equipment guy 55 #1 Posted March 1, 2022 Really am impressed with the 520XI I picked up last week. Well, haven’t actually used it, but well pleased with the craftsmanship… I am however still in need of another tractor for either myself, or my son, depending on how we split them up. I have located 2 520LXI’s, and 1 523DXI. $1,000 difference between lowest, and highest price, with the DXI right in the middle. ( basically implements included accounts for pricing difference ) All 3 are a few hours from me in somewhat different directions, 1 LXI is pushing 900 hrs, DXI is about 1150 hrs. unknown on the other LXI. So basically, which would you target first: LXI, or DXI, and why? 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SylvanLakeWH 25,598 #2 Posted March 1, 2022 Never owned, but diesel would be my choice. Why? Always wanted one… Not sure you’d go wrong either way… 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
kpinnc 12,083 #3 Posted March 1, 2022 Hours are close enough between the two to not really matter, all things like maintenance being equal. Mostly in respect to transmission. That being said, I don't think the diesel engine would be affected as much by the hours. Again there are many variables to consider that you don't have. If the gas powered machine was taken better care of, for instance- you'll have to make that decision. Most would say go with the diesel, and it would be intriguing. But it will likely be more difficult and expensive to repair as well. Many gas engines on the other hand could be made to work in a repower situation. Again, it's a tough call with what information you have. 3 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
jimt1971 237 #4 Posted March 1, 2022 We have a 518, 522 and 523. The 523 is my go to for mowing. It is fairly fast, very fuel efficent and you can barely feel a loss of power when you turn on the deck. The two gas models also mow nicely but they are monsters for plowing snow. I would avoid the LXI since it has the Kawasaki liquid cooled engine. 4 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
equipment guy 55 #5 Posted March 1, 2022 I haven’t called on these tractors yet, just trying to decide witch I want to look at first… I know Kohler, and Onan engines quite well, but have no experience with the Kawasakis, or the diesel Briggs. I kinda like the idea of the diesel, since realizing the fuel efficiency with the compact tractor I bought last spring, but I really don’t want issues that I can’t get parts for. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
jimt1971 237 #6 Posted March 1, 2022 It is a diahatsu diesel in either 25 or 27 hp 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Pullstart 62,905 #7 Posted March 1, 2022 @PeacemakerJack has a DXi I think, and every time we chat about it he’s got nothing but awesome to talk about it. If I had my choice, it would be diesel all day long. 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
JCM 9,177 #8 Posted March 1, 2022 I know nothing about this line of Toro tractors but owning 3 different brands 2 being gas and 1 diesel, real tough to beat a diesel especially with the ethanol issues in todays world. 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
equipment guy 55 #9 Posted March 1, 2022 Yea, I think I’m kinda leaning toward the diesel, as first option. I talked with a friend this morning, who is also a member here, and his son has a 523DXI, and loves it… I figure this is a long term plan, and implements will trickle in over time. Still would like to hear more good and bad about the diesels, and the liquid cooled Kawasaki. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
equipment guy 55 #10 Posted March 1, 2022 2 hours ago, jimt1971 said: It is a diahatsu diesel in either 25 or 27 hp Yes, just B&S labeled… how is parts availability? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
equipment guy 55 #11 Posted March 1, 2022 Even though I do not have a lot of diesel experience, I feel as long as I can get replacement parts when needed, I can make a go of it…🤞 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
JCM 9,177 #12 Posted March 1, 2022 Neither do I. Diesels are new to me also. This is my fourth Winter with one and enjoying the power, torque and extra weight for snow removal. 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Dennys502 244 #13 Posted March 6, 2022 I have had my 523 dxi since 1997 and have had no issues. The Kawasaki had a lot of problems and didn't have much power. I have a 60" deck and the deck will kick in at idle. 1 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites