Hello all, will be looking to purchase a new BX1880 this year and would like to know if the non drive over belly mower on this tractor is a pita to install and uninstall ? Also I notice it does not have cruise control, does that mean you have to hold down the foot pedal throttle while mowing. Seems like every bump you would be bouncing the pedal up and down maybe I'm missing something ? And last but not least can you use a small 4ft brush hog and box scraper with the BX1880 ?
BX1880 buying advice
- Thread starter bherron1
- Start date
I've got the previous model BX1870 purchased a year ago, but here are hopefully some helpful insights:.Hello all, will be looking to purchase a new BX1880 this year and would like to know if the non drive over belly mower on this tractor is a pita to install and uninstall ? Also I notice it does not have cruise control, does that mean you have to hold down the foot pedal throttle while mowing. Seems like every bump you would be bouncing the pedal up and down maybe I'm missing something ? And last but not least can you use a small 4ft brush hog and box scraper with the BX1880 ?
I've read that some of the drive-over decks mean that the tractor may not be compatible with the Bxpanded belly shield, maybe the Brotek as well. I consider some sort of "under armor" a mandatory accessory, so I would be researching this carefully before opting for the drive-over. I purchased the smallest BX specifically because I wanted the smallest deck at 48". On a smooth concrete slab with enough room on the side to slide the deck sideways, it's not bad to attach/remove. On my 48" deck, the guide wheels don't pivot, so they can't castor to follow the sideways movement. I believe the larger decks have wheels that can be unpinned for easier sliding, though there are extra steps involved.
Cruise control was an optional dealer accessory on the 1870, but my dealer talked me out of it, saying that it was a bit crude and that I wouldn't miss it. Don't know about the crude part, but he was right that I don't miss it--the pedal layout and feel is very well designed, and I've never had an issue with my leg getting tired, or bumps causing speed issues. Maybe I'd feel differently if I were mowing a large flat field, but even then it wouldn't be a big deal.
No brush hog experience, but I'm guessing you'd be fine with a little four footer. I run a 4' box blade no problem.
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Thanks for the info, I have a shop with concrete floor so mounting should be as easy as yours and yes I want a small 48" mower and 48" brush hog as well. The box blade I just need to keep my short gravel driveway level and a little grading around the yard. Looks like the BX1880 is just what I need.
I need that small deck to fit on narrow trails that connect different parts of my property. As you probably know the 48" decks only fit the BX18xx models. I really didn't want to settle for the lowest power tractor in the lineup. But now that I've had it for a year: absolutely no regrets.Thanks for the info, I have a shop with concrete floor so mounting should be as easy as yours and yes I want a small 48" mower and 48" brush hog as well. The box blade I just need to keep my short gravel driveway level and a little grading around the yard. Looks like the BX1880 is just what I need.
Good luck with your purchase!
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I have the same unit as Jack but, running the 54" deck. With a concrete floor, installing or removing the deck is quick and easy. I do prefer to do it with the FEL mounted as I can raise the front end and enjoy a little extra clearance underneath. Cruise control might be handy once in awhile if you have wide open spaces. However, I would not pay to add it. Seriously doubt you would ever miss it and bumps won't be transmitted to the pedal.
I plan to install a FEL as well did not think of that and it should help being able to lift the tractor.
Hey, purchased my bx1880 yesterday, supposed to be ready next week.I plan to install a FEL as well did not think of that and it should help being able to lift the tractor.
Just wondering how your experience has been so far. Happy with it?