Do you have a need to blow snow? If so, then this is a no-brainer. Buy the GT. Quality-wise, there isn't really a huge difference between the two, inspite of what some others will try and tell you. C'mon people, it's a freakin' L series and it likely had a MRSP alot lower than that of the Craftsman.

The Craftsman is two years newer and likely has less hours on it. It has another ten hp so that would indicate that the hydro in it is also stronger than the one in the green machine.

While the bagger is always nice, perhaps a set of Gator blades will negate the need for one. Hopefully, the Craftsman will come with tire chains and a weight kit to help with the snow blowing.

Well, I blow snow maybe 3 times each winter with a low end push blower. It's just enough that the blower makes my life a lot easier. I was thinking the blower attachment might be a bit of over kill, but a good bit more efficent. The extra horsepower would be nice but not needed for mowing I do. I'd just get the Craftsman because of the power and blower attachment, but this will probably be the only riding mower I ever get because of the prices of new mowers and I'm getting one of these in trade for an older Bolens deisel 15HP tractor that's way to big for my yard (but an awesome tractor). I want to make sure I can continue to get the tractor I trade for fixed and with less frustration based on quality. I'm worried the Craftsman will start nickle and diming me, but the JD is the low end model so may not be much better like you mention. The other issue is the 23HP Vtwin Kohler in the Craftsman vs. the 13HP single Kohler in the JD, is that a big deal for a small yard?

Anyway, thanks for the quick response. I'm off to compare the 2 mowers later today.

Herb

Mooneys,

The Sears and the JD are both low end units and (IMO) are comparable in quality.

There's a place for nickels and dimes in the registers at both the JD dealer and at Sears.

The Kohler V-Twin is a reliable engine and routine service stuff is easy to get at a variety of places.

The snow thrower is an EXPENSIVE option so I'd opt for the Sears. You'll need rear wheel weights and chains with all that thrower weight up front. From my experience, once you've ha a thrower on a tractor you'll never want to walk behind a snowthrower again.

Mooneys,

In your situation, I'd go for the Sears with the snowblower. As justalurker said, once your have used that blower, you will never want any part of a walk behind blower again.

Enjoy the journey.

eal51 in western CT

I also think that the GT is a better value. IMO, any GT will out-perform nearly every LT. It's like comparing a full size pickup truck to a compact pickup truck.

BTW, many people mulch mow their grass and leaves rather than bag them. It's less work and better for your lawn.

-Deerslayer

Some of you have mistaken the LT133 for an L series. It's not. It's a so-called 'real' Deere. If it's just for mowing I would take it over the Sears any day, but if you need to blow snow then get the Sears. The JD will be much more nimble around the yard and use less gas.

www.epinions.com/content_180643925636

www.consumerdemocracy.com/phelp/cd4/listPosRevs2B.aspx?catId=9989

Those LT133s were the bottom of the line LT series when sold , sub 2K LTs with a 13 horse single cylinder Kohler - not a twin as someone stated . Slightly better built than the Ls sold at HD and Lowes , but like the STX series built to a price point . Read the epinions reviews (link below) and make up your own mind . I'd recommend the Craftsman GT , but I have no idea how many hours or what shape each machine is in and that may be the determining factor between the two .

Here is a link that might be useful: LT 133 Reviews

Thanks for all the quick replies!!!

I went out and took a look at the 2 tractors. The JD looked well used and had a cracked front housing. I wasn't impressed at all by the condition, but it was a JD and I love JD. That being said, the Craftsman looked brand new and has the snow blower attachment, chains, wheel weights, and even a rear towable spreader. I might hate myself in the morning but I'm taking the Craftsman because of the condition and chances it's had very little use based on it's visual condition and runnning condition. I guess I can always paint it Green and yellow. Thanks for all the replies, the Craftsman is just too nice to pass on. I hope it's not a lemon in wolfs clothing.

Mooney's,

The snowblower, chains, and wheel weights are about $1400-$1500.

You're making the right decision and the Craftsman is just fine whatever color the color it is now.

You are going to do what with the Bolens!?
Where do you live? I would gladly take it off your hands.