Last Updated on January 6, 2022 by
If you are a professional landscaper or a property managing company, investing in the best zero turn mower under 5000 is a must for your business. These zero-turn mowers are a wonderful choice for lawn care specialists everywhere due to their excellent maneuverability. Ranging from small to massive ones, these zero turn mowers come in different types.
To assist you to choose the best, we have compiled a complete buyer’s guide featuring the top best mowers. As you will see, there are unrivaled benefits from using this kind of a lawnmower.
What to Look When Selecting the Best Zero Turn Mower Under 5000
Thinking about investing in a zero-turn manual means you are ready to invest about $5,000 or more for this machine. Spending this much money means you know and understand the type of machine you are investing in.
Here we unpack all the knowledge about the prospective zero turn mower to help you make an informed decision.
There are special features that you need to know when choosing the best zero turn mower. Generally, each zero turn mower comes with different features, thus the need for the right information.
Let’s Start with the Physical Features
What is the Cutting Deck Width?
A powerful motor is coupled with the right cutting deck for optimal performance. Cutting decks range between 42 to 61 inches depending on the model you choose.
Professional landscapers who need a machine for large mowing jobs better get the largest cutting deck. A 61-inch cutting deck carries about 50% more cutting width than the 42 inches. This means, if you choose a 42-inch machine to mow a golf course, it could add up to the hours of the job.
If your lawn is about 3 or 4 acres in size, then a 42-inch cutting deck is excellent for you. 5 to 6 acres will work best with a 52-inch model. Anything larger than that requires a 61 inches cutting deck for less time on the job and best results.
The Condition of the Seat
The seat of your zero turn mowers is an essential feature. If you are mowing a large golf course, then you can expect to be seated for hours on the driver’s seat. We recommend you get a model that offers generous padding and ergonomic seat design. These features help reduce fatigue allowing you to cut more grass with less time in one session.
The Operational Features
What is the Motor Power?
The power of a machine makes a huge difference! And it’s no different for the best commercial zero-turn lawnmowers. These machines have cutting decks that measure between 42 to 61 inches depending on the type. Respectively, they need a powerful motor to drive the blades and leave a clean cut for your grass.
Some of the best models have engines pushing around 25 hp; anything lesser than 20 hp is a waste of resources. These low powered motors will either burn out with extended use or leave high spots of uncut grass. Property managers and landscapers who deal with large estates and golf courses need at-least 24 hp. Keep in mind, the larger the job, the more horsepower you need!
Transmission
When searching for your ideal zero turn mowers, get a model with a hydrostatic transmission. These models used hydraulic fluids to switch gears and send power to the drive shafts. Hydrostatic machines withstand the toughest working conditions and they don’t burn out with extended use. Instead of burn out, you get plenty of power when you need it. It also comes with an efficient clutch that doesn’t need much servicing as a regular transmission.
What’s the Fuel Capacity?
The fuel tank plays a critical role in the range of the machine you choose. Choose a model that has a large fuel tank capacity of up to 10 gallons if you are to take on golf courses or large estates above 5 acres. For acres up to 4, get an 8-gallon tank; anything less than this will not suffice.
Check the gas level and fill it up with fresh gasoline, before you start your machine. Also, check for any signs of blockages or dirt and clean or replace it where needed. During winter when storing your machine, ensure you drain off all the fuel from the tank before storage. Leaving the gasoline in the machine will damage your carburetor and the fuel lines because the fuel goes bad after sitting in the tank.
The General Features of the Best Commercial Zero Turn Mower
What’s the Ideal Weight?
The best commercial zero turn mower is a heavy machine weighing up to 700 lbs depending on the model. Some are small and allow you to turn them on their side for easy cleaning of the cutting deck. For the heavy ones, you will need a jack to access the underside of the cutting deck.
What about Controls and Levers?
Comfortable and ergonomic controls reduce operator fatigue during use. The controls and levers should have soft ergonomic grips that do not need too much effort to operate. The controls and levers should allow you to change the settings on the machine without ease.
Digital Displays Required
Some models are technologically friendly as they come with digital displays. These displays show the current operating rpm and the height of the cutting deck. They are useful to help you change the operating parameters without the need to dismount and inspect the settings manually.
Type of Tires Needed
Zero-turn mowers come with air-filled tires the same as a go-kart. The tires provide good traction in case you are cutting wet grass. You will need a model that has plenty of tire treads for the best results.
Safety Features to Look Out for
Before you make a purchase, check on the safety options of your machine. Some machines come with automatic chokes, kill switches, and various safety features to prevent accidents on the job.
How To Maintain a Zero Turn Mower?
The best commercial zero turn mower is a serious investment to any business, therefore it is best to maintain them in the best way possible. Servicing them on your own can lead to voiding your warranty leading to a costly repair job.
We recommend that you take your mower to a dealer who specializes in the brand of your mower. This machine is almost like your car, it comes with many working parts. That’s why it’s best to allow an expert to work on it.
Your zero turn mower needs servicing every 6 to 12 months depending on how often you use it for work. Also at the beginning of the spring season, it’s a great time to send your mower for service. The dealer should sharpen the blades; check both the motor and the cutting deck for any damage.
After use, always use a lift to get the underside of the cutting deck cleaned of all debris and grass before your next job.
The Best Zero Turn Mower under 5000 List
We have compiled a list of the top picks for zero-turn mowers. These are best in class with quite a good budget that suits your landscaping needs.
1. Husqvarna MZ61 in 27 HP
This MZ61 zero-turn mower takes mowing to a whole new level with its performance, comfort, and efficiency. It comes armed with a commercial rated hydraulic system, intuitive operator interface, and heavy-duty steel frame. The comfortable ride all the time is provided by the high back seat with armrests and adjustable ergonomic steering levers. The MZ61 is practical for all your property maintenance.
Pros
- It comes with 27 hp Briggs endurance engine. Thus provides reliable startups and high ground speeds
- It has fabricated 11 gauge steel cutting deck of 54 inches
- It comes with an ergonomically designed deck lifting system. Perfect for quick and easy adjustments from the operator’s seat.
- It has foam-padded hand grips and vibration dampeners. This makes mowing comfortable for long hours.
Cons
- It does not come with a snowblower attachment
2. Aries IKON-X 52 Inches
This machine comes with a Kawasaki twin-engine and 52 inches fabricated deck that is 4½ inches deep. It features 10 inches gauge steel perfect for tough spaces. The seat comes as a high back padded seat with armrests.
Pros
- Most consider it a residential grade mower but it works commercially too due to its engine power
- You get a great torque at a lower speed
- Comes at an affordable price
- It’s super quiet when mowing
Cons
- Not sold to California residents
- The product is not returnable
Best Companies to Get your Zero Turn Mower Under 5000
John Deere Zero Turn Mowers
These zero-turn mowers are some of the best mowers in the market today. They work better, faster no matter how much ground you have to cover. With many deck options and engine sizes, these mowers get the job done well on any turf. Their decks range from 42 to 61 inches. Check out their website for more details.
Ferris Zero Turn Mowers
This is a preferred brand among many landscape contractors. When you have a lot of ground to cover it is best to look out for productivity. With its suspension technology, it is one of the top line mowers. There are several models to choose from as you will see from the product catalog. When selecting a Ferris Zero mower, consider the size of the yard and how much time you have.
Conclusion
A zero-turn mower is an expensive upgrade from the normal lawn tractors or rear-engine models. But it is well worth it for those with large lawns and little time!
FAQs
Does John Deere make a good zero turn mower?
One potential benefit to using a John Deere zero turn mower is the ease of use. It’s easy to maneuver, relatively quiet and has four blade settings.
But what if you’re looking for a zero turn mower that is more durable and offers more power? Then check out a Toro zero turn mower. With this machine, you can make your own path because it has six blades.
How do I choose a zero turn mower?
When choosing a zero turn mower for your needs, there are several things to consider. First, think about how much space you need to cover. The more space you need to cover, the larger the zero turn mower should be. Second, consider how often you will use it as well as how far away from your home or property boundary you typically work.
Most zero turn mowers require a minimum of 100 square feet per hour. As the size of your yard increases, so does the size of the mower you need to buy. Buying a too small mower is not worth it and can result in backaches for you and your family members.
The shape of your yard is also an important factor when buying a zero turn mower. Some areas might need a more rounded edge while others might require an angular edge or something in between like square corners and rectangular edges.
What is the best month to buy a lawn mower?
The best month to buy a lawn mower is June. This is the month with the least number of people selling their lawn mowers, which means you will have better odds of finding a good deal on one.
What is the most dependable zero turn mower?
The most dependable zero turn mower can be identified by looking at the following criteria:
- Durability. It is important to see how long the machine lasts under different weather conditions. Zero turn mowers are usually more durable than regular push mowers because they are made with heavier duty parts.
- Maneuverability. A good zero turn mower is easy to maneuver, has a great turning radius, and can quickly change directions in tight situations.
- Power and performance. The power of the engine is one of the most important factors when it comes to picking a dependable zero turn mower because it determines how well it will perform when cutting thicker grasses in summertime, for example.
- Price point. Of course cost is another factor.
Zero turn mowers are a more recent addition to the lawn mowing world. They have been designed to be more reliable and easier to use.
Typically, these machines have a large, tight turning radius of up to 180°. This means that they can turn on a dime and go in reverse as well as forward. And they don’t need as much space as traditional tractors do because of their smaller size. These machines are highly maneuverable, making them great for tight spaces, such as those found in urban areas or even apartments with small yards.
The most dependable zero turn mowers are the ones that come with all the necessary safety features like safety key or throttle limiter etc.
Caroline is a gardener who loves to get down to the nitty–gritty of gardening. She proudly proclaims herself as a ‘dirt worshipper‘ and can often be found deep in the garden, covered in soil and singing to her plants. As a self–proclaimed ‘plant whisperer‘, Caroline believes that plants need love and attention just like any other living thing, and she loves to give them both. When she‘s not tending to her garden, you can often find her researching the latest gardening trends, or teaching others how to make their gardens thrive
