Originally Posted by jeepman3071
Originally Posted by nascarnation
My data is old (Model 320) but the JD I always aspired to has been a big disappointment.
Other than the Kaw Vtwin engine which is a gem, the rest has been a lot of problems and very expensive OEM parts prices.
My Wheel Horse 520H was much more reliable. Only reason I don't have it.... was a throw-in on a house sale deal, and I figured a good way to move up to a JD.
JD seems like a BMW car...great for a 2-year lease, but troublesome and expensive long term ownership.
The 520H was a great tractor, but nothing is built to that quality level anymore, even the very expensive machines.
OP:
The S240 is a good mower, but you have to understand that the Cub Cadets, John Deeres, MTDs, etc all in that price range are all built to the same price point. The Cub Cadet will be on the same quality level (or in my experience worse) than an equivalent John Deere. Of all the home depot machines, I usually recommend the John Deeres because Deere has the best parts network. I can go to my local dealer or find parts online pretty easily for pretty much anything they have ever made. My neighbor has a Cub Cadet from Lowes that broke a deck support bracket, and the part was almost impossible to find. I ended up getting a used one off ebay which still wasn't very cheap for what it was.
That said, there is a huge difference between the X-series Deeres at the dealer, and the home depot machines. Contrary to popular belief, Deere does build both machines, but they are on different levels due to their target markets. If you can swing it price wise, I'd always try finding a good condition used X-series for only a bit more than a new Home Depot tractor. I currently own a 2005 G110 Deere which is basically a 2-year model they made at Home Depot, similar to the S240 in that it is a Home Depot Deere with a stronger transmission, larger deck, and slightly better engine. It has over 800 hours on it and I've certainly put it through it's paces. It has been very good so far.
+1, the X series is the way to go.