Powerstroke,
To follow up on your questions: the 2210 can operate a mid mounted mower deck, in fact, most are purchased with them. The ROPS can be removed and some aftermarket companies are even offering a folding ROPS, so clearance should not be a problem. The 595 does have a slightly tighter turning radius than does the 2210, but the difference is negligible. I believe the 2210 can also be had with a 54" deck, and I know the 595 can. The difference between the two with regard to loaders is large, though. The 45 loader for the 595 is a well-built unit, but the hydraulics on the tractor will not allow it to lift more than 400 pounds. The 2210 210 loader will lift 625 to full height and more to 36", the other common rating point. It is a much better loader. I had a 45 loader on my 595 and found the tractor capable of moving more than the loader or hydraulics could handle. As far as comparing your 26 horsepower Craftsman to either of these machines, and please forgive me for this, either of these machines could outpull or outwork two of the Craftsman tractors (I am serious about this). The diesel would be the equivalent power-wise to a good three or four cylinder 30-32 hp gasoline engine, that is fuel-injected. Do not let the horsepower advantage of the Craftsman fool you. The diesel Yanmar in either tractor offers superior torque and performance. The four wheel drive and sophisticated chassis design also adds to this large difference. For example, last year with our first snow, I was able to pull my wife's 4200# SUV out of a ditch on our steep 15-18% driveway, uphill, with my 595. I attached a tow strap to the trailer hitch, and due to the angle had to pull the SUV uphill to straighten it out. The 595 was able to pull the rear of her vehicle around sideways (sliding it over the ice) and out of the ditch with the SUV in neutral. I doubt many conventional garden tractors could accomplish such a feat. I am sure the 2210 would offer similar performance. The best advice I could give on the sound is to go to your nearest dealer and start one. They sound fine.
John M.
