Stand-On Vs Ride-On Mowers. TimeCutter vs GrandStand. These debates are older than the fuel sitting in your generator. There is a definite answer to this but people keep coming back to this debate.
So at Main Street Mower we have taken it upon ourselves to give you the exact numbers to prove the clear winner in this debate. One of these two types of mowers will save you about $9,516 more, per year.
Mower Science: Toro 34" Time Cutter vs. 36" Grandstand Comparison
Welcome to a deep dive into mower science, where we weigh the pros and cons of two notable models: the Toro 34" Time Cutter and the Toro 36" Grandstand. If you're in the market for a reliable mower that can maneuver through tighter spaces like back gates, understanding the specifications, performance, and financial viability of your options is crucial. Today, we are comparing these two models to determine which mower might be the best investment for your landscaping needs.
Choosing the Right Size
The challenge many face while shopping for mowers is finding a size that not only meets their cutting needs but also fits through narrower accesses like backyard gates. Typically, mowers are available in sizes ranging from 48" to 72". However, for smaller gates, options narrow significantly, leaving few choices like the 34" and 36" models we're discussing today.
Price and Suitability
One of the initial factors to consider is the price and the intended use of the mower:
- Toro 34" Time Cutter: Aimed at homeowners, this model is priced attractively and constructed to be robust for non-commercial use.
- Toro 36" Grandstand: Priced approximately three times higher than the Time Cutter, this model is a commercial-grade mower designed for heavy-duty use.
When considering cost, it's essential to look beyond the sticker price. Financing options, like a typical zero-interest plan for 36 months, puts the Time Cutter at around $84 per month, whereas the Grandstand, with the same financing terms, would be significantly higher per month.
Key Specifications and Performance
Performance and durability are where these mowers really begin to differ:
- Cutting Deck: The Time Cutter sports a 10-gauge steel deck, which is robust for homeowner use. In contrast, the Grandstand features a more durable 7-gauge steel deck with additional reinforcements and thicker spindles.
- Cutting Height and Depth: The Grandstand's deck is 5 inches deep, allowing for cutting thicker grass and providing a maximum height of 5 inches. The Time Cutter, although capable, offers only a 4.5-inch max height with a 4-inch deep deck.
- Tires and Blades: Commercial mowers like the Grandstand are equipped with heavy-duty solid tires and thicker blades (1/4 inch) that last longer and require less servicing. The Time Cutter uses air tires and thinner blades (3/16 inch), suited to less rigorous use.
Warranty and Longevity
Warranty terms are particularly telling about the expected lifespan and durability of a product:
- Toro 34" Time Cutter: Offers a three-year unlimited homeowner warranty. If used commercially, the warranty shortens drastically to 90 days.
- Toro 36" Grandstand: Boasts one of the best warranties in the business with five years or 1200 hours on the entire machine and three years unlimited on the engine.
Manufacturers design mowers for all main components—the motor, deck, and hydraulic systems—to wear out simultaneously, optimizing the machine's lifespan. Expected service life varies significantly between the two models; the residential Time Cutter is expected to last up to 750 hours, whereas the commercial-grade Grandstand can last up to 3,000 hours if well-maintained.
Cost Per Hour and Resale Value
Breaking down the cost per hour of operation reveals:
- The Time Cutter costs approximately $3.59 per operational hour.
- The Grandstand runs at about $2.50 per hour, indicating that despite its higher upfront cost, the Grandstand is more economical over its lifetime. Moreover, it maintains a superior resale value compared to the Time Cutter, which can reach near-zero after intensive use.
Concluding Thoughts
When purchasing a mower, particularly for commercial use, the initial price is just one aspect of a broader financial picture. Performance efficiency, durability, maintenance costs, warranty, and long-term financial benefits such as time savings and resale value are crucial considerations. The 36" Grandstand, while more expensive upfront, offers significant long-term savings and efficiency, potentially making it a smarter investment for those looking to maximize productivity and profit in landscaping or lawn care businesses.
Remember, every minute saved on the job accumulates, translating into tangible earnings and more efficient work cycles. For professional landscapers, investing in a mower like the 36" Grandstand not only makes sense; it pays.
Products Discussed In The Video
- Toro TimeCutter | 34" Deck | 22HP Kohler Zero Turn Mower | 75734
- Toro Grandstand | 36" Deck | Kawasaki Stand On Mower | 74534
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