Much Love for 21XX and 25XX Series?

reidcc · #1 09-11-2014, 06:31 AM

Hi folks-

Seems the bread and butter volume of posts here are for the older GT machines. Is there much love for the newer replacements such as the 2186 or the 2518/2521/2523?

I currently have a 2166 from 2003 or 2004, and overall was never very happy with the cut and buildup on deck. This year though I bought a used twin bagger for it, and my perception of cut immediately increased.
The machine has a little more than 400 hours on it, and has led a hard life living outside with no cover. It had paint peeling issues almost right away, and decals are mostly off- so its not much to look at any more.
It has run rough for last number of years, and this year the deck took a hit- it didn't need much of a hit- as much of my left side deck was pretty rusted- just never realized how bad. A took the load off the left blade mount and it lloks pretty much plumb now- and I had a friend weld in a new plate underneath to give back its strength- just so I can make it through the season.

My intention is to replace it with another tractor before spring.
When I bought the 2166 new-it was what I could afford at the time- although I really wanted a 2186, or the 2500 series even though all I did was cut grass. I am very leary of the Box Store units as they are built and spec'ed to hit a price target. My neighbor has been through 2 of the LT series through engine failure or deck failure.

Given the care and life my 2166 has received- I would still like to replace it with a better unit of that vintage. I just missed a deal on a 2186-44 that looked real clean 5 hrs away in New York. I think it sold for $600 with less than 400 hrs on it. The 44 inch deck will still have the same rust through issues- as they are just stamped steel. It is my understanding the 48 inch decks are a lot stronger?

I'm not sold on the plastic front newer GT series- they may be just as strong as the older 25XX series- but at least metal can be sanded down and refinished.

Chris

Sam Mac · #2 09-11-2014, 07:33 AM

I doubt that you would notice much difference between your 2166 and a 2186. Keep your eye out for something like an 1863 or 1864.

jimbob200521 · #3 09-11-2014, 09:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sam Mac

I doubt that you would notice much difference between your 2166 and a 2186. Keep your eye out for something like an 1863 or 1864.

What Sam said. After the Cyclops series of Cubs, they were just never made the same. If you want something that'll last you for a long time to come, find a good 1440, 1641, 1863, 1864, something from that time. You won't be disappointed, and you may even find yourself doing more than just mowing with it

rwairforce · #4 09-11-2014, 09:54 AM

Agreed.
I have a 2186 and the list of Cubs below. As stated, my 1440 is 18 years old and nothing has broke. Things have failed because of use, idler pulley bearing, PTO, etc but nothing has broke.
I've replaced silly parts on the 2186 that should have been made stronger but as you stated, the older tractors are just made heavier. If you need the larger cutting width, the 1864 would be a great choice. It has the 54" deck and power steering and hyd lift. My 1440 has the 44" deck, it cuts well but you sure notice the difference in time because of the 10" less cut.
So, as stated above, save yourself some money and headaches and buy one of the older Cyclops machines (called this because of the headlight orientation) and you'll be happy, at least I have been. Good luck.
Note....they all need routine maintenance.

Sam Mac · #5 09-11-2014, 10:27 AM

Chris

Let me add that if you do go for one of the older tractors you should plan on putting some time and $$$ into it up front. Things like seals and gaskets, new fuel lines etc. Good thing is once it's done you'll have a unit that will give you many years of service for about the price of a box store throw away mower. Holler if you have any questions.

CAO65 · #6 09-11-2014, 01:31 PM

I seriously doubt any tractor--old or new--can be left uncovered outside and there not be rust issues. LT tractors are box store junk living off of the Cub name and reputation. The older tractors have their issues, and there are folks on this site that can fix them, but for me, I am not as mechanically inclined. I got the GT 2000, and it is an amazing tractor. I got the fabricated deck which is extremely heavy and well built compared to stamped decks. Others on this site have gotten the new tractor and are happy with them. Good luck in your decision.

gcbailey · #7 09-11-2014, 07:14 PM

As far as "newer" cubs go. I've got a GT2544 and I love it. It's just as serviceable as an IH. Is it an IH, no, but it's got a Kohler Command with a shaft driven transmission that is fully serviceable. I've got a electric sleeve hitch on it with a brinly plow and it can do anything an IH cub can minus my Haban sickle bar.

I agree with the "plastic" comments. It's sad what companies will do to save a dollar, but over the course of thousands of machines it does add up, so from a company standpoint I see it. I've got over 500 hours on the 2544 and I have semi-retired it from my personal use. I'd still rather buy a new Cub GT versus anything else out there for the money.

CAO65 · #8 09-11-2014, 10:31 PM

I'm torn over the plastic vs metal angle, especially for hoods. I had a Craftsman GT with a metal hood. I have many low hanging trees, and the hood was scratched and dented from the branches which were impossible to limb up high enough. With my GT 2000, I see no evidence of scratches or damage of any kind. Materials are getting better as time passes. Who would have ever thought 40 or 50 years ago one could cook a turkey in a plastic bag?

Oak · #9 09-11-2014, 10:40 PM

Don't forget about the 3000 series also. They aren't built too bad, all metal panels, all shaft drive and can take a cat 0 hitch.

reidcc · #10 09-12-2014, 06:48 AM

Lots of food for thought folks!

I had no plans to leave Cub- my 2166 was my first Cub. She may not be the greatest thing to look at right now- but as of this moment shes running really well. Other than stupid little things she needs- if I wanted to keep her for another few years- I would pull all panels and have re-painted, and I will also need a replacement 42 inch deck.

I like the idea of new and not having to do uch for a while- but not for the price.

I've always liked the looks of the 2000, 2500, and 3000 series units from the early to mid 2000's.

Never thought much of older GT's, as usually one would need to put in a fair amount of elbow grease- but not always. The 1863 and 1864 intrigue me a bit.

At this point the 2166 will make it through the season- if I find a deck for short money first- then I guess I keep her.

Chris