5k Zero Turn Question

[sox3]

I'm partial to the Ariens / Gravely units as I sold and serviced them for 20+ years. Worked on all of them and I think
Ariens / Gravely is a very well built machine and they stand behind them.

 

[Carl_NH]

Honestly I agree with the comments on the ZTR vs a Tractor for 1 acre or so. If you got a used Kubota BX series diesel with a mower and front end loader you will be able to do so much more - mulch the beds, plow the snow, and mow the grass.

It might cost you $7000-9000 but you have a multi purpose machine for all seasons. If you still want to get a ZTR I like the JD too, but at $4500 range and they throw in a 2 year major issue warranty (hydro parts and motor).

The Kubota is a nice ZTR - first year design though - and that same model new is $5600-5800 here so for a 30 hr machine again $45-4700.

So think about a small BX Kubota - I think you would get much more functional use and in all seasons by spending a few more $.

Carl

 

[camps23]

I agree that the multi function compact tractor would be of so much more use, I love the BX line. I had a look a few times at the dealors at them.
Over here they start in the 9k range without a loader. I dont have that much cash to spend with the purchase of the new place. I was trying to keep it
down to the 5k range. I have two young children so time is key now. I feel my best option is to go with a ZTR for time and pure enjoyment of cutting the grass
In a few years when time and money are more plentiful then I would look at trading it in on a nice BX CUT. My list changed abit from original.....
New 2013 Kubota ZG124E 48" - $4800
Used 2013 Kubota ZG127S 54" 30hrs - $5300 (cash price no tax)
New John Deere Z445 54" - $5,500 plus tax
New Toro MX5060 50" - $4,900

 

[Carl_NH]

Well, I like the Kubota 127S with the hydro gear 3100 drives, the JD and toro use the hydro gear 2800 series.

The Kubota is a first year model and with 30 hours, as I said before that's a year's worth of mowing so offer less $5K?

They will all work well - its just what you prefer at this point.

Carl

 

[Midniteoyl]

Again. Why would I spend more money for a slower machine.

Lawn tractors are not designed to mow at the top speed, ZTRs are.

Besides, slow down and enjoy.. lifes good

 

[Midniteoyl]

I think that 60" deck would be too big for your 1.5 acres
but looks like a good deal

One of my properties is 1 acres with house and pole barn along with trees.. 61" still seems a little too small

 

[mikehaugen]

I have two young children so time is key now. I feel my best option is to go with a ZTR for time and pure enjoyment of cutting the grass

Time-wise... yes, but I don't think a ZTR is going to make cutting more enjoyable. I don't have one, but have driven one a few times and I think that a riding mower/tractor is much more relaxing and enjoyable.

One of my properties is 1 acres with house and pole barn along with trees.. 61" still seems a little too small

Yes, My mom has a total of 1 acre (and that includes buildings and driveway) and she has a 54" and I have never though that I wanted a smaller deck the couple times I have mowed for her. I have a total of 2.5 acres and mow with a 72" deck and have never wished I had a smaller deck... heck I used to mow with a 90" rfm, though that may have been a little too big.

 

[Midniteoyl]

Time-wise... yes, but I don't think a ZTR is going to make cutting more enjoyable. I don't have one, but have driven one a few times and I think that a riding mower/tractor is much more relaxing and enjoyable.

I think he meant enjoying time away, to mow..

 

[NoTrespassing]

Again. Why would I spend more money for a slower machine.

Top speed doesn't mean you'll finish faster unless you have no obstacles to mow around. I bought 13 year old Walker with 48 inch deck. It's not fast but it's so maneuverable I'm able to mow and collect all the grass in about 2/3 the time I could on a 54 inch traditional style rider. In addition to that my string trimming has been cut in half.

Kevin

 

[foreman Etexas]

I like the looks of the new Kommander,they hadn't come out yet when I bought last year but anyways I got a new Husqvarna RZ5424 last year and have mowed my place and parents place with it,has 60hrs and it was only $2500. The bads on it,fuel tank is small.