The reason you're experiencing this phenomenom is that the HP ratings are
not the same as the old days. Today's 23 might be lucky to actually put out
18. They are all overrated. The other reason is that 18 REAL HP would be
the bare minumum to run a 48" deck properly.

You'd be best off looking at the Exmark products . You'll get more mower
for the buck.

steve


"Jack" Windswept@Home wrote in message
...
You just cannot find lawn tractors today in the 16-18 hp range with
wide decks. The decks are 44 at best, and most are 42. Back in the
day, I had several 16 hp. IHs with 50 decks, and now have an aging 18
Cub with 48.

So I'm looking at a 23 hp Husqvana with 50 deck. Any opinions?