Hi! Thank you for the review of your experiences. I was extremely upset with both Ventrac and My dealer. I bought a 4500z and 72” finish mower to use on my private property. Being we have a lot of steep inclines on the property, Ventrac or Steiner was perfect. I was going to go Steiner but had a very hard time finding a dealer that would sell to me. So, I went with Ventrac. I asked the dealer if any new products would be released working the next 3 months. If so we would wait. They assured me. That it wouldn’t happen. That’s how good this product is. Well, 40 days later the 4520 was released. I was livid. The dealer Claimed they didn’t know. Regardless We paid cash and felt slighted. My finish mower deck required 3 on-site visits to adjust. The tensioning system was all jacked up. Had burnt up 2 belts. It took about 40 days to get a good mow in. Since then it’s been great. I love the tractor. Yeah, the newer product looks awesome and is supposed to perform better but… seeing this makes me wonder. Dealing with Ventrac directly has been wonderful. I don’t care for the dealer. The undersold me with what I feel is a lack of knowledge. I see This as a learning experience and honestly I’m awaiting the new Bobcat Articulating Tractor to be released. Being non commercial, the cost would be more suited for us. Plus I’m looking for a 3650 Bobcat with a Front PTO. Thanks again and I look forward to seeing your progress.
I have gotten a few messages from people saying I have been too harsh on the machine/dealer I stand my ground and let them know the details again. The dealer is honestly the largest let down. They havent returned my phone calls/emails or even called to check up on how the machine is running. They never provided "instructions" on how to run the machine, I watched alot of videos so I had that covered pretty good. Ventrac is helping me with a few things already and have supplied me with the filter and oil for the rear filter exhange for free. They sent it to me because the dealer is well, you know. Maybe we cant use this platform to get the useless dealers booted and get real honest and trustworthy dealers established. I did see the teasers for the Bobcat version of the Ventrac and I am interested as well. I wonder if they will release anything about it. I only saw 1 blurry picture from a few months ago. Thanks for watching.
Thanks for this great, honest review! I subbed. I’ve experienced many of these issues with my 4500z (eg. the grease zerk for the 3-point cylinder doesn’t line up with the small opening on my unit either; also, the inner clamp on the air filter is unnecessarily difficult to get to) Have to say though, I still love my tractor despite the issues.
I have a 450 Steiner and love it. Same setup dual wheels...My only issue is my Air Fx finish mower has broken 2 times in 10 hours. 1st was the hub that mounts the pulley broke. Snapped while mowing reg grass and flew off into the arms so hard it cut the meatal. The did replace the entire deck, but after 3 hours it started vibrating. I thought maybe I hit a stick and didn't see, so I stopped flipped the deck to see it still looking normal. I drove to the house got someone to sit on the tractor and pull the pto. I saw sparks. Dealer came and got it for a 2nd time. Tractor itself is Awesome. I'm watching this to see if Ventrac maybe makes a better design, watching all the nuts coming off now I'm not sure. It's important to note Toro bought Ventrac, Bobcat owns Steiner. So maybe its growing pains compared to older models. For 30 to 40 grand you would think they would be better about support and Quality.
I bought a new Ventrac in 2001. I replaced it in 2021 with a new 4500Z. It’s one year old now and it’s awesome. I have not had one issue with it. My dealer is awesome.
Maybe its the new model bugs that need to be worked out or I just didn't get one that was reviewed. Other than the things mentioned, It has been great and I am amazed when I push it a little further each time.
Great video! I bought a fully loaded 4500P last year. A word on the seat, I bought a Grammer 75, Electric pump air ride seat. Much better than their Grammer upgrade. Comes with retractable seat belt and arms and lumbar adjustment. I have 3 point attachments that fit. And the gauge issues cross all tractors, i think its radiator heat placement. They have clear tanks on some engines. The Kawi has a clear plastic tank.
The dealer was reluctant to give me the stock seat saying I wouldn't need it but I might try it as a test. The cluster shouldn't have hot air from the radiator since the air intake is behind the dash (for air filter and cooling) and you have to clean the screen off. I will get a clear tank myself if I can't get one from Ventrac.
Welcome to the club brother. I wrench on mine 100 times more than all my equipment combined. I hate to tell you this , but it don’t get any better. 30k plus for a novelty item! I could kick myself. Ventrac in bed with Toro now ain’t gonna help the issues either.
I was thinking seriously about buying one of these. Now I'm not so sure. I have a 2021 Steiner 450 right now. No issues. Bobcat bought Steiner, so it could be the new Bobcat will be the old Steiner with a few mods.
My pet rock is the front axle design. If I attach the Versa Loader I must remove the outer wheels because the added weight will break the axle. I’m not an engineer, but I assume it’s the 1” bolt that breaks. Go to a longer 3” front axle then have a between wheel sleeve with flanges at each end. I suppose Ventrac wanted fast 4-8 wheel configuration changes? Still I have no flat land, so Ventrac is my best solution.
Very detailed! The only issues I can speak to are 1:30 and 2:45 Regarding the stump grinder brackets, while the damage sucks, the stump grinder user manual (at least the most current online version) DOES say 'hey, these brackets can interfere with other attachments, you should remove them when you detach the stump grinder'. For the U-bolts, I had one crumble into 5 pieces when I removed a shroud shortly after getting it. Definitely get a handful of extras!
The 2 I mention were 3 pieces. The Stump Grinder Brackets are no longer and issue because of a mod I made for the Power Rake. Its the only attachment I have that is affected by it. I will point that out in my Power Rake video I am working on.
When they turn up in the crate at DGM devon England the rolling stock wheels a white but the extra duels are black so that’s normal , not had many issues with them , just great machines 👍🙂
A really great review, seems to be real honest and because of that I just came a subscriber. Within the next 3 to 5 years I plan on retiring but before I do, one of my next main purchases, I like would to make is a 4520 or a steiner 450. I've been leaning towards the 4520 but these issue would need to be resolved first or I may have to go with steiner. Just like new model cars the first ones normally have issues, they normally work it out. So I will wait to see what happens within the next 6 months or so. Both dealers are about 3 hours away, so I will have to go with what is the most reliable. Thanks for the great content.
Honesty is key. I don't get paid for the videos or the reviews covering them. I have done alot of research before ordering it. I actually had a 4500Z on order and since my dealer was sitting on it for weeks they released the 4520 series. I cancelled the order and upgraded. Using the machine as intended will cause these problems (not many to be honest) to show up. It's a tool and I use it. It doesn't sit in a garage looking pretty. I make sure if dirty when I get done. I do wash it to keep it looking good but it aint new no more. :) Thanks for watching, the sub and the comment!
I would say the majority of your issues fall back on the dealer. The dealer I bought mine from went through my machine making sure bolts were tight and the unit was topped of with liquids. I have my dealer reps cell phone number and he either always answers my call or text. #ventrac
I have the Sales Rep and General manager and since I paid them they are avoiding me like the plague. My background is commissioning heavy equipment machinery so the bits and bobs dont bother too much, but I'm a straight shooter. I dont get paid for anything but the major issues will be sorted.
WOW! That is a lot issues. I avoid buying either the first year of a new model or the last year of an old one. My 4500Z has been great with LOTS of very hard use. I wonder if your white rimmed tires are wider than the outer black rimmed ones?
Could this possibly be a lemon or is it just a lack of attention to detail on the behalf of Ventrac? Maybe the dealer did not do a thorough set up for you when you bought the machine? I'm a little concerned at these issues regarding the new model and I was worried there would be problems going forward when Toro bought the company. Could you do a follow-up video to discuss if Ventrac is going to fix (or has fixed) any of these problems?
I did and have begun talking with another, not so local, dealer. I think the original dealer are Ventrac suppliers now because they are a Toro dealer and Toro owns Ventrac now.
After seeing the seat gauge I think you need an all new tractor. Too many problems it will just turn into a bad omen. And I think it’s just one bad egg you know??
Thankyou for your review. You have convinced me to not buy a Ventrac. You have an uncaring, bad dealer, but this is Ventrac’s fault for not monitoring them. Mostly, I think you are suffering from haphazard engineering. Most of these stupid little problems you are having should have been detected and resolved by adequate testing prior to release. If you don’t test it in the field, you won’t find these sorts of issues.
We bought one last year from a dealer in SE Texas and had similar workmanship issues. But the Ventrac rep was great to work with and stepped in when we needed his help. Hope he is helping you if needed. Keep up the great videos!
@@cindyconrad6576 I have been talking with the Ventrac Rep as well, but hate to bother him for something the dealer should be man/woman enough to handle. Thanks for the compliment, I am doing my best but the editing isnt my cup of tea. I get distracted too easily.
Given that this is a brand new machine that have not worked out the kinks. Also, when you run assembly you’re in an absolute rush. So seeing this video I have 0 concerns.
A lemon would mean it had the same issue over and over. These are all small isolated areas of concern but I am hopeful my dealer will step it up a bit and work with me.
@@John1911 The seat itself isn't but the installation is a dealer thing, The dealer had to wait for it to install before I took delivery. Scratches on the mounting surface must have come from the dealer not taking care/using the other set of holes.
Listen man, I am completely fed up with the incompetence of Ford Dealers and how they run their maintenance departments. All these crappy little detailed problems that should have never arisen has proven to me that Ventrac themselves is NOT doing a good enough job to train the Dealers. It is NOT up to the Dealer to fix the detailed screw ups done at the factory. As a Miele Vacuum Dealer, they told me to fix the manufacturing defects at my expense. Nope. At $50,000, I expect perfection. Mechanically inclined is not the point. We are in business to make money. If the unit is just for home, we do not have to be worried about getting manuals and fixing a Ventrac. This is similar to marriage. All the divorces and people say he said and she said when it was broke before the ringy thing. I am out.
I used to work for a large world wide manufacturer of construction equipment. I did on site deliveries and had to address these issues. They were tested at the factory and sometimes things happen. This is why when you get new equipment a warranty is always offered for free. The dealer is the issue here. I have been waiting for 2 months now for a response from my dealer.
Hi!
Thank you for the review of your experiences. I was extremely upset with both Ventrac and My dealer. I bought a 4500z and 72” finish mower to use on my private property. Being we have a lot of steep inclines on the property, Ventrac or Steiner was perfect.
I was going to go Steiner but had a very hard time finding a dealer that would sell to me.
So, I went with Ventrac. I asked the dealer if any new products would be released working the next 3 months. If so we would wait. They assured me. That it wouldn’t happen. That’s how good this product is.
Well, 40 days later the 4520 was released. I was livid. The dealer
Claimed they didn’t know. Regardless
We paid cash and felt slighted.
My finish mower deck required 3 on-site visits to adjust. The tensioning system was all jacked up. Had burnt up 2 belts. It took about 40 days to get a good mow in.
Since then it’s been great. I love the tractor. Yeah, the newer product looks awesome and is supposed to perform better but… seeing this makes me wonder.
Dealing with Ventrac directly has been wonderful. I don’t care for the dealer. The undersold me with what I feel is a lack of knowledge. I see
This as a learning experience and honestly I’m awaiting the new Bobcat Articulating Tractor to be released. Being non commercial, the cost would be more suited for us.
Plus I’m looking for a 3650 Bobcat with a Front PTO.
Thanks again and I look forward to seeing your progress.
I have gotten a few messages from people saying I have been too harsh on the machine/dealer I stand my ground and let them know the details again. The dealer is honestly the largest let down. They havent returned my phone calls/emails or even called to check up on how the machine is running. They never provided "instructions" on how to run the machine, I watched alot of videos so I had that covered pretty good. Ventrac is helping me with a few things already and have supplied me with the filter and oil for the rear filter exhange for free. They sent it to me because the dealer is well, you know.
Maybe we cant use this platform to get the useless dealers booted and get real honest and trustworthy dealers established.
I did see the teasers for the Bobcat version of the Ventrac and I am interested as well. I wonder if they will release anything about it. I only saw 1 blurry picture from a few months ago.
Thanks for watching.
The company doesn’t tell dealers when they are coming out with new stuff.
Ventrac needed to hire you as a product evaluator BEFORE they released it for the public to buy.
Someone get them on the phone!
Thank you for this review! I was considering a Ventrac until I saw this.
I was, too
Really thorough and detailed, I’m liking all of your ventrac videos, keep it up!
I'm trying! Thanks for the comment and watching.
Thanks for this great, honest review! I subbed. I’ve experienced many of these issues with my 4500z (eg. the grease zerk for the 3-point cylinder doesn’t line up with the small opening on my unit either; also, the inner clamp on the air filter is unnecessarily difficult to get to) Have to say though, I still love my tractor despite the issues.
These have got to be the goofiest machine I have ever seen but for some reason I'm still fascinated with them.
For the underseat grease fitting, I just cut a large slot in the plate. Now easy to grease.
Thanks for making this video, I’ll probably just cancel my Ventrac 4520P order and get a LX Kubota tractor instead
I have a 450 Steiner and love it. Same setup dual wheels...My only issue is my Air Fx finish mower has broken 2 times in 10 hours. 1st was the hub that mounts the pulley broke. Snapped while mowing reg grass and flew off into the arms so hard it cut the meatal. The did replace the entire deck, but after 3 hours it started vibrating. I thought maybe I hit a stick and didn't see, so I stopped flipped the deck to see it still looking normal. I drove to the house got someone to sit on the tractor and pull the pto. I saw sparks. Dealer came and got it for a 2nd time. Tractor itself is Awesome. I'm watching this to see if Ventrac maybe makes a better design, watching all the nuts coming off now I'm not sure.
It's important to note Toro bought Ventrac, Bobcat owns Steiner. So maybe its growing pains compared to older models. For 30 to 40 grand you would think they would be better about support and Quality.
I bought a new Ventrac in 2001. I replaced it in 2021 with a new 4500Z. It’s one year old now and it’s awesome. I have not had one issue with it. My dealer is awesome.
Maybe its the new model bugs that need to be worked out or I just didn't get one that was reviewed. Other than the things mentioned, It has been great and I am amazed when I push it a little further each time.
Thanks a lot of great info.
Great video! I bought a fully loaded 4500P last year. A word on the seat, I bought a Grammer 75, Electric pump air ride seat. Much better than their Grammer upgrade. Comes with retractable seat belt and arms and lumbar adjustment. I have 3 point attachments that fit. And the gauge issues cross all tractors, i think its radiator heat placement. They have clear tanks on some engines. The Kawi has a clear plastic tank.
The dealer was reluctant to give me the stock seat saying I wouldn't need it but I might try it as a test. The cluster shouldn't have hot air from the radiator since the air intake is behind the dash (for air filter and cooling) and you have to clean the screen off. I will get a clear tank myself if I can't get one from Ventrac.
Welcome to the club brother. I wrench on mine 100 times more than all my equipment combined. I hate to tell you this , but it don’t get any better. 30k plus for a novelty item! I could kick myself. Ventrac in bed with Toro now ain’t gonna help the issues either.
I dont think the Toro branding is an issue. Just a bit more industry exposure which could be good in the long run when more issues arise.
@@InsightLandCare okay! My plastic on my SDLA lever cracked and broke today. Great product!
I was thinking seriously about buying one of these. Now I'm not so sure. I have a 2021 Steiner 450 right now. No issues. Bobcat bought Steiner, so it could be the new Bobcat will be the old Steiner with a few mods.
My pet rock is the front axle design. If I attach the Versa Loader I must remove the outer wheels because the added weight will break the axle.
I’m not an engineer, but I assume it’s the 1” bolt that breaks.
Go to a longer 3” front axle then have a between wheel sleeve with flanges at each end.
I suppose Ventrac wanted fast 4-8 wheel configuration changes?
Still I have no flat land, so Ventrac is my best solution.
Very detailed! The only issues I can speak to are 1:30 and 2:45
Regarding the stump grinder brackets, while the damage sucks, the stump grinder user manual (at least the most current online version) DOES say 'hey, these brackets can interfere with other attachments, you should remove them when you detach the stump grinder'.
For the U-bolts, I had one crumble into 5 pieces when I removed a shroud shortly after getting it. Definitely get a handful of extras!
The 2 I mention were 3 pieces. The Stump Grinder Brackets are no longer and issue because of a mod I made for the Power Rake. Its the only attachment I have that is affected by it. I will point that out in my Power Rake video I am working on.
When they turn up in the crate at DGM devon England the rolling stock wheels a white but the extra duels are black so that’s normal , not had many issues with them , just great machines 👍🙂
He did not heart this comment ?
doesnt bother me .i just love ventracs 😊
Man no one seems to have problems. They must have picked yours to get all of the problems out on one machine. LOL.
A really great review, seems to be real honest and because of that I just came a subscriber. Within the next 3 to 5 years I plan on retiring but before I do, one of my next main purchases, I like would to make is a 4520 or a steiner 450. I've been leaning towards the 4520 but these issue would need to be resolved first or I may have to go with steiner. Just like new model cars the first ones normally have issues, they normally work it out. So I will wait to see what happens within the next 6 months or so. Both dealers are about 3 hours away, so I will have to go with what is the most reliable. Thanks for the great content.
Honesty is key. I don't get paid for the videos or the reviews covering them. I have done alot of research before ordering it. I actually had a 4500Z on order and since my dealer was sitting on it for weeks they released the 4520 series. I cancelled the order and upgraded. Using the machine as intended will cause these problems (not many to be honest) to show up. It's a tool and I use it. It doesn't sit in a garage looking pretty. I make sure if dirty when I get done. I do wash it to keep it looking good but it aint new no more. :) Thanks for watching, the sub and the comment!
I would say the majority of your issues fall back on the dealer. The dealer I bought mine from went through my machine making sure bolts were tight and the unit was topped of with liquids. I have my dealer reps cell phone number and he either always answers my call or text. #ventrac
I have the Sales Rep and General manager and since I paid them they are avoiding me like the plague. My background is commissioning heavy equipment machinery so the bits and bobs dont bother too much, but I'm a straight shooter. I dont get paid for anything but the major issues will be sorted.
I also can’t figure out my seat and have also had the seat switch problem
The thing costs plenty enough as it is.
You are a detailed mechanic !Can you use a chisel plow with this?
Maybe if it was small enough. I don't have access to one so I am unsure.
WOW! That is a lot issues. I avoid buying either the first year of a new model or the last year of an old one. My 4500Z has been great with LOTS of very hard use. I wonder if your white rimmed tires are wider than the outer black rimmed ones?
Could this possibly be a lemon or is it just a lack of attention to detail on the behalf of Ventrac? Maybe the dealer did not do a thorough set up for you when you bought the machine? I'm a little concerned at these issues regarding the new model and
I was worried there would be problems going forward when Toro bought the company.
Could you do a follow-up video to discuss if Ventrac is going to fix (or has fixed) any of these problems?
@@bert1450 Yes.
What dealer and where were they located?
wow ventrac are perful that new
A dealer that will not return your call shouldn't be a Ventrac dealer. I suggest you contact Ventrac directly.
I did and have begun talking with another, not so local, dealer. I think the original dealer are Ventrac suppliers now because they are a Toro dealer and Toro owns Ventrac now.
Tell us who the dealer was and we can leave google reviews for them. File a better business complaint
After seeing the seat gauge I think you need an all new tractor. Too many problems it will just turn into a bad omen. And I think it’s just one bad egg you know??
this must of been made on a friday or a monday
Thankyou for your review. You have convinced me to not buy a Ventrac. You have an uncaring, bad dealer, but this is Ventrac’s fault for not monitoring them. Mostly, I think you are suffering from haphazard engineering. Most of these stupid little problems you are having should have been detected and resolved by adequate testing prior to release. If you don’t test it in the field, you won’t find these sorts of issues.
What dealer did you buy the Ventrac from?
I don't need to blast them but I'm in SE Texas for what its worth.
We bought one last year from a dealer in SE Texas and had similar workmanship issues. But the Ventrac rep was great to work with and stepped in when we needed his help. Hope he is helping you if needed. Keep up the great videos!
@@cindyconrad6576 I have been talking with the Ventrac Rep as well, but hate to bother him for something the dealer should be man/woman enough to handle. Thanks for the compliment, I am doing my best but the editing isnt my cup of tea. I get distracted too easily.
@InsightLandCare bother him. Your e dealer needs to step up or be cut off.
Given that this is a brand new machine that have not worked out the kinks. Also, when you run assembly you’re in an absolute rush. So seeing this video I have 0 concerns.
The coolant tank is metal because they can’t get the plastic tanks
You need to name your dealer.
I would expect better quality with these machines. Wow, for the money you shouldn’t have those petty issues.
What is the name of the dealer? I will not use them.
I would be pissed 😤 that’s a lot of money 💰
These aren't huge deal breakers but I am hopeful I get them all sorted out and everything will be just fine.
Where's your dealer located
SE Texas.
Who is this Dealer so I can Not use them?
Was it the new power rake?
I'm not sure what you are referring to but I do have a new style power rake. I go into more detail about it and the issues I have in a separate video.
@@InsightLandCare the new power take is hydraulic.
The new Power Rake is Hydraulic depth and electronic forward and reverse control, no longer a rod controlled near the steering wheel.
@@InsightLandCare that’s what I just said.
@@InsightLandCare tbh I like that better.
Are you REALLY concerned that inner wheel rims are white? Really?
Imagine if you ordered a brand new car and when you got it it was the wrong color.
IT WOULD REALLY MAKE ME MAD TO HAVE THIS MANY ISSUES...i THINK IT WOULD BE NICE FOR VANTRAC TO REPLACE YOUR LEMOND
A lemon would mean it had the same issue over and over. These are all small isolated areas of concern but I am hopeful my dealer will step it up a bit and work with me.
for $ 30 k come on ventrac
I think it comes down to the dealer also.
@@InsightLandCare Agreed. The Ventrac comes palletized. This looks like dealer stuff mostly. The seat is not a dealer issue however.
@@John1911 The seat itself isn't but the installation is a dealer thing, The dealer had to wait for it to install before I took delivery. Scratches on the mounting surface must have come from the dealer not taking care/using the other set of holes.
@@InsightLandCare I was referring to the seat not working.
Listen man, I am completely fed up with the incompetence of Ford Dealers and how they run their maintenance departments.
All these crappy little detailed problems that should have never arisen has proven to me that Ventrac themselves is NOT doing a good enough job to train the Dealers. It is NOT up to the Dealer to fix the detailed screw ups done at the factory. As a Miele Vacuum Dealer, they told me to fix the manufacturing defects at my expense. Nope. At $50,000, I expect perfection. Mechanically inclined is not the point. We are in business to make money. If the unit is just for home, we do not have to be worried about getting manuals and fixing a Ventrac. This is similar to marriage. All the divorces and people say he said and she said when it was broke before the ringy thing. I am out.
I used to work for a large world wide manufacturer of construction equipment. I did on site deliveries and had to address these issues. They were tested at the factory and sometimes things happen. This is why when you get new equipment a warranty is always offered for free. The dealer is the issue here. I have been waiting for 2 months now for a response from my dealer.