I’m 16 and I just bought a 61” scag tiger cat with 125 hours on it for 5,000 it’s like a 2013 model and I have ferris 36” I had that for a while I bought that new and they are amazing highly recommended and I love your channel
shoeking dog great price there! 61” is was too big for most jobs in my area, 48 is perfect. But if I had big jobs like plazas and churches 61” would be great
They are all pretty equal in price and quality. Go with whichever dealer has the best reputation, their own service shop and been in business for a long time. Those are the reasons I went with Hustler.
the larger the deck it gets harder to not scalp a lumpy lawn , in my case i went from a 54 to a 61 was a huge difference i really had to keep the mower level on those uneven areas
We bought a Kubota Kommader Z125S 54" tonight w/14.1 hours on it at an auction. Although it's runs out great, and is a nice ride, having used a grasshopper multiple times one summer, while the engine was being rebuilt on our tractor Allis Chalmers, the grasshopper would be our dream machine if money were no object. Maybe it's best that you haven't ever used one, so you won't have to know what you're missing. We have a lot of slopes (some really steep), so stability is important, and the grasshopper handled them awesomely w/o feeling like we were on the verge of rolling over. We test drove a Gravely during that time period, and on a much gentler slope than we deal w/and it felt like we could roll any time, so we passed that z-turn up. My husband and I have been planning to buy a z-turn for a couple years (this year as our goal). The roll bar and seat belt were important features to us, even though we're still hoping this 'like new' mower handles our hills well. If not, my husband will keep doing the hills w/our Troy Built tractor (when I've done all the mowing, I've always told him, you can see what I'd mow if anything ever happened to him...lol). I don't even have the weight to get the tractors back up the hills once I'm down them, even the one that he had wheel weights put on for me.
I have bought used till this year. I prefer a walk behind mower. They work best for the properties I mow. I am looking for a zero turn for the bigger lawns. The walk behinds are a beast on hills.
Hi. Thanks for the video. It brought a lot of thought into my upcoming purchase. I have 18 acres of which 5 is cut. It is rough terrain, and very long. I use a billygoat to knock it down to manageable levels, but our mower broke and I can't maintain it well with just the bush hogger, so I am shopping around for a zero turn rider. I am thinking the property needs a commercial mower to handle it, residential mowers seem to be not quite enough and can't take the beating. I found a 2014 Gravely ZT XL for $2,600 bucks, it has 136 hours on it and looks to be in good shape, and comes with spare blades. However Home Depot has a brand new Z-Beast 54 inch for $3K. $3K is my spending limit. So I am torn between the two. I can't find much online about z-beast. So i am leaning to the Gravely. Thought I'd seek out your opinion between the two.
I just wanted to pop on and say thanks for the reply. I ended up getting the Gravely, and I can't say how impressed I am with this machine. My gut told me it was the way to go and your message helped me feel comfortable with the purchase. It took me 4 days to get the property under control, but now I mow it all in about 1.5 hours. The property, about 4 acres, was all 3-5 foot in height. I only had to use the bush hogger on a few small areas over 5 foot. The gravely did the rest. It is a beast. It helped that the seller took care of it as well. All around a great experience and I appreciate you taking the time to answer my inquiry via PM. I love your videos, keep up the great work.
I feel like I made a mistake.. I got a 52 inch zero turn I mow quite a few yards some have gates some dont the mistake I made was I feel I should have got a 34 inch so I could get though the 36 inch gates.. I do have two 21 inch push mowers and that is how I'm doing yards with gates..the front yards are getting done way faster but I'm still doing same thing in back yards. The main reason I didn't get a 34 inch was because the motors on the 34"s were briggs and Stratton..I went with the Kawasaki
I use a Hustler* Raptor SD. was bought New for $4200. My note is $91.86 a mo. With my current Customer Base, I am easily making those payments. I didn't go for the Commercial Grade just yet until i get established in my Business. The Raptor is doing great and is working out just fine for now. Although it won't be able to handle 15-20 yards a day for long. It will be good enough to get me started. Take Care of It and it will do what you need it to.
+Everyday Hustle Lawn Care. Lots of guys in the biz for 3 or less years have started with moderately used equipment or even stuff bought out of the big boxes. A co-worker's son graduated school and didn't want to hit college right away Worked at PT job before graduation and purchsed of ALL THINGS a freakin Murray from WalMart for $999! Granted they're turning wrenches a lot but that was 2 years ago and he's still going. I'd personally not give him 50 bucks for the mower now but just goes to tell you that small things lead to big things. That SD should last a while. Met a guy while refueling and he had one on his trailer and swore by it. If I took care of my own yard and was in the market for a residential mower, the SD would probably be my choice. Built really well.
I stated with one customer and only had a push mower 6 years ago.now my business has grown a little from 8 to 12 customers I have a bunch of equipment but up until now I used two 42" Sears tractors for mowing my bigger lawns.I finally decided to take the plunge and just sold one of my tractors and order a 2018 ferris for next year now I'll be able to increase my business just a little bit more because this is only my side gig I have a full-time job going to retire in 5 years and then triple my business. This is where I'm going with this ...This guy make a a very good point you do not need anything fancy or a commercial mower to start a business my to use Sears generates over $8,000 cash for 6 months that's my point😊
I got a used Ferris 5100D on a auction best thing i ever did, just love the suspension i´m not totally wasted in the evening like i use to be. So yep better to get a used commercial machine than a new hobby one.
I agree with you on sticking with commercial machines. Also, 300 hours on a mower is only 2-3 months worth of full-time use. I had an Exmark Viking that got over 10000 hours of use over 12 years. She never gave me any trouble until about the 3500-hour mark when I needed to have new valves. At around 9900, she started to lose compression......great machine, but routine maintenance is the key.
You need to fill out all the fields in order to submit(no blank spaces). Also, make sure you are using a mainstream browser like Internet Explorer, Firefox, or Opera. Lesser-knowns like Midori, or Pale Moon don't always work. I plan on re-coding the whole site soon, and may go back to the .pdf file-type of job application.
Its the hot sun that I don't understand how people can tolerate it...I start to burn after about 20 minutes....I just cant take the sun, it burns me right up. I mow my lawn later in the evening.
yes, the humidity is the worst part and pushes the heat index past 110°F sometimes. And it makes the grass grow crazy fast. appreciate the tips. Was thinking about a large hat cause I've seen Jason wear one in some of his vids. thanks!
20,000? bro. no one uses ventrac unless u have crazy aggressive terrain. top of the line mowers in the industry, brand new, are around 12K. that is what I pay if I want something new...however, these mowers are solid as a tank, so buy used, and if something goes wrong on it, fix it! you can get a 12k mower for 3k with 1k hrs on it, and spend 3k making it brand new. woot!
Hey Jason, what would you recommend for someone who has around 50 customers most of which have 32 inch back gates? I'm looking for the best 32 inch commercial new or used etc?
Every year a new crop of guys think they want to start a lawn business and buy new mowers. All is good until one thing or another changes their mind and they sell out cheap. I bought used for years, but you gotta know what to look for. If you have any municipal or government contracts most manufacturers give you a BIG discount. I got a Hustler Super Z with a huge discount, financed for 2.99 AND wrote it off my taxes. Tax writeoffs are needed if you're legal.
Tony Harrell I'm looking to go legal and to do taxes this season. How do I go about that? I have no experience with business and taxes and I'm just learning as I go. Is there a book you would recommend? Any advice you would give is welcome!
Watching this Video because I'm going through this Situation right now.. I have a Scag Patriot (52 in with Kawasaki) coming ($7K) & until that gets to Me the Company Loaned Me a Gravely Pro Turn 148 which I like.. The Owner made Me an Offer to Buy the Gravely (48 in with Kawasaki) for $3K less,BUT it has 190 Hrs on it.. Any Help would be Greatly Appreciated.. Reallu Liking Your Channel,Keep Up the Great Work.
7/31/21, After researching many brands/sizes/features, I got a Gravely ztx42" from a local Gravely/Ariens dealer (S-NJ). Just right size for my own property; they have so many different size decks/models; all total,
You hit it smack on.I would rather buy a reasonable hour commercial unit than a brand new homepwner special from lowes.Kawasaki gas motors are a dominating force in small gas engines.Check your hydro drives for size,grease fittings,motor manufacturer,tire size,welded fabricated decks.It would not scare me to buy any brand name Z turn now days.Scag,Gravely,hustler,Kubota,ferris ,you get what you pay for.Buy the best you can afford.Simple.
I use a ex-mark at work and I mow about 300-400 acres (alone). And I hate that mower more than any tool I have. Doesn’t break often but it’s horribly uncomfortable, very loud very bumpy. Buy a grasshopper.
Jason, just want to say thanks for taking time out to share, appreciate that your a busy man but still willing to help out your fellow man. Quick question, I'm looking for a walk behind that I can use on my personal lawn of about 20,000 square feet. Looking at new and used, my biggest concern is motor and a quality deck that won't fail on me like my residential riding mower did. Would appreciate suggestions, thanks.
Jason, thanks again for your suggestions. After considering all of my options, I went with a Deere X350. My reason was simply the bagging capacity of a riding tractor versus a grass catcher for the walk behind. Did get a Kawasaki motor on the Deere so I was happy about that. Thanks again and I wish you nothing but continued success in the lawn care business.
Not to brag but only to show you that one can find steals out there I bought a TroyBilt ZTR 42 Mustang for $1499 with 4.5 hours on it. Had it delivered yesterday and today got the yard mowed in no time. The year of the mower is a 2014 or 2015.
What do you think of a 2009 Grasshopper 220 commercial mower, 48 inch deck, side discharge, 370 hours. Paying around $3000 for it from a tractor store and they will do a tune up on it. I'm hoping it will be good size for residential property, and small commercial properties. The first guy who owned it 1 owner before me very lightly used the mower in residential back yards.
I currently have about 15 yards all in the same subdivision that I have been mowing on the side now for about 13 years. Most of the yards are a quarter of an acre or less with various obstacles and fences in their yards. I currently use a Toro Timemaster to mow them, but the timemaster just can't mow tall grass well and is not a huge time saver for me anymore. I am married and work a 40 hour a week day job, so my time is pretty limited. I am looking to upgrade my business and go with a zero turn mower. Do you have any suggestions on size, brand, etc? Any help would be great..
Cody Sutherland Heya Cody, just picked up a Worldlawn Diamondback brand new for $4k flat. Kawasaki engine and 3200 trans. They are buying market share, very under valued machines!
I think a 48 inch is a good versatile Size. 52 in also a good size. If you can't get into the backyard you will need a smaller mower or possibly not take on the business
Whats the best deck size for residential mowing? Like I know getting into a back yard gate maybe a problem if your deck size is to large. Has anyone ran into this issue if so how did you handle it?
marty Wylie 36 inch or 42 inch decks are great for residential yards, if the back yard gate is smaller then there large sized deck they mite have a push mower or a 36inch deck mower as well. or just not do that customer yard all together
How do you know how many hours it has on it? Where do you find these 'great (used) deals?' I can't imagine using that big machine in the background on a small yard. Why pay $6000 for ANY mower if a $3000 one will do all your jobs? Do they last twice as many hours?
I'm a residential with about 4 acres to mow. Some area is rough. About 1 1/2 acre is on a hill. I am rough on equipment and I have practically destroyed my Husqvarna RZ5424. Not the Kohler motor it's been great but everything else especially the deck, cutters, pulleys, belts, etc. I want to finance a new mower with a warranty because I don't think I know enough about a used machine to make a good deal. I want to finance about 7K . I may decide to cut a few others yards to help pay for it. I also feel like I might need a 60". Anyone with some good advise at steering me in the right direction on which model I should purchase to fill my needs would be helpful. Thank you in advance.
I'm just a homeowner that bought a Poulan p46 and I would never go back to a tractor style mower but damn the zero turn loses traction easy and is hard on my back. Is it just this brand or all zero turns this way?
MrFakit it takes getting used to. With good tires and technique (mostly turning) traction shouldn’t be an issue unless the ground is saturated. I know with Gravely you can upgrade with a $600 comfort seat that’s basically a lazyboy on a zero turn. Very easy on your back.
You get what you pay for. Quality Country Clipper Avenue starts well under $4,000, made in America and not a stamped deck. More quality features than any of the brands mentioned in this video. Never buy at a big box retailer, you'll be looking for quality mechanic work, and no customer service.
Hey Jason, I've stumbled across your channel while doing some research on lawn care. I've had my mind set on lawn care for a while now, and this is my first season I'd call successful. Probably because I have the equipment now. I have a 15.5HP Kholer Command on a Craftsman 42" cut. I DO plan on wearing it completely out before getting my next mower. I'm hoping to get a Ferris or a Husqvarna (my fav brand). I have my own chainsaws, hedge clippers and pruning sheers, as well as a 225 weedeater and a Husqvarna push mower. What else can you think of that I should invest in right off the bat? And how would you rate a Ferris zero turn on a scale of 1-10?
show contact infohere is the craigslist wording: I have a 2004 walker 42" mower. It's the ghs model and collects grass. Has 815 hours and needs nothing. I purchased it used with 250 hours with a hurt motor. I replaced the motor at 283 hours for $2200 at Harry's. I have receipts to show. I always maintained the mower my self every 50 hours and have maintenance logged in my notebook. Mower doesn't look brand new but it is very solid and needs nothing. Ready to cut. Firm on 4500. Don't low ball. Call/text
From the Craigslist ad: I have a 2004 walker 42" mower. It's the ghs model and collects grass. Has 815 hours and needs nothing. I purchased it used with 250 hours with a hurt motor. I replaced the motor at 283 hours for $2200 at Harry's. I have receipts to show. I always maintained the mower my self every 50 hours and have maintenance logged in my notebook. Mower doesn't look brand new but it is very solid and needs nothing. Ready to cut. Firm on 4500. Don't low ball. Call/text show contact info
I like Kubota ZD series mowers BUT they are commercial grade and expensive... Also BUT they are durable. Bottom line... unless you have acres and acres to cut, you don't need a zero turn.
I am buying a lawnmower for residential use and am looking for something that will last me for a very long time at just a little under 2 acres. What is your opinion of the better mower between the Exmark Radius E 48 or the Ariens Apex 52? Both have dealers about an equal distance from me with supplies and repair shop, same price, but I am not sure which will hold up.
Lawn Care Life Thanks again, ended up getting the Exmark and it will be delivered on Saturday. Really enjoyed watching several of your videos even if I am not doing lawn care anymore - brings back some great memories!
I expect this mower will last several seasons with decent care. ua-cam.com/users/postUgkx1VWTrayKBdCKAjzAcZ_Eg4dhHTae3LkN also recommend Also, I ran across the problem with it not starting the 2nd time I used it. There is a safety switch which is pushed in by the chute or mulching piece being attached to the deck. I took the cover off and it wouldn't start. Put it back on, no problem. It takes only a minute with 2 easily accessible wingnuts and no tools. This mower starts up first crank each time and it is a joy to use. It also mows in reverse by putting the key to the reverse area after starting and pushing in the triangular button. It will stay in reverse mode until you turn it off. All in all, for my homeowner needs, I really like this mower-and at 70 bucks a cut here in Miami, it's already more than 1/3 paid for itself in a month.
how do you feel about Husqvarna commercial 0 turn mowers? I found one on sale $6,800 brand new that I am wanting to get, but I never see anyone in the business with Husqvarna.
no alot of lawn care business here are going all kubota because kubota is good on budgets of money saving plus the kubota dealers takes $2,400 up to $3,500 off with perchuse of kubota mowers or tractors wich is nice
Kaw also, but I know friends of mine who swear by the Vangard. Briggs? Hmmmm. Roll the dice. I've had very good luck with Briggs but know plenty who have had nothing but trouble.
anyone know anthing about the toro time cut xm5025, 50 inch? Im a veteran looking to start somthing small when i get home it has a 23hp kawasaki on it? from home depot and i get discounts there would it be a good starter mower or what do yall think?
Toro is a good mower. Have owned several of them and they hold up well. We use Exmark (owned by Toro) the only difference is the decks. Exmark is a heavier deck with less maintenance. one thing to inquire about (dealer would probably know better) is the hydro pumps. They changed them about 7yrs ago on commercial mowers and since then have been bullet proof. The older pumps would fail around 1200hrs and would cost 1500 range to repair. The Timecutter is not considered a commercial mower so I can't speak for it. Starting out a Toro will work just fine for you. We service large commercial properties and the extra cost of Exmark is worth it in the long run for us. As far as going to home depot I would get a quote from them and then bring it to your local Toro dealer. I can not express enough how much a relationship with them will benefit you down the road.
We made the mistake of buying a Cub Cadet a couple years ago. They're cheap, and quality confirms just how cheap they really are. Ours has been broken down more than it's been up and running. The only positive I have to say about it is that it is a comfortable ride, and having reverse built into the gas pedal makes it almost as nice as z-turn for maneuvering.
+Turf Guys Lawn Care I'll try to get as low as hours as possible but I typically don't consider one with over 500 hours. It is not that one with 500 hours will not work great. It might. It's just that I don't know how well it has been taken care of. I think if you buy one with low hours then you can keep it well over five hundred hours. I believe some companies put 500 hours on a mower in one year
I was just curious. I've wondered this for a while. I've got almost 500 hours on mine with regular maintenance and a new battery and rebuilt starter. I'm getting bigger properties and I'd like to get another mower, but some of these mowers I'm seeing have 1000 to 2000 plus hours on them, and they still want 5 to 6 grand for them.
great tips and great videos!! where do you usually get your used zero turn lawn mowers ?I been wanting to get a commercial one for a while thanks in advance you can p.m. me if you like thanks again.
I keep thinking about how many yards you'd have to mow to pay for a mower. Geeze... It's a lot of yards just to pay for the equipment to start making a dime.
I think your way better off buying a brand new resi zero turn. For example you can pick up a mower like the raptor sd or bobcat crz for around 4grand. You know exactly what your getting and your getting a warranty. Machine will easily last you 1000 hrs. I'll never buy anything used again.
I fell like I made a huge mistake..we got a 52 inch zero turn when we should have gotten a 34inch huge mistake so now we cant get into back yards lol..I'm a IDIOT! The reason we chose the 52 was because it had a fabricated deck and a Kawasaki engine...ugh! Wish someone could say something to make me feel better about it but it was a huge mistake
Fuck that I rather spend $2,500.00 on a new toro zero turn and I'm going to know is going to last me and reliable because if I buy a used one you don't know how the other client did to it or if something is messed up and that's why his selling it because ohh you would be pist if you bearly bought it and some parts are expensive like a hydraulic thing it could cost 600 each side and it got 2 so that would be 1200 lol
Bummer not many here ether.. I do understand the mudders though really large hydro motors one each wheel shit loads of instance power the fucker is scary LOL
Your videos are quite generous in their care for the lawn care worker, be he a homeowner or a businessman. Thank you for that.
I’m 16 and I just bought a 61” scag tiger cat with 125 hours on it for 5,000 it’s like a 2013 model and I have ferris 36” I had that for a while I bought that new and they are amazing highly recommended and I love your channel
shoeking dog great price there! 61” is was too big for most jobs in my area, 48 is perfect. But if I had big jobs like plazas and churches 61” would be great
I have a residential John Deere for 5 grand 54in deck been using it for years commercially and works great
Got a husqvarna PZ54 coming in tomorrow! First mower...so excited!! Kohler efi 27 hp. $7200 delivered. Brand spanking new!
Can you make a video: zero turn vs lawn tractor
They are all pretty equal in price and quality. Go with whichever dealer has the best reputation, their own service shop and been in business for a long time. Those are the reasons I went with Hustler.
the larger the deck it gets harder to not scalp a lumpy lawn , in my case i went from a 54 to a 61 was a huge difference i really had to keep the mower level on those uneven areas
That is good to hear from someone with experience. I do not have much experience with the 60 inch or larger mowers
Oddly enough, I liked the 72" grasshopper better than any 61" zero turn.
A grasshopper with 600 hrs is still a baby. Great video Jason.
+Mikes Lawn Care I have never used a grasshopper much but I I have heard good things about them
We bought a Kubota Kommader Z125S 54" tonight w/14.1 hours on it at an auction. Although it's runs out great, and is a nice ride, having used a grasshopper multiple times one summer, while the engine was being rebuilt on our tractor Allis Chalmers, the grasshopper would be our dream machine if money were no object. Maybe it's best that you haven't ever used one, so you won't have to know what you're missing. We have a lot of slopes (some really steep), so stability is important, and the grasshopper handled them awesomely w/o feeling like we were on the verge of rolling over. We test drove a Gravely during that time period, and on a much gentler slope than we deal w/and it felt like we could roll any time, so we passed that z-turn up. My husband and I have been planning to buy a z-turn for a couple years (this year as our goal). The roll bar and seat belt were important features to us, even though we're still hoping this 'like new' mower handles our hills well. If not, my husband will keep doing the hills w/our Troy Built tractor (when I've done all the mowing, I've always told him, you can see what I'd mow if anything ever happened to him...lol). I don't even have the weight to get the tractors back up the hills once I'm down them, even the one that he had wheel weights put on for me.
I have bought used till this year. I prefer a walk behind mower. They work best for the properties I mow. I am looking for a zero turn for the bigger lawns. The walk behinds are a beast on hills.
I agree. For hills, walk behind mowers are the way to go.
Hi. Thanks for the video. It brought a lot of thought into my upcoming purchase. I have 18 acres of which 5 is cut. It is rough terrain, and very long. I use a billygoat to knock it down to manageable levels, but our mower broke and I can't maintain it well with just the bush hogger, so I am shopping around for a zero turn rider. I am thinking the property needs a commercial mower to handle it, residential mowers seem to be not quite enough and can't take the beating. I found a 2014 Gravely ZT XL for $2,600 bucks, it has 136 hours on it and looks to be in good shape, and comes with spare blades. However Home Depot has a brand new Z-Beast 54 inch for $3K. $3K is my spending limit. So I am torn between the two. I can't find much online about z-beast. So i am leaning to the Gravely. Thought I'd seek out your opinion between the two.
I just wanted to pop on and say thanks for the reply. I ended up getting the Gravely, and I can't say how impressed I am with this machine. My gut told me it was the way to go and your message helped me feel comfortable with the purchase. It took me 4 days to get the property under control, but now I mow it all in about 1.5 hours. The property, about 4 acres, was all 3-5 foot in height. I only had to use the bush hogger on a few small areas over 5 foot. The gravely did the rest. It is a beast. It helped that the seller took care of it as well. All around a great experience and I appreciate you taking the time to answer my inquiry via PM. I love your videos, keep up the great work.
I feel like I made a mistake.. I got a 52 inch zero turn I mow quite a few yards some have gates some dont the mistake I made was I feel I should have got a 34 inch so I could get though the 36 inch gates.. I do have two 21 inch push mowers and that is how I'm doing yards with gates..the front yards are getting done way faster but I'm still doing same thing in back yards. The main reason I didn't get a 34 inch was because the motors on the 34"s were briggs and Stratton..I went with the Kawasaki
great advice and insights. you can tell that this man is a strait shooter. : )
I use a Hustler* Raptor SD. was bought New for $4200. My note is $91.86 a mo. With my current Customer Base, I am easily making those payments. I didn't go for the Commercial Grade just yet until i get established in my Business. The Raptor is doing great and is working out just fine for now. Although it won't be able to handle 15-20 yards a day for long. It will be good enough to get me started. Take Care of It and it will do what you need it to.
would you but the new radius mower exmark with Kawasaki or kohler motor
+Everyday Hustle Lawn Care. Lots of guys in the biz for 3 or less years have started with moderately used equipment or even stuff bought out of the big boxes. A co-worker's son graduated school and didn't want to hit college right away Worked at PT job before graduation and purchsed of ALL THINGS a freakin Murray from WalMart for $999! Granted they're turning wrenches a lot but that was 2 years ago and he's still going. I'd personally not give him 50 bucks for the mower now but just goes to tell you that small things lead to big things.
That SD should last a while. Met a guy while refueling and he had one on his trailer and swore by it. If I took care of my own yard and was in the market for a residential mower, the SD would probably be my choice. Built really well.
I stated with one customer and only had a push mower 6 years ago.now my business has grown a little from 8 to 12 customers I have a bunch of equipment but up until now I used two 42" Sears tractors for mowing my bigger lawns.I finally decided to take the plunge and just sold one of my tractors and order a 2018 ferris for next year now I'll be able to increase my business just a little bit more because this is only my side gig I have a full-time job going to retire in 5 years and then triple my business. This is where I'm going with this ...This guy make a a very good point you do not need anything fancy or a commercial mower to start a business my to use Sears generates over $8,000 cash for 6 months that's my point😊
I got a used Ferris 5100D on a auction best thing i ever did, just love the suspension i´m not totally wasted in the evening like i use to be. So yep better to get a used commercial machine than a new hobby one.
HmsSulaco Ferrris is great.
I agree with you on sticking with commercial machines. Also, 300 hours on a mower is only 2-3 months worth of full-time use. I had an Exmark Viking that got over 10000 hours of use over 12 years. She never gave me any trouble until about the 3500-hour mark when I needed to have new valves. At around 9900, she started to lose compression......great machine, but routine maintenance is the key.
Straight From the Field you still hiring i live in Atlanta 6 years experience 678-913-9004 Rod
Yeah, I need some help right now. Please apply on my website and attach a resume: integritylawnpro.com
Straight From the Field i tried to fill out the app on your web, it will not submit
You need to fill out all the fields in order to submit(no blank spaces). Also, make sure you are using a mainstream browser like Internet Explorer, Firefox, or Opera. Lesser-knowns like Midori, or Pale Moon don't always work. I plan on re-coding the whole site soon, and may go back to the .pdf file-type of job application.
Jason, would like see a video about how you handle the summer heat since you're working out in the sun all day.
+Luke Pellegrin good suggestion. Thank you
Its the hot sun that I don't understand how people can tolerate it...I start to burn after about 20 minutes....I just cant take the sun, it burns me right up. I mow my lawn later in the evening.
yes, the humidity is the worst part and pushes the heat index past 110°F sometimes. And it makes the grass grow crazy fast. appreciate the tips. Was thinking about a large hat cause I've seen Jason wear one in some of his vids. thanks!
300 hrs is slightly used ... properly maintained they can go 2-3000 hrs ...
@@g00glechr0me8 You have to wear long sleeves and a neck drape. Gotta wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from damage from glare.
really great points! I try to be debt free as debt prevents you from pivoting if necessary
What about the husqvarna z254f 23hp Kawasaki for $3k at Lowe’s?
Top of the line mower is over $20,000, such as the Ventrac. It all depends on what you need to mow.
20,000? bro. no one uses ventrac unless u have crazy aggressive terrain. top of the line mowers in the industry, brand new, are around 12K. that is what I pay if I want something new...however, these mowers are solid as a tank, so buy used, and if something goes wrong on it, fix it! you can get a 12k mower for 3k with 1k hrs on it, and spend 3k making it brand new. woot!
GTFO here you can buy one for under 12k. Who the hell would pay that much for a lawn mower
@@madbear3512 everyone who makes a living with mowers
look ing the 36 ferris hydrostat walk behind. its a champ. fyi for others. my dealer did not have in store but was special order. worth it.
Hey Jason, what would you recommend for someone who has around 50 customers most of which have 32 inch back gates? I'm looking for the best 32 inch commercial new or used etc?
Great vid on zero turns buddy. I must agree with what you said
Every year a new crop of guys think they want to start a lawn business and buy new mowers. All is good until one thing or another changes their mind and they sell out cheap. I bought used for years, but you gotta know what to look for. If you have any municipal or government contracts most manufacturers give you a BIG discount. I got a Hustler Super Z with a huge discount, financed for 2.99 AND wrote it off my taxes. Tax writeoffs are needed if you're legal.
Tony Harrell I'm looking to go legal and to do taxes this season. How do I go about that? I have no experience with business and taxes and I'm just learning as I go. Is there a book you would recommend? Any advice you would give is welcome!
Sick Fiber Find a reputable person to do your taxes first. They can give you all the info you need.
Tony Harrell Alright. They can even help with becoming an official business, as well?
Sick Fiber Yes, I was a sole proprietor but you may want to explore other options.
Tony Harrell What do you mean exactly?
Watching this Video because I'm going through this Situation right now.. I have a Scag Patriot (52 in with Kawasaki) coming ($7K) & until that gets to Me the Company Loaned Me a Gravely Pro Turn 148 which I like.. The Owner made Me an Offer to Buy the Gravely (48 in with Kawasaki) for $3K less,BUT it has 190 Hrs on it.. Any Help would be Greatly Appreciated.. Reallu Liking Your Channel,Keep Up the Great Work.
+Jon Morgan I think that's a great deal on that Gravely.
So 190 Hours is still fairly New??..
7/31/21, After researching many brands/sizes/features, I got a Gravely ztx42" from a local Gravely/Ariens dealer (S-NJ). Just right size for my own property; they have so many different size decks/models; all total,
You hit it smack on.I would rather buy a reasonable hour commercial unit than a brand new homepwner special from lowes.Kawasaki gas motors are a dominating force in small gas engines.Check your hydro drives for size,grease fittings,motor manufacturer,tire size,welded fabricated decks.It would not scare me to buy any brand name Z turn now days.Scag,Gravely,hustler,Kubota,ferris ,you get what you pay for.Buy the best you can afford.Simple.
Excellent, excellent advice on starting out and getting a good deal, thank you!!
+Ben Tebbens glad to help. Thanks for the comment
Are the Z beast zero turns ok with the commercial warranty??? But how do they preform???
I use a ex-mark at work and I mow about 300-400 acres (alone). And I hate that mower more than any tool I have. Doesn’t break often but it’s horribly uncomfortable, very loud very bumpy. Buy a grasshopper.
Jason, just want to say thanks for taking time out to share, appreciate that your a busy man but still willing to help out your fellow man.
Quick question, I'm looking for a walk behind that I can use on my personal lawn of about 20,000 square feet.
Looking at new and used, my biggest concern is motor and a quality deck that won't fail on me like my residential riding mower did.
Would appreciate suggestions, thanks.
I would get a kawasaki or kohler engine. Scag, Exmark, and Hustler all make good walk behind mowers
Jason, thanks again for your suggestions.
After considering all of my options, I went with a Deere X350. My reason was simply the bagging capacity of a riding tractor versus a grass catcher for the walk behind.
Did get a Kawasaki motor on the Deere so I was happy about that. Thanks again and I wish you nothing but continued success in the lawn care business.
kawi and a FERRIS all day
This may seem like a silly question but how often do you think on average you have to sharpen your blades on your mower?
Thomas shonk it is recommended they be sharpened every 10 hrs of use.
Not to brag but only to show you that one can find steals out there I bought a TroyBilt ZTR 42 Mustang for $1499 with 4.5 hours on it. Had it delivered yesterday and today got the yard mowed in no time. The year of the mower is a 2014 or 2015.
What do you think of a 2009 Grasshopper 220 commercial mower, 48 inch deck, side discharge, 370 hours. Paying around $3000 for it from a tractor store and they will do a tune up on it. I'm hoping it will be good size for residential property, and small commercial properties. The first guy who owned it 1 owner before me very lightly used the mower in residential back yards.
20 hp Kohler motor
oh my gosh...that grasshopper is barely broken in, and $3K is a steal!!!
That is a bargain
ride on mowers leave too much lawn clipping for my liking?
I currently have about 15 yards all in the same subdivision that I have been mowing on the side now for about 13 years. Most of the yards are a quarter of an acre or less with various obstacles and fences in their yards. I currently use a Toro Timemaster to mow them, but the timemaster just can't mow tall grass well and is not a huge time saver for me anymore. I am married and work a 40 hour a week day job, so my time is pretty limited. I am looking to upgrade my business and go with a zero turn mower. Do you have any suggestions on size, brand, etc? Any help would be great..
Cody Sutherland Heya Cody, just picked up a Worldlawn Diamondback brand new for $4k flat. Kawasaki engine and 3200 trans. They are buying market share, very under valued machines!
Zero turn , 52 Bob cat use comercial becosue those zero bobcats really good for any tipe of grass specially weeds
What size zero turn do you start out with? What do you do if you can’t get you zero turn into a fenced back yard?
I think a 48 inch is a good versatile Size. 52 in also a good size. If you can't get into the backyard you will need a smaller mower or possibly not take on the business
Sorry if this is an ignorant question, but is there some type of way to know the hours on a mower?
Most zero Turn Mowers have an hour meter
Thanks Mr Jason !!!!
great advice, Jason!!
Whats the best deck size for residential mowing? Like I know getting into a back yard gate maybe a problem if your deck size is to large. Has anyone ran into this issue if so how did you handle it?
marty Wylie 36 inch or 42 inch decks are great for residential yards, if the back yard gate is smaller then there large sized deck they mite have a push mower or a 36inch deck mower as well. or just not do that customer yard all together
@@sdudley11 Thank You Sam
@@martylwylie no problem marty glad to help
How do you know how many hours it has on it? Where do you find these 'great (used) deals?' I can't imagine using that big machine in the background on a small yard. Why pay $6000 for ANY mower if a $3000 one will do all your jobs? Do they last twice as many hours?
I'm a residential with about 4 acres to mow. Some area is rough. About 1 1/2 acre is on a hill. I am rough on equipment and I have practically destroyed my Husqvarna RZ5424. Not the Kohler motor it's been great but everything else especially the deck, cutters, pulleys, belts, etc. I want to finance a new mower with a warranty because I don't think I know enough about a used machine to make a good deal. I want to finance about 7K . I may decide to cut a few others yards to help pay for it. I also feel like I might need a 60". Anyone with some good advise at steering me in the right direction on which model I should purchase to fill my needs would be helpful. Thank you in advance.
2016 hustler raptor sdx (477 hours) with trailer for $3,500 deal or no deal?
Just snagged a 2017 z950 m deere with 110 hrs for $4000
id go with kubotas because kubota dealers saves alot of money on budget and mowers are desent price and good warranty
I'm looking for low cut and a good grass catcher
I'm just a homeowner that bought a Poulan p46 and I would never go back to a tractor style mower but damn the zero turn loses traction easy and is hard on my back. Is it just this brand or all zero turns this way?
MrFakit it takes getting used to. With good tires and technique (mostly turning) traction shouldn’t be an issue unless the ground is saturated. I know with Gravely you can upgrade with a $600 comfort seat that’s basically a lazyboy on a zero turn. Very easy on your back.
You get what you pay for. Quality Country Clipper Avenue starts well under $4,000, made in America and not a stamped deck. More quality features than any of the brands mentioned in this video. Never buy at a big box retailer, you'll be looking for quality mechanic work, and no customer service.
My father has been in business 40+ years and has never payed for a mower new lol
Hey Jason, I've stumbled across your channel while doing some research on lawn care. I've had my mind set on lawn care for a while now, and this is my first season I'd call successful. Probably because I have the equipment now. I have a 15.5HP Kholer Command on a Craftsman 42" cut. I DO plan on wearing it completely out before getting my next mower. I'm hoping to get a Ferris or a Husqvarna (my fav brand). I have my own chainsaws, hedge clippers and pruning sheers, as well as a 225 weedeater and a Husqvarna push mower. What else can you think of that I should invest in right off the bat? And how would you rate a Ferris zero turn on a scale of 1-10?
William Sizemore ferris or gravley 9
I thinking of going with a Honda HF2620 model; speed is around 135 mph!
Thanks for the video.. new sub
Great at video Jason. Do you still have your Mini Z?
+Brett Dobbins I sold it. That was a great mower
Any thoughts on buying a 2004 walker 42" with replaced motor, 817 hrs ?
Karl Quinn how much
show contact infohere is the craigslist wording: I have a 2004 walker 42" mower. It's the ghs model and collects grass. Has 815 hours and needs nothing. I purchased it used with 250 hours with a hurt motor. I replaced the motor at 283 hours for $2200 at Harry's. I have receipts to show. I always maintained the mower my self every 50 hours and have maintenance logged in my notebook. Mower doesn't look brand new but it is very solid and needs nothing. Ready to cut. Firm on 4500. Don't low ball. Call/text
From the Craigslist ad: I have a 2004 walker 42" mower. It's the ghs model and collects grass. Has 815 hours and needs nothing. I purchased it used with 250 hours with a hurt motor. I replaced the motor at 283 hours for $2200 at Harry's. I have receipts to show. I always maintained the mower my self every 50 hours and have maintenance logged in my notebook. Mower doesn't look brand new but it is very solid and needs nothing. Ready to cut. Firm on 4500. Don't low ball. Call/text
show contact info
I like Kubota ZD series mowers
BUT they are commercial grade and expensive... Also BUT they are durable.
Bottom line... unless you have acres and acres to cut, you don't need a zero turn.
I am buying a lawnmower for residential use and am looking for something that will last me for a very long time at just a little under 2 acres. What is your opinion of the better mower between the Exmark Radius E 48 or the Ariens Apex 52? Both have dealers about an equal distance from me with supplies and repair shop, same price, but I am not sure which will hold up.
I would get the exmark
Both are probably fine. Ariens is like a gravely
Lawn Care Life Thanks for the fast reply. Is the ZT3100 not worth it in the Ariens or is the Exmark just that much better?
I'm not that familiar with ariens. I believe they are associated with Gravely but I am more familiar with the Gravely models
Lawn Care Life Thanks again, ended up getting the Exmark and it will be delivered on Saturday. Really enjoyed watching several of your videos even if I am not doing lawn care anymore - brings back some great memories!
Can I start off with a residential mower?
Sure, though I would upgrade when you get more money to do so
Gravely is probably the best buy.
I expect this mower will last several seasons with decent care. ua-cam.com/users/postUgkx1VWTrayKBdCKAjzAcZ_Eg4dhHTae3LkN also recommend Also, I ran across the problem with it not starting the 2nd time I used it. There is a safety switch which is pushed in by the chute or mulching piece being attached to the deck. I took the cover off and it wouldn't start. Put it back on, no problem. It takes only a minute with 2 easily accessible wingnuts and no tools. This mower starts up first crank each time and it is a joy to use. It also mows in reverse by putting the key to the reverse area after starting and pushing in the triangular button. It will stay in reverse mode until you turn it off. All in all, for my homeowner needs, I really like this mower-and at 70 bucks a cut here in Miami, it's already more than 1/3 paid for itself in a month.
what your opion on walk behinds i only run them
i priced a kubota wg14-36 walk behind mower from mannistoa for $3,980.00
how do you feel about Husqvarna commercial 0 turn mowers? I found one on sale $6,800 brand new that I am wanting to get, but I never see anyone in the business with Husqvarna.
no alot of lawn care business here are going all kubota because kubota is good on budgets of money saving plus the kubota dealers takes $2,400 up to $3,500 off with perchuse of kubota mowers or tractors wich is nice
whats the opinion of grasshopper mowers
+Levi Wright I haven't personally owned in grasshopper but I hear very good things about them
can you compare them to other big names?
what about spartan mowers
+Bob Keller never tried one
FERRIS!!! you can start with a 700. I started with a 1500 zx and build a relationship with a company and work your way up
Amen! Z1/Z2's! Love em!
i got a 42in for more versatility
All that is true if you have the cash, however if you’re financing then YOURE STUCK HAVING TO GET NEW
What's your thoughts on Briggs engines?
+Jordan Hannah I prefer Kawasaki or kohler
Kaw also, but I know friends of mine who swear by the Vangard. Briggs? Hmmmm. Roll the dice. I've had very good luck with Briggs but know plenty who have had nothing but trouble.
Lazer Z all the way
I like the Lazer Z as well
anyone know anthing about the toro time cut xm5025, 50 inch? Im a veteran looking to start somthing small when i get home it has a 23hp kawasaki on it? from home depot and i get discounts there would it be a good starter mower or what do yall think?
Toro is a good mower. Have owned several of them and they hold up well. We use Exmark (owned by Toro) the only difference is the decks. Exmark is a heavier deck with less maintenance.
one thing to inquire about (dealer would probably know better) is the hydro pumps. They changed them about 7yrs ago on commercial mowers and since then have been bullet proof. The older pumps would fail around 1200hrs and would cost 1500 range to repair. The Timecutter is not considered a commercial mower so I can't speak for it.
Starting out a Toro will work just fine for you. We service large commercial properties and the extra cost of Exmark is worth it in the long run for us.
As far as going to home depot I would get a quote from them and then bring it to your local Toro dealer. I can not express enough how much a relationship with them will benefit you down the road.
Thank you for taking the time to reply. Alot of good info for me. Thank you and hope you have a great season.
Tyler Thrash thank you for your service! Come home safe! Wish you best of luck on your new business!
how about Cub cadet pro z 900
R2 4U Cub Cadet would not be my first choice
why not?
I've never owned a Cub Cadet but have not heard very good reviews about them
Belt keeps coming off and it's not easy to put it back
We made the mistake of buying a Cub Cadet a couple years ago. They're cheap, and quality confirms just how cheap they really are. Ours has been broken down more than it's been up and running. The only positive I have to say about it is that it is a comfortable ride, and having reverse built into the gas pedal makes it almost as nice as z-turn for maneuvering.
At what point do you guys start turning away from a mower because of hours?
+Turf Guys Lawn Care I'll try to get as low as hours as possible but I typically don't consider one with over 500 hours. It is not that one with 500 hours will not work great. It might. It's just that I don't know how well it has been taken care of. I think if you buy one with low hours then you can keep it well over five hundred hours. I believe some companies put 500 hours on a mower in one year
I was just curious. I've wondered this for a while. I've got almost 500 hours on mine with regular maintenance and a new battery and rebuilt starter. I'm getting bigger properties and I'd like to get another mower, but some of these mowers I'm seeing have 1000 to 2000 plus hours on them, and they still want 5 to 6 grand for them.
great tips and great videos!! where do you usually get your used zero turn lawn mowers ?I been wanting to get a commercial one for a while thanks in advance you can p.m. me if you like thanks again.
+Ok De Craigslist or facebook marketplace
Would you buy a Zero turn by John Deer w/ 260 hours for $1,600
I keep thinking about how many yards you'd have to mow to pay for a mower. Geeze... It's a lot of yards just to pay for the equipment to start making a dime.
the yard in the background looks horrible! cut way to low and very dry!
What do You consider low Hours,say 198 Hrs on the Mower??...
+Jon Morgan 300 hours is low. I would buy one with 500 for a good price.
I think your way better off buying a brand new resi zero turn. For example you can pick up a mower like the raptor sd or bobcat crz for around 4grand. You know exactly what your getting and your getting a warranty. Machine will easily last you 1000 hrs. I'll never buy anything used again.
k thanks
I fell like I made a huge mistake..we got a 52 inch zero turn when we should have gotten a 34inch huge mistake so now we cant get into back yards lol..I'm a IDIOT! The reason we chose the 52 was because it had a fabricated deck and a Kawasaki engine...ugh! Wish someone could say something to make me feel better about it but it was a huge mistake
So what you're saying is I should get the biggest badest 114 inch cut with a 50 hp diesel engine in it.
Jk but it would be so badass
Fuck that I rather spend $2,500.00 on a new toro zero turn and I'm going to know is going to last me and reliable because if I buy a used one you don't know how the other client did to it or if something is messed up and that's why his selling it because ohh you would be pist if you bearly bought it and some parts are expensive like a hydraulic thing it could cost 600 each side and it got 2 so that would be 1200 lol
Dixie Choppers any good?
I have never owned one. Not many around in my area. I never understood the big mud tires on them.
Bummer not many here ether.. I do understand the mudders though really large hydro motors one each wheel shit loads of instance power the fucker is scary LOL