Posts Tagged ‘Productivity’

Exmark Spreader-Sprayer: A Video Introduction

Tuesday, December 1st, 2015

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.

Zero Turn Mower vs Lawn Tractor: Which is better for you?

Tuesday, November 24th, 2015

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?

Exmark zero-turn mower productivity

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:

  • $4,000-5,000
  • $7,000-8,000
  • $13,000-14,000

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

Exmark Quest S-Series Front Steer

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

Exmark Pioneer S-Series zero-turn riding mower

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

Exmark Lazer Z X-Series commercial zero-turn mower

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:

  • Maneuverability: Zero-turn riding mowers offer increased maneuverability to mow closer to landscaping, so you spend less time with the trimmer.
  • Quality of cut: Landscape pros choose Exmark zero-turn riding mowers for their ability to quickly and consistently deliver an unmatched quality of cut on a wide variety of lawns.
  • Durability: Commercial features including welded, fabricated cutting decks, state-of-the-art commercial powerplants and heavy-duty welded, tubular steel unibody frames demonstrate Exmark’s commitment to delivering mowers that are as durable as they are productive.

Bottom Line: Choose the tools the pros use

Get your weekends back

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

2016 New Product Showcase: Lazer Z Suspended Operator Platform

Monday, November 16th, 2015

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.

Exmark Lazer Z Suspended Operator Platform, rear-view

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.”

Exmark Lazer Z Suspended Operator Platform, action

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.

Exmark White Paper: Transitioning Mower Fleets to Propane

Sunday, November 1st, 2015
Exmark Transitioning Mower Fleets to Propane white paper

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:

  • 2013 market research conducted by Lawn & Landscape magazine revealed that 63 percent of homeowners responsible for decisions related to some or all landscape contract services are influenced by a sense of environmental responsibility.
  • Propane-fueled commercial mowers and equipment produce significantly fewer greenhouse gasses (GHG) than those fueled by gasoline.
  • PERC, Kohler and Exmark partnered on development of the industry’s first EFI-propane engine for commercial mower applications. The engine is the industry’s first OEM-level EFI-propane engine, offering full commercial warranty and support. The EFI design increases fuel efficiency by up to 25 percent, and coupled with the lower cost of propane, reduces overall fuel costs by up to 40 percent compared to carbureted gasoline engines. Uptime is also improved since the EFI engine solves startability and performance issues frequently encountered with engines using aftermarket conversions.
  • In 2013, Exmark introduced a Kohler EFI-propane powered version of its Lazer Z S-Series zero-turn riding mower as well as two Turf Tracer wide area walk behind models. In 2015 it introduced an EFI-propane Vantage S-Series stand-on riding mower.
  • Propane is widely available nationwide and is used in an estimated 12.6 million U.S. households for heating, cooking and recreation. It is a fossil fuel derived from the refining of oil and natural gas. It is a very safe fuel for commercial mowers, with an ignition temperature that’s nearly double that of gasoline (900 deg. F vs. 495 deg. F). Plus, robust, sealed containers virtually eliminate the opportunity for fuel spillage.
  • The selection of a propane retailer and the negotiation of a seasonal contract are two important aspects of a switch to propane for landscape maintenance professionals to consider.

    Exmark Vantage S-Series Propane

    Exmark propane mowers deliver industry-leading performance, productivity and durability.

  • Incentives from PERC, as well as a number of state marketing associations can mitigate some or all of the increased up-front cost of propane mowers. Combined with the EFI-related fuel savings and the lower cost of propane,
  • Exmark mowers powered by Kohler propane-EFI engines can save up-to $2/hour, or more depending on duty cycle and other factors. This allows pay back of the added investment in just one to two seasons.

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.

 

The Lazer Z Seating System: A More Comfortable Ride

Thursday, May 14th, 2015

Riding mowers are a time-saving wonder, but your backside should pay the price for productivity. That’s why at Exmark, we’ve come up with a way to mow more comfortably. With some original thinking and a whole lot of innovation, we’ve designed a seat every backside can love. We call it the Lazer Z Seating System.

Lazer Z Seating System

The Lazer Z Seating System significantly reduces the effect of bumps and vibration on the operator.

What Is the Lazer Z Seating System?

Most riding mower seats follow the same old pattern: some padding and a couple of springs that may or may not be useful. After a few hours of riding, you may find the mower’s vibration making you stiff while all the jarring impacts can leave you sore. That’s no way to run a landscaping business, whether you maintain one property or several.

Why Is It Different?

This seating system is different in a number of ways. It’s a unique design that utilizes research, science, and engineering innovation.

The system includes 4 major elements that make all the difference:

  • Ball-bearing suspension with a 3-inch range of controlled vertical travel – delivers a better ride with less bouncing
  • Patented Iso-Mount isolation system with ½-inch vertical and ¾-inch lateral travel
  • Custom vinyl seat with plush foam – comfort starts where the operator meets the seat
  • Vibration control stretch fabric – sits below the seat foam for an additional layer of isolation from vibration and bumps

Together, this comprehensive approach delivers less vibration, less bouncing, and more long-term comfort.

If professionals with desk jobs get ergonomic chairs, so should you. It’s that simple. A mower seat needs to support your back, legs, and arms in a way that keeps you comfortable and doesn’t lead to chronic problems.

The end result is reduced vibration, less soreness, and less stiffness after a long day of mowing. And when you’re comfortable, you get more done. Not only will you feel better after a day’s work, but you’ll also be able to deliver your services day after day. Test the difference for yourself between a traditional riding mower and an Exmark mower with the Lazer Z Seating System. We’re confident you’ll love it.

Learn more at Exmark.com/Exmark-Advantage/Features/Seating.

Exmark 20-inch Slicer Seeder Delivers Productivity, Durability

Thursday, April 23rd, 2015
Seeder, left view

The 40-pound capacity hopper holds more seed to easily handle large jobs.

Landscape professionals can count on the Exmark 20-inch Slicer Seeder to deliver top-notch results every time. It performs three jobs — verticutting, detaching and overseeding — with each pass of the machine. As easy to use and maneuver as a walk-behind mower, the 20-inch Slicer Seeder is a productive, profitable addition to the team.

Durable high-carbon steel blades remove thatch and provide maximum seed-to-soil contact, which enables superior germination. The innovative seed delivery system features a large-diameter mixer. It regulates seed flow based on ground speed to ensure even seed delivery, regardless of machine speed.

Slicer Seeder, right view

Simple controls make the 20-inch Slicer Seeder as easy to use as a walk-behind mower.

The large-capacity seed hopper holds 40-pounds of seed, so the 20-inch Slicer Seeder can handle large jobs with fewer stops. The Subaru EX270 engine delivers commercial-grade reliability and power combined with reduced noise, fuel consumption and emissions. In fact, the engine is EPA and CARB certified for use in all 50 states.

When it comes to overseeding, the Exmark 20-inch Slicer Seeder delivers results that will delight your customers, with productivity and durability that will enhance your bottom line. Learn more at Exmark.com.

Understanding Productivity

Thursday, April 9th, 2015
Exmark mower production costs

Over a mower’s lifetime, its up-front cost represents just 16 percent of the total cost an owner will pay.

Whether you’re a landscape professional or the owner of an acreage, the productivity of your mower matters. And while productivity isn’t the only way to judge a great commercial mower (things like durability, comfort and cut quality are very important too), the knowledge of the productivity potential of the mower you’re using, or the mowers you’re considering, is valuable information to have. In fact, on a day-to-day basis a mower’s productivity is likely more important than its purchase price for many users, especially those earning their living maintaining lawns.

How do you determine the productivity of your mower or turf care equipment? It’s relatively easy to do if you know the size of your equipment and how fast it is designed to run.

Exmark publishes equipment productivity charts for its mowers and turf management equipment on its website. There, you can compare the productivity of the equipment you’re using today with the productivity you can achieve with a new Exmark machine.

For example, here is the productivity chart for mowers:

ExmarkMowerProductivity

Click to enlarge.

While productivity numbers at 100 percent efficiency may look impressive on the sales floor, it’s virtually impossible to actually achieve 100 percent efficiency in the real world. Most folks mow at closer to 80 percent efficiency, so Exmark includes that number on its productivity chart to give you a better idea of the real world productivity you can expect from your new mower.

Learn more about what you can expect from the best commercial mowers and turf management equipment at Exmark.com.