Price check for walker

[jeffyr]

Got a price of $7200 on the 16HP 42"GHS with the 7 bushell catcher and $8100 on the 20 HP 42" GHS with the 9.5 bushell catcher.

What do you all think ? I would be using this machine for 25-30 acounts per week. I'm not sure if it would even matter in the long run if I got the 20HP, although it may matter for resale down the road.

Have any of you gotten prices recently....I think Mowed and Fireman ? I Could use help.

thanks.

jeffyr

[landscaper3]

If only the 16hp and 20hp are the only ones you can go with. The 20hp you can get more options on mower, I would get the 20hp if you cant afford the 26EFI, with the 20hp and up you can run tail lock, bigger decks if ever wanted to upgrade to a bigger deck, powerdumps and the list goes on. We have a 1998 25HP 48" 9.5 GHS system and a 2001 26EFI 48" 9.5 GHS system and also have 52" side discharge decks for them when we are able to discharge. Go with the 20hp 48" 9.5 GHS with the light kit, tail lock and all terrain tires its worth the extra to pay for these options, ours are loaded with everything but power dumps and we might be upgrading that too. We lease our mowers through Telmark its the most finacial gain to lease then to loan you will save alot of money. We are leasing both our Walkers and I would never go another route so many benifates and at lease end you give them $100.00 and its all yours free and clear. For more leasing info go to http://www.telmark.com or call 800-451-3322.

[jeffyr]

Brian,

I have read other threads about leasing through Telmark, but in the long run won't it still cost $12,000 for an $8,000 machine ?

In other words, they don't take the $8,000 and divide it by 36 months plus $100 for the buyout. I realize that you can deduct the whole lease as if a rental, but if I can deduct the whole machine for this year and not pay interest, why not be done with it if I won't need the money at this time ?

thanks

jeffyr

[bob]

Jeffyr, Theres two for sale on eBay, http://cgi.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=499872767 and http://cgi.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=497617928

[landscaper3]

Jeff if you have the cash by all means buy it, but if you have to finance it you will want to lease! Most mower shops and business loans are say $259 month for 36 months you pay almost $9,000.00 for a 6995.00 ZTR or simular model like in Turf Mag. page B6. Our Walkers first ones was $8,000 and when finshed paying it it will be $10,372.00 so as you can see they are the same as loans and unlike business loans and loans from dealers all 100% of your monthly payments can be deducted off year end gross income which alone will save lots of money. Loans you have to do a depreciation value instead. Your lease comes with paperwork states that this is a true lease and all payments are deductable off your W2's and they will stand by any audit from this by the I.R.S. We have financed different mowers for 9 years and came across this and will NEVER take a loan out for a mower agian, you are even able to lease mowing decks, areators, dethachers, snowblowers and more for your Walker. I only wish 9 years ago someone showed me this lease proccess years ago to save me even more money.

[Keith]

jeffyr, does it make sense not to buy the better machine? Hmmm, good question. If you intend on financing or leasing the machine, how much extra would the payment be? My best guess is that the 20 horse at $8100 would cost you about $30 a month more than the 16hp. Not much of question which way I would go. How much would the 26 fi engine be? Not only will it be worth more at resale, it may be worth more to you while you own it :cool:

[landscaper3]

The 16hp and the 20hp get almost the same gas milage, we put 1800hrs on our 94 16hp and got 4hrs on tank, our 98 25hp gets 4 hours on tank and sometimes 4.5hrs the 16hp needs higher rev to pull the same weight machine as the 20hp
and our new 26EFI gets 5 to 5.5 hrs on a tank. Dont get the 16hp for you cant put the tail lock on it and other options go with the 20hp. Our 2001 Walker 26 EFI 48" GHS System with tail lock, all terrain tires, light kit and cushing seat with the no-deflector shoot on 9.5 bagger and speed up kit cost a little over $9000.00 and got a great deal on another 52" Side Discharge deck with purchase. If you get a bigger discharge deck dont buy the 54" unless your mowing level ground. If you hit something with the 54 you can do some damage and if you hit something with the 52 or 62 you only slip yhe belts.

[landscaper3]

Here are some of the impliments available for the 20hp and up, Buffalo turbine, debri blower, ATI bed shaper, 2 48" broomers, snow cab, 2 Areators, power deck lift, power dump, HRS Hayes rotory fertilizer spreader, 40" dethacher, dozer blade, bucket loader, coulter edger, 42" 2 stage snow blower, 36" snow blower, 47" Rotory broom, impliment hitch, boom sprayer and more. So as you can these Walkers do it all so opt to buy at least the 20hp for if you ever get some of these impliments youll be glad. Our company has some of the above impliments and love em. And they also have 3 seat options, lighting kits, speed up kits, rear tail locks my favorite, 36"GHS deck, 42"GHS deck, 48"GHS deck, 42"mulching deck, 36" side discharge deck, 42" side discharge deck, 48" side discharge deck, 52" side discharge deck with mulching kit, 54" side disharge deck and 62" side discharge deck. Just giving some food for thought.

[Edited by landscaper3 on 11-16-2000 at 02:52 AM]

[David Hartzog]

I wouldn't buy new
Why?
I find used and barely used walkers on line like
[url]http://www.traderonline.com
thriftynickel
st petersburg time just to name a few

[David Hartzog]

MOWER-"Commercial": Walker 0 turn, 42", only 260 hrs, never used coml, $3800, 1-941-915-0219.
Highlight this ad! Date Posted: 11/09/2000
Source: Sarasota Herald Tribune
Location:Sarasota FL Area Code:941

[David Hartzog]

. MOWER, WALKER Z GHS System, 20hp Kohler, 48'' deck. $2500 352-597-0200
St. Petersburg Times Subclassification: Lawn & Garden 11/12/2000

Atlanta, GA $3,500.00
For Sale in Atlanta, GA Walker 16-HP (GHS) riding mower, great cond., low hours (new engine) $3500. +(College Park) 404-743-2952 call John for more info.

Date Placed: 01-NOV-00


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Covington, GA $2,400.00
For Sale in Covington, GA 1994 Walker Mower, 20 horse power, good condition, $2400 call for details 770-605-8671

Richfield, OH $1,100.00
For Sale in Richfield, OH WALKER Leaf blower, fits Walker riding mower, requires implement list, $1100; (330)659-4009 RICHFIELD

[jeffyr]

Thanks for all the help.

Landscaper 3: Thanks for all the info. I have seen most of what you have told me on the street, in the brochures, or on the website for walker. As far as leasing, I am looking for the writeoff so I would be looking to buy.

Keith: It does make sene to get the biggets machine possible, but as an owner/operator with 25-30 per weekpart time, I don't think I need the 26EFI for an extra $900. Most of my places are 5000sq ft and pretty flat. The 20 hp with the larger catcher and clamshell body w/ dual tail wheel is $850 more than the 16....well worth it.

Bob & David: Thanks for the info on the used machines. I have purchased 2 used walk behinds, which suited me well. I hven't found any decent used walkers in my area. And for some reason purchasing without a warranty right now on a machine with all the gearboxes and hydro system as well as the engine is not so comforting. $1000 saved now could be $1500 spent next year only to still have a used machine.

I appreciate all of your input and welcome any other opinions. I have thought of other ZTR's and from what I have read in this forum, and what I have gotten from others I talk to, the Walker would be best for my needs. Small spaces and the need to catch grass and a heavy leaf season in the fall have all contributed to my decision.

jeffyr

[MOW ED]

The folks above gave good advise as far as getting the biggest you can afford. I used to have a 1998 25hp for a 42" deck and I currently have a 26EFI with a 42" deck,9.5 bagger and speed-up kit. I bought it new and sold the 98.
The EFI has a ton of power and if you plan on using other attatchments or running bigger decks in the future only the diesel or water cooled gas is better. I like the extra power because of some of the hills I have to mow as well as the better fuel useage. I put about 350-400 hours a year on my mowers doing pretty much the same as you, 25 weekly accounts as well as spring dethatchings and fall cleans. Consider the no-catch deflector for the accounts that don't need bagging, its not perfect but its better than leaving the door up.
If you must buy used consider the 20hp it is more of a commercial machine and you won't regret the extra money spent. You also can get a speed up kit for the 20 which helps. You didn't mention how many hours are on the 20hp but depending on the care it may last 1500 to 2000 on the high side before its time for some work.
If you can afford new go with the 26EFI or the 20 but do not get a 25hp Kohler. Prices for these new range from about 9200 to 10,500 depending on extras. If you need any specific prices I can e-mail you what my dealer sells for in Wisconsin. Good Luck.

[Indiana]

Jefferyr

Where are you? I got prices back a couple of months ago for a Walker C and T. They are not even close to your prices.

C ---> $8800 9.5 catcher 48" GHS
T ---> 10000 9.5 catcher 48" GHS 20 HP

I knew these prices were high but I didn't realize how high.

I guess when I buy another Walker I am gonna travel a little.

I have a Walker C and love it. Bought a used 1994 in late 1995. It does all I want to. Probably would buy another 16 but I really want the tail lock and big catcher.

[lawrence stone]

If you are mowing little 5K home lawns you need a Walker like you need a hole in your head.

[parkwest]

I agree with Stone, unless you have some kind of physical disability. Try demoing a walker on these small sites and compare productivity with a wb.

[jeffyr]

The prices are for new.

And I know....the properties are small, ( I do have a couple of 12,000 sq ft together, and may get a third neighbor) .but after a 40 + hour work week, add 1.5-2 days of cutting and I'm worthlessphysicaly and mentally. I figure this would let me live a little since I won't be taking all the abuse, leave a neater finish with not as much effort, and allow me to romp on spring and fall cleanups. I am currently billing hourly on cleanups, but next season switching to monthly charge (as Kirby has suggested). With this in mind, I can cut cleanup times in half and still charge the same.

Also, I have a 36 and 48 Bobcat, which I could sell if I purchased the Walker. After that and the tax deduction, it could wind up costing $2500 for a brand new warranty machine that will give me a break (that is how I am seeing it). Better to buy something with the $3570 in taxes (42% of the $8500 w/tax) than give it to the government.

Thank you stone and parwest....all opinions are welcome. Talk me out of it and I may thank you later.

jeffyr

[lawrence stone]

This is the way I look at it:

Buy a sulky for $300 for your 48 and a extra attatchment point to fit the 36. Then put the $4930 in your pocket.

Plus if you don't have cash to buy the walker you will have to pay interest to float a loan.

Plus now all up the interest you would have rec'v buy putting the $4930 into a CD for a year then times that by the rest of your life.

Or better yet put the $4930 into a Roth IRA and run the numbers to the date you will be able to draw from it.

[Edited by lawrence stone on 11-16-2000 at 09:01 PM]

[jeffyr]

Lawrence,

Thanks again for the response. First problem.....both of my WB are belt driven. There is much turning around being that the properties are not huge. Something that I think alot of people that cut larger properties don't realize is that the small ones are not necessarily easier and don't always take less time. If the property is small, attention to detail must be everywhere and the properties can be intricate. In addition, there is always alot of starting, stopping , and turning the machine around. As much in fact, as a property twice the size. Less walking mind you, but more bullying the mower (belt drive belt drive belt drive !).
Lastly, I cannot invest the money at this point because of 401K contibutions. Maybe I should play the market ! or go to Vegas !

Fire away Lawrence....or anyone else. Help me keep my hard earned $.

[TLS]

jeffyr,

You dont need a Walker, you need to WALK.!!! He he he. Seems like $10,000 is a lot to spend on a ride on mower for the acerage that you cut. I would go with a major brand 48" or 52" hydro walkbehind. Probably around $6000 . Get a proslide or a Velke for the bigger places and sell those older two machines. Walkers are compact, but they are still long and you will be spending most of you time backing up and turning around. Not to bash on Walkers, they are an excellent machine, but unless you intend to bag all the time, there are much better machines to suit your needs.

Good luck and don't let that $ burn a hole in your pockets!!

[landscaper3]

Jeff The lease is a write off which makes it much better then loans,((( As for the statement on small lawns, our Walkers are close to the same size as most Walkbehinds and are much more productive, Do you own a Walker to compare it too???????))) So anyways please look into the lease we saved lots doing that route.

[lawrence stone]

If you can come to the Poconos b/4 the snow is on the ground and I will let you drive one of my T-bar 44" and 52" belt drive toros with stand on sulkys.

When these machines are adjusted and set up properly they are as good as a hydro in dry conditions (only fools mow in the rain).

If fact I might just have a 44" for sale for I might just buy a used 32" Toro WB next week and will have to cull the
herd.

BTW I never have to stop and never use reverse.

[jeffyr]

My head hurts !!!
This whole thing started because of the taxes to be paid, and how I could use the money to benefit myself (plus the love of toys is getting the best of me).
I don't think I would want to spend 6,000 on a walkbehind. add 1,100 to that and I can get the Walker 16hp (DON'T WORRY POWER FIENDS....I'M NOT GONNA DO IT !). Keep the opinions coming if you got them. I want different opinions.

jeffyr

[landscaper3]

Well we also have a pair of Toro Prolines that are T-bars but they stay on trailer or shop most of the time. We break em out when its raining or high grass they will mow everthing. Hey Jeff email Telmark and have them send you some info to broaden you choices!

[Lawnworks]

Is mowing more of a hobby for you? Is sounds kinda that way. In fact, my business is part time and I love just running the business. It sounds like you WANT a Walker. If you can afford it, and really like the machine I think you should just buy it. Although, I would never buy new. I would buy slightly used and get the warranty transferable. I think Stone is in it mainly for the money, and is therefore more profit-minded. Point is - whatever floats your boat.

[jeffyr]

Lawnworks,

I think you are half right. At this point I am in it as a money producing hobby that I take seriously....but I guess this is the case for all part timers. I shouldn't generalize....I don't know everyones situation....but what I mean is the Part timer who has a FT job has the flexability and insurance of another income to allow them to do things that could not be necessary at this time, but desireable. Now, if you think you may be in this for a while, part or full time, I see nothing wrong with buying what you need or want to make your life more comfortable and easier.
All opinions were taken into consideration. No decision as of yet. Thank you for all the input.

jeffyr

[Keith]

Don't half ass it. Buy the 26 injected one. Just do it. It's just money :D It's like buying a luxury car without air conditioning.

Hey...why not a Kubota? Nah, I think the 26 is probably more powerful.

[lawn perfections]

stay away from the liquid cooled engines on the walkers...
i own the 20.9 kubota and i have nothing but trouble (over heating)......

[Keith]

My 21 Kubota on my Grasshopper has never had a problem like that and has over 2700 hours on it. Must just be the Walker.

[lawn perfections]

the engine is awesome... but the cooling system is terrible...it is what is keeping me from buying another walker

[Greens Keeper]

I purchased a walker Jan 2000. I think that it's a wonderful machine. It's a 1999 25hp ghs with a 9.5 box. 48 inch deck and I also got a 52 inch side discharge deck with it. This machine had 31 hours on it and was flawless.
Money wise they seem pricey but the quality is second to none. I spent $8250 for the mower and $1400 for the 52, it was like new also. If you are looking serious I would try ARKI-TECH LANDSCAPING you can find him at http://www.turfquip.com.
To me walker is the way to go accept NO immitations.

[AB Lawn Care]

Ok you need an opinion,here is mine.First off I think you should buy a walker.And before I go any further I will remind you that I run both walkers and walk-behinds.So I am NOT just saying that becouse I have allways run just riders.Ok back to my suggestion.I would buy the walker becouse it is more versitile then the walk behind.And NO walk behinds are not faster on small lawns!Don't get me wrong I LOVE walk-behinds,but in your case you sound like you need a machine to do everything for you.As far as which model goes,Buy the 20 or 26hp.I highly suggest you buy the 26 fuel injected.Why you ask,becouse is has more power,better on fuel,starts in freezing cold weater with no problem,better resale and the list goes on.Also the current price on the 26hp is at a steal.My dealer told me that walker is selling them cheaper right now to boost sales and will raise the price in the future.An extra hundred dollars more than the 20hp is well worth it!!!!But if you still don't want the 26hp,buy the 20hp.We own a 20hp is is almost 2 years old and has about 800hrs on it.Also it has also had zero repairs to date!!!!I think walkers are great becouse they do well in many areas,where as other mowers do much better in just one area like a DC or a Laser.I may down the road buy a Laser when I have the money to spend on a machine that focuses in one area,but for now I need somthing to do spring clean-ups,mowing,fall clean-ups's and snow removal.Have any of you guys seen the new slip-bucket for the walker?????Look like walker is in a race with Stiner to have to most attachments.Now walker needs a tree farm mower,a turbine leaf blower and a stump grinder!

[toddman35]

i was on a leaf blower site, and they had a leaf blower for walkers. i cant remember the site, but im pretty sure that it was walkers they were for. So now just a Tree Farm Mower and a Stump Grinder.

[John DiMartino]

If you have your mind set on a Walker-buy it,especially if you do a lot of cleanup-and if your buying it-whats 900 bucks more?id get the 20 hp with the bigger bagger-you'd be amazed at how fast they fill.Im not sure about the 26EFI Kohler-but if its only 100 more than the 20-Id buy that one instead-can never have to much power-ARRR,ARRRRRRRRRRRR. I still think Steiner has the attachment award for the most,and I can unhook and hook on another in under 1 minute,on all of mine except the loader-it takes about 3 minutes at the most.

[Edited by John DiMartino on 11-18-2000 at 03:07 AM]

[jeffyr]

Thanks for all of your opinions. I have not decided what to do yet, but have till the end of the year. My dealers prices were a little different than I have read here:

16 w/ 42" & small catcher = $7195
20 w/42" & 9.6 catcher= $7950
Add $850 for the 26HP

Thanks again for all of your views. I'll let you know what I do.

jeffyr

[Keith]

You want the 26.....you know you do! :D

[southside]

I demoed a diesel Walker,but I felt that it was a little under powered + I don't like Kubota diesels. I bought a 26 efi and I'm very happy with it. No problems with it at all.
I read somewhere on this forum that the 26 efi actually puts
out closer to 29-30 hp. There is no such thing as too much
power!