Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

I mow close to acre, which is relatively flat and open but has some trees and other obstacles to go around (no fences or gates to deal with).  I tow a dump cart with topsoil or rocks a few times a year as well.  I usually bag the grass clippings.  I currently use an old 40" 12hp Murray that I am getting tired of repairing.  I was looking to spend $1500-2500 on a new rider.  I have 3 questions for the experts:

1.  Should I look for a 42" or 48" mower?

2.  I have looked at a Husq YTH 2048 with a 48" cut and 20hp Briggs ELS which is on special for $1900 including the 3 bin bagger, the 1542XP with the 42" cut and 15hp Kawasaki which is $2270 with a 2 bin bagger, and the 1848XP with the 18HP Kawa and 48" cut for $2569.  Do you think the 1848XP is worth a 35% premium over the 2048 with the Briggs?

3.  What else should I be looking at in this price range?

Thanks.

I have the Husq 1542XP and for the money it is the best mower out there.  It cuts very well if you adjust the deck properly (should be handled by your dealer), and the Kawasaki motor is awesome.  Sure you can spend more on other machines that may be better, but for this price range it is difficult to beat.  I am goin on three years now with this machine and I researched it as well as spoke to several dealers who sold several different makes of machines and they aall said for the moeny this is the one you want.  I don't think you will be disappointed.

Thanks for all your comments.  I looked at the Cubs and Deere's this weekend.  The Cub's I decided against, and the Deere's are a consideration, although the L118 is about as expensive as I care to get once I add a bagger.  I'm going to check out Simplicity this week and see if they have anything of interest.  I keep being drawn back to the Husq 1542XP though, so I suspect that will end up being the winner.

I purchased a Cub Cadet  2544 today and have to say after looking at the huskys and other brands it was a really easy decision for me to make this purchase.  I have owned the lower end mowers before and I dont want to own them any longer.  Looks like Cub put some really nice features on these mowers.  Make sure you look at them before you buy any thing else.