Posts Tagged ‘Turf Tracer’

Exmark Advantage: Enhanced Control System (ECS)

Wednesday, April 20th, 2016

Enhanced Control System ECS

One feature that sets Exmark commercial-grade walk-behind and stand-on mowers apart from the pack is our patented Enhanced Control System (ECS). ECS makes mower control easier, more ergonomic and ultimately, more sustainable day after day.

Exmark ECS controls

ECS places the controls at the operator’s fingertips for maximum ease of use.

The comfort of the operator’s hands might not be the first thing you think of when you think of commercial mowers. But we couldn’t forget about the hands, because in this case, they do just as much work as the operator’s legs and feet. And from an ergonomic standpoint, traditional control layouts leave a lot to be desired.

ECS in-use

Visit your local Exmark dealer to experience the advantages of ECS for yourself.

Our ECS-equipped walk-behind and stand-on mowers place the control handles in the location and angle your hands naturally fall. This also helps protect hands from hitting objects that stick out. The shorter grip distance and drive levers relieve fatigue while the cushioned handles reduce vibration. It’s total comfort for hard-working hands.

Learn more about the Exmark Advantage at Exmark.com/Exmark-Advantage.

Exmark Advantage: Hydro Drive System

Wednesday, March 23rd, 2016
Exmark Pioneer S-Series zero-turn mower

Exmark hydro drive systems deliver increased reliability, durability and ease of use for landscape professionals and homeowners alike.

The heart of any zero-turn mower is the hydro drive system. It’s the system responsible for controllably putting the power to the ground — undoubtedly an important job.

That’s why Exmark has worked hard to develop innovations that make its hydro drive systems function better, more reliably, with increased long-term durability. Working in partnership with Parker, we designed a unitized pump and motor unit that eliminates all hoses, fittings and potential leak points.

In testing, the Exmark UHT drive system in combination with Exmark Premium Hydraulic Oil has been proven to operate in the toughest commercial conditions while maintaining cooler system temperatures than the “off the shelf” hydro drive systems used by other manufacturers.

Exmark UHT hydro drive system

The UHT hydro drive system on Lazer Z zero-turn riders is designed to work harder, stay cooler and last longer than other hydro drive systems.

With no hoses and fewer parts to wear out, Exmark drive systems are more durable and easier to maintain than traditional drive systems. In fact, with proper preventative maintenance and care, the UHT hydro drive system on an Exmark Lazer Z can deliver 3,000 hours or more of productive mowing. That’s durability you can count on for years to-come!

Features of the Lazer Z UHT hydro drive system include:

UHT Hydro – 16cc

  • Used on Lazer Z X-Series with 60″ and 72″ Cutting Decks
  • Pump: Parker 16cc
  • Type: Axial piston
  • Displacement: 16.0 cc/rev
  • Motor: Parker
  • Type: Gerotor
  • Displacement: 280 cc/rev
  • Peak Torque: 684 ft.lb
  • Reservoir: 2 quart integral

UHT Hydro – 12cc

  • Used on Lazer Z E-Series, Lazer Z S-Series and Lazer Z X-Series with 48″ and 52″ Cutting Decks
  • Pump: Parker 12cc
  • Type: Axial piston
  • Displacement: 11.4 cc/rev
  • Motor: Parker
  • Type: Gerotor
  • Displacement: 240 cc/rev
  • Peak Torque: 684 ft.lb
  • Reservoir: 2 quart integral

Learn more about the advantage of Exmark hydro drive systems at Exmark.com/Exmark-Advantage/Features/Hydros.

 

 

Exmark Advantage: Spindles

Wednesday, March 9th, 2016
Exmark Navigator

A half-mowed playing field doesn’t look so good, so this isn’t the time when you want trouble with a blade spindle.

When it comes to what makes an Exmark an Exmark, there isn’t one single thing you can point to and say “that’s it.” Rather, there are countless things — some big, some not so big — that add up to the unmatched performance, productivity and durability you get with Exmark mowers and lawn care equipment.

Today we’ll take a look at the blade spindles: a key feature of Exmark walk-behind, stand-on, and zero-turn riding mowers. Since they’re covered by shrouds atop the cutting deck, they aren’t parts you often think about, unless you’re having trouble with one.

Exmark Series 5/6 blade driver

This UltraCut Series 5/6 spindle cutaway shows the maintenance-free sealed bearings and 30mm splined blade driver, which eliminates impact-related bolt tightening.

If you’re relying on that mower to make your money for the day, that’s not a very appealing option. And even if you just want to mow your lawn, an awesome mower with a bad blade spindle isn’t going to get it done for you.

As a result, our designers, engineers and test crew have spent a lot of time and energy on the blade spindles on our UltraCut cutting decks. The result are spindles that do the vital job of making the blades go around with industry-leading efficiency, durability and low-maintenance.

Exmark uses tough cast aluminum housings with maintenance-free sealed, non-greasable bearing design. 25-30mm splined blade drivers (depending on UltraCut series) eliminate bolt over tightening and the spindles are completely serviceable. Exmark spindles are designed with features that minimize the opportunity for moisture ingression into the spindle assembly and/or bearings. This increases spindle lifespan considerably.

Learn more about the advantage of Exmark blade spindles at Exmark.com/Exmark-Advantage/Features/Spindles.

Exmark White Paper: Transitioning Mower Fleets to Propane

Sunday, November 1st, 2015
Exmark Transitioning Mower Fleets to Propane white paper

Click the image to download the free white paper in Adobe PDF format.

Every day, an increasing number of landscape maintenance professionals are opening their eyes to the potential of propane-fueled commercial mowers. Here are a few compelling reasons why that shift is occurring, from our white paper, Transitioning Mower Fleets to Propane:

  • 2013 market research conducted by Lawn & Landscape magazine revealed that 63 percent of homeowners responsible for decisions related to some or all landscape contract services are influenced by a sense of environmental responsibility.
  • Propane-fueled commercial mowers and equipment produce significantly fewer greenhouse gasses (GHG) than those fueled by gasoline.
  • PERC, Kohler and Exmark partnered on development of the industry’s first EFI-propane engine for commercial mower applications. The engine is the industry’s first OEM-level EFI-propane engine, offering full commercial warranty and support. The EFI design increases fuel efficiency by up to 25 percent, and coupled with the lower cost of propane, reduces overall fuel costs by up to 40 percent compared to carbureted gasoline engines. Uptime is also improved since the EFI engine solves startability and performance issues frequently encountered with engines using aftermarket conversions.
  • In 2013, Exmark introduced a Kohler EFI-propane powered version of its Lazer Z S-Series zero-turn riding mower as well as two Turf Tracer wide area walk behind models. In 2015 it introduced an EFI-propane Vantage S-Series stand-on riding mower.
  • Propane is widely available nationwide and is used in an estimated 12.6 million U.S. households for heating, cooking and recreation. It is a fossil fuel derived from the refining of oil and natural gas. It is a very safe fuel for commercial mowers, with an ignition temperature that’s nearly double that of gasoline (900 deg. F vs. 495 deg. F). Plus, robust, sealed containers virtually eliminate the opportunity for fuel spillage.
  • The selection of a propane retailer and the negotiation of a seasonal contract are two important aspects of a switch to propane for landscape maintenance professionals to consider.

    Exmark Vantage S-Series Propane

    Exmark propane mowers deliver industry-leading performance, productivity and durability.

  • Incentives from PERC, as well as a number of state marketing associations can mitigate some or all of the increased up-front cost of propane mowers. Combined with the EFI-related fuel savings and the lower cost of propane,
  • Exmark mowers powered by Kohler propane-EFI engines can save up-to $2/hour, or more depending on duty cycle and other factors. This allows pay back of the added investment in just one to two seasons.

Download the complete Transitioning Mower Fleets to Propane white paper in Adobe PDF format.

Learn more about Exmark’s complete line of EFI-propane commercial mowers at Exmark.com.

 

PERC Propane Mower Incentive Program Returns for Limited Time

Monday, October 19th, 2015

The Propane Education & Research Council is bringing back its popular Propane Mower Incentive Program for a limited time. Effective immediately, landscape contractors can apply to receive $1,000 toward the purchase of a new propane-powered mower and $500 toward a qualified conversion. The incentive will be available until program funds expire, so applicants are encouraged to act fast.

Exmark Vantage Propane Mower

For a limited time, PERC is offering $1,000 toward the purchase of any of Exmark’s industry-leading propane mowers.

“It’s officially the buying season for landscape contractors and, while many already know the value of propane mowers, a little assistance with the upfront costs associated with converting their equipment can prove to be the tipping point,” said Jeremy Wishart, PERC’s deputy director of business development. “Propane can give landscape contractors a lower total cost of operation and also reduce emissions compared with traditional fuels, so it’s exciting to be able to help offset some of those initial conversion costs for contractors wanting to take advantage of propane’s benefits.”

Since the Mower Incentive Program first began in 2012, well over 3,000 applications from landscape contractors have been received by PERC. Contractors can apply for the Propane Mower Incentive Program at propane.com/mowerincentive.

The Mower Incentive Program is just one of many tools that PERC offers contractors to help them save money with propane. PERC’s suite of cost-calculator tools is designed for use in the propane industry’s fastest-growing markets, including commercial landscape. The calculator tool, available at propanecostcalculator.com, estimates potential fuel savings and ROI for contractors using clean, American-made propane when compared with conventional fuels like gasoline and diesel.

Learn more about Exmark’s industry-leading line of propane commercial mowers at Exmark.com.

Mower Safety Tips

Sunday, July 19th, 2015


Exmark General Mower Safety Tips

  • Read and understand your operator’s manual before operating the mower.
  • Do not add gasoline to a running or hot engine and never leave the machine running in an enclosed area.
  • As with other power tools and equipment, do not operate a lawn mower when consuming alcohol.
  • Wear appropriate clothing – significant footwear, long pants, eye and hearing protection.
Safe mower operation

Safe operation of a zero-turn mower includes always mowing with the ROPS in the up position (if so equipped) and the lap belt fastened snug and low around the operator’s waist.

  • Pick up stones, toys and debris from the lawn to prevent injuries and damage from flying objects.
  • Never allow children to be passengers on ride-on mowers.
  • Keep children and pets a safe distance from the area you are mowing. Use extreme care near blind corners and around objects that may block you from seeing a child.
  • Do not operate without the grass catcher, discharge chute, or other safety devices in place and working.
  • Be careful when mowing slopes.
  • Do not mow in wet conditions.
  • Never mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary – carefully look for others behind you when you do.
  • Turn off the mower and wait for blade(s) to stop completely before leaving the mower, removing the grass catcher, picking up debris, or crossing gravel roads or paths.
  • Let the mower cool before refueling, cleaning and storing.
  • Follow all directions – including turning off the engine and disconnecting the spark plug or electric cord – before working on the mower or trying to unclog the discharge chute.

Learn more about safe operation of your mower at http://www.exmark.com/Service-And-Support/Safety-Resources/. View additional safety videos on the Exmark YouTube channel.

ECS Controls: Why They’re Better

Thursday, June 11th, 2015

Landscape maintenance is a tough job, and during the season downtime is lost revenue. That’s why it’s important to take every opportunity to make it more sustainable for operators and their bodies. It was precisely for this reason that Exmark developed the exclusive ECS (Enhanced Control System) controls for its wide-area walk-behind mowers.

Why ECS is Better

Exmark ECS Controls -- Turf Tracer

The improved ergonomics of ECS controls increases control while reducing operator fatigue.

ECS controls improve the ergonomics of walk-behind mower controls when compared to traditional pistol-grip controls. ECS places the arms in a more neutral position to keep the operator’s joints in a more natural state. The elbows rest naturally against the body, while the lower arms extend easily to grasp the controls, reducing arm strain and hand fatigue significantly. Thanks to ECS, operators will experience less upper body pain after a long day of work.

Back, neck and shoulder pain is reduced thanks to the improved ergonomics of the ECS controls, and the hands are positioned closer to the machine center, keeping them out of harm’s way when maneuvering in tight spaces. Padded operator handles reduce vibration and the ECS controls feature a shorter grip distance for enhanced control and reduced hand fatigue.

Learn more about ECS and Exmark walk-behind models it’s a standard feature on at Exmark.com.

Clean American Innovation: Exmark Manufacturing

Thursday, April 16th, 2015

Click to go to view the Exmark video on the Clean American Innovation site.

The Propane Education and Research Council (PERC) has released the latest video in its “Clean American Innovation” video series, which highlights America’s propane technology leaders. Exmark is proud to be featured in the video, as it recognizes the commitment we’ve made to our growing line of EFI propane commercial mowers.

Lazer Z S-Series Propane

The Lazer Z S-Series Propane leads the industry for propane mower performance and durability.

Exmark’s Lazer Z S-Series Propane was the industry’s first EFI propane commercial zero-turn mower in 2013, and it continues to deliver industry-leading performance, durability and cut quality today.

In 2014, Exmark introduced two new EFI propane Turf Tracer walk-behind models — the Turf Tracer X-Series Propane and the Turf Tracer S-Series Propane.

Exmark Vantage S-Series Propane

The new Vantage S-Series Propane brings EFI propane advantages to commercial stand-on riding mowers.

Recognizing the growing popularity of stand-on mowers among landscape professionals, as well as the need for a propane-powered option, in 2015 Exmark launched its Vantage S-Series Propane stand-on rider. It delivers the productivity benefits of a stand-on rider combined with the fuel  and cost efficiency benefits of propane and Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) in a progressive, operator-focused design.

Exmark’s propane mowers use state-of-the-art Kohler Command Pro EFI propane engines to deliver increased fuel efficiency for longer run times and decreased operating costs, with significantly improved starting and running performance compared to carbureted propane engines.

See the Clean American Innovation: Exmark Manufacturing video, and the other videos in the series, on the Clean American Innovation website, or learn more about Exmark’s industry-leading EFI propane products at Exmark.com.

The Importance of Keeping Mower Blades Sharp

Thursday, March 26th, 2015

At Exmark, we understand the importance of making sure your lawnmower is in tip-top shape in preparation for the upcoming landscaping season. One of the top maintenance items for any rotary mower is to ensure blades are properly sharpened, balanced and in good working order.

Exmark blades

Sharp, balanced blades are an essential component of cut quality. Exmark offers a variety of blades to optimize performance for different cutting conditions.

Why Sharp Blades Matter

When you are shaving your face in preparation for the day, think about the difference between the times you use a brand-new razor blade and the times you are trying to get one last shave out of an old blade. When using an old blade, your skin is more prone to cuts, infection, and irritation. When using a brand-new blade, you get a nice, clean shave.

The same thing happens with your grass. If the blades are dull or nicked, the lawn will get cut in a ragged way, causing it to suffer damage and become more susceptible to pests and other diseases. But if the blades are nice and sharp, the grass will get a clean cut, with greatly reduced damage or stress.

Blade Inspection

Mower Blade

Inspect and sharpen or replace mower blades at the start of each cutting season.

At the beginning of the landscaping season (and after roughly 8-10 hours of service) do a thorough inspection of your mower’s blades. Signs of a dull blade include bends, nicks, and/or dents. You’ll want to ensure the blades are properly sharpened and balanced. In addition to the physical inspection of the blades, do a quick inspection of the lawn before you begin your landscaping — clear away any rocks, sticks, or other debris in the immediate area. As you mow, keep an eye out for these blade-nicking items.

Properly Sharpening Your Blades

Keep in mind these few basic tips for sharpening your blade:

  • Wear protective gear, such as safety glasses
  • Disconnect the spark plugs
  • Remove the blade (instructions are found in your owner’s manual)
  • Use a metal file or sharpening stone
  • If using a file, run it in the direction of the blade’s angle — never file back and forth
  • Work in one direction only; blades usually have an angle of 45 degrees
  • Consult your owner?s manual for procedures specific to your mower

Depending on usage, replace your lawn mower’s blade(s) every 1-3 years. Always use OEM blades designed for your specific mower. Universal blades may save you a couple dollars, but can cause potential safety issues from improper mounting and/or the type of metal used to construct the blade.

Properly Balancing Your Blades

Having properly balanced blades is every bit as important as blade sharpness. An unbalanced blade causes stress on the engine and cutting deck due to vibration.

After you sharpen the blade, test its balance with a blade-balancing tool. If you don’t have access to this specialized tool, you can hammer a nail partway into a wall in your garage and hang the blade from it (using the center hole). If the blade hangs horizontally, it is in balance. If one side drops, remove excess material from the side it leans to, using a file or sharpening stone.

Professional Sharpening

If you follow these recommendations and have the proper tools and safety gear on-hand, sharpening your blades is a relatively easy task. However, if you don’t have the proper gear, or don’t feel comfortable doing this type of maintenance yourself, your local Exmark dealer can quickly sharpen and balance blades for you.

Bottom line: using sharp blades will help you have a perfectly mowed lawn, every time.

Resources:

A Look at Exmark’s Innovative Turf Tracer EFI-Propane Walk-Behinds

Wednesday, July 9th, 2014

New hydro-drive walk-behind models deliver increased fuel economy, reduced cost of operation

Exmark has introduced two new EFI-propane wide-area walk-behind models. The new models use groundbreaking EFI-propane Kohler V-twin powerplants on the proven Turf Tracer S-Series and Turf Tracer X-Series walk behind models to deliver significantly reduced cost of operation.

Both Turf Tracer EFI-propane models feature the ground breaking Kohler PCV680 engine.

Both Turf Tracer EFI-propane models feature the ground breaking Kohler PCV680 engine. It delivers significantly increased fuel efficiency and performance without compromises. (Image: Kohler Engines)

The new Turf Tracer models utilize new EFI propane Kohler powerplants with an automotive-style closed-loop Electronic Fuel Injection system. Capable of precisely adjusting fuel mixture settings in real-time, the closed-loop EFI delivers improved running and performance, combined with easy, no-choke starting. The increased efficiency of the propane EFI system also increases fuel economy by up to 40 percent.

Both Turf Tracer models include Exmark’s patented Enhanced Control System, which delivers increased operator comfort and productivity with improved mower control ergonomics. In a recent evaluation of the ECS controls versus competitive control systems, University of Nebraska researchers learned that landscape professionals overwhelmingly preferred ECS to all other systems.

Exmark’s premier Turf Tracer X-Series model features the EFI-propane Kohler PCV680 air-cooled V-twin powerplant. With standard heavy-duty canister filtration and turn-key, choke-free electric starting, the Kohler powerplant helps the Turf Tracer X-Series deliver maximum productivity and reliability, along with superior long-term durability. A large-capacity electromagnetic clutch provides smooth engagement and extra-long life.

The EFI-Propane Turf Tracer S-Series features Kohler's ground breaking PCV680 engine.

The EFI-Propane Turf Tracer S-Series is available with a 48-inch UltraCut Series 3 full-floating cutting deck.

The Turf Tracer X-Series is well prepared to easily tackle the toughest jobs and most demanding conditions with a full-floating Exmark UltraCut Series 4 cutting deck. Available in 52- and 60-inch cutting widths, the deck features Exmark’s patented flow-control baffles and is formed from high-strength alloy steel with welded construction. Large-diameter sealed cutter housings with greaseless spindles eliminate maintenance and significantly increase lifespan.

The Turf Tracer S-Series EFI-propane features the Kohler PCV680 EFI propane engine and a 48-inch UltraCut Series 3 cutting deck. The floating deck design virtually eliminates scalping, while an electromagnetic clutch, flat-free semi-pneumatic caster tires and sealed, greaseless spindles provide the durability landscape professionals demand.

Learn more about the new EFI-propane Turf Tracer models, or locate your nearest Exmark dealer at Exmark.com, or call (402) 223-6300.