Kubota vs Exmark

[Fisherman74]

I recently had a bad experience with Hustler Raptor SD 54inch, that I bought new and had trouble with. Anyhow, I am in the market for a new mower and I would like to find something that will last and give me good service for several years. I know you can get a bad one or a particularly good one of anything, though Hustler has just left a poor taste.

Anyhow due to the dealer being close, I am considering an Exmark or Kubota. I know both may be more than I currently need, though I am wanting something that will last and serve me well. I only mow about 2/3 of an acre or a touch more. Do have a decent, though mowable slope in one area. Beyond that I might consider and I say might consider getting a few yards to mow in a couple years, though if I did I might consider an upgrade at that time, if needed.

Considering these and also like the gravely hd, though that dealer is quite a bit further away.

Exmark Pioneer E Series 48inch
Kohler Confidant ZT110 19hp if I recall correctly. Dealer advised they had been coming with Kawas, thought his next shipments will be with the Kohlers.
ZT 2800 Hydro
Chain Hung Deck
Foldable ROPS

Kubota Z121S 48inch
Kohler Confidant ZT120 21hp
ZT 3100 Hydro
Pin Hung Deck
Solid ROPS can be removed

Anyhow, knowing both are good mowers.

What is thought on:

Which might have better resale?

Which might be less expensive over the long run, parts wise?

Which company, might be easier to deal with, if I did have an issue?

Does the 3100 Hydro have a significant advantage over the 2800 and will the 2hp be noticed?

I appreciate the input.

 

[Shughes717]

I recently had a bad experience with Hustler Raptor SD 54inch, that I bought new and had trouble with. Anyhow, I am in the market for a new mower and I would like to find something that will last and give me good service for several years. I know you can get a bad one or a particularly good one of anything, though Hustler has just left a poor taste.

Anyhow due to the dealer being close, I am considering an Exmark or Kubota. I know both may be more than I currently need, though I am wanting something that will last and serve me well. I only mow about 2/3 of an acre or a touch more. Do have a decent, though mowable slope in one area. Beyond that I might consider and I say might consider getting a few yards to mow in a couple years, though if I did I might consider an upgrade at that time, if needed.

Considering these and also like the gravely hd, though that dealer is quite a bit further away.

Exmark Pioneer E Series 48inch
Kohler Confidant ZT110 19hp if I recall correctly. Dealer advised they had been coming with Kawas, thought his next shipments will be with the Kohlers.
ZT 2800 Hydro
Chain Hung Deck
Foldable ROPS

Kubota Z121S 48inch
Kohler Confidant ZT120 21hp
ZT 3100 Hydro
Pin Hung Deck
Solid ROPS can be removed

Anyhow, knowing both are good mowers.

What is thought on:

Which might have better resale?

Which might be less expensive over the long run, parts wise?

Which company, might be easier to deal with, if I did have an issue?

Does the 3100 Hydro have a significant advantage over the 2800 and will the 2hp be noticed?

I appreciate the input.

Either is way more mower than you need for 2/3 of an acre. The raptor sd is also more mower than you really need. Are you wanting mowers that large so you can finish your lawn in 15 minutes? They all have similar drive trains. All have hydrogear wheel motors and similar engine options. What was the problem with the raptor? If you are dead set on one of those options and the price is close to the same, then I would go with the Kommander because it has the larger wheel motors and more powerful engine.

 

[LoCo86]

I recently had a bad experience with Hustler Raptor SD 54inch, that I bought new and had trouble with. Anyhow, I am in the market for a new mower and I would like to find something that will last and give me good service for several years. I know you can get a bad one or a particularly good one of anything, though Hustler has just left a poor taste. Anyhow due to the dealer being close, I am considering an Exmark or Kubota. I know both may be more than I currently need, though I am wanting something that will last and serve me well. I only mow about 2/3 of an acre or a touch more. Do have a decent, though mowable slope in one area. Beyond that I might consider and I say might consider getting a few yards to mow in a couple years, though if I did I might consider an upgrade at that time, if needed. Considering these and also like the gravely hd, though that dealer is quite a bit further away. Exmark Pioneer E Series 48inch Kohler Confidant ZT110 19hp if I recall correctly. Dealer advised they had been coming with Kawas, thought his next shipments will be with the Kohlers. ZT 2800 Hydro Chain Hung Deck Foldable ROPS Kubota Z121S 48inch Kohler Confidant ZT120 21hp ZT 3100 Hydro Pin Hung Deck Solid ROPS can be removed Anyhow, knowing both are good mowers. What is thought on: Which might have better resale? Which might be less expensive over the long run, parts wise? Which company, might be easier to deal with, if I did have an issue? Does the 3100 Hydro have a significant advantage over the 2800 and will the 2hp be noticed? I appreciate the input.

If I were you I would go with the Exmark. But step up to the Pioneer S- series. They're offering a $500 rebate and a free upgrade to a full suspension seat. And it also offers the 3100 hydro drive system. In my opinion the Exmark delivers a better overall cut and finished look, but I am also kinda biased in the fact I use the Lazer Z x-series and turf tracers to mow with.

 

[Fisherman74]

Either is way more mower than you need for 2/3 of an acre. The raptor sd is also more mower than you really need. Are you wanting mowers that large so you can finish your lawn in 15 minutes? They all have similar drive trains. All have hydrogear wheel motors and similar engine options. What was the problem with the raptor? If you are dead set on one of those options and the price is close to the same, then I would go with the Kommander because it has the larger wheel motors and more powerful engine.

I appreciate the input.

I know either of those mowers should more than serve my needs. I typically try and take care of things and I would simply like a mower that will last several years, with few if any issues and generally be enjoyable to use.

I have looked at some smaller big box store type zero turns and tractor type mowers and was not terribly impressed. Very thin Stamped Decks, lot of questionable plastic, small wheels, tires, etc.... I am sure they would do ok, for a year, maybe five, give or take. They just generally don't seem to be building these smaller units that well, compared to say even what they did just a few years ago. Really seems to be quite a drop off in quality in those units from just a few years ago. Used to be your JD and Craftsman type were pretty good mowers, they just don't seem to be built as well as they used to be. If you move to something like maybe JD x300, you find at a dealer, then you are probably getting a good mower, however then you are getting close enough price wise to good quality zero turn, that it makes it worth considering.

As far as Raptor, to make it short, the first one out had a terrible vibration from the moment they delivered it, and the second one begin to have starting issues within a few hours. Not to mention it just never did seem to run or cut just right, compared to others. After the purchase it became clear, some of the folks at the dealer, felt that particular model had some short comings, even for my light use.

Anyhow, I reckon you can always get a bad one or a particularly good one of anything mechanical. I just wanted to get some opinions on experience on the Kubota and the Exmark Pioneer as they seem like good options and a step up from the Raptor.

I did look at the Gravely HD and seemed to be a heck of a mower, though the dealer is a bit far. Right now I am leaning toward the Pioneer E Series. The Kubota seems well built, however I am not noticing any around in actual use, even though Kubota Tractors are everywhere, that may tell something right there. Heck Kubota ought to be doing some major discounts to get a few out, though they don't seem to be in any rush.

Exmarks are all over the place and some appear to be run hard, so they must be doing something right.

 

[Shughes717]

I appreciate the input.

I know either of those mowers should more than serve my needs. I typically try and take care of things and I would simply like a mower that will last several years, with few if any issues and generally be enjoyable to use.

I have looked at some smaller big box store type zero turns and tractor type mowers and was not terribly impressed. Very thin Stamped Decks, lot of questionable plastic, small wheels, tires, etc.... I am sure they would do ok, for a year, maybe five, give or take. They just generally don't seem to be building these smaller units that well, compared to say even what they did just a few years ago. Really seems to be quite a drop off in quality in those units from just a few years ago. Used to be your JD and Craftsman type were pretty good mowers, they just don't seem to be built as well as they used to be. If you move to something like maybe JD x300, you find at a dealer, then you are probably getting a good mower, however then you are getting close enough price wise to good quality zero turn, that it makes it worth considering.

As far as Raptor, to make it short, the first one out had a terrible vibration from the moment they delivered it, and the second one begin to have starting issues within a few hours. Not to mention it just never did seem to run or cut just right, compared to others. After the purchase it became clear, some of the folks at the dealer, felt that particular model had some short comings, even for my light use.

Anyhow, I reckon you can always get a bad one or a particularly good one of anything mechanical. I just wanted to get some opinions on experience on the Kubota and the Exmark Pioneer as they seem like good options and a step up from the Raptor.

I did look at the Gravely HD and seemed to be a heck of a mower, though the dealer is a bit far. Right now I am leaning toward the Pioneer E Series. The Kubota seems well built, however I am not noticing any around in actual use, even though Kubota Tractors are everywhere, that may tell something right there. Heck Kubota ought to be doing some major discounts to get a few out, though they don't seem to be in any rush.

Exmarks are all over the place and some appear to be run hard, so they must be doing something right.

They are both good mowers, but I wouldn't consider either of them a step up from the raptor sd. The e series has the same size tires and hydros as the raptor sd. The kawasaki engines on the raptor sd are also of good quality. The kubota does have larger hydros, but they are all comparable. It sounds as though you had a bad experience with your hustler dealer.

 

[Fisherman74]

They are both good mowers, but I wouldn't consider either of them a step up from the raptor sd. The e series has the same size tires and hydros as the raptor sd. The kawasaki engines on the raptor sd are also of good quality. The kubota does have larger hydros, but they are all comparable. It sounds as though you had a bad experience with your hustler dealer.

Not a particularly fond experience. I really think that raptor sd and after doing some reading on here and talking to different folks around locally, it seems that particular model has some issues for whatever reason. Just not put together or designed well, who knows. That is not knocking some of the other models, though I will steer clear.

To throw something else in the mix. I stopped at an out of the away scag dealer and looked at a Freedom Z, 48inch, kawa engine. That seemed to be a very well built mower, it seemed stout. Basically same price as the Exmark or Kubota. I am curious what the thoughts on that mower would be?

Only thing I didn't like and Scag Dealers are few and far between around here and this one mainly sells golf carts and lots of them. Seemed like nice enough folks, however his mowers seem to be a secondary thing, and most of them appear to have been there awhile. The Freedom Z he had was a 2014 model, probably mid 14. Motor dated Feb 14, if I recall. Where as the Exmark Dealer seems to be selling Pioneers almost as fast as they come in. I just wonder how much it hurts a mower to set there for a year and only be run just a few minutes at a time every month for a total of two hours on the meter. I don't come across many folks using Scags around here, however I know in some places they are very popular.

So what is the thought on the Scag? Specs show it 55 lbs lighter than the exmark. I can't figure that out, as that Scag appears like it would be heavier and seems to have more metal in it. That is just an observation. Both the kawa an kohler are within a couple pounds of each other. Both list zt2800 hydro. Scag has the larger rear tires. Just trying to figure it out, as that Scag sure seems like it ought to be heavier.

 

[clpolcar]

I would get the exmark. The freedom z is not that great of a mower. Look at ferris is600. Good mower. Great deck. Exmark has a great cut and never really like kubota mowers

 

[whelch1]

I have a new scag freedom z and I love it. It is not a commercial scag but is built well enough for my use. Around my area the Scag and exmark brand are the 2 most popular. They are both well built mowers, I would go with the one that you feel more comfortable with the dealer. Even if you do your own maintenance, you don't want to drive an hour for parts, so the location of the dealer is also important.

 

[Shughes717]

Not a particularly fond experience. I really think that raptor sd and after doing some reading on here and talking to different folks around locally, it seems that particular model has some issues for whatever reason. Just not put together or designed well, who knows. That is not knocking some of the other models, though I will steer clear.

To throw something else in the mix. I stopped at an out of the away scag dealer and looked at a Freedom Z, 48inch, kawa engine. That seemed to be a very well built mower, it seemed stout. Basically same price as the Exmark or Kubota. I am curious what the thoughts on that mower would be?

Only thing I didn't like and Scag Dealers are few and far between around here and this one mainly sells golf carts and lots of them. Seemed like nice enough folks, however his mowers seem to be a secondary thing, and most of them appear to have been there awhile. The Freedom Z he had was a 2014 model, probably mid 14. Motor dated Feb 14, if I recall. Where as the Exmark Dealer seems to be selling Pioneers almost as fast as they come in. I just wonder how much it hurts a mower to set there for a year and only be run just a few minutes at a time every month for a total of two hours on the meter. I don't come across many folks using Scags around here, however I know in some places they are very popular.

So what is the thought on the Scag? Specs show it 55 lbs lighter than the exmark. I can't figure that out, as that Scag appears like it would be heavier and seems to have more metal in it. That is just an observation. Both the kawa an kohler are within a couple pounds of each other. Both list zt2800 hydro. Scag has the larger rear tires. Just trying to figure it out, as that Scag sure seems like it ought to be heavier.

I wouldn't get too worried about the weight of the mowers you are looking at. The frame/deck won't be a problem with any of the brands you are looking at. Use your own judgement when choosing a mower. Members can post on here all day about what mower to stay away from or choose, but you are getting an opinion that may be from limited experience with the other brands. You should read what brands they suggest you look at and go test the mower for your self.

You are only mowing 2/3 of an acre, so you don't need a $6000 mower for that. If that's what you want and you can afford it then there are other mowers out there that offer an even better engine hydro combination than the mowers you are looking at. You can make a residential lawn tractor last 15 years if you take care of it (I have done it). If you are set on spending that much on a mower for such a small lawn then I can also throw some brands and models out there for you to take a look at.

The freedom z is a good mower, but if you are not comfortable that the dealer can offer good support then you may want to look elsewhere. If you have a ferris/snapper pro dealer around then the ferris is600 or the snapper pro s125xt would be good choices. Both offer the commercial fs series Kawi engine, commercial zt3400 hydros, commercial icd deck, and are both in the $5500 to $6000 range. The husqvarna mzt offers the same fs series engine, zt3400 hydros, commercial welded deck, and is in the same price range. The snapper pro s50xt offers a fx series Kawi engine with zt3100 hydros and the icd commercial deck for less than $5000.

The gravely zt hd is a great mower as well. Has the fr series Kawi engine with zt3100 hydros, a commercial deck, and is in the $5500 price range. The e series pioneer that you are looking at is also a quality mower. I don't know what price you have been quoted at, but should be in the same range as the gravely. The kubota kommander is well built, usually has good dealer support across the U.S., and should be in the same price range as the gravely and exmark. Any of those mowers is way more than you need, and if properly maintained should last you 20 years or more. Just go out there and kick the tires on as many as you can find and choose the mower/dealer you like best for your budget.

Personally, with a lawn that size, I would just go to Sears and get a 42" craftsman lawn tractor. 6" turn radius and a max speed of 7.5 mph. Would handle your lawn fine.

 

[knessler]

Fisherman, I am looking to buy a ZTR for a 1.5 acre lot and was heavily leaning towards a Hustler SD that by in large looks good and overall has very good reviews. I am also in TX and was just curious how old your Hustler was/is and what problems you had with it?
Thanks!