On 5/27/2013 10:13 AM, Brooklyn1 wrote:
> George Leppla wrote:
>>
>> Right now, we are mowing about 3 acres with
>> a 22 inch self-propelled push mower. We are
>> going to buy a tractor shortly. I figure something
>> with a 48 inch deck.
>
> I don't think they make a 48" deck, they are 42" and the next size is
> 54", and then 60". I'd suggest at least the 54" for someone your
> weight... the 60" is better for you because the wider the cut the
> greater the HP... you'll need the extra HP to haul you around.

Ahhh... I love talking tractors.

Various brands have different size decks... you can get up to a 32 inch
single blade, 42" double blade, 42, 46, 48, 54 and 60 in triple blade
configurations.

Because of gates, obstructions, etc, I can't use a 54 or 60 inch deck.
Even some 48" decks might be too wide if the deflector shield is too
long or fixed instead of being able to fold up out of the way.

As you have noticed, I am larger than the average bear so I am only
looking at machines with engines that are 17 HP or up... preferably twin
cylinder but a one cylinder would be OK. Most of the machines I've
looked at have at least that much HP.


> I would strongly suggest buying
> from an authorized dealer rather than a big box store. Cub Cadet
> makes a decent product: http://www.cubcadet.com/equipment/cubcadet

Actually, I looked at this tractor:
http://houston.craigslist.org/grd/3776869412.html According to the
manufacturer plate, the machine was built in 2007, making it 6 years
old. It has been cleaned up well, but there are a lot of hours on it...
too many for $900. Like the guy said in his listing, for another $500 I
could buy a new one.

> This is a good product too:
> http://www.simplicitymfg.com/us/en/tractors

I've owned two Simplicity tractors and they are great. Very sturdy.
Problem is that they aren't very popular down here and I haven't seen
any used ones for sale. Another problem... the nearest dealer is 47
miles away (like I said, not very popular) and while they build a nice
machine, the Simplicity Parts Department isn't the most dependable.
Still, if I came across a good used one, I would seriously consider
buying it.

George L