Need advice on a machine

[scotty k]

I'm hoping you guys can share some wisdom. I'm currently cutting about 8 acres, mostly flat, a few rough patches here and there in the bigger parcel. I'm looking to buy a commercial mower. I'm currently mowing with an older Lesco 48" belt drive walk behind that has definitely seen better days. I would like to go 60" or greater. Right now theres a Dixie Chopper Suburban Turban 72" on ebay that has me curious. Can anyone shed any light on this machine for me? I know DC makes a decent machine, just not sure about this one. Thanks in advance.

[Restrorob]

Hmmm, We've been a Dixie Dealer for 6 years and don't recall a model such as that.

Can you post a link to it from Ebay so I can gander at it ?

[scotty k]

Sure thing.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&viewitem=&item=160281556814

[Restrorob]

Okey Scotty, I am familiar with that unit and have worked on a couple.

The part about mowing with one engine is hog-wash, A 22hp will not pull the unit and a 72" deck and mow worth crap. Also, These engines must stay in tune with each other so one doesn't over power the other and cause belt and or clutch slippage. This may even ac-cure since they are miss-match engines.

Just some food for thought; The centrifugal clutches on these engines are close to $500.00 EACH (X2), To replace one is quite a task in which could take up to 5 maybe even 6 hrs. for a trained shop.

Don't get me wrong, Dixie builds a heck of a machine. But, I don't believe it would be to your advantage purchasing one that has been butchered/altered without checking it in person, Or having it checked out by a shop that knows what to look for.

The most commonly used commercial unit in my area is the X2550 or X2560 which is now called a Classic 2750 or 2760.....

Good luck in your hunt for a commercial unit.

[scotty k]

Thanks for saving me a huuuuuuuge headache!!! I knew something had to be funky with that scenario. Im really leaning toward the Dixie 2760 classic or an Exmark 60". Theres a dealer out here thats got a new 2760 with the suspension forks for 7900. I think I may look at that a bit closer. Not being as familiar with these units as you guys are, I should probably steer clear of the used ones. Thanks again!!!

[Restrorob]

No problem Scotty,

That 2760 is a nice unit and that's a good price they have on it.

Just a couple things I'd like to point out;

When you demo/ride the Dixie and Exmark pay attention to the ride quality and ease of movement on the joysticks. These are the two things that cause fatigue when mowing larger acreage.

Also look them over well for ease of access to the engine and components (general service items) along with hydro pumps/filters and linkage access. You may want to look into the ease of belt replacements as well.

Have Fun !