ZTR major component/construction consideration

[araz33]

Ready to buy a ZTR and I have decided that there must be a better approach to purchase decision process than comparing specs. Please allow me to ask for you opinion on the following question.

With the proximity of the service available ranking first and price being the final consideration-

what are the top 5 design/construction features that a buyer should consider

what are the top 5 operational features to be consideration

what are 5 major differences between a commercial use and a landowner use machine

 

[tractorski]

Your asking for a lot of info. What will you be using this for? how many hours/acres a week are we talking about? What is your budget? What kind of terrain or grass? A little more info would be helpful to guide you. I spend alot of time on mowers and I have had a quite a few ztrs, and can give you a few ideas. Dealer location and participation is key. If you have a dealer that's nearby, but is terrible, drive further. As far a construction, thicker sheet metal and heavier duty componets are very important. Overall weight is also important as is center of gravity. Higher weight and lower center of gravity will be more stable. Another concern is ease of mantenance, the harder is to perform, the less likely you're going to do it. Buy the biggest engine you can afford, the bigger the engine the more productive you will be. DON'T skimp on the engine! The major differences between comercial and consumer is weight, price, durability

 

[om21braz]

design/construction IMHO
1 - of what materials is it constructed (frame, deck, etc.)
2 - how easy is it to remove/replace mowing deck
3 - how easy is it to perform service to unit
4 - how comfortable is it
5 - how easy is it to operate (they do vary)

operational
1 - how well does the machine cut (look of cut)
2 - how is deck height adjusted (manual or hyd/other lift)
3 - how does it feel on hillsides
4 - how long can i mow on a tank of fuel
5 - do i want a sit down unit or a stander

Commercial/homewner
1 - engine type (air cooled vs. water cooled vs. diesel)
2 - deck construction
3 - grade of hydro pumps used
4 - ease of operation / control layout
5 - weight of machine (this can be a con on some commercial machines)

This list can be modified greatly, but maybe can be of some help - although not as much as a good local dealer that can physically show the differences and allow you a demo of various machines.