Saw this post and though you might find it interesting.
Other than engine, what are the major differences between the 2 slope mowers? I get the feeling that the PT 1850 is a real beast! The ground clearance is so low I would not feel comfortable working in the woods with it. I am surprized that the lift capacity is only 1,200# for something so...
www.tractorbynet.com
When I got my PT1460, I went to the factory (about 5 hours drive also). They let me drive several machines and use them on their rock pile to get a feel for them.
Decision was clear after testing the different machines which one was right for my use case-land developing and building my home.
My machine has been very strong.
Good Luck!