Toro Mowers: Aluminum vs. Steel Decks

[movieman]

Greetings! My first visit here. I'd appreciate your thoughts please.

I have a 10 year old Toro Super Recycler with an aluminum deck and a a 2 year old Toro Recycler with a steel deck. I bought the newer mower because of repair delays when my original broke down (plus I like having a back up).

Is it just me or do you find that an aluminum deck mower results in a smoother cut than a steel deck model? My old Toro (aluminum deck) weighs a lot more and gives a much nicer looking job. My theory is that because of the weight it "bounces" over the lawn less than the lighter steel deck model, and thereby cuts more evenly. Or could it be that the older mower blade runs at a higher RPM than the newer one?

In any event, I don't think I'm imagining and my next will be an aluminum deck!

[Briana]

Hello, I have moved your post to the Toro/Wheel Horse Forum. You will have better luck finding assistance there.

Thanks for joining LawnMowerForum!!!

[KennyV]

Hello movieman..
& welcome ti the forum...
If you think it's a weight issue, toss a little ballast on the lighter one and try it...
Myself I love a light walk behind mower.. & a heavy rider, ZTR...

The RPM difference you should be able to hear...
Most likely it is going to be a deck design difference... aluminum are usually cast and they can make smoother air flow a part of the under deck design...
Try adding some weight and post back with the results... KennyV