ZTR motors - what to look for

[sumpnfishy]

Pricing and considering a few of the low to mid-grade ZTR's in the $4K to 5K range. When given the option seems the Kawasaki motors add to the cost over the Kohler motors. I've also heard about the Kawasaki motor shortage that led to several brands switching to Kohler or briggs & stratton. And talking to eXmark dealer they started building their own which concerned me (too new to market?).
So my question what are the real differences I should be looking for. So far looked at Hustler, Kobota, Gravely, and eXmark. Might be leaning towards a Kobota Kommander now but still have options to decide on.
Thanks for any input.
Dennis

 

[Vanousb]

Top of my list is dealer trusted and nearby to service.

Next for me...
Hydros. 2800. 3100. 3400 (larger is better)
The deck. Fabricated vs stamped.
Those two are highly discussed.
Driver comfort such as seat and controls as ztr can be rough.
Deck size to fit your need.


Others...
Fuel tank size
Wheel base and tire size

Sit on them and ask to demo. Has to feel good to you.

 

[sumpnfishy]

Top of my list is dealer trusted and nearby to service.

Next for me...
Hydros. 2800. 3100. 3400 (larger is better)
The deck. Fabricated vs stamped.
Those two are highly discussed.
Driver comfort such as seat and controls as ztr can be rough.
Deck size to fit your need.


Others...
Fuel tank size
Wheel base and tire size

Sit on them and ask to demo. Has to feel good to you.

Thanks!
I am leaning towards the fact I have worked with this dealer on both my BX1800 and rider, so yes service says a lot on what is important. I'm just wondering on what selection on the motor would be important as I hope to have this be possibly a good investment in long term. Just purchased a Toyota Tundra to replace my 95 4runner and expect it to be my last truck. Looking at the same for this mower (unless I live into my '90s and beyond).
Dennis

 

[7394]

Engines: ExMark & Toro are kinda same family, have come out with their own branded engines. I was told here it is Made in China. Might be good IDK ?

I'll stick with my Kaw.

 

[bertsmobile1]

Engines: ExMark & Toro are kinda same family, have come out with their own branded engines. I was told here it is Made in China. Might be good IDK ?

I'll stick with my Kaw.

Tghey will be no worse than the junk they sell in Wally mart & Harbour Freight ( or a squillion tool shops down here ) and most likely made at the same factory.
Only difference is that Toro & Exmark will have to offer a warranty and actually honour it . They will also have to stock spares for those engines.

 

[neetan]

I went with the Honda over the Kowi. but had a Kolher for 14 years with no issue. Mind you I did baby the unit, new oil every 20 hrs, new filter every change, and yes synthetic after 50 hour. Yes that made a BIG difference with the power of the unit.

Transmission is and should be next on your list, Bigger the better!!!!!!!!

Now you should look of service/service and with a Smile Service.

good luck

 

[Vanousb]

My motor is 2013 kohler. Have had no issues. But I treat it well with no ethanol gas and regular oil and air filter change/cleanup.

 

[sumpnfishy]

Engines: ExMark & Toro are kinda same family, have come out with their own branded engines. I was told here it is Made in China. Might be good IDK ?

I'll stick with my Kaw.

Yes, the eXmark dealer did say the motors were made in China which concerned me slightly.

I haven't had any issues with my Kubota rider which has a Kohler other than dirty gas clogging the carb (my fault)

The Kawasaki option adds about $400 to the cost of the Kubota Commander while the Kohler option keeps it right at $5K. So the Kaw option makes me go WAY over budget. :confused2:
Dennis

 

[7394]

Around here anyhow, many Dealers have Big end of year sales (particularly in August) that's how I got mine w / Kaw back in '14.

Might wanna ask about this to save some $$$..