So lost, I need help

[Earl Ohl]

Hello,

Thanks for all the great advice so far.

Given that I really have no specific chores for the FEL, is it even necessary? I guess I could use it for the occasional snow removal I mentioned, but that won't be very often. That's why I asked if maybe a garden tractor with a blade might suit my needs better. I found a used JD X485 with 62" deck. Is something along these lines an option?

Thanks again.

My opinion on the FEL is that if you're going to have ONE tractor, then it should be equipped with a FEL. If you have two tractors, then on the second one you can get by without the FEL most of the time. Once you've had & worked with your FEL equipped tractor a few days you'll wonder how you ever survived without one!

 

[slewisma]

If you have and use a wheelbarrow more than a few times a year, you will use the FEL and wonder how you lived without it.

Chains can make up for 2WD for dealing with the snow. Weight matters and a SCUT or CUT will deal with snow better than a lawn tractor, with or without 4WD.

I'd think you get a fair amount of snow up there? Does someone else clear it for you and you just want to be able to clean up or get a headstart? The FEL isn't great for snow. I'm using my BX24 + FEL but only because someone else plows the driveway for me. Next year, economy willing, the bank account will refill enough to get the snowblower or blade.

As far as brand, first select the dealer that is closest to you, that has the best reputation among customers and that you like when you spend time with them. Then select from the brands they sell.

 

[WilliamBos]

Advice heck; it seems you have it all figured out already. Just find a tractor that you look good on and feel better on and be happy.

Note: Shopping is fun so enjoy that period to the maximum!

Exactly.

 

[WilliamBos]

I question why you're mowing 3.5 acres. In my mind, if you're mowing more than you need a walk behind for, you're mowing too much. Just brush hog it (could hire it done or rent) about once every couple years to knock down undesirable trees, etc. You'd be surprised what nice native plants and flowers will appear if you quit mowing.


Ralph

Maybe he is a golfer, or he enjoys mowing. Pretty hard to justify the cost of a rotary mower, if that is all he is gonna cut with it. That should not take too long to mow.

JMHO.