Emark Lazer Z HP ; 2005 vs 2006 model

[jdlynch]

Thanks to all the hours of informative reading I have put in on lawnsite.com, I have decided to go with an Exmark Lazer Z HP to use on my own 1 acre property.

I went to the dealer today to see about purchasing and yet I'm forced to make another decision. I went in with the intent to purchase a 2006 46" triton deck Lazer HP with the 19 hp Kaw. He offered to sell me a left over 2005 Lazer HP, 48" trivantage deck with a 20 hp Koehler for the same price.

So I'm faced with a decision by tomorrow morning:

A. 2005 Lazer HP, 20 hp Koehler with 48" trivantage deck
B. 2006 Lazer HP, 19 hp Kawasaki with 46" triton deck

Both same price

With the size of my yard, the 2" difference in deck width will make a negligible difference. I am leaning toward going with the new triton deck; However, I'm going down to a 19 hp engine. I've also been told that for residential use the Triton deck has no clear advantage over the trivantage.

As far as other differences that I have found, the 2005 has 23" rear tires, the 2006 has 24" rear tires. The 2005 has foot assisted deck lift, the 2006 does not in the 46" size. The 2005 has the trivantage deck, the 2006 has the new triton deck. Also, the 2006 is nearly 100 lb heavier (I suppose due to the extra metal in the deck).

Any comments about which choice is the clear winner? The dealer seems convinced the 2005 is the best deal, and, that he is taking a big hit on his profit at the price he is offering.

Thanks again guys for your 2 cents

[Lynch Landscaping]

If I were you I would go with the 05 48in 20HP Lazer HP. I think it would fit you better for your needs.

[dccarling]

I would take the 2006, even if it cost me 2 or 3 hundred more.

[Dependable Mowing]

We have a 48/20 Lazer. The trivantage deck is great unless the grass is really wet or really tall. As far as power, the 20 hp Kohler rarely bogs on that mower. I haven't used the Triton, but it looks to be a better design, and I'm sure the Kawa will power the 46 fine. Both are great engines. The deck lift is really nice if you have uneven or rocky turf. IMO, if you are cutting regularly, and the conditions aren't real wet, go with the 2005. If you cut really tall or wet grass from time to time, go with the 2006.

[Yellowdog]

I know the 46" doesn't have the foot assist deck lift and I'm thinking the '05 48" does. Might be a concern to you. For me it would. Good Luck!

[oasislawns]

The exact same scenario happened to me with the exact same mowers and engines. I went with the 2006 triton with the 19 hp kawasaki. So far I am very pleased with the decision. I think they made the new deck for a reason, because its better. The 19 hp motor has no power problems. I would be kicking myself right now had I gone with the 2005. I have the mulching kit on the triton deck and it works great. They can also put a deck lift assist on the 46" deck if you request it. My dealer put one on mine and didn't even charge me for it but its only about $50 if you do get it and I would recommend it. Makes a world of difference. JMO

[jdlynch]

I was not even aware that the foot assist option was available for the 46" Triton 19 hp lazer HP. At a price of $50 or so, I can easily upgrade the 2006 model with little expense.

[LarryF]

I have decided to go with an Exmark Lazer Z HP to use on my own 1 acre property.

Good choice! I made the same one a few years back, but mine's a 52" deck (don't make them that size any more, I suspect) with a 23 HP Kawasaki. I'm sure you'll be pleased with either of the choices you indicated, but I don't really understand all the discussion about the need for a foot-assisted deck lift. I'm 74 and weigh only 153 pounds, and I don't have a problem lifting the deck with one arm. If the foot-assisted deck lift is the item that's causing you to balk, I seriously doubt if it's all that important. That's my 2 cents!

[Pittsburgh Panther]

don't waste your money. Unless you are really weak or have a handicap you don't need it. I have and CT 48" and love it. Your HP is a little more heavy duty and should last you for years.