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.

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.