Zero Turn Mower Question

[Pop_Rivit]

I've invested in John Deere equipment for not only the solid reliability, but also for the dealer network that is available. I also like the brand because their better equipment is all John Deere, made in the USA and not a rebranded MTD. I'm not familiar with their box store lineup-that's something I'd never purchase anyway.

For your price range, at least around here, it's easy to find a slightly used commercial unit. For your $3,000 budget around here there are a number of mid size commercial zero turn available. Another option for just a one acre yard would be a used commercial stand on mower-extremely maneuverable, they don't take up much storage space, and they do an excellent job. Most of the John Deere dealers around here have a good selection of pre-owned or demo units that have been inspected and come with a warranty.

When I had to replace a head gasket on my 757 last year I was able to get all of the parts that same day, and have it back running in just 3 or 4 hours. I can also still get parts for my 40+ year old 210, and none of the parts are made in China, most are made in the USA with a few in other countries such as Israel.

 

[Wingman]

Thanks to all who replied. I appreciate all the inputs and advice. I have a much better idea of how to proceed. Thanks again!

 

[dave123]

Just remember looking at pumps even with same number on units they may not be the same you need full number they can be built many many ways ZT2800 are not all built the same just for example.

 

[racer12306]

Originally Posted By: dave123
Just remember looking at pumps even with same number on units they may not be the same you need full number they can be built many many ways ZT2800 are not all built the same just for example.


Correct, it depends on the ZT2800 if it is servicable.

However, once you get up to ZT3000 or 3200 and higher, I believe they are all serviceable.

 

[dave123]

Originally Posted By: racer12306
Originally Posted By: dave123
Just remember looking at pumps even with same number on units they may not be the same you need full number they can be built many many ways ZT2800 are not all built the same just for example.


Correct, it depends on the ZT2800 if it is servicable.

However, once you get up to ZT3000 or 3200 and higher, I believe they are all serviceable.
I think you're correct the guts I believe can still be different more to it than just being serviceable.

 

[NH73]

Originally Posted By: racer12306
Originally Posted By: dave123
Just remember looking at pumps even with same number on units they may not be the same you need full number they can be built many many ways ZT2800 are not all built the same just for example.


Correct, it depends on the ZT2800 if it is servicable.

However, once you get up to ZT3000 or 3200 and higher, I believe they are all serviceable.

Currently to this day, all Hydro-Gear ZT-2800 are serviceable. Your Maintenance-free ones are usually marketed as the Hydro-Gear EZT or IZT, which typically are a ZT-2100 or ZT-2200.

 

[JTK]

All ZT-2800s and up have always been serviceable.

 

[jhellwig]

Since I work for Deere I will recommend a z335e. It meets your criteria. You won't be putting a lot of hours on it with that small of yard. They are made by Deere and dealer supported.

The fabbed deck being better than a stamped deck is silly. You can stamp a much stronger deck lighter than you can fab one plus it eliminates a lot of nooks and crannies for gras to get stuck. Grass will flow better through it better due to the contures. A fabbed deck is a cheaper way of making a big deck. I would only want a fabricated deck if it was rear discharge.

 

[MCompact]

One feature that most of the Cub Cadets and John Deeres have is a mower deck washing system- a hose fitting on each side of the deck. It takes about five minutes to clean the deck after mowing and it couldn't be easier.

 

[IndyIan]

Originally Posted By: MCompact
One feature that most of the Cub Cadets and John Deeres have is a mower deck washing system- a hose fitting on each side of the deck. It takes about five minutes to clean the deck after mowing and it couldn't be easier.

I added one to my $300 mower in a few minutes as well. Just drill a 3/4" hole and put on a quick connect fitting through and thread on the female end of a dead hose on the inside.
That said, a quality mower should already have them.

 

[gman2304]

'One feature that most of the Cub Cadets and John Deeres have is a mower deck washing system'

^ This is one feature I would NOT have on a mowing deck ^ ! I clean, sand and paint the bottom of my deck in the fall after the mowing season. I don't mow if the grass is even a little bit wet. The last thing I want is moisture around the blades and spindles between mowings. My 1998 JD LX188 has the factory installed deck belt and spindle bearings.

 

[JTK]

I've owned both fabbed and stamped decks. Like jhellwig said above, there are good and mediocre versions of both out there. I actually preferred my stamped 44" Cub Cadet deck over the fabricated 44" I had. The stamped one is still in the family, the other was sold back in 2011. JD makes some great stamped decks. Always have.

Like gman2304 said, I am also not a fan of the deck "wash ports".

If it's some sort of commercial duty built deck with spindles and hardware that can take being soaked regularly, that's another story. I wouldn't use the wash port. Had them on my 2005 model year Cub 2544. It made more of a mess than anything. I tried it once.

 

[MCompact]

The deck wash system works fine on my Cub Cadet Enforcer; I despise yard work and I take advantage of anything I can do to make it easier.

 

[JTK]

MCompact, I hear you. The enforcer model is probably different from the wash port models I've used, plus everyone's usage varies. I've got a BIL that lives outside of Louisville. Totally different grass than what I mow.

 

[Pop_Rivit]

Originally Posted By: MCompact
One feature that most of the Cub Cadets and John Deeres have is a mower deck washing system- a hose fitting on each side of the deck. It takes about five minutes to clean the deck after mowing and it couldn't be easier.


I put my 757 up on the MoJack every week and swap out the blades for a sharp set. There is no "deck washing system" on it, and there is no buildup of anything to speak of. There is also no rust; the underside of the deck is nice and shiny, even after almost 1,700 hours on the clock.

I personally wouldn't want a deck washing system-introducing a large amount of water in that area just before putting the unit away for a week or so doesn't seem like the smartest thing to do.

 

[Wingman]

Thank you for the continuing inputs. I am learning a lot. You guys are helping me to make an informed decision and I appreciate your time and experience.

 

[MCompact]

I sharpen my blades annually- whether they need it or not!