How does the reverse switch actually operate? Does it normally send a connected-wires signal when going forward, and a disconnected-wires signal when going in reverse? How, and when, did you bypass the switch? Removing the switch may simply be telling the tractor that you're in reverse all the time. Or maybe there is a problem with the wires going to the switch. Maybe you bypassed it by something like connecting 2 pins at the switch connector, but either that jumper has come loose, or a wire broke, so the tractor is no longer getting the expected signal, saying you're going forward. What happens when you re-connect the reverse-sensing switch? More on reddit.com

I recently was at this decision crossroad and went with the xt1 LT50 ($2750 at home depot and even less with military/veteran discount). 24HP kholer, 50" fabricated deck, k46 trans, electric PTO (blade engage). The only difference between the xt1 lt50 and the xt2 lx46 is the lx46 xt2 has a 1" rear axle vs the lt50 being 3/4". xt2 lx46 also has armrests and front bumper. edit: also the xt2 lx46 has bearings on the front wheels. LT50 has bushings. More on reddit.com