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new zero turn huslter, kubota, gravely
#1
P
pbjeep
P
pbjeep
I have read as much as I could on these mowers, but wanted to see if I was heading in the right direction. I have 4 lots that I mow, 2 of which are flat, rough, and muddy at times. However I am looking to move in the next year or so but will not be over 5 acres. More than likely it will be about 2.5 acres.
So far I have looked at Hustler Raptor SD 54", Kubota Kommander ZG123S 48", and Gravely ZT XL 48". Based on what I have read the EZT transmission is not the preferred tranny. The hustler and gravely have the 2800 series and the Kubota has the 3100. Also I think I would rather have the Kawasaki motor. So I am leaning towards the Raptor SD. The dealer is close and it is a little bit cheaper than the Gravely. The Kubota's price and the fact that it does not a Kawasaki motor is a turn off all though it looks very sharp and has a few bells and whistles. Also not sure about the chain hung mowers, none of these are but to get a chain hung deck the price goes up quick. This will be used for personal use only. What advice can you give me, and I do plan to test them all. thanks
So far I have looked at Hustler Raptor SD 54", Kubota Kommander ZG123S 48", and Gravely ZT XL 48". Based on what I have read the EZT transmission is not the preferred tranny. The hustler and gravely have the 2800 series and the Kubota has the 3100. Also I think I would rather have the Kawasaki motor. So I am leaning towards the Raptor SD. The dealer is close and it is a little bit cheaper than the Gravely. The Kubota's price and the fact that it does not a Kawasaki motor is a turn off all though it looks very sharp and has a few bells and whistles. Also not sure about the chain hung mowers, none of these are but to get a chain hung deck the price goes up quick. This will be used for personal use only. What advice can you give me, and I do plan to test them all. thanks
#2
E
edd
E
edd
i have had good luck with hustler and its off-shoot big dog.....i prefer the chain hung deck also......dont have any experience with kubota but my buddy is well satisfied with both gravelys he has
#3
P
pbjeep
What benefits do you actually get with the chain hung deck? I realize it will have more give in an impact, but beside that what do you get?
P
pbjeep
i have had good luck with hustler and its off-shoot big dog.....i prefer the chain hung deck also......dont have any experience with kubota but my buddy is well satisfied with both gravelys he has
What benefits do you actually get with the chain hung deck? I realize it will have more give in an impact, but beside that what do you get?
#4
M
MRCo.
I will say I've looked at the Kubota and see more pomp than substance, especially the power plant. 3100s are a plus but 2800 will cover your needs. If you have a good Husler dealer nearby I'd look that way.
M
MRCo.
Yup, better, feer floating action reacts to bumps better, minimizes scalping. Linkages with play like Raptor SD are good, but metal on metal over time will wear.What benefits do you actually get with the chain hung deck? I realize it will have more give in an impact, but beside that what do you get?
I will say I've looked at the Kubota and see more pomp than substance, especially the power plant. 3100s are a plus but 2800 will cover your needs. If you have a good Husler dealer nearby I'd look that way.
#5
P
pbjeep
P
pbjeep
Well I am back and forth. Went to look at Exmark and Gravely today. I really like the Gravely ZT HD. I think I found my mower unless yall say otherwise. Exmark is nice but the Gravely just feels heavier.
#6
R
RustyBoy
I'm in a similar situation as you and I'm torn between the Kommander and Gravely ZT HD. I like the Kommander's appearance and controls but the Gravely ZT HD seems to have more quality features like the 1" cast iron spindles with ball bearings (the Kommander has 1" aluminum), Kawi engine, floating deck, etc. I don't like the appearance on the Gravely where the handles meet the flat piece of metal on each side; looks hokey fabricated and the Kommander's handles appear well thought out. Let us know what you decide to buy.
R
RustyBoy
Well I am back and forth. Went to look at Exmark and Gravely today. I really like the Gravely ZT HD. I think I found my mower unless yall say otherwise. Exmark is nice but the Gravely just feels heavier.
I'm in a similar situation as you and I'm torn between the Kommander and Gravely ZT HD. I like the Kommander's appearance and controls but the Gravely ZT HD seems to have more quality features like the 1" cast iron spindles with ball bearings (the Kommander has 1" aluminum), Kawi engine, floating deck, etc. I don't like the appearance on the Gravely where the handles meet the flat piece of metal on each side; looks hokey fabricated and the Kommander's handles appear well thought out. Let us know what you decide to buy.
#7
P
pbjeep
I actually when to the Kubota dealer today. Found out a few more things about Kubota. First if you go to their website you will notice that the model numbers have changed. Has something to do with govt regs. HP will no longer be labeled and cc will become the only measurement is what I was told. Another interesting fact is that Kubota requires insurance while you are financing. Which I thought was pretty cool since the deductible was only 250 bucks for free replacement. When it is factored into the payment is only 6 bucks a month and is covered for the entire 36 month period. The more I think about spending 5K on a lawn mower the more I like the insurance. Also the 4 year warranty. Now I have to decide, but hustler dealer wants 3% finance charge. Gravely is nice but if I get it, it will be the 52" and it is 5455 with tax. Kubota 48" is 4846 with tax. And the extra year of warranty. The insurance is about 100 bucks a year.
Now I am thinking Kubota, tomorrow I will be thinking Scag, and the next day I will be looking for someone to mow my grass or even worst I will go to Lowes and pick up a troy built. Never ending... the more I look the more I spend.
P
pbjeep
I'm in a similar situation as you and I'm torn between the Kommander and Gravely ZT HD. I like the Kommander's appearance and controls but the Gravely ZT HD seems to have more quality features like the 1" cast iron spindles with ball bearings (the Kommander has 1" aluminum), Kawi engine, floating deck, etc. I don't like the appearance on the Gravely where the handles meet the flat piece of metal on each side; looks hokey fabricated and the Kommander's handles appear well thought out. Let us know what you decide to buy.
I actually when to the Kubota dealer today. Found out a few more things about Kubota. First if you go to their website you will notice that the model numbers have changed. Has something to do with govt regs. HP will no longer be labeled and cc will become the only measurement is what I was told. Another interesting fact is that Kubota requires insurance while you are financing. Which I thought was pretty cool since the deductible was only 250 bucks for free replacement. When it is factored into the payment is only 6 bucks a month and is covered for the entire 36 month period. The more I think about spending 5K on a lawn mower the more I like the insurance. Also the 4 year warranty. Now I have to decide, but hustler dealer wants 3% finance charge. Gravely is nice but if I get it, it will be the 52" and it is 5455 with tax. Kubota 48" is 4846 with tax. And the extra year of warranty. The insurance is about 100 bucks a year.
Now I am thinking Kubota, tomorrow I will be thinking Scag, and the next day I will be looking for someone to mow my grass or even worst I will go to Lowes and pick up a troy built. Never ending... the more I look the more I spend.
#8
R
RustyBoy
I fully understand what you're saying. I really like the Kommander but when I compare the specs to the Gravely XT HD, the Gravely has it all over it so I'm still tending towards the Gravely and may decide this weekend. Forgot to mention that Gravely also has a $40 hitch that you can attach several items to like a spreader which I will consider. What is affecting my decision is that the Gravely has the 1" cast iron spindles versus Kommander's 1" aluminum, and the Gravely has ball bearings like the commercial units. Transmissions are the same. The deck on the Gravely is a little deeper at 5 1/2" but the big deal here is the floating deck like the commercial units have. Most of all, it has the Kawaski engine. Although the Kommander has a 4 year warranty, the Gravely has been on the market without changes for at least a few years so I would assume that the unit is much more perfected. Oh, and the front wheels are larger than the Kommander which will provide less wear on the lawn with your turns. The more I talk about the specs, the more I believe the Kommander is out-matched by the Gravely. But like someone mentioned, the dealer relationship has a lot to do with everything too. Will not be financing so there is a pretty good discount with the dealer which means the Gravely will also cost less. Lastly, I'm not looking at any other brands like Toro or Scag, etc. The Gravely dealer is further from the Kuboto dealer but the Gravely dealer is much more personable and willing to work with you.
R
RustyBoy
I actually when to the Kubota dealer today. Found out a few more things about Kubota. First if you go to their website you will notice that the model numbers have changed. Has something to do with govt regs. HP will no longer be labeled and cc will become the only measurement is what I was told. Another interesting fact is that Kubota requires insurance while you are financing. Which I thought was pretty cool since the deductible was only 250 bucks for free replacement. When it is factored into the payment is only 6 bucks a month and is covered for the entire 36 month period. The more I think about spending 5K on a lawn mower the more I like the insurance. Also the 4 year warranty. Now I have to decide, but hustler dealer wants 3% finance charge. Gravely is nice but if I get it, it will be the 52" and it is 5455 with tax. Kubota 48" is 4846 with tax. And the extra year of warranty. The insurance is about 100 bucks a year.
Now I am thinking Kubota, tomorrow I will be thinking Scag, and the next day I will be looking for someone to mow my grass or even worst I will go to Lowes and pick up a troy built. Never ending... the more I look the more I spend.
I fully understand what you're saying. I really like the Kommander but when I compare the specs to the Gravely XT HD, the Gravely has it all over it so I'm still tending towards the Gravely and may decide this weekend. Forgot to mention that Gravely also has a $40 hitch that you can attach several items to like a spreader which I will consider. What is affecting my decision is that the Gravely has the 1" cast iron spindles versus Kommander's 1" aluminum, and the Gravely has ball bearings like the commercial units. Transmissions are the same. The deck on the Gravely is a little deeper at 5 1/2" but the big deal here is the floating deck like the commercial units have. Most of all, it has the Kawaski engine. Although the Kommander has a 4 year warranty, the Gravely has been on the market without changes for at least a few years so I would assume that the unit is much more perfected. Oh, and the front wheels are larger than the Kommander which will provide less wear on the lawn with your turns. The more I talk about the specs, the more I believe the Kommander is out-matched by the Gravely. But like someone mentioned, the dealer relationship has a lot to do with everything too. Will not be financing so there is a pretty good discount with the dealer which means the Gravely will also cost less. Lastly, I'm not looking at any other brands like Toro or Scag, etc. The Gravely dealer is further from the Kuboto dealer but the Gravely dealer is much more personable and willing to work with you.
#9
P
pbjeep
what kind of quote you getting on the Gravely? What inch deck?
P
pbjeep
I fully understand what you're saying. I really like the Kommander but when I compare the specs to the Gravely XT HD, the Gravely has it all over it so I'm still tending towards the Gravely and may decide this weekend. Forgot to mention that Gravely also has a $40 hitch that you can attach several items to like a spreader which I will consider. What is affecting my decision is that the Gravely has the 1" cast iron spindles versus Kommander's 1" aluminum, and the Gravely has ball bearings like the commercial units. Transmissions are the same. The deck on the Gravely is a little deeper at 5 1/2" but the big deal here is the floating deck like the commercial units have. Most of all, it has the Kawaski engine. Although the Kommander has a 4 year warranty, the Gravely has been on the market without changes for at least a few years so I would assume that the unit is much more perfected. Oh, and the front wheels are larger than the Kommander which will provide less wear on the lawn with your turns. The more I talk about the specs, the more I believe the Kommander is out-matched by the Gravely. But like someone mentioned, the dealer relationship has a lot to do with everything too. Will not be financing so there is a pretty good discount with the dealer which means the Gravely will also cost less. Lastly, I'm not looking at any other brands like Toro or Scag, etc. The Gravely dealer is further from the Kuboto dealer but the Gravely dealer is much more personable and willing to work with you.
what kind of quote you getting on the Gravely? What inch deck?
#10
R
RustyBoy
Received quotes from a few dealers for the ZT HD 48" ranging from $4439 cash to $5000. Went to both dealers this afternoon, the Kubota and Gravely so I could better compare the models. Still difficult without having them side by side but finally decided a few hours ago with the Gravely simply because of its seemingly better quality with the ball bearing cast iron spindles, deck depth, hanging deck and Kawi engine. Also, I went to the Gravely site and they have numerous consumer friendly instructions for performing routine maintenance and more, something that Kubota does not have. I like doing the simple work myself so this is a plus for me. They also have a phone number for tech support. Gravely supposedly is offering its dealers a special one day promotion sometime in April focusing on commercial mowers. I received a quote for that sale in April at $4439 but that would be for a 1 year commercial warranty. I went with the $4600 cash price as I like the dealer even though he's further away from the Kubota dealer. Lastly, Gravely has a hitch you can purchase for $40 which will accept several implements - in my case, I will be getting a fertilizer spreader. Bottom line is that I'll be paying about $5,000 for the mower, suspension seat, hitch, floor pan mat and a set of blades. Found out today that the Kubota grass chute does not stay in the up position when storing in the garage/shed. Salesman said to make a hole in the chute and attach a cord to hold it up. Not a big deal but the Gravely had a pin that holds the chute up, plus it has an easily read gas gauge. I think the Kubota maybe looks nicer with its clean lines while the Gravely seems to be designed primarily to get the job done and possibly longer longevity - just my take. Hope this helps.
R
RustyBoy
what kind of quote you getting on the Gravely? What inch deck?
Received quotes from a few dealers for the ZT HD 48" ranging from $4439 cash to $5000. Went to both dealers this afternoon, the Kubota and Gravely so I could better compare the models. Still difficult without having them side by side but finally decided a few hours ago with the Gravely simply because of its seemingly better quality with the ball bearing cast iron spindles, deck depth, hanging deck and Kawi engine. Also, I went to the Gravely site and they have numerous consumer friendly instructions for performing routine maintenance and more, something that Kubota does not have. I like doing the simple work myself so this is a plus for me. They also have a phone number for tech support. Gravely supposedly is offering its dealers a special one day promotion sometime in April focusing on commercial mowers. I received a quote for that sale in April at $4439 but that would be for a 1 year commercial warranty. I went with the $4600 cash price as I like the dealer even though he's further away from the Kubota dealer. Lastly, Gravely has a hitch you can purchase for $40 which will accept several implements - in my case, I will be getting a fertilizer spreader. Bottom line is that I'll be paying about $5,000 for the mower, suspension seat, hitch, floor pan mat and a set of blades. Found out today that the Kubota grass chute does not stay in the up position when storing in the garage/shed. Salesman said to make a hole in the chute and attach a cord to hold it up. Not a big deal but the Gravely had a pin that holds the chute up, plus it has an easily read gas gauge. I think the Kubota maybe looks nicer with its clean lines while the Gravely seems to be designed primarily to get the job done and possibly longer longevity - just my take. Hope this helps.
#11
P
pbjeep
Yeah both have there quirks no doubt, I am now leaning towards the Kubota for the simple fact of the insurance they offer. I would hate to drive my new mower in the bayou (Live on water) or have it stolen. They also cover it while being transported. Either machine is good, Gravely does look beefier and my friend has had his for 6 or 7 seasons with only a starter issue but he has the koler. I am going to get something tomorrow. May change my mind ten times before now and then but I will have a new mower tomorrow. Watch it rain all weekend.
P
pbjeep
Received quotes from a few dealers for the ZT HD 48" ranging from $4439 cash to $5000. Went to both dealers this afternoon, the Kubota and Gravely so I could better compare the models. Still difficult without having them side by side but finally decided a few hours ago with the Gravely simply because of its seemingly better quality with the ball bearing cast iron spindles, deck depth, hanging deck and Kawi engine. Also, I went to the Gravely site and they have numerous consumer friendly instructions for performing routine maintenance and more, something that Kubota does not have. I like doing the simple work myself so this is a plus for me. They also have a phone number for tech support. Gravely supposedly is offering its dealers a special one day promotion sometime in April focusing on commercial mowers. I received a quote for that sale in April at $4439 but that would be for a 1 year commercial warranty. I went with the $4600 cash price as I like the dealer even though he's further away from the Kubota dealer. Lastly, Gravely has a hitch you can purchase for $40 which will accept several implements - in my case, I will be getting a fertilizer spreader. Bottom line is that I'll be paying about $5,000 for the mower, suspension seat, hitch, floor pan mat and a set of blades. Found out today that the Kubota grass chute does not stay in the up position when storing in the garage/shed. Salesman said to make a hole in the chute and attach a cord to hold it up. Not a big deal but the Gravely had a pin that holds the chute up, plus it has an easily read gas gauge. I think the Kubota maybe looks nicer with its clean lines while the Gravely seems to be designed primarily to get the job done and possibly longer longevity - just my take. Hope this helps.
Yeah both have there quirks no doubt, I am now leaning towards the Kubota for the simple fact of the insurance they offer. I would hate to drive my new mower in the bayou (Live on water) or have it stolen. They also cover it while being transported. Either machine is good, Gravely does look beefier and my friend has had his for 6 or 7 seasons with only a starter issue but he has the koler. I am going to get something tomorrow. May change my mind ten times before now and then but I will have a new mower tomorrow. Watch it rain all weekend.
#12
R
RustyBoy
Regardless of which mower you choose, I think you'll be happy with it. Seems like whatever someone has, it's the best, so you have to weigh all of the variables and what's most important to you. If you're still considering the Gravely but the insurance is an issue, you may want to check to see whether Gravely offers similar insurance. Could be the same insurance company that Kubota uses for their mowers. Also, I believe Gravely has that zero interest financing if that is of interest. Someone mentioned that the dealer relationship is important, and also the proximity to your home. Unfortunately, my Kubota dealer is closer to where I live but the sales person really sucks, and I believe he's a reflection of that business itself. Doesn't like to answer technical questions. The only way I found out that Kubota uses an aluminum spindle is by speaking with the regional rep, but still don't know whether they use ball bearings. The rep said that the spindle specs should be on their spec sheet and will do so in the future. Let us know when and what you decide.
R
RustyBoy
Yeah both have there quirks no doubt, I am now leaning towards the Kubota for the simple fact of the insurance they offer. I would hate to drive my new mower in the bayou (Live on water) or have it stolen. They also cover it while being transported. Either machine is good, Gravely does look beefier and my friend has had his for 6 or 7 seasons with only a starter issue but he has the koler. I am going to get something tomorrow. May change my mind ten times before now and then but I will have a new mower tomorrow. Watch it rain all weekend.
Regardless of which mower you choose, I think you'll be happy with it. Seems like whatever someone has, it's the best, so you have to weigh all of the variables and what's most important to you. If you're still considering the Gravely but the insurance is an issue, you may want to check to see whether Gravely offers similar insurance. Could be the same insurance company that Kubota uses for their mowers. Also, I believe Gravely has that zero interest financing if that is of interest. Someone mentioned that the dealer relationship is important, and also the proximity to your home. Unfortunately, my Kubota dealer is closer to where I live but the sales person really sucks, and I believe he's a reflection of that business itself. Doesn't like to answer technical questions. The only way I found out that Kubota uses an aluminum spindle is by speaking with the regional rep, but still don't know whether they use ball bearings. The rep said that the spindle specs should be on their spec sheet and will do so in the future. Let us know when and what you decide.
#13
P
pbjeep
My search is over. I got the Kubota 48" zg124e. I had a chance to use it today. Does what I need it to. Good luck with what ever you chose. Dealer had a lot to do with it as well as insurance. Plus it looks sweet and I may trade it on a tractor one day who knows.
P
pbjeep
Regardless of which mower you choose, I think you'll be happy with it. Seems like whatever someone has, it's the best, so you have to weigh all of the variables and what's most important to you. If you're still considering the Gravely but the insurance is an issue, you may want to check to see whether Gravely offers similar insurance. Could be the same insurance company that Kubota uses for their mowers. Also, I believe Gravely has that zero interest financing if that is of interest. Someone mentioned that the dealer relationship is important, and also the proximity to your home. Unfortunately, my Kubota dealer is closer to where I live but the sales person really sucks, and I believe he's a reflection of that business itself. Doesn't like to answer technical questions. The only way I found out that Kubota uses an aluminum spindle is by speaking with the regional rep, but still don't know whether they use ball bearings. The rep said that the spindle specs should be on their spec sheet and will do so in the future. Let us know when and what you decide.
My search is over. I got the Kubota 48" zg124e. I had a chance to use it today. Does what I need it to. Good luck with what ever you chose. Dealer had a lot to do with it as well as insurance. Plus it looks sweet and I may trade it on a tractor one day who knows.
#14
Ragnar4841
Congrats! I really like mine. I can't compare to any other ZT, but after I mowed for the first time, I went out and got a good pair of noise-cancelling earmuffs because that thing is LOUD with the PTO engaged. The foam plugs just didn't do it.
And the oil changes are super-easy, don't even need tools.
Ragnar4841
My search is over. I got the Kubota 48" zg124e. I had a chance to use it today. Does what I need it to. Good luck with what ever you chose. Dealer had a lot to do with it as well as insurance. Plus it looks sweet and I may trade it on a tractor one day who knows.
Congrats! I really like mine. I can't compare to any other ZT, but after I mowed for the first time, I went out and got a good pair of noise-cancelling earmuffs because that thing is LOUD with the PTO engaged. The foam plugs just didn't do it.
And the oil changes are super-easy, don't even need tools.
#15
R
RustyBoy
That's great news! Now your anguish over deciding is done, and regrettable for me, mine is not done. I think you'll be very happy with the Kubota as it does feel nice, a big plus. The big advantage I like with the Kubota are the control handles as compared with the Gravely. I had decided on the Gravely and sent an e-mail to the dealer to order a 2014 model, but the dealer hasn't returned my e-mail. Dealer has a 2013 ZT HD on floor but evidently he wants to sell the floor model. But I want a 2014 that hasn't been handled. I noticed that the floor model has one of the hand controls binding in the open position. Maybe someone over-torqued the nut that holds the bushing to the control arm pivot but I prefer a 2014 even though there is no difference in specs. So at this point I need to try a different Gravely dealer or go Kubota. With the new Gravely dealer, he's about 30 minutes further from the Kubota dealer, but his price out the door on his 2013 floor model is $500 less than the Kubota. So I really need to make a decision. Best of luck with your new Kubota, a fine looking machine.
R
RustyBoy
My search is over. I got the Kubota 48" zg124e. I had a chance to use it today. Does what I need it to. Good luck with what ever you chose. Dealer had a lot to do with it as well as insurance. Plus it looks sweet and I may trade it on a tractor one day who knows.
That's great news! Now your anguish over deciding is done, and regrettable for me, mine is not done. I think you'll be very happy with the Kubota as it does feel nice, a big plus. The big advantage I like with the Kubota are the control handles as compared with the Gravely. I had decided on the Gravely and sent an e-mail to the dealer to order a 2014 model, but the dealer hasn't returned my e-mail. Dealer has a 2013 ZT HD on floor but evidently he wants to sell the floor model. But I want a 2014 that hasn't been handled. I noticed that the floor model has one of the hand controls binding in the open position. Maybe someone over-torqued the nut that holds the bushing to the control arm pivot but I prefer a 2014 even though there is no difference in specs. So at this point I need to try a different Gravely dealer or go Kubota. With the new Gravely dealer, he's about 30 minutes further from the Kubota dealer, but his price out the door on his 2013 floor model is $500 less than the Kubota. So I really need to make a decision. Best of luck with your new Kubota, a fine looking machine.
#16
wjjones
wjjones
I have been looking at some of the new Hustler models they look like pretty good mowers.
#17
J
jbrown91
You do realize that ear plugs provide more decibel reduction than over the ear protection? Typically ear plugs are 30 decibel reduction whereas most over the ear is 25 decibel reduction.
On another note, aluminum mandrels are commonly used on commercial mowers. Not many use cast iron, it's doesn't have the same thermal properties. Kawasaki isn't a superior engine if anyone thinks that. Kohler makes a great engine, as well as Generac.
They are all good choices, it is what you are comfortable with.
J
jbrown91
Congrats! I really like mine. I can't compare to any other ZT, b? ut after I mowed for the first time, I went out and got a good pair of noise-cancelling earmuffs because that thing is LOUD with the PTO engaged. The foam plugs just didn't do it.
And the oil changes are super-easy, don't even need tools.
You do realize that ear plugs provide more decibel reduction than over the ear protection? Typically ear plugs are 30 decibel reduction whereas most over the ear is 25 decibel reduction.
On another note, aluminum mandrels are commonly used on commercial mowers. Not many use cast iron, it's doesn't have the same thermal properties. Kawasaki isn't a superior engine if anyone thinks that. Kohler makes a great engine, as well as Generac.
They are all good choices, it is what you are comfortable with.
#18
S
satman858
I will have to disagree Kawasaki is a superior to a Kohler engine. Don't know anything about Generac, so I have no comment about them. I been having a Gravely ZT 44" small commercial owner for 8 years now since 06, and one of the main reason I bought the Gravely was the option for a Kawasaki engine, and of course the cast iron spindles with packed ball bearings. I did 3 months of study on which one to buy back then. I have to say I have never made a better decision in my life. Besides norm maintenance, I have only have had a couple of $15-$20 buck Soleloids, go out in the 8 years I have owned my Gravely. I recommended my Gravely a year later to a friend of mine and he bought the same one as me, and he has not had problems with his neither.
Go luck Rustyboy if you get the Gravely. There are great mowers.
S
satman858
You do realize that ear plugs provide more decibel reduction than over the ear protection? Typically ear plugs are 30 decibel reduction whereas most over the ear is 25 decibel reduction.
On another note, aluminum mandrels are commonly used on commercial mowers. Not many use cast iron, it's doesn't have the same thermal properties. Kawasaki isn't a superior engine if anyone thinks that. Kohler makes a great engine, as well as Generac.
They are all good choices, it is what you are comfortable with.
I will have to disagree Kawasaki is a superior to a Kohler engine. Don't know anything about Generac, so I have no comment about them. I been having a Gravely ZT 44" small commercial owner for 8 years now since 06, and one of the main reason I bought the Gravely was the option for a Kawasaki engine, and of course the cast iron spindles with packed ball bearings. I did 3 months of study on which one to buy back then. I have to say I have never made a better decision in my life. Besides norm maintenance, I have only have had a couple of $15-$20 buck Soleloids, go out in the 8 years I have owned my Gravely. I recommended my Gravely a year later to a friend of mine and he bought the same one as me, and he has not had problems with his neither.
Go luck Rustyboy if you get the Gravely. There are great mowers.
#19
J
jbrown91
J
jbrown91
Kawasaki makes a good engine, but they aren't the best. They've had many issues with valve guides and warped heads. Many of those were designed for Deere, but those aren't the only ones they had problems with. I have Kawasaki on three pieces of equipment, I've had over 10 Kawasaki's in my career. I like Kohler though and you can talk to many shops that'll tell you that Kawasaki engines do have problems. There are advantages to all of them.
The B&S Vanguard, a good engine, is based off the original design of Generac. Generac makes one of the most reliable engines out there, I would say Kohler second and Kawasaki a close third. Most Kawasaki's don't have problems, but some do. A LOT of it is in how you maintain it.
The B&S Vanguard, a good engine, is based off the original design of Generac. Generac makes one of the most reliable engines out there, I would say Kohler second and Kawasaki a close third. Most Kawasaki's don't have problems, but some do. A LOT of it is in how you maintain it.
#20
S
satman858
Out of Kawasaki and Kohler twin engines, Kawasaki wins hands down. I know many lawn professionals that will tell you the same. They will tell you that Kohler engines have many more issues than Kawasaki engines do. Maybe Deere was cutting cost as to the designed one they were buying from Kawasaki. The Kawasaki's in Gravely mowers are top notch. :thumbsup:
S
satman858
Kawasaki makes a good engine, but they aren't the best. They've had many issues with valve guides and warped heads. Many of those were designed for Deere, but those aren't the only ones they had problems with. I have Kawasaki on three pieces of equipment, I've had over 10 Kawasaki's in my career. I like Kohler though and you can talk to many shops that'll tell you that Kawasaki engines do have problems. There are advantages to all of them.
The B&S Vanguard, a good engine, is based off the original design of Generac. Generac makes one of the most reliable engines out there, I would say Kohler second and Kawasaki a close third. Most Kawasaki's don't have problems, but some do. A LOT of it is in how you maintain it.
Out of Kawasaki and Kohler twin engines, Kawasaki wins hands down. I know many lawn professionals that will tell you the same. They will tell you that Kohler engines have many more issues than Kawasaki engines do. Maybe Deere was cutting cost as to the designed one they were buying from Kawasaki. The Kawasaki's in Gravely mowers are top notch. :thumbsup:
#21
J
jbrown91
As a lawn care professional that has 12 years experience, I can tell you that they are both good engines. John Deere doesn't cut costs, the engines are nearly identical to its normal counterpart, usually different cranks, valves, etc. Deere is the only manufacture I know of that custom orders their engines, all other manufactures use the normal Kawasaki engine. That being said, it was common in Deere's because they still used horizontal shaft engines as opposed to vertical shaft.
Kohler engines are built stronger than most others. They "overbuild" them, if you take one apart and compare it to a Kawasaki you'll see. Kohler's typically make it longer on life as well compared to Kawasaki. I personally haven't had either over a 1000 hours, so from personal experience I can't say that I've used a Kohler or Kawasaki longer. Typically when a Kawasaki has an internal failure, you need a short block. If a Kohler has the same problem, you typically only replace the bad part and off you go.
I'm not saying either one is better, but for longevity I would say Kohler will last longer and stand behind their product better. I've worked on both and used both, think they are great.
Gravely is one of those brands that I tried at one time and was not impressed. They have a short expected service life of less than 2000 hours. They used cast iron spindles, sealed bearings, and had less extra cooling on engines and hydro pumps/motors. Nowadays Ariens made a big turn around on Gravely, especially after the acquisition of ACI. Gravely is a lot better than they used to be, that's for sure. Most of the brands are really equal, some just have some features others don't.
J
jbrown91
Out of Kawasaki and Kohler twin engines, Kawasaki wins hands down. I know many lawn professionals that will tell you the same. They will tell you that Kohler engines have many more issues than Kawasaki engines do. Maybe Deere was cutting cost as to the designed one they were buying from Kawasaki. The Kawasaki's in Gravely mowers are top notch. :thumbsup:
As a lawn care professional that has 12 years experience, I can tell you that they are both good engines. John Deere doesn't cut costs, the engines are nearly identical to its normal counterpart, usually different cranks, valves, etc. Deere is the only manufacture I know of that custom orders their engines, all other manufactures use the normal Kawasaki engine. That being said, it was common in Deere's because they still used horizontal shaft engines as opposed to vertical shaft.
Kohler engines are built stronger than most others. They "overbuild" them, if you take one apart and compare it to a Kawasaki you'll see. Kohler's typically make it longer on life as well compared to Kawasaki. I personally haven't had either over a 1000 hours, so from personal experience I can't say that I've used a Kohler or Kawasaki longer. Typically when a Kawasaki has an internal failure, you need a short block. If a Kohler has the same problem, you typically only replace the bad part and off you go.
I'm not saying either one is better, but for longevity I would say Kohler will last longer and stand behind their product better. I've worked on both and used both, think they are great.
Gravely is one of those brands that I tried at one time and was not impressed. They have a short expected service life of less than 2000 hours. They used cast iron spindles, sealed bearings, and had less extra cooling on engines and hydro pumps/motors. Nowadays Ariens made a big turn around on Gravely, especially after the acquisition of ACI. Gravely is a lot better than they used to be, that's for sure. Most of the brands are really equal, some just have some features others don't.