Used ZTR mowers

swinn5567 · May 24, 2009

I've convinced myself I can't get a new mower this year but have been getting tempted by some used mowers that have been coming up. Can anyone give me an idea of how to rate the value of a used commercial mower? How many hours are reasonable, are trade-ins to dealers usually good? I know there are alot of variables but are there any general guidlines people have learned?

Thanks for making this such a great site.

IXLR8 · May 25, 2009

If you are truely looking at commercial ZTR's, then a well taken care of one will last 2500-5000 hrs. So one with 250-500hrs is just 'broken in'. the key is, how well it was taken care of, can they document services? The homeowner ones at the big box stores are good for 500-1000hrs and don't cut/disperse clippings as well. Then again, if it is for homeowner use, do you need the best cut in the world? Most of the commercial folks I have talked with believe having a seperate pump and motor is a good thing. Most of the time they are better built and are repairable. The newer homeowner models have integrated pumps/motors, are sealed units that can't be repaired and I have heard replacement costs are in the $700.00 range.

thartweger · May 30, 2009

i paid 1300 for a bunton twister ztr. 1300 hours, but engine was rebuilt at 1100 hours. its a 25 hp, 750cc 2 cyl engine, 61 inch deck. its 12 years old. this is just to give you an idea.

since i bought it i bought new tires for it for 90 bucks through the internet, and blades for 60 through the internet. i may have to replace some spindles on it, which is one thing to look at when ur buying them as well. spindles can get costly but generally you can find a cheaper alternative by not going OEM.