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Transmissions in Z turns, comparing question

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4K views 17 replies 8 participants last post by  trav  
#1 · (Edited)
I'm thinking about a zero turn mower, and comparing transmissions, as the first step.

The Hydrogear ZT 3100 transmission seems a good baseline for highend residential. I've found that in these models, thus far (could be more, I haven't checked every brand yet):
Bad Boy ZT Elite
Scag Liberty Z
Hustler Raptor XDX
Toro Titan Max (76601)
Ferris 500S (5902056)

I figure those machines should be all comparable models, if choosing the similar engine options.

What John Deere Tuff Torq transmission is similar, in the same class as the above listed machines?

The JD 530M has the Tuff Torq TZT7-U transmission, but I'm not sure if that is the right comparison transmission and model.

Whereas the JD Z720E and Z735E are actually listed with the Hydrogear 3100, so maybe those models are the only comparisons, and not the Tuff Torq transmission models?

John Deere garden tractors with Tuff Torq transmissions have historically been rugged. My JD GT 235 (circa 2000 lawn/garden tractor) is very rugged, and has a Tuff Torq K71 transmission.
 
#2 ·
I've got a bad boy with the zt3100 in it. The zero turn does work around here on terrain that nobody should put a mower through. Been doing it solid for 15 years. I just took the transmissions apart to put in new seals for the first time ever due to starting to leak. Despited hundreds of torturous hours, neither transmission showed any measurable wear. Replacing the seals was a bit of a pain but 50$ a unit to do and running like new again. I would buy another one in a heart beat. I'm curious on the Tuff Torq so will be following this thread.
 
M
#3 ·
The Deere 720E has a HydroGear 3100 in it. The 730M has a 3200 and the 740R has a 3400. The Z5 series and below all have TuffTorq units. I bought a Z720 and one of my criteria was replaceable filters. I can't speak to the Tuff Torq in lesser ZTs but I have heard that they don't do that well in a bottom end rider if you have a lot of hills.
 
K
#6 ·
The TT TZT7 series is hit-or-miss. it's non-serviceable so you have to remove it and tip it over to drain it. I've seen at least half a dozen failures posted here and on facebook that failed the same way both of mine did: the springs on the pressure pump pistons broke into pieces and tried to go through the rest of the plumbing. Seems they either last <200 hours (mine failed at 80 and 140hr) or 1000+

Now I have a Z930 with serviceable hydros.
 
#10 ·
Things that drew me to that particular make are I have 2 friends who really like their similar Spartan models. Local longtime dealer and repair shop, that friends have done business with over the decades.

This specific model has things I wanted. Transmission, Kawasaki engine, large gastank (9.5), full suspension seat, 60" deck (61" but whatever), Large radial tires in back (24"), large front wheels (13"), Pin style deck height setting (5" height, with foot pedal raise).

Also has lights, and of course has ROPS that fold down.

I'm having added (accessories offered by Spartan) front jack mount 2" receiver, with jack, and rear 2" receiver tow hitch.
 
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