I am looking at the Exmark Lazer CT with a 44" mower deck. It has an 18 horsepower Vanguard engine. Is this enough power? It seems as though many of the other Zturn mowers have larger motors for this size. Also, any other thoughts on this mower would be appreciated.
It is my understanding that 2005 is the last year for the LazerCT with the 44" deck. I think the smallest deck size in the 2006s is a 48", and it has the 18HP Vanguard on it. Many times, the Briggs engines get a bad rap on here because people are comparing the Mexico made engines. The commercial Vanguards are made in Japan and say so right on the block. There's always the option of waiting for the Phazers, which I believe will be in a 34" and 44" deck option. Find the thread on New 06 Exmarks and see if it says anything in there about them. Any rate, with the 44" CT being discontinued after the 2005 season, you can probably find some pretty good deals on them.
IDK, maybe not a popular size on the CT. There will be the 44" on the Phazer.. so.. probably not much of a loss. Seems alot of the Exmark models are going to be extinguished for the 2006 models.
I suspect power will be ok, but a tiny short. I think side discharge will be adequate power, and you can always slow down a bit if you want to mulch. I use a deere w/60" and 25 hp and while mulching I've not yet run low on power, but I've definately loaded the engine all the way. A think 44 and 18 is a similar power loading.... Vanguards are fine.
Wait for the Phazer,it will have the 19Kaw on the 44 or 36. its alot lower so its better for the smaller decks.
