who builds a quality riding mower??

Calpyro · Mar 24, 2003

Re: Toro Z Master

Here is the photo of the "Ultimate Weed Killer"

Calpyro · Mar 24, 2003

Re: Toro Z Master

Back yard lawn. Note the dead grass around each tree that I have sprayed while mowing.

yooperdave · Mar 24, 2003

I really like the John Deere Front End Mowers.

They are very solid and built very well.

Yooper Dave

herbenus · Mar 25, 2003

I had the same problem. JD4200 that I was going to put a midmower on but delayed because of the cost. Figured I could by two riding lawnmowers for the price. I went the cheap route: husky 42" with bagger from TSC. It's been 3 years now and still going and does get abuse (especially when my boy mows). I mow about 1-1/2 acres around house and then use bushhog for rest. Am planning on a rear mount mower this year since fields are smooth enough now. My hope is that I can use rear mount all over and only use riding lawnmower for "close-in" work.

chrisjbell · Mar 25, 2003

Depends on what you want to spend. I have a JD LX255 that I've been very happy with, about $2500 - $3000 (I think). The Kubota mowers were really nice but quite a bit more money. My neighbor has a Sears lawn tractor that he beats up pretty good - it is showing wear and tear, but still works and he paid less than $1500 (don't think they make bigger than a 48" deck - might go to 54", I'm sure they don't have a 72") model. Another neighbor went the ZTR route - bigger lawn - and paid something like $6000 for a used model.

All the other suggestions are good ones, too. How can getting another tractor be a bad thing /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif?

Calpyro · Mar 25, 2003

My Toro Z Master 100 is the bottom of the commercial line and sold for $4,800. I chose to go this route because the commercial quality units are constructed very heavy and designed for years of use. My thoughts are that the heavier bearings, decks and frame would hold up better when used in heavy weeds and rough terrain. However, the best thing that it has provided me is time with the family. It has saves me several hours each week because it mows so much faster than my old John Deere mower. Yes it was more money, but I don't regret it a bit.

Anonymous Poster · Apr 21, 2003

Like it was said," How much do you want to spend?" Both the Stiener or Ventrac will do the mowing and a lot more. I've got a Ventrac 3000 which is the smallest one that they make. It has a 60" deck and you can get all kinds of attachments. It's all wheel drive, hydrostatic transmission with articulation and hydrolic hook ups. I love mine. Bottom line is " check around and get what you feel comfy with."