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Posted: 8/8/2016 7:45:44 PM EDT
So the 10 old Craftsman lawnmower is starting to see it's last laps around the yard. The front end is loose, the tires are slick and the blade engagement cable is getting sketch again. Time to move on.
I have about 3/4 of an acre with a bunch of trees and such on it and I want a ZTR. I went to one of the local power equipment stores today and they had some that interested me. I am not looking for a commercial grade model but a mid-grade name brand. Here are three that I am considering (all Lowes links but I don't care where I buy them they are all MAP priced.) John Deere ZTRAK Z355E 22-Hp V-Twin Dual Hydrostatic 48-in Zero-Turn Lawn Mower with Mulching Capability $2999  http://www.lowes.com/pd/John-Deere-ZTRAK-Z355E-22-Hp-V-Twin-Dual-Hydrostatic-48-in-Zero-Turn-Lawn-Mower-with-Mulching-Capability/999956630 Hustler RAPTOR 24-HP V-Twin Dual Hydrostatic 52-in Zero-Turn Lawn Mower $2999  http://www.lowes.com/pd/Hustler-RAPTOR-24-HP-V-Twin-Dual-Hydrostatic-52-in-Zero-Turn-Lawn-Mower/999958367 Husqvarna RZ246i 23-HP V-Twin Dual Hydrostatic 46-in Zero-Turn Lawn Mower $2805 For what I have to mow, the Dixie Chopper, Grasshopper and Gravely were all way too much mower for me. Thoughts or suggestions? |
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Posted: 8/8/2016 8:07:22 PM EDT
[#1]
I don't have any experience with any of those but after looking at them a bit I would go with the Hustler.
Kohler engine, 52 inch fabricated steel deck, looks well made. |
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Posted: 8/8/2016 8:17:54 PM EDT
[#2]
I just found this one for the same money, $2999
eXmark 42200Quest E-Series (42") Zero-Turn Mower  I see a lot of the landscaper guys around here sporting eXmark Gear. I do like the Kawasaki motors and 3 bogie wheels on the deck. |
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Posted: 8/8/2016 8:42:01 PM EDT
[#3]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I just found this one for the same money, $2999 eXmark 42200Quest E-Series (42") Zero-Turn Mower https://cdn3.volusion.com/zsvae.zbfps/v/vspfiles/photos/122-QTE452CEM42200-2.gif?1469694701 https://www.arlingtonpower.com/product-p/122-qte452cem42200.htm I see a lot of the landscaper guys around here sporting eXmark Gear. I do like the Kawasaki motors and 3 bogie wheels on the deck. It says it has an eXmark engine. Not sure who makes it for them. Plus the Hustler's mowing deck is 10" wider which would cut your mowing time. eXmark does have a good rep and I see the commercial guys using them a lot around here also. |
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Posted: 8/8/2016 8:46:03 PM EDT
[#4]
You really need a non stamped metal deck. Go as thick as you can in your price. Of your three choices the Hustler looked the best.
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Posted: 8/8/2016 8:48:55 PM EDT
[#5]
On the eXmark website it says it is a Kawasaki motor in some places.
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Posted: 8/8/2016 8:49:03 PM EDT
[#6]
Ive been using a Husqvarna 5224 with the kawasaki engine for 4 years now and am very happy with it.
Check out the prices at Mowers Direct-I ordered mine from them and it was no hassle. |
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Posted: 8/8/2016 8:49:28 PM EDT
[#7]
Quote HistoryQuoted: You really need a non stamped metal deck. Go as thick as you can in your price. Of your three choices the Hustler looked the best. |
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Posted: 8/8/2016 8:55:18 PM EDT
[#8]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Even better than the eXmark? Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
You really need a non stamped metal deck. Go as thick as you can in your price. Of your three choices the Hustler looked the best. No I didnt see the Exmark , thats what way I would go but I am a biased Toro guy  The Lawnsite forum might have some reviews on those choices. Good luck.
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Posted: 8/8/2016 8:59:44 PM EDT
[#9]
For 3/4 acre all will work. They are all residential grade mowers that a built lighter that the larger commercial zero turns. I'd avoid any of them that are Briggs powered. A Kohler or Honda would be my preference at your price point.
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Posted: 8/8/2016 9:00:33 PM EDT
[#10]
Kohler may make good commercial engines, but imo their box store models are cheap garbage. I made that mistake once. I won't do it again.
And I saw that John Deere ZTR in Lowes yesterday and couldn't believe how thin that frame looked. It's supposed to be a mower, not a lawn chair. Seriously, don't buy from a box store. Just don't. |
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Posted: 8/8/2016 9:00:42 PM EDT
[#11]
I have a Hustler Fasttrak and it has been bulletproof for over 10 years. I use it on 3-5 foot tall kochia so it gets plenty of abuse.
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Posted: 8/8/2016 9:04:22 PM EDT
[#12]
I just bought a Dixie Chopper. The Kawasaki motor was the deciding factor between it and a Kohler-powered Scag.
If a Kawasaki motor and welded/fabricated deck are an option, that should be your choice. |
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Posted: 8/8/2016 9:04:55 PM EDT
[#13]
You are paying a green and yellow JD tax on a 1500$ mower that retails for 3k.
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Posted: 8/8/2016 9:11:02 PM EDT
[#14]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Kohler may make good commercial engines, but imo their box store models are cheap garbage. I made that mistake once. I won't do it again. And I saw that John Deere ZTR in Lowes yesterday and couldn't believe how thin that frame looked. It's supposed to be a mower, not a lawn chair. Seriously, don't buy from a box store. Just don't. This. Kohler Command Pro Kawasaki FS Briggs Commercial Turf Buy once, cry once. 
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Posted: 8/8/2016 9:14:14 PM EDT
[#15]
Also, just so you know OP...
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Posted: 8/8/2016 9:36:01 PM EDT
[#16]
Quote HistoryJesus, the Toro is more than the eXmark by $500  |
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Posted: 8/8/2016 9:46:03 PM EDT
[#17]
Which brand has the best parts availability in your area?
This should be some thing to consider also. Hustler Raptor SD owner. |
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Posted: 8/8/2016 9:50:00 PM EDT
[#18]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Which brand has the best parts availability in your area? This should be some thing to consider also. Hustler Raptor SD owner. |
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Posted: 8/8/2016 9:52:01 PM EDT
[#19]
Get one with a fabricated deck. Not stamped.
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Posted: 8/8/2016 10:26:09 PM EDT
[#20]
I am looking for a unicorn here, Kawasaki engine and Fab deck for under $3200.
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Posted: 8/8/2016 10:31:38 PM EDT
[#21]
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Posted: 8/8/2016 10:32:08 PM EDT
[#22]
Pretty much everyone runs Snapper and Toro around here.
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Posted: 8/8/2016 10:45:35 PM EDT
[#23]
I have the smallest JD z-trac, 225? and I mow a little more than you, maybe 3/4 acre? and it does just fine, 20 minutes and I usually go over some areas twice. Other than change oil and air filter, sharpen blades, it runs like a deere...
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Posted: 8/9/2016 11:37:55 AM EDT
[#24]
Quote HistoryQuote History |
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Posted: 8/9/2016 11:42:20 AM EDT
[#25]
Quote HistoryQuoted: So is the Toro the better mower or the eXmark. Quote HistoryQuoted: Get the welded deck. |
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Posted: 8/9/2016 11:46:44 AM EDT
[#26]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
So is the Toro the better mower or the eXmark. Quote HistoryQuoted:
Toro has deck adjustments. (Knob under the seat) I own that one. Not sure what the Exmark changes are otherwise. |
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Posted: 8/9/2016 11:47:36 AM EDT
[#27]
I run a n Exmark Lazer X E series 60" with Ultra Vac bagger at the commercial buildings I manage. It's built like a brick shit house. Rides like one too. Also, zero turn mowers are NOT zero turn radius, they do some stuff really well, and also suck for other stuff. Like going around trees. Also, use caution when striping your lawn, if you don't turn carefully, you'll tear the heck out of your lawn with the pivot tire. Many times I'd prefer a good lawn tractor, but you can stick this thing into 12" wet grass and it'll spit it out level, with no clumps. The blades are great and strong, caught a few large rocks and haven't had to replace them yet, just sharpen them once a month or so, depending.
I've had to do zilch to it, just oil changes and air filters. Still original deck belt, looks good. I also take pretty good care of it, and it mows beautifully. It has the floating seat system and a comfortable seat at that, but it does ride like a brick. |
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Posted: 8/9/2016 11:48:31 AM EDT
[#28]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I am looking for a unicorn here, Kawasaki engine and Fab deck for under $3200. ^^^QFT . That will be very difficult to find. Kubota offers a 42" ZT mower that has a Kawasaki engine with a fabricated deck. It is a nice light duty mower but it runs $3,899. Kubota does offer 0% financing for 36 months. Might be worth looking at. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Disclaimer: I am a Kubota dealer. 
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Posted: 8/9/2016 8:56:44 PM EDT
[#29]
Quote HistoryQuoted: ^^^QFT . That will be very difficult to find. Kubota offers a 42" ZT mower that has a Kawasaki engine with a fabricated deck. It is a nice light duty mower but it runs $3,899. Kubota does offer 0% financing for 36 months. Might be worth looking at. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Disclaimer: I am a Kubota dealer. Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: I am looking for a unicorn here, Kawasaki engine and Fab deck for under $3200. ^^^QFT . That will be very difficult to find. Kubota offers a 42" ZT mower that has a Kawasaki engine with a fabricated deck. It is a nice light duty mower but it runs $3,899. Kubota does offer 0% financing for 36 months. Might be worth looking at. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Disclaimer: I am a Kubota dealer. 
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Posted: 8/9/2016 9:01:20 PM EDT
[#30]
I have a Raptor. It is better built than anything else I found in its price range. I am very pleased with it.
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Posted: 8/9/2016 9:11:24 PM EDT
[#31]
I run a lawn service in central Florida. I use a hustler raptor 42 inch. It runs several hours a day, 5 or 6 days a week, 9 months out of the year. I've had it for 3 years and no problems (other than normal wear and tear- belts, tires etc)
My 2 cents |
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Posted: 8/9/2016 9:20:18 PM EDT
[#32]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I am looking for a unicorn here, Kawasaki engine and Fab deck for under $3200. Scag Liberty Z |
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Posted: 8/9/2016 9:43:32 PM EDT
[#33]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Scag Liberty Z Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: I am looking for a unicorn here, Kawasaki engine and Fab deck for under $3200. Scag Liberty Z |
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Posted: 8/9/2016 9:45:34 PM EDT
[#34]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Scag Liberty Z Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
I am looking for a unicorn here, Kawasaki engine and Fab deck for under $3200. Scag Liberty Z Not a Kawasaki engine. |
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Posted: 8/9/2016 9:47:45 PM EDT
[#35]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Not a Kawasaki engine. Quote HistoryQuoted: Quoted: Quoted: I am looking for a unicorn here, Kawasaki engine and Fab deck for under $3200. Scag Liberty Z Not a Kawasaki engine. 
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Posted: 8/9/2016 9:53:09 PM EDT
[#36]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
The Kawasaki isn't going to be the hill I die on most likely. Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
Quoted:
Quoted:
I am looking for a unicorn here, Kawasaki engine and Fab deck for under $3200. Scag Liberty Z Not a Kawasaki engine. For 3/4 acre, I don't blame you. |
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Posted: 8/9/2016 9:54:09 PM EDT
[#37]
All of those have very similar level of components- wouldn't call them mid-grade by any means.
I'd go with the Hustler of those choices. Bad Boy also makes a very comparable mower- might be worth checking out. |
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Posted: 8/9/2016 9:58:04 PM EDT
[#38]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Damn near everything is available here. It doesn't seem like there is a shortage of types or parts here. Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
Which brand has the best parts availability in your area? This should be some thing to consider also. Hustler Raptor SD owner. Everything may be available brand wise, but parts availability can be a very different animal. Our local Toro dealer absolutely sucks in that regard. |
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Posted: 8/9/2016 10:00:55 PM EDT
[#39]
Bad Boy has a sale on the Magnum model. You can get a 48" with a Kohler , and a fab deck in your price range. I bought a commercial Bad Boy recently. I'm really impressed with that mower!
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Posted: 8/9/2016 10:07:34 PM EDT
[#40]
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Posted: 8/9/2016 10:09:05 PM EDT
[#41]
Where are you buying it from? For any large purchase from a big box store I buy discount giftcards from cardpool.com. Those with a 10% lowes new address coupon and you can save a good chunk of $
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Posted: 8/9/2016 10:18:32 PM EDT
[#42]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I just found this one for the same money, $2999 eXmark 42200Quest E-Series (42") Zero-Turn Mower https://cdn3.volusion.com/zsvae.zbfps/v/vspfiles/photos/122-QTE452CEM42200-2.gif?1469694701 https://www.arlingtonpower.com/product-p/122-qte452cem42200.htm I see a lot of the landscaper guys around here sporting eXmark Gear. I do like the Kawasaki motors and 3 bogie wheels on the deck. I have a 50" Quest, with the Kawasaki engine. I've had it for about four years with no complaints. I did replace a belt and one spindle. The spindle was probably my fault trying to loosen a blade bolt. I broke the bolt. |
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Posted: 8/9/2016 10:20:42 PM EDT
[#43]
In arfcom fashion increase budget around 13 k and get a 72" bad boy mower with the cat diesel. My brothers step cousin owns a mowing company and he wont buy anything less.
But in truth. Any of the ones op lined up would work for op. Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile |
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Posted: 8/9/2016 10:30:59 PM EDT
[#44]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
So is the Toro the better mower or the eXmark. Quote HistoryQuoted:
Pay close attention to the engines if you look at the Toro models. I have seen them with Kohler, Kawasaki and Toro branded engines. |
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Posted: 8/14/2016 9:02:03 AM EDT
[#45]
I have discovered a few things in my search for a new lawn mower.
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Posted: 8/14/2016 9:47:55 AM EDT
[#46]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I have discovered a few things in my search for a new lawn mower.
The fact is, you aren't going to get what you want in your budget unless you buy used. |
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Posted: 8/14/2016 9:58:07 AM EDT
[#47]
Just here I laugh that people are legit buying zero tirns for 3/4 of an acre
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Posted: 8/14/2016 10:18:06 AM EDT
[#48]
Quote HistoryQuoted: Just here I laugh that people are legit buying zero tirns for 3/4 of an acre I got the bagging system with the mower ( which is extremely overpriced BTW ) to make this much easier and it did I bought the hustler because it was made locally and had the best dealer support, and the place I bought it from seemed the most knowledgeable I have experience with the commercial John Deeres but even the local dealer told me not to bother especially if I needed a bagger with the residential models What sucks is a couple of years ago that hustler did have a kawasaki engine on it. I won't say the mower isn't built well, but it definitely isn't built very heavy. It's fine for my yard but honestly I wish I would have spent a couple grand more and moved up to an entry level commercial mower that would last 15 years. My old man has a mower with a liquid cooled kawasaki engine on it and it's 20 years old and still runs great mowing 5 plus acres. It also cost 8 or 9 grand 20 years ago IIRC though . |
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Posted: 8/14/2016 10:23:14 AM EDT
[#49]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I just bought a Dixie Chopper. The Kawasaki motor was the deciding factor between it and a Kohler-powered Scag. If a Kawasaki motor and welded/fabricated deck are an option, that should be your choice. You can get a Kawa powered Scag. OP..."too much mower"? Really? |
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Posted: 8/14/2016 10:37:15 AM EDT
[#50]
I am researching ZTR mowers as well. My 16 year old Craftsman is dying. Looked at $4-5K mowers.
Hustler has the Raptor SD with dual 2800 Hydro. Bad boy around the same. Exmark I have to step up closer to 5K. The big box mowers are low grade. Most are.sealed hydro systems and not serviceable. Local dealers said mowers sold at box stores they will not work on. Box stores send a guy out. I am leaning towards a Hustler Raptor SD in 48/54" cut. Overkill for a 1.2 acre lot but hopefully I get 10-15 years out of it. |
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