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By Lucy Ohsten in Industry on 7th May 2004 14:00
New TORO Zero-Turn Ride on Mower
By Lucy Ohsten
Powered by a 27hp Briggs & Stratton Daihatsu diesel engine, the Z500-D rotary mower has a fast operating speed of up to 10 mph. Cutting width is 60in, with height of cut ranging from 11/2ins to 5ins in quarter-inch increments. A generous 12-gallon fuel tank means the mower will run all day on one fill.The machine couldn't be easier to manoeuvre and operate. Zero-turn technology enables it to turn on its own axis through 360°, which cuts time mowing round obstacles like trees and flowerbeds. It also features two easy-to-use, adjustable control handles that enable the operator to comfortably manoeuvre the vehicle forward, in reverse, left and right.
Toro's unique 60in Turbo Force high-performance cutting deck is at the heart of the Z500-D and can be adjusted to suit different seasonal conditions. Simply opening the front baffle conserves power and achieves faster mowing speeds in long, dense and wet grass; while closing the baffle in less demanding conditions gives fine, micro-sized particles and a maximum discharge velocity.
The Turbo Force deck is fitted with three, quarter-inch-thick, high-strength, heat-treated alloy steel blades, which can withstand flexing and the rapid wear associated with abrasive conditions - and even the occasional undetected branch or root. Unlike many competitors' cutting decks, the entire fully-welded, fabricated shell of the Turbo Force deck is constructed from 7-gauge steel to make it exceptionally durable. This rugged design is highly resistant to cracking from flexing and wear.
The mower also features Toro's patented Z Stand, which raises the front end of the mower to provide under-deck access in the workshop or in the field. This means the operator can quickly and easily change blades and carry out maintenance to the underside of the mower deck.
Operator safety and comfort has been built into the new Z500-D. A ROPS (Roll Over Protections System) is fitted as standard, and can be folded away for mowing under low-hanging trees or in tight spaces. Other features include the convenient location of the control panel, a deluxe suspension seat with adjustable back and arm rests, and a foot-assist deck-lift that helps raise and lower the cutting deck.
A variety of optional accessories are available with the new mower. These include: a 60in Recycler kit, Toro's patented mulching technology which reduces mowing time by up to 38 per cent versus bagging; a high productivity Toro DFS Vac Collection System; and an adjustable lawn striping kit for pristine presentation.
Toro turf maintenance products are distributed throughout the UK by Lely (UK) Limited, St Neots, Cambs. Tel: 01480 226800), email: toro.info@lely.co.uk
Read more articles in Industry, by Lucy Ohsten or from May 2004.
