Buying my first z-turn, need advice

[mitchkramah]

Djdicetn,
After taking another look at the cub cadet, I would at least consider the TANK LZ60 KW due to its FX engine and non-integrated drive system (separate pumps and wheel motors) if I could find a steal closer to $7K, otherwise the overall feedback I've gotten on cub cadet seems a little inconsistent compared to other "value brands", but that's strictly from what I've gathered thus far. I would only consider buying from a cub cadet dealership (closest one to me is also a kubota dealer, which while is likely out of my price range might be fun to just check out)

Another brand has sparked my interest, wright mowers. Two models in particular, the ZTO and the Centaur Sport. The ZTO is a sit-down ZTR that seems comparable to the gravely and big dog in terms of build and price point while the centaur sport is a hybrid rider/stander with the FX engines and non-integrated drive system while selling in the $7-8K range. They are also the closest shop around, which is always a plus. Don't know if you know much about them, friend, but they definitely also seem worth checking out

 

[djdicetn]

Djdicetn,
After taking another look at the cub cadet, I would at least consider the TANK LZ60 KW due to its FX engine and non-integrated drive system (separate pumps and wheel motors) if I could find a steal closer to $7K, otherwise the overall feedback I've gotten on cub cadet seems a little inconsistent compared to other "value brands", but that's strictly from what I've gathered thus far. I would only consider buying from a cub cadet dealership (closest one to me is also a kubota dealer, which while is likely out of my price range might be fun to just check out)

Another brand has sparked my interest, wright mowers. Two models in particular, the ZTO and the Centaur Sport. The ZTO is a sit-down ZTR that seems comparable to the gravely and big dog in terms of build and price point while the centaur sport is a hybrid rider/stander with the FX engines and non-integrated drive system while selling in the $7-8K range. They are also the closest shop around, which is always a plus. Don't know if you know much about them, friend, but they definitely also seem worth checking out

I looked at some Wrights early on(the dealer that carried Toros had them) but ruled them out pretty quickly since I was trying to stay under $7K. Same thing happened at my Gravely dealer when I looked at the Skags that he also carried. I would have to be planning on going into the lawn care business when I retire to spend the money that a good Wright or Scag costs. I don't believe I've run across any negative comments about the Wright's on the forum but maybe someone else with experience with them will chime in. Most of the dealers that carried ZTR's with the Hydro-Gear integrated trannies said that they were less likely to develop leaks and other similar problems because the separate units have lots of hyraulic lines and connections. I don't know first-hand how true that is but the Hydro-Gear units do seem to "dominate" the ZTR market.

 

[wjjones]

Have you looked at the Encore extreme?

 

[lawn mower fanatic]

Have you looked at the Encore extreme?

I don't know much about Encore mowers, but here is a link: X-Treme | Encore Power EquipmentEncore Power Equipment.

 

[mitchkramah]

Thanks for the tip, but unfortunately I don't have an encore dealer within 50 miles of me. I think having a local shop nearby for parts and service is a real factor in this decision, especially since I don't have a truck anymore. That's why gravely, big dog, and wright have me most interested thus far.

My back is killing me from this latest blizzard dumping 20"+ of the wet gravel that is New England snow... spring simply cannot come soon enough!