John Deere X740 vs. X748

[JDrunner8]

Guys,
I am trying to figure out which is the better option to buy right now. We are looking at a new mower and can't seem to decide on the 740 vs the 748. The 4x4 is very attractive, but I am not too sure if completely necessary. We have some slopes on our property, but nothing super severe. It seems most people are satisfied with their choices with either, I just wanted somemore input.

I also forgot to mention. We are still considering a z-mower as well. The JD 997 and Kubota ZD-331. Since we aren't planning on doing any chores with this machine it will only be used for mowing... I just know the tractor series mowers are smoother riding and more useable. Any thoughts on these machines as well?


Thanks!

 

[Yellowfever440]

I know you didn't list the x744 in your post, but it is all wheel steer if you are wanting maneuverability. I do know a lot of people with 4x4 like the way they drive across the hills or slopes, I guess they don't dog walk as bad.

 

[JDTank]

I just did a thread on this about a month ago.

I strongly suggest you go with the X748. Since it is a full time AWD system, it is not mechanically linked to the drivetrain via a driveshaft, like a 4X4 system is. Because of this, there is no scrubbing in turns, you still get a tight 2WD turning radius, and all without even noticing it!

If you intend to keep the machine for a long time, or resell it, my suggestion remains the same. You don't know if you will need All Wheel Drive 5, maybe even 10 years down the road if your conditions or property changes. If you do decide to sell the machine, X748 machines sell faster then you can post them. They are extremely popular, and anyone who can swing the dollars wants one. X740 machines sell for less and tend to sit at dealers because lack of All Wheel Drive, which 90% of people want in a Garden Tractor.

I hummed and hawed over this same decision, and I chose the X748SE. There are very few parts in the X748 AWD system, compared to a shaft driven front axle, it's 100% better. You just have a couple of hydraulic hoses that send oil from the rear axle to the front, and one valve that determines the correct oil flow to each individual wheel motor on the front, so that the front tires are at the correct speed in turns, therefore, no scrubbing.

Having the AWD system opens up a lot more capabilities for you, should you ever choose to undertake any of those tasks.

Long and the short of it, the X748 all the way, hands down.

 

[rsewill]

If you are only going to use it for mowing then go with the zero-turn.

 

[JDTank]

If you are only going to use it for mowing then go with the zero-turn.

I suggest against this.

A lot of people think they won't do any chores, but once they get going, before you know it they wish they could pull a utility cart, or use a 3 PT tiller, or have a tow behind sprayer, just to name a few things.

Garden Tractors are infinite in there capabilities and uses, zero turns can do one thing, cut grass quickly.

 

[jenkinsph]

I like the x749 as it handles the slopes well, and is similar in price to the x748 and z997. If the z997 can handle your slopes it could mow a little faster.

 

[jenkinsph]

JD,
I think he is considering a 3320 to go with this mower purchase.

 

[psdx]

JD,
I think he is considering a 3320 to go with this mower purchase.

Then I would certainly recommend the zero turn mower. I have a ZD331 and a 30 hp tractor and FEL. There's no switching back & forth between mowing and "tractor" mode.

 

[jenkinsph]

Then I would certainly recommend the zero turn mower. I have a ZD331 and a 30 hp tractor and FEL. There's no switching back & forth between mowing and "tractor" mode.

I would too if it can handle the slopes easily. I would also want to feel the tractor chosen could handle the slopes too as you need to be able to run other implements from time to time. If not something like the x749 may be a better choice.

 

[JDrunner8]

Yes, we are considering a 3320 as well. The only reason we are looking again at a mowing tractor is the 3320 might tear up our yard more than mow it. We have tested them and absolutely love it, we are just mainly concerned that mowing with it might be an issue.
I did see all the posts on this issue earlier and definately glad I joined! Seems I am not the only one with the questions!