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Product News John Deere introduces Flex Fuel ZTrak commercial mower John Deere is expanding its popular line of ZTrak mowers by adding a Flex Fuel model to its fleet. The new, industry-exclusive, Z925M Flex Fuel is compatible with ethanol blends up to E85, giving contractors a new alternative-fuel option for their fleets. "When we introduced the new line of ZTrak mowers last year, our intent was to meet the needs of every customer," said Steve Wilhelmi, John Deere tactical marketing manager. "The new Z925M Flex Fuel model continues that mission by appealing to customers who need or prefer to run on alternative-fuel platforms." The new Flex Fuel model is part of the M Series of ZTrak commercial mowers, designed for customers seeking productivity and efficiency. With a 24.6-hp. electronic-fuel-injected engine, the Z925M Flex Fuel can run on any blend of ethanol-mixed fuel, up to E85, and it has a top speed of 10 mph. Offered in 54- and 60-inch widths, it comes equipped with a 7-Iron deck for maximum durability. Enhancing operator comfort, the new model offers the option of an isolation seat or a fully adjustable, suspension seat. For easy cleanup on the jobsite, an optional, integrated material collection system provides a Dump-From-Seat option for enhanced ease of use. Finally, the Z925M Flex Fuel comes with a 3-year/1,200-hour warranty. Like the rest of the ZTrak lineup, the new Z925M Flex Fuel is an eligible purchase within the GreenFleet Loyalty Rewards program. The industry-exclusive loyalty program from John Deere is designed to help customers manage their equipment more easily and cost effectively. John Deere Echo Bear Cat unveils new log splitter Echo Bear Cat's new LS22 log splitter is powered by a 169-cc Subaru SP170 engine, which features easy recoil starting and better cold-weather starting performance. It's shipped with the 4-gallon hydraulic system filled with Dexron III-rated Automatic Transmission Fluid, which provides ease of operation on components in cold weather conditions. Storing the LS22 is easy and compact with the fold-up trailer tongue. The new model has a 30-inch bed height, giving the user a comfortable operating position, while decreasing physical effort and maximizing efficiency. It can be used in the horizontal or vertical positions and comes with an engine guard plate and log stripper plate as standard equipment. The wide end plate increases stability when operating the LS22 in the vertical position. "We wanted to make sure the operator feels comfortable and safe when running the machine," said Jory Skalsky, design engineer. "With the 30-inch bed height and new standard features, operators should find operation simple and easy." The LS22 is available with a range of options and kits to design a custom machine to fit consumer needs. Echo Bear Cat Toro introduces lithium-ion 24-volt Max yard tools Putting the finishing touches on yard work is easy and eco-friendly with Toro's new cordless 24-volt string trimmers, hedge trimmers and sweepers. Thanks to lithium-ion battery technology, these yard tools offer plenty of power to get the job done quickly. Toro's lithium-ion battery-powered tools remove the hassles of gas and oil, yet still provide the performance needed. Their super-charged, interchangeable batteries provide up to twice the power per weight as compared to a traditional nickelcadmium battery. They also allow for longer run time with low self-discharge. The Toro 24-volt* Max string trimmer is capable of taking on any trimming task. This trimmer features an auto-feed trim line system that automatically adjusts the line to the ideal cutting length. That means no more line hassles to slow down operators. A power-saver adjustable-cut feature changes the cutting line length from 12 inches to 10 inches for balancing run time. This trimmer's 14-inch shaft with adjustable assist handle helps reduce operator fatigue and promote precise trimming and edging. With Toro's one-step, walk-behind edging option, just push a button and rotate the head to start edging. A wheel guides the trimmer along the ground to make the task easier. Weighing in at 8 pounds, this new string trimmer (model 51487) comes with a rapid charger and on-board charge meter to display the battery status and has a suggested retail price of $169.99. The Toro cordless 24-volt* Max hedge trimmer features a work grip handle that rotates 90 degrees for comfort during vertical cutting. The trimmer's 24-inch-long hardened polished steel cutting bar gives operators extended reach and superior durability, while the dual-action cutting system reduces vibration and fatigue. Weighing in at 7 pounds, this trimmer can take on branches up to 5/8-inch in diameter. Model number 51496 has a suggested retail price of $159.99. The 24-volt* Max sweeper is ideal for tidying up sidewalks, garages or any other hard surface. Low- or high-speed settings may be selected to match the sweeping power to the job. This lightweight sweeper packs a lot of power into only 5 pounds, making it easy to use and convenient for any cleanup task. Model number 51702 has a suggested retail price of $139. *Battery manufacturer rating = 24V maximum & 22.2V nominal. Actual voltage varies with load. The Toro Co. OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT AUGUST 2013 27