Right model for 30% grade hill

[cafeholic]

Hello,

My lawn is only 0.25 acre, but about 40% of the lawn is 30% grade hill (or 17.5 degrees). Also I have 12 trees on that hill about 8 ft apart from each other.
I was looking at the D140 from Lowes, but was wondering after reading some posts here if there would be any issues with transmission because of the hill.
Since I am new to riding mowers, anything would be an upgrade to my push mower. However, I do not want the new riding mower to break after only few seasons.
I would really appreciate any advise.

Thank you!

Cafeholic

 

[rekees4300]

I would really appreciate any advise.

You really don't need a riding mower for .25 acres. Also a riding mower on a slope > 15% can be dangerous, especially with trees. My advice is to use a walk behind mower. If your current push mower isn't a self-propelled then take a look at the new innovative Husqvarna model for $499 that has all wheel drive.

HUSQVARNA HU800AWD - Lawnmowers

 

[cafeholic]

Sigh... That is another chain of thought. It does sounds like an overkill. But the hill and trees make it really hard to cut with my back and paying someone to cut will add up. Thus, started looking at riding mowers.

 

[rekees4300]

Okay you didn't mention a bad back. That justifies a riding mower. For your situation, I'd avoid the D series mowers. Take a look at the X300 series. I wouldn't buy anything less than an X320 since that's the model where the reliable K58 transmission starts. You're looking at $4K but it will last for decades. Also buy it from a JD dealer and get it with HDAP knobby rear tires to handle those slopes safely.

 

[aczlan]

If your back and wallet are up to it, I might look at a stander type zero turn such as Toro 52" Grandstand Mower
Easier to get around trees and if something happens on the hill, you can jump clear...

Aaron Z

 

[cafeholic]

I wouldn't buy anything less than an X320 since that's the model where the reliable K58 transmission starts.

First of all, thanks for the advice! How about X310 compare to X320? That one seems to come with the better grade transmission and is couple hundred dollars lower in price.

 

[cafeholic]

If your back and wallet are up to it, I might look at a stander type zero turn

I was able to try a zero turn mower owned by neighbor on my hill and it did not feel safe. Flexibility seemed wonderful on flat ground, but was too much chance to spin on the hill. So, I decided to only look at the tractors. Thanks!

 

[94BULLITT]

I think you need something with 4WD. A large garden tractor or a SCUT should handle the hill.

 

[jenkinsph]

First of all, thanks for the advice! How about X310 compare to X320? That one seems to come with the better grade transmission and is couple hundred dollars lower in price.

In your case with a small lot to cut the x310 could be a good choice. The x320 would be a better choice for larger lots with the wider cut options. Up until recently the x320 is where the transmission was upgraded to the k58. The x310 has the k58H transmission with extra hydraulics for the power steering and deck lift with a 42" cut.

I would see if I could get the x310 demo on your lot to see if it is right for you.

 

[94BULLITT]

I think you need something with 4WD. A large garden tractor or a SCUT should handle the hill.

Edit I read wrong, I thought you said 30*. Either mower will do the job. The X300 series is nicer.