Another Newbie looking for Z Turn advice 2.5 acr

Here's my 2 cents: I mow about 130 yards a week. My fleet is a Hustler Super Z HD 60", Hustler Super Z 72" (both 1000cc Kaw), Big Dog Diablo MP 60" 850cc Kaw (same as Super Z) and Hustler Fastrack SD 48" 691cc Kaw. So obviously I prefer Hustler. However for your application I'd probably go with a 60" Bad Boy, Spartan or Exmark / Toro. Here's why. You don't need to pay upwards of $15K to get a really good mower that will last for years cutting an hour or two per week. That's about 70-80 hours per year. That's 700-800 over 10 years. Get an entry level commercial mower with a Kaw FX series, Kohler Command or Vanguard Commercial grade and do regular maintenance you will be happy for many years. What I would NOT do is pay an extra $2K - $3K for a Deere or Kubota. Just not worth it. Same engine, same Hydro-gear pumps and motors, different color paint and and name recognition. Nearly all commercial mowers have very good warranties on the mower and deck. Green / yellow or orange paint seems to be very expensive. One other thing, consider a used unit from a reputable dealer. I know a dealer that takes in 20 to 30 lightly used Hustlers per year. Usually less than 300 hours and under $10K. Something to consider.
 
I would recommend going with the Toro, personal preference. As with any thread which asks “ What should I buy” you will get a multitude of recommendations depending on personal experience, but I always say, don’t go by what you read. Taking in what you read, go with your gut feeling. You will kick yourself if something does go wrong, ”Say my gut told me to go with XXXX, but this was liked by more people so I went with it”. No matter what you purchase, go with the dealer you have the most trust in, because down the road your experience with them will tell you whether you made the right decision.
 
For a quality commercial unit look at Grasshopper. My 1995 61" front mount lasted 24 years with minimal repairs (clutch). Still had original deck belt. I replaced with a used 2005 with 725 hours. Should be the last one I need.
 
Back
Top