Mowing Anyone have any thoughts or experience on a JD 1445 mower?

[Dargo]

I'm considering the purchase of a 5 year old 4wd JD 1445 with a 72" side discharge deck. I was curious as to any feedback. I have several acres to mow and right now use 2 Grasshopper 61" front mount diesel mowers. The 1445 seems to ride better and cut faster. I just don't know that much about one. It's owned by a friend of mine and is in good condition and has a full set of suitcase weights in the back as well. Thoughts or comments on this mower?

 

[gjsnow]

Hi Dargo,
I have a 1435 mower by deere with the 60 inch deck. I think the 31 hp in the 1445 is a great combination. Is it 4wd?
I mostly use my machine with the MCS-600 leaf collector and use a 60 inch HD snow blower and 60 inch broom. My machine was originally 24 hp, 4wd purchased "new" with 35 hours. It was one of the earliest models. I have had a number of mechanical issues with mine that have been long since resolved and now it is running great. I always found the MCS-600 collector overwhelmed the 24 horses so I upgraded the engine to 36hp. It is an absolute beast.
The cut quality of the 7-iron deck is second to none. They cut fast, smooth and they are comfortable.
Let me know if you have any questions.
GJSnow.