[aetherBRO]

I've attached a few pics of the only meaningful hill on my property. I'll be mowing about 1.25 acres. Hill is roughly 20' high over a fairly short climb, say 25'.

Potentially snowblowing or plowing in the future, small hill at base of drive, but not large enough to factor into decision. Only other meaningful use would be dump cart for dirt, mulch, etc.

Question, for the limited purpose I'll be using the machine, is 4WD necessary? I've only had 2WD with lock diff.

My budget likes the X590, but I like diesel. X590 would be new, say $8k. Could also go AWS on the X534, same price. The X739 and X750 used, both 2014's, $11k, and $8k, respectively. The X739 has plow with quick hitch. X750 has drive over quick attach. All 54" decks.

Thoughts?

 

[tletourneau]

I like gas, full hydraulics and AWS so I'd go for the x739 for $8k with the quick hitch and plow but if you like diesel that narrows it down.

 

[walterjay]

If I were mowing that property I would want 4 wheel capability. Especially if mowing damp grass. I would personally be happy with a gas engine since it was just mowing and some snow plow work.

 

[Goin4forty]

I have a X739 and have steeper hills than that. No problem mowing them across or straight up and down.

 

[Paul Y.]

The 4 WD really gives a sense of confidence, especially going down a slick steep hill. Mine does not slip at all on the steepest areas of my back property.

 

[wizzo]

I would say if you're even considering the X7xx then don't bother with the X590... I love my X5, but I don't have your hill. The X7 will be more than you really need, but may end up worth the price in the long run. I've heard that the 4WD can help you control the speed downhill without having to use the brake (and thus shutting down the PTO).

 

[TJR345]

I have both,the 345 doesn't have diff.lock but with 50lb wheel weight and hdap's I have no problem on hills and slopes. The X595 has m4wd there when I need it the heavier weight of the tractor and diff.lock is all I need most of the time,but the 4wd is just a lever pull away.

 

[04zrx]

You need the biggest baddest tractor there is! LOL!! I think you could easily mow that with a two wheel drive unit and possibly some added weight, but what is the fun with that. I also think a gas model would be plenty but, diesel is where it's at! I have a gas X and it impresses me all the time I never am looking fore more power. Nice property. Good luck, please keep us posted.

 

[tomwom]

If money is no object, and you plan on doing more than just mowing. Then a 4WD would certainly be useful, especially in blowing snow.

 

[drano38]

I'd agree with others, 2wd would mow just fine.
But depending on how much snow blowing you do, 4wd is great for that. I don't put chains on mine, and it just goes thru everything. Hang 4-6 suit case weights on the back to balance the blower weight and get 'er done.
If you can find a nice used X7 4wd that fits your budget, do that.
Gas or diesel? These big motors are gas hogs. Diesel uses less (but diesel costs more and the machine costs more), so it may be a wash in the end.

 

[drs455aws]

I have some pretty steep spots also. Have a little trouble sliding down hill and plowing a steep driveway. I'm in the process of buying a AWD. I like my AWS a lot but also like the diesel. Going to have to make up my mind if I want to go with the X739 or a X758. All you can do is do your research, look at your needs and decide what's best for you.

 

[aetherBRO]

Thanks all, looking forward to testing out the X739

 

[walterjay]

Was mowing today. Trying to reverse up a hill it started sliding, hit differential lock and continued to slide sideways. Put it in 4wd and it crawled up like a tank with not one slip.

 

[jpa2002]

You want 4wd.

 

[Spartan]

You will love the x739. Impressive machine in the snow with the plow that already comes with the one you are looking at. Will never slip on your hill when mowing. And you will be able to turn up or down or sideways on it, whatever u like. Plus the ride is great.

 

[c5rulz]

I am amused by these discussions regarding 4WD.:sidelaugh

Have you ever once heard a person that runs a 2 WD truck and uses it off road for say wood cutting say, "boy this baby is just as good as a 4WD"?

I have steep hills. If you like the "pucker factor" get a 2WD. If you want to be safe and be able to descend hills, or back up on steep inclines just get a 4WD.

With 4WD there is no need to try and hang weights or play with chains in the winter time either.