Suggestions for a back-up mower

[skmodmsl]

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.

 

[65hoss]

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

 

[alwaysgreener]

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

 

[jajwrigh]

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.

 

[matth]

id say go with a scag 36

 

[MudslinginFX4]

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

 

[Sauls1686]

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.......

 

[brucec32]

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.