Total Landscape Care Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/85696
Just as in auto racing, no one needs to tell you landscaping is a competitive business. It's about speed and effi ciency getting the job done with mini- mal pit stops (downtime). In recent years, manufacturers have touted speed. But now, speeds are about as high as they can get — as is the case with motor racing— and manufacturers are focusing on other selling points, such as operator comfort and improved engine technology. So we challenged the major mower manufactur- ers to show us their premier mowers for 2012 and highlight the features that make each a winner. We invite you to learn more, visit your favorite dealer for a demo, and let the race for your mowing equipment dollar begin. PRECISE CONTROL CUB CADET TANK SZ Here's a classic case of trickle-down technology from a company's top-of-the-line products, in this case Cub Cadet's Tank S Series (shown far left.) Most notable is the use of Cub Cadet's Synchro- Steer technology. This four-wheel steering system uses differential steering on the back wheels, al- lowing different drive rates for the left and right wheels depending on the steering action. It's similar to the steering system used on skid steer loaders. The benefi ts include reduced turfi ng and more precise steering control, especially on cross-slopes. "The net result is re- laxed, more confident operation," says product marketing manager Allen Baird. The steering-wheel SZ also features a slope-nose deck design for superior fi rst-pass cutting performance and the ability to mulch, discharge or bag clippings without modifying the deck. RAPID RESPONSE BOB-CAT PREDATOR PRO This mower's Kawasaki FX1000V-DFI engine has digital fuel injection. DFI allows fl y-by-wire throttle February 2012 / TOTAL LANDSCAPE CARE 29 control, which does away with cables and linkages. E-Gov replaces the mechanical governor found on carbureted engines and provides near-instantaneous response to changing conditions. "DFI improves every aspect of performance," says product manager Tony Weber, "and operators notice the difference in terms of improved productivity and greater fuel efficiency." Hydrostatic drive provides speeds up to 13.5 mph. Opera- tor comfort is enhanced by the ISO-ride comfort system, a B-C lounger high back seat with isolation and quick-adjust armrests and vibration isolation at all touch points, including the hand controls. SERVICEABILITY DIXIE CHOPPER CLASSIC 3560T This mower includes a unique combination of the best features the company offers in its line. The deck spindle assembly is machined in-house from steel castings. "This gives us much greater control over the fi nished product," says Ron Spencer, technical service manager. "The steel assembly, with its two sets of bearings and seals, provides superior service life." Spencer also cites the use of Parker GT16 transmissions, SUPERIOR