Please vote and participate in this thread to win a Hustler jacket.

[mowerconsultant]

Your input is needed.

We are looking at the possibility of building economically priced belt drive walk behinds.
We are thinking about a 36” and a 48” version.
We would like your input / opinion on the deck.
Would you like to see a floating deck or a fixed deck, and would you pay the extra $ for a floating deck in lieu of a fixed deck ?
Our intentions would be to build a floating deck or fixed deck, not both.
Please vote in the poll above.
If you vote fixed deck, please explain why you would choose a fixed deck over a floating deck (other than price) are there any advantages you see in the fixed deck ?
If your voting for floating deck please select the additional $’s it would be worth to you at the time of purchase, and why you would choose a floating deck.
I do not have any pricing, pictures or availability dates.
Please cast your vote AND express your opinion in a brief post.
I will leave this thread up for a week, at the end of the week I will draw a name for a Hustler jacket, from the list of poster's in this thread.

Also keep in mind we will introducing a new line of commercial hydro walk behinds this fall, with floating deck's, so please don't consider these unit's when voting.
And of course we already have the Hustler WB's and Super WB's

Pj

[J&R]

I started wiyh fix deck mowers 20 years ago. Now all my mowers have floating decks. I would pay 500.00 more for a floating deck mower.

[GrassInPA]

I haven't been looking at wider than a 21" mower for a long time, but I definitely know I would want the 36". First of all just because of how easy it is to move and the second being able to fit in my truck.

As far as the deck, I picked floating because it's a lot easier to change the height with the floating and since that saves time, I'll be making more money.

Zach

[dvmcmrhp52]

I'm considering adding another W.B. this year,but for me a W.B. is not a main mower it is an additional service provider.
So for me it would be a fixed deck,belt drive to fill in the gaps.
I'm sure there are plenty of others to disagree with me because of their use as a main mower........
If I had to use it as a main mower it would be a hydro,floater.
I'd only go a couple hundred more for the floater versus fixed.......there isn't that much difference mechanically.JMO.




I voted fixed deck.

[DLCS]

I would gladly pay $400 more for a floating deck walkbehind. I think floating decks are worth it, since you are less likely to scalp and they are usually easier to adjust the height.

[dvmcmrhp52]

Hmmm, I posted and it dissapeared.




Any way,I don't use W.B.'s as main mowers but they do have there use for us.Because they are not main mowers I go fixed deck,belt drive.
If I were to use them as main mowers they would be hydro,floaters and I'd only be willing to pay 200 extra for the floater.there just isn't that much difference mechanically. JMO.

[mowerconsultant]

Originally posted by dvmcmrhp52
Hmmm, I posted and it dissapeared.

The MFG forums are moderated, the moderator of each MFG's forum must release the posts.
I generally release them as I get the notification that there are some to be released.

Pj

[olderthandirt]

I would only pay an extra $100 for a floater on the smaller size decks

Mac

[jaybird]

i fell bad even bringing this up my wife and i demoed a hustler aprox. 3yrs ago were suppose to get a hat dealer in alachua florida he said they never sent him hats. feel bad bring it up:( :(

[1MajorTom]

We have both at this time, floating and fixed.
When I asked Matt about this thread, before he even saw what the choices were or what anyone else had said, he said, "I'd pay more than $500.00 for a floating deck."
I'll cast a vote for the highest choice in the poll.

[Bigfoot]

A floating deck on the belt drive 36" is not going to benefit the operator very much other than changing the cut height, however a floating deck on the wider 48" mower should help decrease scalping. The primary market for the belt drive machines will be the small, sole operator & also as a back up, or secondary mower for trimming to compliment a hydro or Z. Price will be a big factor in this market. If I were in the market for a 36" I would pay $100 more for a floating deck. If I were in the market for a 48" I would pay $300 more.

[promower]

I would pay $400 more, but I would try and talk you down to $300:D

[noiseyvoyzey]

The price differance doesnt really matter, I wont cut grass with a fixed deck, simple as that. I know what I want/demand out of a product and I am not affraid to pay the price to get what I want.

[KL Squared]

We only use a floating deck. We got started using a belt driven walk behind. They provided us with a good and economical start.

[specialtylc]

We use a Hustler 37 WB . Our first WB was a 36 fixed deck. With the fixed deck you really cant adjust the height more than 1 inch. I will never buy a fixed deck again.
I would like to see the Hustler use a similar height adjustment system like the Husky machines. Its a single lever like a Z rider has.

[Jeff Quinn]

I voted for fixed, as it would be a backup mower.

Jeff Quinn

[specialtylc]

Our first WB was a 36 fixed deck. We bought a Hustler 37 WB 3 years ago. And We will not buy a fixed deck machine again. With a fixed deck you really cant adjust the height more than 1 inch.
I would like to see a hustler WB with a single lever height adjustment system. Such as most Z riders use. I seen a Husky WB with this set up and I liked it.

[captken]

Floater plus t-bar steering is the reason I bought the Hustler walkbehind.

Only the best for me, superior engineering....easy adjustability of the mower deck height, plus the precision handling....definity worth the price....

Is Hustler looking to market a entry level walkbehind?

Just curious.

[Scenic Lawnscape]

my vote floating deck on a 36" those back yards that have a small gate and un-even, a floater would be great, but hell what do i know im just a lawn dog

Rich

[DUSTYCEDAR]

i like the fixed deck less moveing parts lighter weight and they take up less space on the trailer

[Andy's Lawncare]

If it's a 48, I would never go with fixed. 36 could go either way.

[Metro Lawn]

Floating for sure. Worth the extra money.

[captken]

Let me put it this way....

I use my Hustler walkbehind under different mowing conditions.

Some I mow using my own judgement....

Others, the custormer wants to have the say so.

The floating deck on my Hustler lets me change my cutting deck heigth with ease.

A selling point that sold me on the Hustler walkbehind over others I had demonstrated.

Simple, easy to change....

Time is money....

I've made the adjustment in front of others using fixed deck mowers and had a few come over to see how it is done for themselves.

On the unexpected:

I had an inexperienced worker drive my Hustler walkbehind into a lake [but did not submerge the engine]

3 of us tried and tried to get it out but failed, it was too heavy for us and the deck was digging into the mud. We finally decided to release the deck from the mower [the deck was under water] I simply pulled the 4 pins and we just slid it out from under and then put the mower deck on the bank!

Without the mower deck installed, the machine is much lighter and we were able to get it out reattach the mower deck and back mowing again quickly.

A fixed deck could not have been so easily extracted.

On Maintence and Repair:

You can completly remove the deck in about a minute.

It goes back on nearly as quick.

Last year I took the deck off, turned it upside down to service the underside of the deck, made the job a whole lot easier.

I painted the deck with it off the mower last Sunday afternoon.

I put the deck back on my mower this morning [before my coffee!] by myself.

More on mowing:

The adjustment holes on the pins of my Hustler walkbehind match those on my Hustler Z.

They BOTH are easily adjustable and compatable, they match each other cut for cut.

Matching Mowers

Would you own a ZTR with a fixed deck?

I would pay 400 for that option.....

Don't mess with the current design.

I think that it would be a mistake.


Just my two cents worth....kenny

[Soupy]

If you are not going to have both, then what does the amount more you are willing to pay matter? I voted for the floating deck.

[J.Gordon]

Definitely a floating deck for me, quick height adjustment is a must for my needs.
Jeff

[John Gamba]

Floating deck because of everything good said about them. PLEASE if you make a SINGLE HIEGHT AJUSTMENT dont make it so i cant put a Jrco Transporter tray on the deck carrier. Its nice to have the extra room for grass in the tub.
John

Oh where can i buy a hustler jacket??

[Grassmechanic]

Floating deck - and happy to pay extra for it.

[Tscape]

Floating deck whatever the cost!

[Haworths]

Go with the floating deck. I have both and perfer my floating deck over fixed any day. Price is important but I'd pay more for a machine with the features that work.

[mowerconsultant]

Originally posted by Soupy
If you are not going to have both, then what does the amount more you are willing to pay matter? I voted for the floating deck.
Ok,
I should of put hypothetically if there were both available, which would you choose and what would be a dollar amount you would be willing to pay more for the floating deck.
Thank you for catching that.

Pj

[MikesLS]

Always a floating deck,Many diff. customers want to choose
cutting height.
Already have a fixed deck and hate it,scalps on these uneven yards in Indiana.
Yea I would pay $400 more but I always try for less.

[John Gamba]

Is the jacket the one on the web??
John

[bigshoe]

I definitely would pick the floating deck and I voted to pay $200.00 more for it!



Mike

[mowerconsultant]

Originally posted by John Gamba
Is the jacket the one on the web??
John
Yes, they can also be ordered by any Hustler dealer.
This one....
http://www.hustlerturfequipment.com/images/prod5.jpg

[John Gamba]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by mowerconsultant
[B]Yes, they can also be ordered by any Hustler dealer.
This one....
http://www.hustlerturfequipment.com/images/prod5.jpg

Ok I'll just order one. Dont count me out of the drawing. I like having my picture taken, I'll see if i can get a Banner LOLOLOL:waving:
John

[swim]

We are looking at the possibility of building economically priced belt drive walk behinds

As a person experienced with many styles of walk behind mowers I would want a floating deck mower with all the bells and whistles.

When I was just starting out and cost was more important than options I used a walk behind with a fixed deck. It was not bad and I very quickly learned how to go at an angle or lift the front up slightly to prevent scalping. The worst thing was explaining that my $6000 dollar mower could not cut at different heights without it taking alot of time and therefore costing them much more than if I cut it at the same height as all of my other lawns. I never lost a customer over it so it was not that bad and It was lighter than a floating deck witch made it better for hills and steep slopes to.

To answer your question as I see it, I never bought a belt drive mower in my life and the only reason I might even consider one would be for the price and I would rather loose the adjustable deck before I lost the hydro. So if it being economical was the option and I could only afford a belt drive, I think that I could not afford to pay any extra for a floating deck either. So I'll vote fixed deck with no extra cost.

[stp4345]

I would gladly pay $500.00 more for a floating deck. You adjust the heigth so much easier. And they dont scalp yards as easy. I believe there just all around better. No matter what size mower you put them on.










my web sight (snowbodysbusiness.tripod.com)

[dobehap]

I will take the floating.

Deck is independent of the machine, and I like having the option to mount stuff on the frame.

[LB Landscaping]

Floating deck all the way. The property's we maintain have a lot of hills and uneven areas, definatly not falt around here, a floating deck is a priority.

[NCSULandscaper]

I would pay $300 more for a floating just because the ease of height adjustment and less likely to scalp.

[craglawnmanor]

Floating deck mainly for the anti-scalping benefit.

[icatcher]

I say fixed.
We are talkning about a 36" mower. Not to prone to scalping.
Hydro is the best but for a smaill 36'er , it's a fixed.:D

[HustlerZman]

I would have to say floating deck.
I would pay an additional $200.00

[GTLC]

If I had the extra $ I would get a floating deck model b/c here in VT, the land isn't flat and it is very easy to scalp the grass.

[AMAC]

I already own the Super Z and can't wait to get a Hustler walk behind.

[We do 4 U]

I would pay the extra$ for the floating deck simply for the scalping issues. I have had both and greatly prefer the floating deck.

[HicksGroundMgt]

i'd pay the extra for the floater. on the 36 i don't think it would be much difference but with larger decks having larger trim sides the likelyhood of scalping would decrease with a floating deck. the fixed deck would function fine but would just not work in the day to day operations of my company. fixed decks are more reserved for push mowers than walk behinds in my opinion anyway.

[PaulJ]

I say floating. Most of the reasons have already been listed. I have used fixed deck and they are OK but the floating is so much better and that is what hustler stands for to me just like pistol grips are OK but the h-bar is so much better.

BTW, are you adapting the h-bar to the belt drive? I hope so.
And like I suggested earlier, how about a small machine in the 24" to 32" range?

And I'll take my jacket in 3X:)

[excel25]

Gotta have the floating deck, why try to be like the RED mowers!!
well worth the extra money. You think a fixed deck is ok till ya own one, or never tried a floating.

[P&J Lawncare]

Floating deck for the mowers bigger then a 36 but for the 36 a fixed deck is fine also most guys buy 36 mowers as back yard and secondary mowers so the added savings is essential. The guys that buy the 36 as a primary mower are definately looking for the most bang for the buck. You will lose alot of sales on the 36 if you don't offer it in a fixed deck version. If a guy can buy a fixed deck from exmark for $2100 and yours cost $2500 with a floating deck then your going to lose some sales.

[SWD]

I voted for the fixed deck. On a smaller walk behind, floating really isn't necessary. Additionally, with regards to height changes, the machine I use - Gravely - I can change the entire height of the deck, not just the front casters, from 1" to 5" literally in seconds.
I would recommend looking at Gravely's deck design for possible ideas.

[twins_lawn_care]

I would also want to go with the floating deck, to prevent any problems with scalping, and just to provide the next level of quality for my customers.
Starting out, I could justify the extra $200, but anything more would be a little too much to justify at this point.

Look forward to hearing how this turns out though.

Rob

TWINS Lawn Care

[Advance Lawncare]

i'd prefer a floating deck as I'm in the transition zone of warm and cool season grasses and have to change cutting heights quite frequently for various grass types, terrains, etc.

[imograss]

On a 36" a fixed deck would be fine for me depending on how hard it is to change hight of cut. Anything over a 36" I would want the floating deck.
Tim

[grshppr]

Floating deck and I would definately be willing to pay extra for this feature.

[rtyus]

Floating deck for the reasons that have already been listed. Fixed decks are good for taking the high spots out of the yards though.:D

[TXLAWNBOY]

I would pay an additional $400 for a floating deck for the versatility. I also would like to see Hustler come out w/a smaller mower like a 32" or 33" for using on residental props.

[stevo22]

i would pay more for a floater oin a 48 deck...would not worry about it at all on a 36 deck...

[Blessed 1]

I woold pick the floating deck over the fixed but for no more than about $200.00. The reason is my goal is not to use this mower at all. THE GOAL IS TO BE ABLE TO RIDE all area's. However if I must use a walk behind lets make that as comfortable as posible and cover at least 36" at a time. I bought a 36" belt drive fixed deck this week because the floating deck was at least 600.00 more.;)

[Quality Cuts PLS]

I like the fixed deck walk behind for my properties. Easier to keep from scalping over a floating deck on the terrain I maintain. I also don't change my cutting height much so that is not a deciding factor. Belts help keep the price low and it is cheaper to repair the drive system, but a hydro is more efficient and maneuverable. Still a good alternative though.

[TURF DOCTOR]

No matter what the cost you need to be on top of the game.

[aa2tn]

I guess I can see the reasons for both but in the end if you can keep the price difference in the $200 to $300 range it would be worth it just to be able to change the hight and to avoid scalping on the larger model.

[culand]

I like a floating deck because of tarrian in east Texas, we have hill ,holes, slopes. Paying for a good deck for slick cut out ways the extra price.

[mdb landscaping]

i would pay $200 more for a floating deck. just for the ease of changing cutting height.

[John Gamba]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by mdb landscaping
[B]i would pay $200 more for a floating deck. just for the ease of changing cutting height.

Hay Matt :waving:

[awayneward]

I am new to the business. Based on the research I have done and the numerous people I have spoken to, a floating deck is by far more preferred. Also, less time to adjust heights and less damage to clients property. Would be worth more money.

[Tharrell]

I wouldn't spend the extra on a floating deck on a 36 but I would spend extra on a 48. If you decide to go with a fixed deck, think about the way Bob-Cat does it with a high/low axle position in conjunction with spacers up front. Fixed decks will sell more unless the price is right on a floater. I hardly see any floating decks around the triad in N.C. Also, make it stripe like a Bob-Cat or a Scag and make the discharge opening large. A fixed 36 and 48 could benefit with big antiscalp rollers. Hope my opinions are helpful.

[Fine Lines Lawn]

I would prefer a floating deck and would be willing to pay an additional $200.00.

[gravedigger5]

Happy with the fixed deck, as long as it has way to adjust blade height. My Toro 36" fixed, i can add/remove spacers on the blades and adjust height quickly. Also if some one came up with a way to adjust rear wheels up and down easier than getting up under to tighten/loosen bolts, maybe a locking clamp and adjusting crank or something. I would pay more for a mower like that. JMO, Marc

[John Gamba]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by gravedigger5
[B]Happy with the fixed deck, as long as it has way to adjust blade height. My Toro 36" fixed, i can add/remove spacers on the blades and adjust height quickly. Also if some one came up with a way to adjust rear wheels up and down easier than getting up under to tighten/loosen bolts, maybe a locking clamp and adjusting crank or something. I would pay more for a mower like that. JMO, Marc

Honda and Howard Price had an easy way. But it still was a fixed deck mower.
John

[barnard]

Right now both of my walk behinds are belt driven ,fixed decks. I have a 36 and a 48. I am very stisfied with both,however In future purchases I will consider floaters. I would not want to pay more than 200 more .

[treed]

I prefer a floating deck over a fixed deck, but would only pay for it within reason.

[treed]

I prefer a floating deck over a fixed deck, but the price would have to be within reason.

[EIB]

I wood prefer a floating deck on anything bigger than a 36. I would also be willing to spend more, up to 400.00 for that feature.

[GrassBustersLawn]

I guess I don't see the point of the question! If you are ONLY GOING TO MAKE ONE (Fixed or Float) then there will be NO COMPARISON ($100; $200; $300; $400 MORE)! No one WILL KNOW how much more they are paying!!! Then it only comes down to how much it cost for your 36 or 48 Fixed/Float vs. the cost of a competitors. Doesn't that make sense? I THINK I SHOULD WIN A JACKET JUST FOR POINTING OUT THE FLAWED LOGIC OF THIS POST! ;) Got any in 3xl ? :)

Personally, I would never use a fixed, as we are frequently changing deck height on the w/b.


Mike

[Soupy]

Originally posted by GrassBustersLawn
I guess I don't see the point of the question! If you are ONLY GOING TO MAKE ONE (Fixed or Float) then there will be NO COMPARISON ($100; $200; $300; $400 MORE)! No one WILL KNOW how much more they are paying!!! Then it only comes down to how much it cost for your 36 or 48 Fixed/Float vs. the cost of a competitors. Doesn't that make sense? I THINK I SHOULD WIN A JACKET JUST FOR POINTING OUT THE FLAWED LOGIC OF THIS POST! ;) Got any in 3xl ? :)

Personally, I would never use a fixed, as we are frequently changing deck height on the w/b.

Mike, that is what I meant when I posted the quote below. I just didn't go into detail like you. You can have the jacket, all I want is a yellow hat. :)


Originally posted by Soupy
If you are not going to have both, then what does the amount more you are willing to pay matter? I voted for the floating deck.

[mowerconsultant]

The winner of the jacket from this post here on LS is Metro Lawn.

[Metro Lawn]

wooo hooooo I won, I won !!!!!!!!!!! Thanks PJ

[FIRE]

I Would Prefer To Vote For The Fixed Deck Since I Have Used Fixed
Decks And Still Do.i Believe That A Fixed Deck Holds Up Better Than
A Floating Deck As Far Pins Breaking Etc Etc.also A Economical
Machine Would Be More Enticing Price Wise Than A Machine With A
Floating Deck Which Would Cost More.i Believe A Machine With A Fixed Deck Would Be A Better Seller For People Just Starting Out
And For People That Have Been Doing It For A While.being That
Equipment Is Not Cheap These Days I'am Sure People Want To Get
Make There Money Back,as Fast As Possible And With A Economical
Priced Right Machine It Could Be Possible.also Have A Mini Z 19/42
Thank You Fire:)