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Small part timer looking for new ZT, Help!
#1
L
lynxridge
L
lynxridge
Hey all, I am new to this site. I have a small part time mowing business (about 10 accounts) and I am looking to upgrade from my 2008 46" Snapper tractor to a zero turn. There are way too many choices out there and I've got information overload. Right now I am looking hard at the Huster Raptor SD, Gravely ZT XL, and Kubota Kommander. What are your alls thoughts on these models and do you have suggestions of other makes and models.... Husqvarna, Ariens, Dixie Chopper or other commercial grade makes...? I'd really like to keep my budget around $4,000-4500, but get something that will last me 5 years. I am leaning towards a Hustler or Gravely because of the Kawasaki engines, but I also like the Kubota because, well, it's name and it has some nice options. It has a B&S I believe, and from what I have read on other forums you should stay away from B&S and Kohler. How much truth is there to that? My Snapper has a Briggs has run great.
I had pretty much settled on the Hustler Raptor SD, but then I saw a youtube review where they have had issues with spindles and clutches. So that set me back a bit.
What are the biggest things I should be looking for, as far as options and build?
Any suggestions are welcome! Thank you all!
I had pretty much settled on the Hustler Raptor SD, but then I saw a youtube review where they have had issues with spindles and clutches. So that set me back a bit.
What are the biggest things I should be looking for, as far as options and build?
Any suggestions are welcome! Thank you all!
#2
M
Mad Mackie
M
Mad Mackie
If you do or plan to do leaf collection, then look for a machine that has a collection blower/bagger option from the manufacturer. As Kawasaki has many engines in their line, the FX models are the top of the Kawi line and it has the HD dual element air filter as standard equipment. Dust ingestion is a serious factor particularly when using a collection system as the bags hang close to the engine. If you are not a self service type, then I suggest that you consider buying from a local quality servicing dealer.
Mad Mackie in CT:laughing::smile::biggrin:
Mad Mackie in CT:laughing::smile::biggrin:
#3
Q
quadridermx
Q
quadridermx
I mow about 2 acres and have been researching this very question for months now. The best bang for the buck (right now) in my opinion, is the Husqvarna M-ZT61. It has commercial 3400 hydros, a fairly heavy reinforced fabricated deck, large tires all around, and offers the Kawasaki engine. It's considered an entry level commercial mower and weights around 8-900 lbs. Appears to be built well, and the reviews on them are all great. The features blow any residential mower out of the water.
I went with it because it had the most bang for the buck that I could find, AND right now Husqvarna is running a promotion. Buy any "commercial" zero turn with 3 hand helds (backpack blower, trimmer, edger, for example) and get 20% off the entire purchase. They are also offering 0% financing for 4 years.
After a little bargaining (they couldn't do much), I am getting a M-ZT61 with the Kawasaki engine, 2 backpack blowers, a mulching kit, and a string trimmer for about $5500. The dealer actually offered to buy back the handhelds if I didn't need them. That would have put the mower itself at about $4700, which is a lot of bang for your buck in this segment.
I went with it because it had the most bang for the buck that I could find, AND right now Husqvarna is running a promotion. Buy any "commercial" zero turn with 3 hand helds (backpack blower, trimmer, edger, for example) and get 20% off the entire purchase. They are also offering 0% financing for 4 years.
After a little bargaining (they couldn't do much), I am getting a M-ZT61 with the Kawasaki engine, 2 backpack blowers, a mulching kit, and a string trimmer for about $5500. The dealer actually offered to buy back the handhelds if I didn't need them. That would have put the mower itself at about $4700, which is a lot of bang for your buck in this segment.
#4
djdicetn
The Husqvarna MZ-T series recommended by user quadridermx would be a good one for you to look at. On the Gravely, I would recommend you go with the ZT HD series(a "little" pricier than the XL, but of all the Gravely's I was LEAST impressed with the XL specs & build...and I love my Gravely). I had not heard about the spindle and clutch problems on the new Hustler Raptor series. Can you post a link to that??? If you have a Dixie Chopper dealer nearby check out the Zee 2. Some others to compare would be a Toro Titan or Cub Cadet Z-Force. There are a lot of "options" to consider, but if you are mowing commercially the most important ones are serviceable trannies, at least a 10gauge deck(if not a 7gauge), Kawasaki engine if you can get it, a decent warranty and most importantly....a dealer you feel comfortable with. You may have to up the ante to around $5k to get a machine tough enough for 10 yards weekly.
djdicetn
Hey all, I am new to this site. I have a small part time mowing business (about 10 accounts) and I am looking to upgrade from my 2008 46" Snapper tractor to a zero turn. There are way too many choices out there and I've got information overload. Right now I am looking hard at the Huster Raptor SD, Gravely ZT XL, and Kubota Kommander. What are your alls thoughts on these models and do you have suggestions of other makes and models.... Husqvarna, Ariens, Dixie Chopper or other commercial grade makes...? I'd really like to keep my budget around $4,000-4500, but get something that will last me 5 years. I am leaning towards a Hustler or Gravely because of the Kawasaki engines, but I also like the Kubota because, well, it's name and it has some nice options. It has a B&S I believe, and from what I have read on other forums you should stay away from B&S and Kohler. How much truth is there to that? My Snapper has a Briggs has run great.
I had pretty much settled on the Hustler Raptor SD, but then I saw a youtube review where they have had issues with spindles and clutches. So that set me back a bit.
What are the biggest things I should be looking for, as far as options and build?
Any suggestions are welcome! Thank you all!
The Husqvarna MZ-T series recommended by user quadridermx would be a good one for you to look at. On the Gravely, I would recommend you go with the ZT HD series(a "little" pricier than the XL, but of all the Gravely's I was LEAST impressed with the XL specs & build...and I love my Gravely). I had not heard about the spindle and clutch problems on the new Hustler Raptor series. Can you post a link to that??? If you have a Dixie Chopper dealer nearby check out the Zee 2. Some others to compare would be a Toro Titan or Cub Cadet Z-Force. There are a lot of "options" to consider, but if you are mowing commercially the most important ones are serviceable trannies, at least a 10gauge deck(if not a 7gauge), Kawasaki engine if you can get it, a decent warranty and most importantly....a dealer you feel comfortable with. You may have to up the ante to around $5k to get a machine tough enough for 10 yards weekly.
#5
L
lynxridge
I found the recall info on a youtube video a kid posted. I verified it on this thread http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/hustler-forum/24237-raptor-sd-recall.html
If I had the $5k to jump up to the next level I'd do it in a heartbeat, but I really need to keep it around $4k. That is why I am looking at the Raptor SD. I talked to my Gravely dealer and he has the 48" at $4099 and the 54" at 4199. I need to measure my trailer before I decide if I am going 54 or not. The Hustler dealer has no residential in stock, but can order it. I am still waiting for a call back on the price. I also heard there is a 3 week backorder on the raptors, which is also plays a role into my decision. Another thing that will play a roll is a bagger. It is a must, but they are very pricey. I am contemplating keeping my old Snapper with the bagger on it for fall, or buying one of those Accelerator or Pack 'Em side cans.
L
lynxridge
The Husqvarna MZ-T series recommended by user quadridermx would be a good one for you to look at. On the Gravely, I would recommend you go with the ZT HD series(a "little" pricier than the XL, but of all the Gravely's I was LEAST impressed with the XL specs & build...and I love my Gravely). I had not heard about the spindle and clutch problems on the new Hustler Raptor series. Can you post a link to that??? If you have a Dixie Chopper dealer nearby check out the Zee 2. Some others to compare would be a Toro Titan or Cub Cadet Z-Force. There are a lot of "options" to consider, but if you are mowing commercially the most important ones are serviceable trannies, at least a 10gauge deck(if not a 7gauge), Kawasaki engine if you can get it, a decent warranty and most importantly....a dealer you feel comfortable with. You may have to up the ante to around $5k to get a machine tough enough for 10 yards weekly.
I found the recall info on a youtube video a kid posted. I verified it on this thread http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/hustler-forum/24237-raptor-sd-recall.html
If I had the $5k to jump up to the next level I'd do it in a heartbeat, but I really need to keep it around $4k. That is why I am looking at the Raptor SD. I talked to my Gravely dealer and he has the 48" at $4099 and the 54" at 4199. I need to measure my trailer before I decide if I am going 54 or not. The Hustler dealer has no residential in stock, but can order it. I am still waiting for a call back on the price. I also heard there is a 3 week backorder on the raptors, which is also plays a role into my decision. Another thing that will play a roll is a bagger. It is a must, but they are very pricey. I am contemplating keeping my old Snapper with the bagger on it for fall, or buying one of those Accelerator or Pack 'Em side cans.
#6
djdicetn
The recall on the clutch seems to be very minor, but not knowing what kind of spindles they use on the Raptor(and the warranty on them) that would be a concern. One would think a company like Hustler would use decent spindle assemblies on any product they build.
djdicetn
I found the recall info on a youtube video a kid posted. I verified it on this thread http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/hustler-forum/24237-raptor-sd-recall.html
If I had the $5k to jump up to the next level I'd do it in a heartbeat, but I really need to keep it around $4k. That is why I am looking at the Raptor SD. I talked to my Gravely dealer and he has the 48" at $4099 and the 54" at 4199. I need to measure my trailer before I decide if I am going 54 or not. The Hustler dealer has no residential in stock, but can order it. I am still waiting for a call back on the price. I also heard there is a 3 week backorder on the raptors, which is also plays a role into my decision. Another thing that will play a roll is a bagger. It is a must, but they are very pricey. I am contemplating keeping my old Snapper with the bagger on it for fall, or buying one of those Accelerator or Pack 'Em side cans.
The recall on the clutch seems to be very minor, but not knowing what kind of spindles they use on the Raptor(and the warranty on them) that would be a concern. One would think a company like Hustler would use decent spindle assemblies on any product they build.
#7
L
lynxridge
According to their site they use aluminum. The same for the Gravely ZT XL. You have to go up to the fastrak or ZT HD to get cast.
L
lynxridge
The recall on the clutch seems to be very minor, but not knowing what kind of spindles they use on the Raptor(and the warranty on them) that would be a concern. One would think a company like Hustler would use decent spindle assemblies on any product they build.
According to their site they use aluminum. The same for the Gravely ZT XL. You have to go up to the fastrak or ZT HD to get cast.
#8
djdicetn
Hey...if you haven't already, check out some of the new owner reviews/problems with the RSD on the thread in the link below. Seems like most of them could be related to the recall:
http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/hustler-forum/21880-raptor-sd.html
djdicetn
I found the recall info on a youtube video a kid posted. I verified it on this thread http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/hustler-forum/24237-raptor-sd-recall.html
If I had the $5k to jump up to the next level I'd do it in a heartbeat, but I really need to keep it around $4k. That is why I am looking at the Raptor SD. I talked to my Gravely dealer and he has the 48" at $4099 and the 54" at 4199. I need to measure my trailer before I decide if I am going 54 or not. The Hustler dealer has no residential in stock, but can order it. I am still waiting for a call back on the price. I also heard there is a 3 week backorder on the raptors, which is also plays a role into my decision. Another thing that will play a roll is a bagger. It is a must, but they are very pricey. I am contemplating keeping my old Snapper with the bagger on it for fall, or buying one of those Accelerator or Pack 'Em side cans.
Hey...if you haven't already, check out some of the new owner reviews/problems with the RSD on the thread in the link below. Seems like most of them could be related to the recall:
http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/hustler-forum/21880-raptor-sd.html
#9
L
lynxridge
Thank you, I just got done reading that.
L
lynxridge
Hey...if you haven't already, check out some of the new owner reviews/problems with the RSD on the thread in the link below. Seems like most of them could be related to the recall:
http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/hustler-forum/21880-raptor-sd.html
Thank you, I just got done reading that.
#10
djdicetn
Looks like the rollout of the new Raptor series is off to a rocky start:0(
djdicetn
Thank you, I just got done reading that.
Looks like the rollout of the new Raptor series is off to a rocky start:0(
#11
L
lynxridge
I just talked to the dealer in Maine and he said he is having trouble with the manufactuer and wouldn't feel comfortable selling me the Raptor. Looks like I'll be calling the Gravely dealer this week to see what kind of a deal he can give me on a ZTXL54 with a bagger.
L
lynxridge
Looks like the rollout of the new Raptor series is off to a rocky start:0(
I just talked to the dealer in Maine and he said he is having trouble with the manufactuer and wouldn't feel comfortable selling me the Raptor. Looks like I'll be calling the Gravely dealer this week to see what kind of a deal he can give me on a ZTXL54 with a bagger.
#12
djdicetn
IMHO, you should talk turkey with the Gravely dealer and see if he can put you on a 48" or 52" ZT HD. I know you have a budget, but for around $5K the ZT HD would be a much better investment for your small business than the XL and be well worth the extra money. To me, the XL just doesn't have enough "Commercial quality" components like the ZT HD does. The XL will probably serve you well, but the HD is as close to a Commercial ZTR as you will get for $5K.
P.S.
If the bagger is not a must, you should just put a mulch kit on the Gravely. I put one one mine and it was goodbye grass clippings and windrows!!!
P.S.S
JFG, below is a link to my local dealer who shows the 48" ZT HD(Model# 991082) on sale for $4,999(the 52" is only $100 more). See what you think.
Runtime Error
djdicetn
I just talked to the dealer in Maine and he said he is having trouble with the manufactuer and wouldn't feel comfortable selling me the Raptor. Looks like I'll be calling the Gravely dealer this week to see what kind of a deal he can give me on a ZTXL54 with a bagger.
IMHO, you should talk turkey with the Gravely dealer and see if he can put you on a 48" or 52" ZT HD. I know you have a budget, but for around $5K the ZT HD would be a much better investment for your small business than the XL and be well worth the extra money. To me, the XL just doesn't have enough "Commercial quality" components like the ZT HD does. The XL will probably serve you well, but the HD is as close to a Commercial ZTR as you will get for $5K.
P.S.
If the bagger is not a must, you should just put a mulch kit on the Gravely. I put one one mine and it was goodbye grass clippings and windrows!!!
P.S.S
JFG, below is a link to my local dealer who shows the 48" ZT HD(Model# 991082) on sale for $4,999(the 52" is only $100 more). See what you think.
Runtime Error
#13
T
tom-ky
T
tom-ky
I started out looking at the Gravely XL. I liked the heavier transaxle on the HD model but I did not like the steering handles. I would really suggest to go drive everything you can. I like the Kubota, Ferris and Hustler. I ended up with the Husqvarna MZT 52. I likes the heavier transaxles and bigger tires. In my test driving it seemed like the smaller tires spun out easier on the hills. I liked how the Hustler handles but they were further away. I got a good deal on the left over MZT and so far really like it.
Almost makes mowing enjoyable. My arms are less tired after mowing with it, almost seems effortless compared to fighting a steering wheel. It has reduced my mowing time by a third.
Almost makes mowing enjoyable. My arms are less tired after mowing with it, almost seems effortless compared to fighting a steering wheel. It has reduced my mowing time by a third.
#14
W
wdrdoctor
W
wdrdoctor
I have a dixie chopper zee 2 ,42 inch deck,kawi engine. I love my mower! I bought it brand new,and under $4,000.00
I'm glad I bought the 42 inch because of getting into fenced in backyards.
I'm glad I bought the 42 inch because of getting into fenced in backyards.
#15
L
lynxridge
Do they make a bagger for the Zee 2? I can't find anywhere online that says they do. I like the looks of the Dixie, but I need at least a 48". I have some good sized accounts.
L
lynxridge
I have a dixie chopper zee 2 ,42 inch deck,kawi engine. I love my mower! I bought it brand new,and under $4,000.00
I'm glad I bought the 42 inch because of getting into fenced in backyards.
Do they make a bagger for the Zee 2? I can't find anywhere online that says they do. I like the looks of the Dixie, but I need at least a 48". I have some good sized accounts.
#16
L
lynxridge
The same dealer that sells Gravely carries Husqvarna too. I plan to stop in tomorrow or Thursday to give them a look. I'll be sure to see if they have that MZT. Thanks!
L
lynxridge
I started out looking at the Gravely XL. I liked the heavier transaxle on the HD model but I did not like the steering handles. I would really suggest to go drive everything you can. I like the Kubota, Ferris and Hustler. I ended up with the Husqvarna MZT 52. I likes the heavier transaxles and bigger tires. In my test driving it seemed like the smaller tires spun out easier on the hills. I liked how the Hustler handles but they were further away. I got a good deal on the left over MZT and so far really like it.
Almost makes mowing enjoyable. My arms are less tired after mowing with it, almost seems effortless compared to fighting a steering wheel. It has reduced my mowing time by a third.
The same dealer that sells Gravely carries Husqvarna too. I plan to stop in tomorrow or Thursday to give them a look. I'll be sure to see if they have that MZT. Thanks!
#17
T
tom-ky
My model from last year has the Briggs, this year they started putting Kawasaki on them to if that is what you prefer.
T
tom-ky
The same dealer that sells Gravely carries Husqvarna too. I plan to stop in tomorrow or Thursday to give them a look. I'll be sure to see if they have that MZT. Thanks!
My model from last year has the Briggs, this year they started putting Kawasaki on them to if that is what you prefer.
#19
djdicetn
djdicetn
Yeah, I don't see any baggers on the DC website. They do, however, have a really nice striper kit referred to as a "Zebra Striper" that uses chain links. I'll bet that works very well(that's what a lot of professionals that cut sports fields use).No, I don't think dixie chopper offers a bagger.
#20
L
lynxridge
L
lynxridge
Well I bought a Bobcat Fastcat RZ 52" this afternoon. It was a leftover demo from last year and has 34 hours. According to the dealer someone had left the key on for 12 of those hours. They had it at dealer cost of $4,199. The thing is rugged. It's half again the mower of the Gravely ZTXL 54 I was about to buy. The only drawback I found was the 26hp motor is a Briggs. But it has a 3yr warranty. Overall I am very pleased and can't wait to pick it up next week. I also ordered the 5 bushel side grass catcher for it, and he knocked off $100 and threw in two hats. Now I can finally stop stewing about what to buy! Hopefully it lasts me a good long while.
#21
djdicetn
You got a very good deal on that Bobcat!! Best price I can find online is $4,999(Suggested MSRP is approx. $5,800). Bobcat makes a very good ZTR. I think you will be very happy with that machine!!!!
djdicetn
Well I bought a Bobcat Fastcat RZ 52" this afternoon. It was a leftover demo from last year and has 34 hours. According to the dealer someone had left the key on for 12 of those hours. They had it at dealer cost of $4,199. The thing is rugged. It's half again the mower of the Gravely ZTXL 54 I was about to buy. The only drawback I found was the 26hp motor is a Briggs. But it has a 3yr warranty. Overall I am very pleased and can't wait to pick it up next week. I also ordered the 5 bushel side grass catcher for it, and he knocked off $100 and threw in two hats. Now I can finally stop stewing about what to buy! Hopefully it lasts me a good long while.
You got a very good deal on that Bobcat!! Best price I can find online is $4,999(Suggested MSRP is approx. $5,800). Bobcat makes a very good ZTR. I think you will be very happy with that machine!!!!
#22
L
lynxridge
And it came out of nowhere. Bobcat wasn't even on my radar until Tuesday. I am very pleased and can't wait to get to work!!
L
lynxridge
You got a very good deal on that Bobcat!! Best price I can find online is $4,999(Suggested MSRP is approx. $5,800). Bobcat makes a very good ZTR. I think you will be very happy with that machine!!!!
And it came out of nowhere. Bobcat wasn't even on my radar until Tuesday. I am very pleased and can't wait to get to work!!
#23
djdicetn
Some of the best deals come out of nowhere!!! I had gone to my dealer thinking I was going to look at an Ariens ZTR and when I saw the Gravely line he carried......I fell in love with the Pro-Turn 100 XDZ & with the deal he agreed to I never looked back:0)
Post a pic of your new ZTR(we wanna see it:0)
Be sure to keep us updated on the Bobcat Forum on your ownership experience. I'm quite certain it will be a good experience!!!
djdicetn
And it came out of nowhere. Bobcat wasn't even on my radar until Tuesday. I am very pleased and can't wait to get to work!!
Some of the best deals come out of nowhere!!! I had gone to my dealer thinking I was going to look at an Ariens ZTR and when I saw the Gravely line he carried......I fell in love with the Pro-Turn 100 XDZ & with the deal he agreed to I never looked back:0)
Post a pic of your new ZTR(we wanna see it:0)
Be sure to keep us updated on the Bobcat Forum on your ownership experience. I'm quite certain it will be a good experience!!!