A tale of two ZT Riders

[tipptop]

Thanks to all for the previous reply to the Lesco ZT question. Bottom line is I'm in this part time and have the option to purchase a new 54''Lesco Z two with Peco catcher for $8518 or a new bobcat ZT 50'' with Vac Trac catcher for $9540. Again I stress I'm only part time with about 22 lawns but all high residential in NJ. The $ difference is $1023 but money is money. Can anyone steer me in the right direction with a good reason for either one considering all the facts.

[grasshopper]

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I can relate very closely to you, being that I do this part time as well. I am in MD doing the same high residential lawns about 28 a week. I bought all new eqiupment this season including a Toro 52' Z and a Bobcat 36' WB. Between the Lesco and Bobcat, hands down, the Bobcat is better. I have learned in this business that the better equipment is worth it, cause in fact, your equipment is your business. If soemthing vital, like you Z breaks, you better have a good plan to keep yourself out there working while it is getting repaired. My advice, go with the Bobcat, you won't be unsatisfied.

[Bobby D]

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How big are your lawns. If sizable you can make the same amount of money by working less with a 52'Z rider. If you have the time and are not looking for more business, then save thousands and stick to a WB, keeps your cash flow higher. Really depends on size of lawns, amount of business, and how much you are willing to grow.

I would say though, forgo a hydro WB for a Z rider, price is not much different for you to stand all day. Then I go with the Z.

[dancom]

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I have two mid decks and two walk behinds. I usually use the two mid decks on one crew and the two walk behinds on the other. next year I am going to trade one walk behind for another mid deck. I have found that when I send the second crew out with on mid deck and one walk behind they usually get done about an hour and a half sooner than when they have two walk behinds. not only does it save me labor but it saves fatigue on my crew. it will also give me another hour and a half of cutting time per day which adds up to about 550.00 more dollars per week or aprox 15,000 more a year which would more than pay the price difference. I will make more money and have happier employees. that a win win situation