Thanks for the feedback. The problem with getting to 20 hp with a 42" deck
is that I was told that John Deere doesn't provide this configuration. The
42" deck isn't available on models above the LX280. They jump up to 48". I
wanted to get a GT or a GX with the smaller deck to save from having to buy
one with power assist mulching. That plus I could use the tiller attachment
for my garden and an LX won't handle a tiller.


"Chuck" wrote in message
...
I have a John Deere Sabre model 1438 HS with a 14.5 B&S engine on a
38-inch
deck used on 1.5 acres. Now with the bigger 42" decks and hills in your
case I would go with no less than a 20hp plus motor.

Now if you get a bag unit you *MUST* make sure to get high lift bagger
blades as well. My bag unit works just fine as long as the grass is not
to
wet or thick. Now this is what I do to really get good results with my
bagger.

I try to get my lawn cut before noon without using the bagger, and I just
let the clippings set out in the sun all afternoon or even overnight which
both dries and shrinks the clippings. Then I go over it with my bagger
and
WOW!! Does it ever clean up good.

Now this little trick also works pretty well when the grass is too wet or
to
high to use the bagger. Now with really heavy and thick grass I first
will
mow it nice and slow, and with the chute tired open if there are no kids,
pets, windows or any other concerns. Then I go over it again in about 2
hours, but at high speed to stir the clippings for bettery drying. Then
when I am ready to use the bagger I raise my cutting deck usually 1/2 to
allow maximum suction and air flow, and then I just go over it really
slow.

Good Luck!!!