Suggestions for a back-up mower

I currently have one 48" Snapper walkbehind mower as my main machine. I have a 22" mower for trimming and emergencies if the big mower goes down. I've been thinking that a 36" walkbehind would make both a good back-up machine and allow me to get through gated areas. It sure would beat having to use the 22" in an emergency. I'm pretty sure that I will purchase a new 36" machine.

What are your reccomendations on the new machines out there? I prefer belt drive and a non-electric blade engagement. Local dealers in my area sell Scag, Exmark, Ferris, Toro, and Gravely.

 

eXmark 36" metro I have has been nothing but a money maker.

 

We use Scag, (5) 48" & (5) 36" walkbehinds. Great back up mowers. Don't forget "work smarter not harder"

 

My main machine this year is going to be my 36" metro. I am going to use my 30" Dixon for a backup. I have a lot of gated yards so its nice to have two capable machines.

 

id say go with a scag 36

 

Toro, Exmark, or Scag. They are all good mowers, it just depends on what you like.

 

Go with the mower that will last the longest and take an unbelievable amount of abuse: Scag. I plan on keeping
my Scag even if I dont stay in business so my kids can
use it for their business.......

 

I'd go with a toro fixed deck 36" t bar for about $2500 plus tax. Or maybe a 36" Gravely pro steer fixed, since it has a better height adjustment system. I personally would pass on pistol/ecs type "squeeze to slow" steering on a belt drive.

The Toro uses the identical deck as an Exmark metro, and also shares its manual blade engagement, but with the advantage of t bar steering.