GT48DXLS vs TS348D

[cpayne5]

My mother is in need of a new mower, so I've been researching some options in her price range (<$3k). She's rough on equipment and the terrain is pretty hilly around here, so I feel she needs a mower with something >K46. She doesn't need a 48" mowing deck, but that's the price of admission.

I think we've narrowed it down to the two models in the title. It seems that the GT is a mythical creature on these forums, and there's a dealer nearby with a leftover unit still on the lot.

The TS seems like a very similar machine with a couple of differences. Tires (classic Harry-homeowner style vs "professional" turf tires), engine (Kohler 7000 vs Kawasaki FR), and some styling differences. Both models have the fabricated 48" deck, ~24hp, and K66 with electronic locker.

The TS is a new model and so the ones on the lots are brand new. It's spring time, and local dealers are holding deals close to the vest for now. Best offer is for $2899+tax ($100 off).

The GT has been on the lot for nearly a year. It shows. Sun damage to the seat, dusty/dirty, and some surface rust starting to show here and there. The dealer isn't budging on price. $2999+tax.

If it weren't for all the accolades heaped onto the GT, it would be a no brainer...so I'm strongly leaning TS (cheaper, "newer", and similarly equipped).

Change my mind.

 

[Johnkn]

From my other thread, I only see the TS348 at $3k and the TS348hd $3400. ????

Edit. Ahhh I see the D as a 'variant'. What is the difference in the 4 different part numbers? I hate their site...

 

[cpayne5]

The XD is $3400, and the D is $3000.

 

[Johnkn]

What part of Virginia are you in? I'm in Southern MD. Thanks

 

[Teachu2]

I don't see a TS 348D either, but that doesn't mean it doesn't exist. It could easily be a limited, regional, or new model that hasn't made it to the website. I like the seat, but question the locking differential - if it's an auto-locking differential, I'd avoid it. If it has a rocker switch on the dash (like the GT48DXLS), and it's a K66, the Kohler would be fine - even though the Kawasaki is smoother and easier to maintain than the Kohler Commands I've owned, both of which were excellent, trouble-free motors.

Husqvarna makes so many derivative models that it's very confusing. Different engines (even on the same model), different transaxles, different locking systems, different decks, and probably different frames. I've been pleased beyond my expectations with the combination of the Kawasaki, K66, manual electric locker, and Clear Cut fabricated deck of the GT48DXLS. I like the look of the higher back on the new seat, but the seat I have is comfortable and easy to turn in to look behind. Mine will also mow in reverse, which I use more than I thought I would.

 

[Johnkn]

On the left side of that tractors page, click on variant.

 

[cpayne5]

On the left side of that tractors page, click on variant.

Yeah, on the TS348 page, there's a dropdown to select the D variants.

My mother chose the TS348D and I called the dealer to have them hold it. Picking it up Thursday.

I took a picture of the transaxle tag and verified that it is a K66. It has the selectable locker switch on the dash.

 

[Teachu2]

Looks great to me!

 

[cpayne5]

What part of Virginia are you in? I'm in Southern MD. Thanks

I'm about an hour west of DC.

 

[Johnkn]

LOL, that can be Tysons Corner in NOVA traffic. I spend a lot of time in Chantilly and my daughter is in Leesburg. Post up some pics when you can please. thanks