John Deere 2520... any changes (high gear, other?) since first year?

Shawk · May 15, 2013

Talking about the s-cuts of course.

I used to have one of the first years out and am leaning towards going back to one as we're going to have more property to maintain shortly. My questions aren't what they'll do but if there have been any improvements since they were released (I believe '06)? I loved the machine but always thought it was a little weak in High Gear... did they ever tweak the gearing in this machine? I know the decks are different which I believe eliminated the digging issue with the 60d. Anything or is this the same machine? Thanks!

megaboz · May 15, 2013

I know in 210, the High Gear still sucks. The drive over deck is OK, I wouldn't shout too loud about it. Not sure you mean about the digging issue with the mower deck. The biggest problem is not having the ability to lock the deck up by default (without $$$), but I also find that even up all the way the deck is in the road for real tractor work, so it is off more than it is on.

I doubt very seriously they ever did anything to really improve it other than to fix costly warranty items.

But don't get me wrong, I really like the tractor, but unfortunately I wished I'd wished I went bigger. Same ole story line though with most people.

pdp11 · May 16, 2013

There are actually two variations of the 2520 CUT. If you look in the service manual, you will find it documents two different engines and two different electrical systems, depending on the serial number range. It appears that the change occurred around 2010.

The newer variant has glow plugs and a different engine oil pump arrangement. It likely is built to different emission standards as well.

The later tractors have a cigar lighter accessory plug. They also changed the design of the 3 point hitch to eliminate tire contact.

I'm sure there are other minor changes as well.

I have one of the newer versions with a 200CX FEL, 62D MMM, and a rear blade. I'm very happy with it. Love the convenience of the drive over deck, self parking loader, and the quick hitch.

Shawk · May 16, 2013

Thanks guys! I assumed the high gear was never changed... on flats, I used to mow with my 2520 in high but it was terrible on our small hill next to the house. The original 60d mmm wheels had some minor digging issues. I believe JD simply changed the wheel setup. Not sure is this was a complete fix or not. All and all though I really did like the machine and will probably grab a low hour 2520 or 2720 shortly. I will say as good as they mowed, I believe my 2305 is a better mower though.

pdp11 · May 16, 2013

Yes, the later decks have rounded wheels and I haven't had any issues with them gouging the turf.

My 2520 spends most of its time mowing. I always mow in low range and mostly use high range for driving on public roads.

roush9799 · May 17, 2013

That's why I went with a 72" deck. I mow full speed low gear. Short spots on the flat I can run high, but mostly mow in low. I read about the high gear issue before we bought it. They should have kept the gearing the same as the 855 if they weren't gonna make it a 3 range.