Thanks all! Turns out the available LXs are all SU models. Even though I don't currently plan on mowing with the tractor, I think I want the option down the road and I've had several people indicate that it is an important feature for resale value in our area. Plus, I think I want my luxury features... The non SU LXs have roughly the same availability as the B2601s and are $2050 more than the B2601. Still not much.
My main concern with the LX is just it's shear size on my small lot, and I don't think going even larger will help with that. If we do move to a larger property at some point it would likely be in the 10-15 acre range, and in the off-chance we end-up on an even larger property (20-50+), I would just get a bigger tractor for heavy work and keep the small tractor for general utility. Most people in our neighborhood of 1-25ac rural residential lots have BXs or JD 1025/2025s, with two B23/2601s thrown in, but the previous owners of our current property did have a JD 2038R and another neighbor has a Massey Ferguson 135 on a similar property, so maybe the size of an LX isn't really an issue.
Other than size, are there other differences between the B2601 and LX2610 that I should be taking into account? The self-leveling kit is available on both, though reading past posts it sounds like that limits your curl also? I originally planned on the self leveling kit, but not sure it is worth the curling compromise? The dealer also indicated that could significantly delay the tractor.
Either one I plan to add a 3rd function to the loader, though again, the dealer said that could delay the tractor. I might see if I can lock the discounted price in and have it installed at the 50hr maintenance. I don't know much about rear remotes, but in what I've read, it doesn't seem like TNT for the box blade is a big issue on this size tractor. My gravel areas are dead flat (no crown) and the little adjustments I've had to make have been easy enough from the seat (at least when using the B1600). Sounds like if I end up wanting this, I could add it easily enough at a later time? I'm not financing and any "leftover" money is being reserved for future tractor needs, so I'm fine adding things down the road. Similarly, the dealer doesn't offer any incentives on implements, so there is no real advantage to including them in purchase.
Regarding brush hog size, I was told a medium duty 5ft would be fine for either machine. I have experienced the "tail wags the dog" with my neighbors B1600 and 4ft, but that is a very light tractor with no ballast.
Phew! Tired of typing!
