Much Love for 21XX and 25XX Series?

[reidcc]

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