Too much tractor?

[FPD90]

I am considering buying a new tractor to be used primarily for mowing and light snow removal on my 3/4 acre yard. I am currently using a 1999 Craftsman (19hp 42" deck) which I purchased new (have had no problems). I first considered buying a heavier duty tractor with a smaller deck (38"). After comparing models on-line, I soon discovered that the 2542 appears to be a much better tractor than the smaller alternatives. I test drove one and loved it. My only concern is the larger size & weight - I am a little concerned about the heavier weight compacting the soil on my septic leach field. Any advice?

 

[JTKub]

A 2542 or 2544 sounds perfect for your needs! /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif I wouldn't sweat the weight thing for your leach field. If 600-800lbs is too much, your leach field has problems.

Joel

 

[Fordlords]

My very heavy weight old CC682 does not look to crush down the softer soil in our backyard too much more than the little Craftsman 16/42 we have, so that should not be a big concern. Our yard is only 1/2 acre, and the 682 is certainly not too much tractor for it with 44" deck, so the 2542 or 44 would fit your bill just right if its a rugged machine you want. From what I've read here many say the 2544's deck is much better than that of the 2542 making the extra $400 for it worth it.

-Fordlords-

 

[Flip221]

If you are looking at the 2542, definitely check out the 2544. The deck is MUCH deeper than that on the 2542. I ended up exchanging the 1046 for the 2544, and the deck on the 2544 is even a good 2" deeper than on the 46" deck on 1046.

Awesome machine, by the way. Happy shopping! /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[Bob_Bainbridge]

</font><font color="blue" class="small">( I am considering buying a new tractor to be used primarily for mowing and light snow removal on my 3/4 acre yard. I am currently using a 1999 Craftsman (19hp 42" deck) which I purchased new (have had no problems). I first considered buying a heavier duty tractor with a smaller deck (38"). After comparing models on-line, I soon discovered that the 2542 appears to be a much better tractor than the smaller alternatives. I test drove one and loved it. My only concern is the larger size & weight - I am a little concerned about the heavier weight compacting the soil on my septic leach field. Any advice? )</font>

I mow over my septic tank and leach bed all the time with a 3235 and 54 inch deck. I can't see where it could be a problem unless possibly the bed was just newly installed.

Bob B.