[Shop-talk] Zero turn radius lawnmower

[eric at megageek.com]

I have a 1978 Hustler Excel 278 zero turn with Hydrostatic.

This thing is a TANK!!! In fact, it's name is "killdozer!"  I got it about 
25 years ago and did minimal maintenance to it over the years.

About 5 years ago, I decided to upgrade to a motor with electronic 
ignition.  I bought a new Kolher (direct replacement) for about $1200. 
Then I video'ed the existing motor running before I removed it.  I put it 
on ebay and it sold for about $800.  Note, there were no issues with the 
engine, I was just tired of dealing with the points.
New motor in and all is well.

I had someone look at the drive wheel pumps a while ago, and they stated 
they most likely can't be rebuilt.  But they are still working, so I'm not 
too worried about it.

Note- this is a mower in the summer and snow plow/snow blower in the 
winter.

Still runs awesome!

So, if your mower is built well, and there is a direct replacement engine, 
I would consider that the best/ most cost effective option.

BTW, here is a short video of it with the snow blower (and enclosed cab.)
https://youtu.be/Y8WGm5EINjY 

That thing ROCKS!



From:   Robert Nogueira <nogera at charter.net>
To:     Shop Talk <shop-talk at autox.team.net>
Date:   03/25/2022 13:40
Subject:        [Shop-talk] Zero turn radius lawnmower
Sent by:        "Shop-talk" <shop-talk-bounces at autox.team.net>




I have a 20 year old gravely zero turn radius lawnmower. The mower is 
solidly built and has held up well. My problem is the engine is on its 
last leg and I’m questioning whether it would be worth replacing. The main 
issue is the hydrostatic transmission for the drive. They’ve never give me 
trouble but I’m wondering how long they generally hold up.
I do know they’re expensive to replace.
Should I take a gamble on just replacing the engine?
Bob Nogueira
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