Do I really need a Hydro(right now)???????

[ChrisK]

I am just starting out and am looking to get a 48inch walk behind.
I've looked at scag, and exmark.
All of my yards so far are between 1/8th acre - 1/4acre.
All yards are flat. I will be mulching.
Do I need a Hydro to start or can I wait till next summer to get one.
I do 6 yards now with a 21inch push mower.
I'm just looking to save some money while trying to add more customers.
Thanks for the help!!!!!!!!!
Chris

[kutnkru]

reply

The answer to Hydros is YES everyone who is a commercial cutter NEEDS to have them in their fleet. The question is at what point can you afford the extra $1k to upgrade???

If you havent built a client base yet than I wouldnt necessarily jump into a hydro at this point. If you are looking at establishing a pretty good mix of commercial and residential sites that may get into some higher sf of turf, then I would definitley pursue the Hydros.

I would also eliminate the 48. The best move for you would be if your going to get into the larger deck sizes then you should invest in a 52. This way you will have interchangeable blades with a 36 (which is also a MUST have for gated properties). The price diference is about $300 in the belts to upgrade to a 52 from a 48 and you will notice a dramatic increase in productivity this way believe it or not.