Decided on 2305 Instead of X748

orlo · Apr 25, 2007

The powerflow system on the 2305 (whole 2000 series I think) isn't another engine (Like the 790, and 3000 series, etc.) It's driven off a pulley on the deck.

It still as a PITA though (see my previous posts).

One other note also, if you use something like a cyclone rake, etc. or anything with an engine upstream of the boot (The 790, 3000+ series) unclogging the mower boot is easy (after you shut off the tractor of course) since there are no impellers, etc. and you simply disconnect the hose and dig in there with your hand.

On the powerflow system since the blower is deck driven the blower is right in the boot so it's very difficult to get your hand in their to clear it (if it clogs). Sometimes you have to pull the belt off and the entire boot off. (Always burning your hands on the hot pulley, etc.) which is a double PITA.
(I say this from experience...)

Also, on wet/damp grass the powerflow system doesn't work half as good as a cyclone rake or equivalent. It clogs frequently and easy.

johndeere_2210 · Apr 25, 2007

Engine66 said:
Ok, so the powerflow bagger system is a PITA to install/uninstall? That 2 piece unit is like $1,500...I guess I will have to do a little more research. Does it really hold 14 bushells? How about the 54" deck and bagger? Same set-up? I am not really sure exactly the advantages to the center hydraulic lift vs 3PH...I guess the 3PH will be unusable anyways since the bagger will be on during mowing.

The ballast box is included in the package. If you have more advice, toss it on...I'd like to learn before the purchase so I make the right call. Thanks again.

A nice trac vac system to hold 30 bushels is around 2K and a great addition to the unit vs the small capacity. Obviously, you have to deal with a bigger unit pulling around, but you can get it PTO driven and that's a very nice set up. I would encourage to you research this more before the bagger purchase.

ducati996 · Apr 25, 2007

orlo said:
The powerflow system on the 2305 (whole 2000 series I think) isn't another engine (Like the 790, and 3000 series, etc.) It's driven off a pulley on the deck.

3-Bag Power Pak Material Collection System has a 5HP honda motor, and I think attaches to one of the pulleys on the deck. Im pretty sure it fits on the 2000 series, since they fit on the 4010, 4110,4115 or old..
I would conclude that maybe this isnt what you were talking about originally.
Either way neither system is great or worth the $$. Of course thats my .05 cents

Nuru · Apr 26, 2007

Congrats on the new 'chine. Looks like you are gonna have plenty of fun too.

Engine66 · Apr 26, 2007

Thanks for the honest advice on the bagger. I'm going with a mulching kit instaed. Anyone have experience with mulching with the 62c deck?

gary_dsc · Apr 26, 2007

I have been using a 62C with the mulching attachment for about a month and it seems to do a pretty fair job. It doesn't seem to pick up small sticks as well as my previous mower (JD445 w/60" MMM), but that was a deeper commercial-like unit. My dealer doesn't recommend installing the mulching attachment until July, but I had them go ahead and put it on when I took delivery two months ago. I have tried mowing some higher grass and I don't think that I see as many little grass piles as I did with the 445. Of course, I haven't tried to mulch leaves yet.

JDFANATIC · Apr 26, 2007

Engine66,

I've always used Gator Magnum blades on my 62C, and have been very happy with the results. Late last year I ordered a mulch kit to use on my leaves, but by the time it came in, I had already chomped them up with the gators. The gators work fine, but because there is no blow-out plug, some go through and out the chute and you end up going over ground already traveled. Anyway, I put them on for the first cut of this year and didn't really like the vacuum action (in fact I just ordered another set of gators). I think the mulch kit is great under certain circumstances (summer cutting when the lawn is dry and kept at certain height). The gators are really a good all-around choice. If I were you, and especially because you are going to use this at a 2nd property and there may be inconsistent mowing schedules, I would try the gators (you can always add the mulch kit later on).

Nuru · Apr 26, 2007

Good deal, I think you definitely will enjoy your buy.

gary_dsc · Apr 27, 2007

JDF, I'm not sure I understand. If the mulch kit is already installed, will the gator blades do a better job than the blades that come with the mulch kit as far as picking up sticks, etc? Will it still mulch leaves, grass clippings, etc.?

JDFANATIC · Apr 27, 2007

gary_dsc said:
JDF, I'm not sure I understand. If the mulch kit is already installed, will the gator blades do a better job than the blades that come with the mulch kit as far as picking up sticks, etc? Will it still mulch leaves, grass clippings, etc.?

The mulch kit is NOT compatible with gator blades. You have to do one or the other.