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...
				
					
						
							 
						
					
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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!