Looking to buy first ZT and have the following options:
1. Used Scag Freedom Z - 2012 model, 109 hours for $3500 (Scag dealer 5 min from house)
New 2014 Freedom Z available for $5150
2. New 2014 Hustler Raptor SD $3800 (Hustler dealer 20 min from house)
3. New Big a Dog Alpha MP $4500 (Big Dog dealer is same place as Scag - 5 min from house)
The Big Dog and the Hustler are pretty much the same machine, they are made by the same company, excel industries. The scag has a little bit better components Kawasaki FS compared to the FR on the Big Dog and Hustler, Hydrogear zt3100 drives on the Scag and 2800 on the other two. I know some on here may disagree with me on this but in my opinion, in this comparison, the scag is built a little better, the Raptor and the Alpha are high end residential while the Scag is low end commercial.
Bear in mind that the warranty coverage is not transferable on the Scag machine and possibly the same with other mower manufacturers.
Mad Mackie in CT:laughing::biggrin::smile:
Thanks guys. I guess I should have mentioned it was for residential use of about 1.5 acres with 1-1.25 acres of grass to mow. I would really like a new Freedom Z or Hustler FastTrack but both are a little more than I want to spend. I know the old saying "you get what you pay for", hence the reason why I am looking at the used Scag. Would you guys go after the used or buy one of the new models that are a step down from the Freedom Z?
The Freedom is a step above the others in terms of series equivalency. The new machines are plenty of mower for the job, they'll do it well. And have warranty. The Freedom's condition would be the big factor to me.
Hopefully going to check out the used Freedom Z tomorrow. Dealer says it's in great condition and seller has done all maintenance at dealer. Selling only because he is upgrading to a commercial mower.
I read someone on another thread say as long as the previous owner did not register the machine with scag the warranty may still be honored. Any thoughts??? Warranty is the only thing that scares me buying used, even with only 109 hours on it. Anybody heard of dealers honoring warranty work on used mowers they sell even though the manufacturer does not?
