Looking for Zero Turn-Swisher?

pbutler · Feb 23, 2006

I have about 2.5 acres of yard we are seeding for just completed home. Some of it is a little rough so not a real easy mow. I am looking for a new or relatively new Zero turn-probably 54" or larger deck if possible.

I have larger tractors for farming operation so I don't need to do anything but cut grass so don't need a garden tractor.

I love the Dixon, JD, and Cub Cadet commercial mowers but $7-8k is just out of my budget. I was going back and forth between the $3,000 Cub Cadet residential at Farm & Fleet in trying to find a used commerical mower for maybe $4,000. The more I read here I am not sure the residential will last for me.

I stopped by rural king the other day and they had a Swisher zero turn. It isn't pretty but it looked much more heavily built than the residental mowers. It wasn't pretty but looked tough. I believe the deck was about 54" and it had a 22hp mower. It was listed for $3,900.

Anyone have any advice? Swisher Good or Bad? Other options?

Spiffy · Feb 23, 2006

No specific info [it's been almost a year since I seen one and didn't even demo it], but my own "once over" thoughts:

IMHO, they're not planning sever conditions or long life if they're using Intek engines.

I thought it had an EZT or IZT [these are "integrated transmissions" not meant for extended or rugged used], but could be wrong. On that note, I know CubCadet has two models now using Hydro-Gear's ZT-2800 (beefed up IZT that {info gettng fuzzy here} has a oil resivoir and perhaps charge pump). Time will have to tell, but this might be a good compromise for the several acre yards.

You will pay for a little name recognition with JD, SCAG, etc; else, I'm pretty convinced you get about what you pay for [average $$$$ per unit; can't compare some guy's lucky buy to anothers retail buy] in ZTRs. So, the 3K CC [EZT, lighter frame; interesting engine choice this year though!] I don't see up to your task; perhaps the $3.6 or 4K CC ZForce [IZT.....] would do. I know Dixon has some similar built and priced; that Swisher is likely around the same class too. /forums/images/graemlins/crazy.gif

Good Luck! /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif