Kent’s Lawn Service Owner, Kent Harlan, talks through safe operation of the Exmark Spreader-Sprayer, as well as routine maintenance he recommends for the machine.
View additional Spreader Sprayer videos on the Exmark YouTube channel, or learn more about the Exmark Spreader Sprayer at Exmark.com.
Kent Harlan of Kent’s Lawn Service in Beatrice, Nebraska, discusses the advantages of the spray system on his Exmark Spreader-Sprayer. With both narrow- and wide-spray systems, fingertip controls and Exmark’s Lean-to-Steer controls, the machine offers the ability to spray properties with unmatched speed and precision.
View additional Spreader Sprayer videos on the Exmark YouTube channel, or learn more about the Exmark Spreader Sprayer at Exmark.com.
Learn how the innovations Exmark designed into its new Spreader-Sprayer are helping lawn care professional Kent Harlan be more productive and profitable every day. This video is the first of seven new Spreader-Sprayer videos we’ve launched on the Exmark YouTube channel. (Note: Reload the page if the video does not appear below.)
View additional Spreader-Sprayer videos on the Exmark YouTube channel, or learn more about the Exmark Spreader-Sprayer at Exmark.com.
Home and acreage owners with one or more acres of property have more choices than ever when it comes to mower type, size, and price, just to name a few. Among landscape maintenance professionals, it’s safe to say the zero-turn riding mower has become the tool of choice to quickly achieve a professionally maintained appearance. However, when it comes to homeowners, are zero-turn mower still the preferred choice?
Learn more about the productivity of Exmark mowers at Exmark.com/Exmark-Advantage/Mower-Productivity-Chart
Productivity: A faster mower = more free time
Landscape pros choose zero-turn mowers because they deliver the finished appearance their clients expect, and they do it more quickly than other mower types. And while it may be true homeowners don’t need to make money with their mowers, it’s a good idea to consider what their time is worth.
We calculated the raw productivity of Exmark zero-turn riding mowers at three price points, along with the productivity of lawn tractors with similar MSRPs. The price ranges examined were:
Learn more about the comparison and criteria used at Exmark.com/Exmark-Advantage/Zero-Turn-vs-Lawn-Tractor.
Productivity of $4,000-5,000 mowers
The Exmark Quest S-Series Front Steer delivers true zero-turn performance in a steering wheel equipped machine that’s ideal for first-time zero-turn mower users.
Whether lawn tractor or zero-turn rider, most mowers in this price range have 48- to 54-inch cutting decks and top speeds of 6-7mph. As a result, raw productivity numbers are close for both types of mowers. In reality however, the differences in maneuverability are greatest in this price range, so the real world productivity gap is typically much larger than the raw numbers suggest. Find out why, and how the mowers in this price range compare, at Exmark.com/Exmark-Advantage/Zero-Turn-vs-Lawn-Tractor.
Productivity of $7,000-8,000 mowers
A 60-inch Exmark Pioneer S-Series zero-turn rider can mow a five acre property in about 1 hour 15 minutes at 80 percent efficiency.
The raw productivity of mowers in the $7,000-8,000 range increases roughly one acre per hour for zero-turn mowers, and one-half acre per hour for lawn tractors, compared to the lower priced models. Within the category, the most productive machine — the Exmark Pioneer S-Series zero-turn rider with a 60-inch cutting deck — can save an acreage owner with five acres more than 20 minutes in mowing time compared to a similarly-priced lawn tractor. Factor in the increased maneuverability of the zero-turn machine and the real world time savings can be much greater. See how each of the mowers in this category stacked up at Exmark.com/Exmark-Advantage/Zero-Turn-vs-Lawn-Tractor.
Productivity of $13,000-14,000 mowers
The incredible productivity of the Exmark Lazer Z X-Series zero-turn mower lets it mow five acres in less than 45 minutes (at 80 percent productivity).
Moving up to the $13,000-14,000 price range, the productivity gap grows significantly. When comparing similar 60-inch cutting deck sizes, productivity for zero-turn riders nearly doubles compared to lower-priced machines. The productivity gap between zero-turn mowers and lawn tractors grows as well. When you factor in the availability of a larger 72-inch cutting deck on the Exmark Lazer Z X-Series zero-turn rider, the productivity gap between the zero-turn mower and lawn tractor further to more than 2.5 acres per hour! Learn more about the productivity of each mower compared at Exmark.com/Exmark-Advantage/Zero-Turn-vs-Lawn-Tractor.
Other factors:
Bottom Line: Choose the tools the pros use
With a more productive mower, you can finish mowing quicker and get your weekends back.
When compared head-to-head, we believe Exmark zero-turn riding mowers offer the most compelling combination of productivity, maneuverability and quality of cut available today.
Learn more about the advantages of choosing an Exmark zero-turn riding mower at Exmark.com/Exmark-Advantage/Zero-Turn-vs-Lawn-Tractor.
* Productivity rating in gross acres per hour is based on the published specifications for each product. Actual performance may vary from specified performance based on conditions.
Formula for calculating acres per hour at 80% efficiency: (MPH x width of cut in inches)/124
If you own a property with steep hills, you know the challenges mowing and lawn care present. And when you add in walls, planters and other landscaping, and kids’ equipment such as trampolines, all of the sudden, mowing becomes akin to navigating an obstacle course. Which mower you choose for hills is an important factor in mowing your lawn safely and sustainably over time. In addition, taking the time to learn about all of the important safety features on your machine and how to safely navigate your mower on slopes and around obstacles is critical in helping prevent accidents.
Choose the Right Mower for Hilly Terrain
Exmark Lazer Z zero-turn riding mowers are the #1 choice of landscape professionals because of their unmatched ability to quickly and safely maintain a wide variety of properties. That said, zero-turn riding mowers should not be used on slopes of greater than 15 degrees, or a 26.8 percent grade. (Learn more about calculating slope and grade at EngineeringToolbox.com.) Maintain hills or surfaces with slopes of more than 15 degrees with a walk-behind mower or hand trimmer.
A walk-behind mower is a better choice than any riding mower for cutting grass near drop-offs or retaining walls, or at the edge of ponds.
While it may be tempting to mow close to the edge of water or retaining walls with your zero-turn mower, doing so can result in significant injury or death if the machine were to roll over. It’s better to keep a safe distance from these hazards, and come back with a walk-behind mower to trim near the edge.
Please take a moment to watch these “Driving in the Safety Zone” videos, which Exmark produced to help you identify safety hazards and how to safely operate your Lazer Z in hilly or uneven terrain, or around walls, water and other lawn hazards:
Exmark Lazer Z Introduction and General Safety
Exmark Lazer Z Safe Mowing of Slopes and Rollover Protection
Exmark Lazer Z Controls and Operation:
View more safety and operator training videos on the Exmark YouTube channel.
Other Considerations
Always deploy the rollover protection system (ROPS) in the full-up position during operation (as shown). Never operate the mower with the ROPS down or partially-deployed.
Moisture: avoid mowing hilly terrain when grass is wet from rain or dew. Not only is mowing wet grass sub-optimal for the turf itself, the reduced traction on wet grass increases the chances of your mower sliding on uneven terrain. Instead, wait until later in the day when the sun has burned the moisture off.
By taking a little time to understand the slope and terrain of your property, you can choose the right mower to maintain every inch of your lawn safely.
Learn more about safe mowing at Exmark.com.
Exmark Expands Suspended Operator Platform for 2016
Following the successful mid-year debut of a suspended operator platform for its Lazer Z commercial zero-turn mower, Exmark announced it is expanding the platform’s availability for 2016.
The Suspended Operator Platform is easy to adjust for any operator weight without tools.
Exmark added suspended operator platform-equipped 52-inch Lazer Z E-Series and 72-inch Lazer Z X-Series options to the existing 60-inch options in both models for the 2016 model year. The suspended operator platform uses three coil-over hydraulic dampers to significantly reduce the impact of bumps and vibration. It provides 3.6-inches of travel in vertical and fore-aft directions, with trailing arms to limit lateral travel and increase operator stability.
“We initially launched the suspended operator platform on 60-inch versions of our Lazer Z E-Series and Lazer Z X-Series mowers, as it’s our most popular cutting deck size,” said Exmark Director of Marketing, Daryn Walters. “Almost immediately we began to receive calls, emails and social media messages inquiring about the platform’s availability with other cutting deck widths.
“These new models are the direct result of the feedback we received.”
The Suspended Operator Platform raises the bar on comfort while preserving the performance advantages that have made the Lazer Z the #1 choice among landscape professionals.
The suspended operator platform preserves the performance advantages of that have made the Lazer Z the most popular commercial zero-turn mower on the market, and it significantly reduces the negative effects of mowing rough terrain on the operator. The design is easily adjustable for operator weight and ride quality preference without tools, making it easy to achieve the desired ride quality for any operator. There’s no harsh bottoming, regardless of operator weight, and the design eases access to hydrostatic drive system components, making routine maintenance easier to perform.
Suspended operator platform-equipped Lazer Z models are equipped with a new seat design that uses patented Elastomeric Vibration Control (EVC) stretch fabric and plush foam padding for maximum comfort. In addition, Exmark’s patented Iso-Mount isolation system provides a controlled .75-inch of lateral and .5-inch of vertical isolation to further insulate the operator from bumps and vibration.
Learn more about Exmark’s suspended operator platform-equipped Lazer Z models or locate your local Exmark dealer at Exmark.com.
New models deliver performance and versatility – ideal for work or play
Exmark has unveiled its 2016 500S and 700S side-by-side utility vehicles. The new machines are built to get work done with switch-on-the-fly two- or four-wheel drive, and a two-in-one tilting cargo box that transforms from flatbed to box in minutes.
With a total payload capacity of 1,500 pounds, the 700S is a powerful tool for getting work done.
Exmark Director of Marketing, Daryn Walters, said the new utility vehicles expand Exmark’s reputation for industry leading performance and durability to the side-by-side utility vehicle marketplace.
“The 500S and 700S deliver the productivity, performance and durability our customers expect, in a package that’s just as good at having fun as it is at getting work done.”
The transformable design of the tilting cargo box offers quick and easy conversion from a flatbed to a box for maximum versatility. The 700S features a total payload capacity (riders and equipment) of 1,500 pounds, while the 500S has a total payload capacity of 1,000 pounds. Both machines include two-inch receiver hitches at both ends for maximum towing flexibility.
Liquid-cooled, single overhead cam (SOHC) single-cylinder engines power the Exmark utility vehicles – a 695cc powerplant in the 700S, and a 443cc engine in the 500. Both engines use Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for increased performance and fuel economy with reduced greenhouse gas emissions. A dual-range Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) responds to inputs including speed, load and engine RPM in real time to optimize acceleration and fuel economy. The 700S adds an electric locking front differential for maximum traction and pulling power in any conditions.
The cargo bed transforms from box to flat bed quickly and easily.
Both Exmark utility vehicle models feature four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes for powerful, consistent stopping in any conditions. Dual A-arm independent front and rear suspension helps Exmark utility vehicles confidently traverse virtually any terrain, with 10-inches of travel at each wheel with 10-inches of ground clearance. The 500S is equipped with durable steel wheels, while the 700S features upgraded alloy wheels, as well as an option for Electronic Power Steering (EPS).
Learn more about the 2016 Exmark 500S and 700S utility vehicles or locate your local Exmark dealer at Exmark.com.
Joe Kucik of Real Green Systems Takes Home a Top-of-the-Line Exmark Lazer Z X-Series Mower
Joe Kucik of Real Green Systems in Walled Lake, Michigan held the winning ticket in the Project EverGreen Great Mower Giveaway Raffle and took home a top-of-the-line Exmark Lazer Z X-Series mower worth more than $14,000.
The Lazer Z X-Series mower Kucik won features Exmark’s new Suspended Operator Platform, which raises the bar on operator comfort.
Kucik’s name was drawn from hundreds of would be hopefuls by Project EverGreen Executive Director Cindy Code in the foundation’s booth at the last week’s 2015 GIE + EXPO in Louisville, Kentucky.
Exmark donated the mower for the raffle whose proceeds will go to assist Project EverGreen expand its “Healthy Turf. Healthy Kids.” Initiative that is revitalizing recreational and athletic green spaces across the country.
“Project EverGreen is very appreciative of Exmark’s support of the raffle that gave us an opportunity to raise awareness and funds to further mission of the “Healthy Turf. Healthy Kids.” initiative,” said Cindy Code, Project EverGreen executive director. “It was a win-win situation for everyone.”
Project EverGreen Executive Director Cindy Code with Great Mower Giveaway Raffle winner Joe Kucik in the Project EverGreen booth at GIE + EXPO 2015.
Kucik echoed Code’s comments and thanked Exmark for their generous support of Project Evergreen. “It was an unbelievable feeling to win the Cadillac of all zero-turn mowers,” said Kucik. “Thanks to Project EverGreen for all the work they do to promote the green industry and the benefits of managed green spaces.”
“Healthy Turf. Healthy Kids.” projects have been completed in Cleveland, Atlanta, Milwaukee, San Antonio, Ft. Worth and Round Rock, Texas. Additional projects scheduled for completion this year include Portland, Oregon; Greensboro, Raleigh and Durham, North Carolina.
“Healthy Turf. Healthy Kids.” is a nationwide initiative to renovate parks and athletic fields to ensure children have access to safe green spaces on which to play and exercise. Yards, parks and athletic fields not only promote a healthier lifestyle but contribute to economic growth, community development and benefit the environment. Key contributors to the initiative include the Dominion Foundation, Performance Nutrition and the Sports Turf Managers Association.
Learn more about Project EverGreen and the “Healthy Turf. Healthy Kids” initiative at ProjectEvergreen.org.
Click the image to download the free white paper in Adobe PDF format.
Every day, an increasing number of landscape maintenance professionals are opening their eyes to the potential of propane-fueled commercial mowers. Here are a few compelling reasons why that shift is occurring, from our white paper, Transitioning Mower Fleets to Propane:
Exmark propane mowers deliver industry-leading performance, productivity and durability.
Download the complete Transitioning Mower Fleets to Propane white paper in Adobe PDF format.
Learn more about Exmark’s complete line of EFI-propane commercial mowers at Exmark.com.
Congratulations to Jim B., winner of the first prize in our Take Back Your Weekends video contest. Jim won a trip to fish the Delaware River with BASS and FLW tournament angler and Exmark-sponsored athlete, Mike Iaconelli.
Check out the first prize winning video:
View the entire list of winners, as well as highlights from the 2015 Take Back Your Weekends contest submissions at Exmark.com/TBYW.
