Expected Engine, Drive train and other major compents life of Pro model Z turns

I know it depends on the engine brand and size. AS well as the operator and maintenance. I ask because in my area, the pro's seem to run them for 3 to 400 hrs. Then sell and buy new. Pretty much the case no matter the brand of machine. Maybe not the very high end units. But most all others

So, it has me wondering, if the 400 hr mark is about the time they start to have expensive break downs.

Thanks in advance.

 

Having built several outdoor power units and researching expected component life, I learned that most are designed for 500 hours of service. There are exceptions, but 500 hours seems to be the industry standard.

I have had several to go way beyond that.

Personal maintenance and/or service along with abuse factor determine the longevity.

RR

 

Wow... I service models with 1500 and more hours often enough. When you say pro models, I'm thinking $10,000 machines. If you're talking about department store mowers, then 500 hours is a more likely life expectancy. 500 hours is only about 10 oil changes.

 

Ok, lets say pro model Snappers and mid grade, (Magnum series) Dixie Choppers. Also what's you opinion of the Vanguard engines and their life span under normal commercial use. You know dirty air filters oil changed every other time. A lot of guy's don't follow the maintenance recommendation to a t.

500 hours seems to be the industry standard. Interesting. Seems to be the way the local guys are thinking.

Also, what's you guy's opinion on this?

Snapper-Simplicity Z Turn Mower 2007 year model Home owner series. Are they cheaper built than a regular Snapper Home owner version?

50" cut

24 HP Briggs

Automatic deck adjustment

Excellant Condition

Less than 400 hours

$1,400 CASH

Run don't walk away? A fair price if it checks out.

All input welcome.

 

My Toro is in its' 21st season, with a bit over 800 hours, and sure, I have had a few more issues with it the past few years than I did when it was new, but most of them are as much or more a factor of time than hours. For example, tires, hoses, plastic connectors, etc. deteriorate whether the machine is parked or running. I don't think that you can gauge the life expectancy of a piece of equipment by what the professionals do. First of all, their machines should be generating revenue. So, at the end of a season or two, they have two choices; pocket the profits and pay tax on it or put it back into the business. Related to this, the longer they run the machine, the less trade-in value it has, so while they want to put the money back into the business, they want to do it smart, and want as much for the trade-in as possible, just like you or I would. Also, if my machine needs non-scheduled maintenance, the worst case scenario is that my grass grows a bit taller, but if their machine needs non-schedule maintenance, they start losing revenue immediately.

 

Thanks, that makes sense. Unfortunately the pros are about the only ones selling used pro model mowers. I think I have my answer. Thanks to all who took time to reply.


Anyone have an opinion on the Snapper-Simplicity Z Turn I mentioned in my last post? I may have to start a new thread to get any traffic for that.

THanks in advance.

 

Sounds like a fair price if the mower is in very good condition. I like the vanguard engines that were made in Japan. They are about as good as kawasaki or anything else. The vanuard name was put on some regular engines too though, so it depends.

 

Cheese, I'm pretty sure it's not a vanguard. Most likely an intech. The seller doesn't know. And I haven't seen it yet.

 

Ok, I just mentioned vanguard because you asked earlier. The inteks are okay engines, mainly if you get the newer style with the radial air filter. The older style with 2 thumb screws holding the air filter cover on are more prone to oil consumption and bad rings because of dust ingestion past the filter.

 

Sorry, Cheese. I can't keep up with my own rambling.

You wrote:

The older style with 2 thumb screws holding the air filter cover on are more prone to oil consumption and bad rings because of dust ingestion past the filter.

Thanks great tip. I'm guessing the older Vanguard's with the same type air filter set-up share the same problem??

 

No, the vanguards don't have that type of air filter on any of them.