. thanks.

 

[Carscw]

I went to my local John Deere dealership yesterday and test drove two mowers. first one was a brand new x320 and it was much nicer than my LA145. the second one I tried out was a brand new z445. with a budget of 5 grand I'm torn on what one to buy. either one will work for what I want. I need a mower and that's all. nothing to pull, no ground engagement no plowing just mowing. I feel comfortable on the x320 but after getting used to the zero turn controls I can get the job done quicker. both have a 54 inch deck which is larger than the 48 on the LA145. they are both priced about the same. I do not have any steep hills on my property that will cause an issue. The other option is a used x500. it has around 600 hours on it but he said it runs and drives just fine. I wasn't able to see it due to being in the shop. I like the thought of the x500 because of the lockable rear diff but its also a used tractor. What are some pros and cons of the 320 and the z445? any help will be appreciated. thanks.

I say go some where else take your 5 grand and get more mower for your money. Your paying to much for a name

(( racing is the only sport that you need two balls ))

 

[mowerman05]

I use a x320part time in the summer and blow snow in the winter with the same machine, no problems. Also own a JD Z930 and love the way it handles. Price is a personal issue that you have to be happy with. Good luck with whatever you go with.

 

[Ric]

I say go some where else take your 5 grand and get more mower for your money. Your paying to much for a name

(( racing is the only sport that you need two balls ))

I agree he can get more for his money for 5 grand.

 

[firemansteve6921]

What are some other suggestions that you guys are thinking of? I think I have made the decision to go with a zero turn. I would like at least a 54 inch deck. 5 grand is the limit though. I really don't have a brand loyalty I just looked at John Deere because they are a good quality machine and have a good name.

 

[Carscw]

I would look at a toro. Or even cub cadet

Maybe find I good used ztr


IMO John Deere is just a name. And they make good farm tractors. I have a Deere front end loader but would never buy a mower

(( racing is the only sport that you need two balls ))

 

[lawn mower fanatic]

I would look at a toro. Or even cub cadet

Maybe find I good used ztr


IMO John Deere is just a name. And they make good farm tractors. I have a Deere front end loader but would never buy a mower

(( racing is the only sport that you need two balls ))

You can get more for your $$$ if you buy used. Just consider these things: http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/mower-buying-pricing/17772-things-look-when-buying-used-mower.html

 

[BBO]

The other option is a used x500. it has around 600 hours on it but he said it runs and drives just fine. I like the thought of the x500 because of the lockable rear diff but its also a used tractor.

Without any hill I am not sure why you would need the locking differential. I rarely use mine.
I am a fan of used mowers but with more like 300 hours. For 600 hours it would really need to be cheap.

This all also depends on your interest and ability to do repairs.
You should look at an Exmark residential machine if you have a local dealer. The commercial machines are pricey. Exmark Lawn Equipment | Your Source For Commercial Lawn Equipment
I personally do not like the louder noise from the zero turns.
An enclosed engine is quieter especially if it is water cooled.