Starting out - Equipment

[rkeguy]

I've started my own lawn service this spring and have a few accounts but get some one time cuts when servicing my accounts. I have two Toro 21" mowers, one Toro straight shaft trimmer, one Ryobi edger, and Echo backpack blower. I use my Craftsman lawn tractor on a few larger accounts that I maintain, but hopefully will be buying a Toro ztr mower when I can cash flow it out. I've been checking Craigslist and Toro dealers for used equipment but haven't found much yet.

I've started out on part-time basis and work main job in the evenings and weekends. I really enjoy the tips and knowledge on the site. Pictured is my equipment (not showing the trailer) and vehicle vinyl. I pull my trailer with Ford Explorer XLT.

[bobcat48]

Looks good,nice setup!

[elitelawnteam1]

Like the vinyl sticker! That toro trimmer should last you a while, regardless whether or not its residential equipment. Mine is still running strong 4+ years

i also like your 21s I used to have the older models and they were hard to kill, I owned em for like 10-12 years.


Toro is a great brand overall, the only product i've never liked was their Toro Recycler. piece of crap

[GMLC]

Love the toro mowers. Those were bullet proof and yours look to be in great shape!

[Schrock Lawns]

looks nice what part of va are you in

[LewisLawn]

looks like you are off to a good start, you got the basics covered...now set aside a little from each acct to pay for the big purchases you'll need to make if you want to stay in business in the future...also make sure you are legal with insurance etc...

[MikeRi24]

love those old Toros!

[rkeguy]

Originally Posted by Schrock lawn and land

looks nice what part of va are you in

I'm located in Roanoke. I think I'm about 5 hours away from Va. Beach.

[osmann_lawn]

i am also just starting out. I am 19 with a cub cadet lawn tractor 50' deck. How many lawns do you cut with the lawn tractor?

[rkeguy]

Originally Posted by osmann_lawn

i am also just starting out. I am 19 with a cub cadet lawn tractor 50' deck. How many lawns do you cut with the lawn tractor?

I had seven accounts this season on regular basis and would pick up a one time mowing in neighborhood here and there. I would use the tractor on four of regular lawns then use my 21" walkbehind on the rest. None of my customers seemed to care what equipment I was using and most of the time I would be there mowing during the day while they were at work so I would not see them much. If yard was thick the tractor would clump the discharged grass but I would always take backpack blower and blow through yard to distribute clippings. That old tractor cost me $275 at the beginning of the season and it made me money and I now have something better to use next year although it is not a expensive commercial mower but alittle better that what is pictured above.

I discovered that if you are fair, honest, and provide excellent service at fair price the customers will not knock you due to your equipment.

Best of luck to you.