Comparison Replaced my D105 with a Toro Timecutter Zero Turn

[ForumJunkie]

Went to the local mower shop.
Ended up getting a Toro Timecutter Zero Turn

It was between the SS4225 ($2600) and SS5000 ($2800)
Toro V-Twin motor, 22.5hp vs 24.5hp
50" vs 42" deck (and bigger wheels)

For reference, 42" entry level tractor is $1600
$1900 for one with comparable motor (20hp+)
So, I think +$700 for total paradigm shift was a good move

For 2 acres, I would have gotten the 50" ($200 price diff is trivial)
But, wife felt intimidated by the larger 50"
(Harder to load into pickup, etc?)
So, we went with the SS 4225 for $2600

Wife mowed the lawn today and said it was way more maneuverable and faster.
She quickly got used to the controls, turning around, and says she will get even faster on it

I also looked up the basic maintenance like removing the mowing deck.
Next time, I will be changing stuff like belts and pulleys and oil to avoid the $1000 repair debacle of the Deere D105.

Thanks for all the info on this purchase!!

 

[mrmikey]

Same machine I have. Works good but traction is terrible, I have a few small slopes and I'm constantly sliding on them.
I can remove the deck in less than 5 minutes, same for putting it back on. I've got the belt number for a Gates deck belt should you need it, 1/2 price of the OE..................Mike

 

[JerryK]

Just a note on zeroturn traction: Moving the seat to the rearmost position puts your arse weight onto the drive wheels and GREATLY improves traction over a more forward seat position... Even if you have to make some type of foot rest extension to allow you to brace yourself properly whilst bouncing around the yard.

 

[seville009]

i think zero turns in general are lousy with traction

i have a large Ferris diesel that will get stuck easily. i just avoid wet areas in the spring and fall.

 

[ForumJunkie]

No traction issues. Yard is flat.