I've got the 22 HP 50" Deck w/6 Speed - I mow 2.5 super tough acres with bumpy terrain, obstructions and slopes. I've used a 17 Cubic Foot trailer as much as mowing and have a 48" Dozer Blade + wheel weights & chains for snow and dirt. I bought this unit on sale (buying the previous year's model saved me $700 of the $2800 MSRP) and I had a 10% off discount (Sear's "welcome to your new home" coupon) - That's just under $2000, which was clearly the best deal could find for any new garden tractor with the Kohler engine and 48"+ mower deck.

It would be nice to add on a front-end loader attachment to pick-up and move dirt, but Sears does not sell one - you are on your own to find a suitable one from a third party or build from plans. I have not found a good candidate yet.

I've been very happy with it and would gladly recommend it. The only problem that I've had is with the stuck-on, foam rubber, hood stabilizers/bumpers -one of them falls off and they do not fit snuggly.

Recommended: Yes