Suggestions on Zero Turn Mowers

[gryhnd]

I estimate we are mowing approximately 6 acres a week (then there is an additional perhaps 2 acres not mowed weekly - horse pasture). Right now this is all done with a Husq 54" 26HP lawn/garden tractor (and a push mower occasionally for some small residential areas).

What a chore! Would be one thing if the grass cut well, but here it is constantly high humidity, grass always wet, this time of year gets thick and grows like crazy. Spend alot of time trying to dig out the clumped grass under the mower. Additionally, it throws out giant clumps (after they are stuck under the machine for several rounds - or worse, they don't come loose and you have to stop mowing and clean it out). I am guessing it is Bermuda grass as most went dormant last fall, but there is more than one type of grass on the property.

We need a 2nd mower so we can both cut on the weekend as I most likely won't be home to cut during the daytime/week much longer, and were thinking maybe ZTR instead of 2nd lawn tractor.

Area to cut is mostly flat, I think anyone would call it flat. However, far from smooth in some sections, due mostly to moles/voles I believe, and also the horse pasture (not cut weekly).

Looking to, if possible, decrease hours spent mowing. Every area we mow seems to be an odd shape in that you end up circling around/backing up. Believe ZTR would help with that problem.

Not too many trees to go around, maybe 6 in each yard area.

Budget is not there for large commercial unit. Was planning to look at the Toro Timecutter 50" at Home Depot $2999 (realize it would not be recommended by a lot of people, but again, budget issue, and it does seem to have decent reviews), but they didn't have one on the floor (sold).

Looked at Bad Boy 60" at Tractor Supply. Seemed nice but if going to move up to 5k range, may as well see if the other well-known brands sell 5k mowers that are similar - have Ferris, ExMark, Scag, Hustler (and Bad Boy) dealers in vicinity.

Main goals would be 1) not a terrible ride 2) cutting/shooting out the grass smoothly with not alot of buildup underneath - if that is even possible in these conditions. 3) of course speeding up the mowing time. According to specs, Husq top speed is 5.8 and I do have the pedal to the floor as much as I can.

Also, wondering what size deck is best. I had thought 60" might be too large to maneuver around things, but hubby doesn't agree. Do feel we need at least 50", considering we have 54" now and alot of ground to cover.

Any suggestions? Thanks!

 

[bjr]

I don't know if the 6 acres are all in one large area or whole bunch of small areas. If one big area then I would go with a smaller 20-25 hp compact diesel tractor maybe a Jinma two wheel drive and a rear discharge 3 point mower. I'm really under the impression for bigger mowing jobs most big box store riders are a waste of money. You would have the advantage of being able to use the PTO of the tractor for other purposes as well. You would have true durablity also. bjr

 

[gryhnd]

No, it is all split up. The residential backyard is about 1.5 acres, fenced in with chainlink fence, so go around perimeter of fence, several trees, flower garden, etc. The front yard is a little bigger, trees on 2 sides, house on one, driveway on other, about 6 trees. Then there are smaller areas on either side of another garage, I like to do them with push mower but in this heat it's too much, so just use lawn tractor. Then another section up front on either side of the driveway, probably not a full acre, unfortunately lined with some small bushes. Then another section is a field, so mostly open, will be fenced in for horses soon. Then fenced horse field, around barn and 10-15' walkway around perimeter of horse field, fence on one side, line of trees on other. There are a few others done with the bush hog (see below)

Probably more info than you needed

We have a New Holland TC-30 with a bush hog (no finishing mower). Have debated getting finishing mower.

Is a rear discharge the same as a finishing mower? A used one would be our cheapest option, but don't think we would want to use it in residential area (at least with bush hog it has torn up the yard the few times he tried).

Also, I don't drive the tractor (other than a few times I tried) so that limits us to some degree.

Just feeling the zero turn (or another lawn tractor) would enable both of us to use either one, and be able to hopefully use either one in most areas. But I don't want to waste money either - don't want to buy a 3k Toro from HD if it is going to be crap, would rather spend the 5k on something else, but really cannot spend more than that. Even the lawn tractors get up in the 2k and over though. Would not want to drop below 54" cut on another lawn tractor as that is what we have now and it takes long enough as it is.

 

[magicheater]

This guy likes this unit. I have a Hustler 42" super Duty and like it as well, however way more money. I have a segmented yard as well and find it is easily managable with tiny chunks of time thrown at it, usually an hour or less. Some areas grow slower/faster than others, a ZTR mower really cuts your seat time and will have you wanting to cut cause it's so much fun. Personally I like the 42" mowers because there are only 2 blades, slightly higher tip speed and only two blades to sharpen. Lots of quality units out there, all colors and all are fun!

 

[radman1]

You already have a TC-30! I would get the rear finish mower for that in a heart beat rather than buy another mower. Use the TC-30 to mow the more open areas and clean up the edges and obstacles with the rider mower. 72" finish mower on the TC -30 can do a lot rather quickly.

Rear finish mowers can be side discharge or rear discharge. Most people, including myself, prefer rear discharge. Less clumping of grass, can mow close to obstacles on either side and can mow any pattern or direction you like. New, brand name 72" finish mower will be around $1800-2000. Very good used one may cost $900-1400.

 

[gryhnd]

You already have a TC-30! I would get the rear finish mower for that in a heart beat rather than buy another mower. Use the TC-30 to mow the more open areas and clean up the edges and obstacles with the rider mower. 72" finish mower on the TC -30 can do a lot rather quickly.

Rear finish mowers can be side discharge or rear discharge. Most people, including myself, prefer rear discharge. Less clumping of grass, can mow close to obstacles on either side and can mow any pattern or direction you like. New, brand name 72" finish mower will be around $1800-2000. Very good used one may cost $900-1400.

Thanks. I will definitely talk to my husband about this! Only thing is that I don't drive the tractor so it'll limit what can get done, but I suppose I could learn. It would certainly be our least expensive option. I was just worried that we really can't run it in the residential area - I can't see using it in the fenced backyard for example, but maybe I'm wrong. I guess he could try just driving the tractor back there and see how he feels.
Meantime, I have to go by a mower dealer today and he evidently has several trade-ins plus new mowers, so I'm going to see what he has (said Hustler Fasttrack and Sport, a Bobcat (never see anyone mention them), Bad Boy, Dixie Chopper (though that is commercial trade-in so leery of that).

Maybe we should try the cheapest option first though. I'll see what he thinks.

 

[rswyan]

Thanks. I will definitely talk to my husband about this! Only thing is that I don't drive the tractor so it'll limit what can get done, but I suppose I could learn.

Indeed :thumbsup: .... and you will be amazed once you do at how much fun it is

FWIW, we have 4+ acres that we mow with a 72" mid-mount mower on our Kubota B2910 (similar in size to your TC30) and an older Simplicity Commercial Front Cut ZTR with a 46" deck (mainly used right around the house and close trimming)

The Kubota does the bulk of the mowing, which is over 3 acres in the front (two large fields/lawn) and if I keep up with keeping the grass cut and don't let it get too long those areas can be done in around 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or less, with the Kubota.

I would go with as wide of a rear finish mower (72 or 60 inch) as will work on your property, considering any obstacles - and rear finish rather than mid-mount because they are much easier to take off and put on.

 

[LD1]

I agree with the others about the rear mower for the tractor you already have. While not quite as fast a a ZTR, it would be better that the lower end ZTR's.

I would either go that route or looke for a good used commercial ZTR. I think they can be had in your price range and again IMO would be a better 3k spent than buying a homeowner grade at a boxstore for 3k

 

[Barney Fife]

I agree with the others about the rear mower for the tractor you already have. While not quite as fast a a ZTR, it would be better that the lower end ZTR's.

I would either go that route or looke for a good used commercial ZTR. I think they can be had in your price range and again IMO would be a better 3k spent than buying a homeowner grade at a boxstore for 3k

I agree here 100%.

Remember, it's not just the ground speed with a commercial ztr that makes things quick. With a commercial ztr, your blade tip speed is running at least 18,000 fpm. This allows a faster ground speed since you can only run as fast as your blades can cut.

Look on craigslist and find a relatively low hours commercial unit. I'd much rather have a well maintained 500 hour commercial ztr than a brand new homeowner model you find at Lowe's or Home Depot.

 

[Will_C]

I'll give the same advice- given your budget, commercial ZTR if you can find one and are comfortable enough to evaluate the condition, or a RFM-that tractor can handle a 72" RFM.

Will

 

[gryhnd]

Thanks. I talked to the tractor dealer re: finishing mower. He said it could take a 72", but most people get 60" (with our size tractor). I think I would be more comfortable with 60", for maneuvering. Still cannot picture the tractor in the back yard though

As it happens, the mower dealer told me he is getting a used Woods finishing mower in, 60". I have to call him back to check on it.

Right now, really thinking I would like to get the Bad Boy ZTR - he sells them and Hustler. He said the Bad Boys are selling like crazy, he has none in stock but one and is waiting for another shipment. Said it is price point but that they are a good mower (though the engine in the Hustler is better, and so is the warranty). He has been selling BB for 2 years. He said around $4,800/$4900k for the 60". I realize it is still the baseline ZTR (but a step up from the 3k Toro we were considering from Home Depot), but I think that is it for our budget for a mower. The Hustler would be $5,300 for a 54", and if I wanted the better ride, that's another few hundred for that option (forget what it is called - fork steering?).

Asked him which one would give me less of a problem with grass sticking under the deck/clumping, etc. and he said the Bad Boy. If true, that is a huge plus as that is my major problem with our Husq. garden/lawn tractor.

If we can get the Woods finishing mower, then maybe try that and hold off on buying the ZTR. Otherwise, maybe spring for both. He thought maybe $600 or $700 for the Woods, but he had not even seen it yet.

We are only used to seeing the bush hog cut from the tractor, so be interested to see the difference w/ a finishing mower.

Of course I change my mind on this every week :laughing:

 

[JGM]

another vote for a rear mower.

I have a TC33D and a 6ft Bush hog finish mower rear discharge.

In addition a SCAG Tiger Cub 19hp Kaw engine, 48 inch mower and a JD Lx280 with a 48 inch deck

These mowers all cut different terrains.

versatility goes to the Bush Hog, TC 33D.

The Scag can out cut the other two in time, but is very limited in versatility. It cuts grass and that is about it.

The JOhn Deere is nice, but slower cutting than the other two, but is more versatile. I can sweep, pull sprayers, wagons etc.

If you have lots of low limbed trees then I would go Zero Turn, however, if you can manueveur around the trees, then the pull benind rear dischard mower.

hth, joe

 

[gryhnd]

another vote for a rear mower.

I have a TC33D and a 6ft Bush hog finish mower rear discharge.

In addition a SCAG Tiger Cub 19hp Kaw engine, 48 inch mower and a JD Lx280 with a 48 inch deck

These mowers all cut different terrains.

versatility goes to the Bush Hog, TC 33D.

The Scag can out cut the other two in time, but is very limited in versatility. It cuts grass and that is about it.

The JOhn Deere is nice, but slower cutting than the other two, but is more versatile. I can sweep, pull sprayers, wagons etc.

If you have lots of low limbed trees then I would go Zero Turn, however, if you can manueveur around the trees, then the pull benind rear dischard mower.

hth, joe

Thanks. Though I do note you have all three types of equipment, which I guess we may end up with at some point. I think I would keep him out of the backyard, but he could do most of the front w/ the tractor, not too close to trees, and I could clean up with the Husq. riding mower.

Mower dealer still hasn't picked up the used Woods finishing mower, so I have no details on that unfortunately.

Talked to the New Holland dealer again. A little leery to spend the money on brand new when I am sure used mower (w/ no motor) would be fine, but haven't seen any for sale lately.

NH dealer only has a side discharge 72" finishing mower on hand. $1790 I believe. Says if he orders a 60" rear discharge, feels it is going to cost us the same even though it's smaller, since this year's pricing compared to last year's, plus freight costs. Also, side costs less than rear.

Says one reason people prefer 60" over 72" is that it doesn't stick out over the sides of the tractor. Of course he's trying to sell it, but says he thinks the side discharges grass better. He says either way you've got a ton of grass flying around...I don't know, I feel rear would be nicer as you don't have to worry about what direction you are cutting. Won't matter in field so much, just in the lawn.

Will let us demo it though. Do wonder why it's been sitting on his lot "for a year" as he says. Since we would prefer a rear discharge (from what people have said) and 60", it is still alot of money to not get exactly what you think you want, though maybe trying it would help.

 

[Coatesvegas]

I know you had budget concerns, but buying a $3000 dollar unit that will last 5 years and have bad resale value is not the optimal choice. I put alot of research into different mowers before I bought my Dixie Chopper. It was a little more price wise, but it is common to see Dixie Choppers still functional after 20 years. Also the heavily used DC parts mowers were still selling for over $2000 in my area. Used units in good working order were still pulling in $4000. I know it is a big buy, but 4 $3000 mowers in 20 years is $12,000, and if all goes well with a DC it will be $6500 for 20 years. It will spread the clippings far and evenly with no clumping outside the deck. You will have to scrape under the deck occasionally though. I think they might make suspension seats for a smoother ride also. I cut 5 acres in about 2 hours with a 60" Silver Eagle. It doesn't bog down and is reliable. Look into Dixie Chopper see what you think

 

[radman1]

Says one reason people prefer 60" over 72" is that it doesn't stick out over the sides of the tractor. Of course he's trying to sell it, but says he thinks the side discharges grass better. He says either way you've got a ton of grass flying around...I don't know, I feel rear would be nicer as you don't have to worry about what direction you are cutting. Won't matter in field so much, just in the lawn.

I strongly disagree with the dealers statement. I have had both side and rear discharge rear finish mowers. 60" and 72" side discharge and now 84" rear discharge. Rear discharge disperses grass better. Cuts grass easier and better because all the grass does not have to exit out the side chute. Heavy grass will plug side chute. Rear discharge much better for heavy or tall grass. Side discharge will eventually hit something when mowing just hope you don't break or bend something.
I myself would not want a mower the same width as the tires. Very hard to mow next to fences, buildings, bushes ect with mower as wide as tractor.
I will say, the price for the 60" mower is attractive if it is in good shape. A 72" mower does not cost much more than a 60" mower. Check craigslist, newspaper ect for used 72".

A side discharge will cut easier if going backwards. A rear discharge going backwards, blows the cut grass in the same direction as you are backing and doesn't mow as well. However, usually not an issue except in tall or heavy grass.

 

[doall]

I have a 72" rear finish mower with my 3040. I have a 54" jd 737 zero turn.
The zero will mow circles around a tractor, there is no comparison. No way a tractor can mow what a good commercial zero turn can.

 

[Oliver1655]

I'll Put a Plug in for the ZTR mowers. I purchased a 60" Gravely with a 25 hp Kohler engine last year. Prior to that I was using a 42" lawn tractor and a 72" finish mower behind my tractor. Things I really like about the ZTR:
1 - My mowing time was cut down to less than a 4th. This is due to the faster turns and the faster blade speeds which allow me to mow at a fast speed.
2 - The deck height can be changed from my chosen cutting height to the top height with a press of my foot to walk through TALL grass and small brush. Then just as easily be dropped back to chosen height.
3 - The wear and tear on my arms and shoulders in almost nothing compared to steering a lawn tractor
4 - The lower height of the seat makes it easier to go under trees. ( I ruled out the Bad Boys line because they sit higher)

I would recommend you both sat on a lot of different brands to find the one that you would be most comfortable on. Due to the maneuverability of the ZTR, I found the 60" deck very easy to work with. You will find most of the Lawn Equipment Dealers have financing available for a very low interest rate.

 

[ae_ted]

I agree with Doall. I have a Woods RD72 72" rear discharge finish mower i use with my 30hp MF 1040. My 2002 60" Kubota ZD21 zero turn will mow in 1/2 the time. I use the finish mower when i want to "play" on the tractor, but when i want to get the job done!. I go to the zero turn and get-er-done!...If the job is mowing...go commercial zero turn. i got my Kubota this year to replace a 1996 Woods front deck 52" 6180 and i found a great buy on teh 2002 for $3500. I'm a happy camper!

 

[40Kchicks]

I don't have a tractor finish mower but I do have a Kubota ZD21 commercial mower that I really like. If your job is mowing get a mower. I found mine on craigslist for $4300 with 475 hours on it. It is quiet, comfortable, fast, and uses very little fuel. It is also much more stable on hills than the tractor would be. Consider getting a used commercial ZTR and then later as budget allows or a good deal comes up add the finish mower.

 

[captaincrab55]

I'll Put a Plug in for the ZTR mowers. I purchased a 60" Gravely with a 25 hp Kohler engine last year. Prior to that I was using a 42" lawn tractor and a 72" finish mower behind my tractor. Things I really like about the ZTR:
1 - My mowing time was cut down to less than a 4th. This is due to the faster turns and the faster blade speeds which allow me to mow at a fast speed.
2 - The deck height can be changed from my chosen cutting height to the top height with a press of my foot to walk through TALL grass and small brush. Then just as easily be dropped back to chosen height.
3 - The wear and tear on my arms and shoulders in almost nothing compared to steering a lawn tractor
4 - The lower height of the seat makes it easier to go under trees. ( I ruled out the Bad Boys line because they sit higher)

I would recommend you both sat on a lot of different brands to find the one that you would be most comfortable on. Due to the maneuverability of the ZTR, I found the 60" deck very easy to work with. You will find most of the Lawn Equipment Dealers have financing available for a very low interest rate.

I'll second that... I bought a LESCO 60" cut 4 years ago... When I did my homework on ZTRs, I found out that the 60" cut was best for my needs. With a 60" cut, my rear tires don't track in the mulch when cutting around trees and round gardens...