Woods vs Danco mower for 154

[Andrew Z]

I have a 154/85 that I am planning and mowing my lawn with this year, however I do not have a mower yet. I was wondering what is best set up for these tractors pro cons etc. Also should I look for a good used one if there is such a thing when it comes to a mower or go out and by a new one?

thanks
Andrew

[twotone]

My 154 had a Woods 59, that worked great. I sold the mower at an auction and it brought about $200.00. It was definitely worth more than that, but that's what can happen at an auction. I'm sure a forum member can fix you up with something.

[Bill Hudson]

Woods 59, great mowers, ready parts availability (rarely needed), excellent construction. Two years ago I replaced an original Woods 59 deck on an early 70s model 154. The deck finally rusted/wore through. The owner is a friend of mine and I've known the Cub and mower since he bought it. It took eight hours to mow his lawn and he mowed it at least once, often twice a week. I would consider that pretty good service life.

Bill

[Andrew Z]

Thanks guys I'll post for woods one on the want ad page.

[SONNY]

I got a bunch of Woods 59's,---even got some with my ac orange tractors!---common beand--- parts dealer 2 miles up the road, ---it just dont get better than that! LOL!!! thanks; sonny

[Gary Dotson]

I agree, especially from the parts availability stand point. Virtually every implement dealer, that I know of, sells & services Woods equipment.

[Andrew Z]

would anyone know what a new woods L59 runs now a days; a rough ball park figure


thanks
Andrew

[seahaul]

Someone please correct me if I'm wrong, but I think an "L" 59 is not the one used on a Cub or LoBoy since it turns counterclockwise. The proper one for a LoBoy is a Woods 59 (without the letter L). The L59 is a very popular model and is used on Farmalls (other than a Cub), Allis Chalmers, etc. so you can find many of these around but they do not work on a LoBoy due to the different rotation direction.
You can also find many IH mowers for a LoBoy, such as 3160, 3160A, and 3260. I have used all of these but I still prefer the Woods 59. It seems to be more sturdy and lasts longer than the others.
Charlie

[Andrew Z]

thanks for the clarification, what model am I looking or what would they call it at a dealer if I went to order one?

[Jim Becker]

According to Rudi's page, it is a 59LB.
http://www.cleancomputes.com/Cub/OEM%20Implement%20and%20Attachment%20Manuals/Woods%20Mower%20Manuals/Woods%20Identification%20Chart.html

Here is the manual on the Woods site.
http://www.woodsequipment.com/uploadedFiles/Products/Manuals/29932.pdf
Note that the manual states that a wheel spacer kit is required if you have turf tires.

[Andrew Z]

Jim, looking at the parts breakdown a bit here would you know if the 3 point hitch will fully function? I know the pulley will have to come off to use the top link but will the arms work with the mower on?

thanks
Andrew

[Jim Becker]

Jim, looking at the parts breakdown a bit here would you know if the 3 point hitch will fully function?

I have no idea. There should be someone here that has used that combination of equipment and be able to answer.

[outdoors4evr]

The 3-point hitch still functions with the mower deck.
When using the large PTO belt pulley and the proper protection covers, the top link can interfere with the cover.
If the top cover were removed or modified, then all is well. (except for the safety risk)

[Andrew Z]

that great thanks, would anyone have a rough figure what a new woods mower goes for or a good used one?

thanks
Andrew

[Bill Hudson]

Andrew,

The last new price I heard of was ~$1800, four years ago. This price was just for the deck, no mounting hardware/mule drive/brackets. Used Woods 59s typically go for $250 to $650 depending on condition. When buying a used one, mounting hardware/mule drive/brackets are critical --- make sure that each and every piece is there (for your model Cub) before forking over the cash. A real cheap deck without the mounting parts, becomes a very expensive proposition real quick. Your best bet is to print out a copy of the parts manual, for the correct model (mower and Cub combination) and take that with you when looking at a mower.

Remember you want and need everything.

Hope this helps.

Bill