Hydrocruiser

Deere and Simplicity are pretty close in design except Simplicity put a lot more $$ into their decks ; more than anyone out there. The Simplicity had 2 features I liked a lot. First it has a deck that without any tools slides out and off in less than 2 minutes for cleaning, blade changes etc. Second, it has the only deck on the market with a floating front end and full roller across the back. Nothing cuts smoother than a Simplicity.

I liked the Deere a lot but tried both and the Simplicity does cut much smoother and to me the final result is what counted. So I payed $3,500 for a Simplicity 16Hp V-Twin Vanguard with a 42' deck 13yrs ago. It has 420 hrs on it and is like new. Never a problem and will go another 13++ yrs easily without problems. They say it's lifespan is up to 50 yrs.

I like the idea of buying something engineered very well and having it be cheaper in the long run than a disposable unit. If this tractor lasts even 30 yrs that's only $ 116/season of use. For the same price or less over the long haul I can have a machine built like a tank, huge wheel and blade bearings, a very heavy deck, hydrostatic trans, and the list goes on.

Investing more $$ initially into something like a tractor is worth the price. They make a great "zero turn unit" too for prosumers.

97BossHammer

thats my main problem actually...tight budget. Going to be moving in a new house and won't have much to spend on a tractor. Not getting the lowest grade...but mid grade. I'd like to buy a really good one as some of you have mentioned, but just can't afford it right now.

Hydrocruiser

Here is Hydro's recommendation:

The one I suggest you look at is Model # 27608

If you can only afford a grand then look at Model #27317

http://www.sears.com/sr/craftsman/ho...=Lawn+Tractors

It is on sale now; usually $ 2899.99 Now $2199.88 ($ 700.11 off)

Take off an additional $219.00 for opening a new credit card and the price will drop to $1980.88. You will be very hard pressed to get a machine with that kind of engine, hydrostatic drive and a 48" cut with a very high level of quality.

The engine alone it worth $ 1,200.00


Automatic trans (Hydrostatic)
26HP Briggs V-Twin OHV with pressure lube and filter
10ga 48" deck
electric clutch for blades

The only way to go cheaper is to get a manual tranny and you would only save $200 an auto is the way to go. This one is worth putting on payments and paying it off over a year or so. Open a charge and save an additional 10%.

This is a very fine tractor and worth every cent. If mine went out tomorrow with a major catastrophic problem I would get it.

This this might work? I love tractors and would be proud to own this one.

Hydrocruiser

Powered by a Kohler 17.5 hp Kohler Pro engine with pressure lube, auto type oil filter and hydraulic valve lifters for longer life. 6-speed transaxle, EZ3 deck system with 2 gauge wheels

The Kohler 17.5HP Pro engine is not too fancy but rugged and sells for $700.00 at most discount shops.

$1199.88 on sale and then do the sears card for 10% more off so $1080. It may be manual but it still is a very good tractor. I don't think you can find a better $ 1000 tractor.

The other one I recommended for under $2k is made from heavy gauge steel and top drawer at almost $900 off with the 10% charge card discount.

Dock Holiday

Ex-Mark

I have had one three seasons now and it is the best money I have spent. The wife even likes to mow with it!!!!!!!!!!!

Buy the largest motor option they offer for the size mower you select and you will be very happy!

Dock Holiday

This is a nice setup!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dock Holiday

Nice Set Up!

Lee

iTrader: (4)

97BossHammer, The trick to not throwing the belt on a Craftsman is to make sure the deck is raised in the up position before engaging the mower deck, once it is engaged lower the deck. Also make sure that the engine is at idle speed when engaging/disengaging.

Indy

Nice...looks pricey

Hydrocruiser

What did you pay? Are these the machines that are identical to Toro's under a different marketing name???