The Bard Rocks
06-03-2010, 08:35 AM
I buy distressed properties, fix them, and resell them, so I get into some difficult situations once in a while, places with knee-high grass and God-knows-what-all hiding in it. Terrain is normally flattish, but there are often short steep spots and maybe even a spot that is wettish. Often bumpy in places, with a lot of trees, flower beds, etc to cut around. I have been handling this with a Husqvarna CZ4815 (don't laugh) and I am quite pleased with it, though wish for more HP when I get into a high grass situation. Anyway, it is getting some hours (565) on it and I thought that while it still runs and looks good, I'd trade up to a more commercial quality machine that will perform better and last longer.
I was initially taken with the Husqvarna iz4821 (can't go wider than 48", for several reasons), but my dealer doesn't have one in to try, nor does anyone else within 50miles. So, I went to another dealer whom I trust, one closer in fact. He showed me 2 Ferris 1500Zs, which I liked, a new one for $6200 and a good used one (250hrs) for $4500. While I can afford either, is there a reason not to get the used one? Or would there be a reason to wait until a Husqy iz4821 appears? Both have the same Kawi engine I believe.
Or, would one perform better than the other in the situations that I encounter? Also available to me (I know you are going to ask - these are somewhat less desirable dealers, but still OK) are a JD 445 and a Exmark Phazer, but they seem to be considerably lesser machines and to go to the next level in those brands is a big jump beyond what I am willing to spend.
I appreciate your input; you folks know so much more than I ever will.
I was initially taken with the Husqvarna iz4821 (can't go wider than 48", for several reasons), but my dealer doesn't have one in to try, nor does anyone else within 50miles. So, I went to another dealer whom I trust, one closer in fact. He showed me 2 Ferris 1500Zs, which I liked, a new one for $6200 and a good used one (250hrs) for $4500. While I can afford either, is there a reason not to get the used one? Or would there be a reason to wait until a Husqy iz4821 appears? Both have the same Kawi engine I believe.
Or, would one perform better than the other in the situations that I encounter? Also available to me (I know you are going to ask - these are somewhat less desirable dealers, but still OK) are a JD 445 and a Exmark Phazer, but they seem to be considerably lesser machines and to go to the next level in those brands is a big jump beyond what I am willing to spend.
I appreciate your input; you folks know so much more than I ever will.