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jd lt180 versus jd lx280 versus x300

16 years ago

What is the difference between these models?

Thanks

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Comments (7)

yetty734
16 years ago
not being a jerk.....wat do u need to do

x 300 or 180 is best for hills prolly...unless the lx is stick shift
spooramn2
Original Author
16 years ago
My local JD dealership has alot of used mowers and I'm trying to understand all the different models. The salesman has recently quite and the parts guy is trying to do his job, answer the phones and help people out in the yard. So, he's trying, but not too helpful. I know the differences in the engines and the transmission in the X300, but is the LX 280 just an upgrade from the LT180? The LT does not have cruise control, but everything else appears the same. I do not know about the transmission or the frame size. I was not sure if they were basically the same. My other question was, how does the X300 differ from this two. Same frame, durability, transmission? I previously was trying to determine the difference between the X300 and the LA140, but after reading here I find that it is the frame and engine? The X300 is more durable? I have about an acre to mow, that has somewhat of a grade. I have a walk-out basement, so my sides are not flat. I want a machine that is not overkill, but will also last me a longtime. I cannot spend over $3000.00. So, I have been looking at both used and new. The garden tractors just seem to be out of my range, since I would like to have something with low hours. I only plan to mow and pull a wagon.

Thanks!
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What is a "10% hill"? A hill with a 45 degree angle is a hill with 100% slope. So I see your hill as 10% of 45 degrees, or 4.5 degrees. That's not too much slope to require 4WD. So to better understand your "hill" let's use a clock. With the hour hand on 9 and the minute hand on twelve, move the minute hand until you reach the angle that you see your "hill". So where between 12 and 3 does the minute hand point? At 9:15 level terrain is achieved accross both hands. My apologies if this sounds odd to you, but I see so many references to "my hill" and "yard slope" and "degrees of yard". that I can't help but wonder if we are talking the same number, percentage, or degrees. I use the clock because I think most people have one versus a protractor or a compound mitre angle finder. Thanks!
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jopopsy
16 years ago
In broad terms, most would agree that:

The LT series tractors were better then today's LA. The X300 series tractors are pretty much the LXs of yesteryear.

So ... the X300 would be the bottom end of yesterday's upper end lawn mower line.

The weak link the the X300 is the transmission. Not that its unreliable, but its a LT class tranny. The X304 and up carry a more 'LX type' transmission.

Essentially if your yard is flat and the cart is a 10 cubic foot variety or smaller, the X300 should do just fine. The LX 280 maybe even more so (I don't recall the tranny in it).
marineguy
16 years ago
Here's a pdf file I found that compares the three tractors. Also, information for the LT and LX tractors is on JD's website uner non-current equipment.
It's been my experience that when comparing models of a single manufacturer, built for the same purpose, the MSRP gives you a pretty good idea of how they size up.
Brand new, they sold/sell for:

LX280 $4500 TUFF TORQ K62
LT180 $3500 TUFF TORQ K46C
X300 $2900 TUFF TORQ K46

Assuming they're all in excellent condition, I'd go with the LX, paying $1500-2000 for a used model.

If you're really concerned about the stress of pulling your cart around your hilly property, you can probably find a used GT235 for around the same price. You'll just need to be a little patient. This is a great time of year to get a good deal on a used tractor. Not a lot of buyers now that we're into the second half of the mowing season.

Here is a link that might be useful: LT COMPARISON
stwok
16 years ago
LX280 has the same frame and engine as the GT235. It essentially is a GT235 with exception of the tranny and rear wheels/tires. I have an LX280 and really like it, I got it early 06 when the X300 line came out at a real good price.
Marineguy is right on, under $2000 for a used with relatively low hrs, and I would also look at a used GT in addition to these LTs.
bhshaman
16 years ago
All things being equal, I would get the model with the best Transaxle. Just had the tranny go on my 20.5hp mower, so now all the horsepower in the world will not help me. Opted for a used replacement that is only 17hp but a MUCH better tranny.
john_wa
16 years ago
Marineguy: That pdf file you posted sure does have some great information pertaining to an LT160 that I have. I sure would like to get the same information for my GX335. Where did you ever find it?

Thanks.

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