Choosing the Right Lawn Mower: After 15 Years with Toro, Should I Get Another Toro, Honda, or a Different Brand?

After 15 years of faithful service, my Toro lawn mower finally met its demise. Deciding on a new mower can be a daunting task, with options ranging from established brands like Toro and Honda to newer players in the market. This article aims to guide you through the decision-making process, highlighting potential compromises and benefits.

Current Market Landscape

Today, approximately 80% of mowers are produced by companies like MTD, making them the go-to choice for budget-conscious buyers. Brands like Toro, Honda, and John Deere, on the other hand, offer premium products, albeit at a higher price point. However, it's important to note that sometimes these premium brands simply have better build quality and features, rather than necessarily being more expensive due to advanced technology.

My Experience with Ariens and Toro Parts

After purchasing a new Ariens “Razor” mower, I initially regretted the decision, but it all changed after I integrated Toro parts into the machine. The process required some engineering skill, but it was well worth it. The Toro had an excellent variable push-to-walk feature, which the Ariens lacked, opting for a strange pull-to-walk mechanism that was confusing and potentially dangerous.

Pros and Cons of Ariens vs. Toro

Ariens: More powerful, single lever height change, self-priming. However, the hose coupling for cleaning is not ideal and requires blade removal. Toro: Better variable push-to-walk feature, but may require older parts, such as cables, for integration.

Understanding the Death of a Mower

When a mower finally dies, it's important to determine if it's a matter of repair or replacement. Spending money on a premium mower like Toro is often a sound investment, especially if you've had a positive experience with it. Unless you've encountered significant issues, there's no need to change. Stay within the same class of machine, and avoid purchasing from home centers as they may not offer the same level of service or expertise.

Top Recommendations: Honda, Echo, and Stihl

I've had great success with Honda, and personally appreciate the robust design and build quality of both Echo and Stihl. Their customer service is impeccable, and finding repair shops for these brands is relatively easy.

Consider an Electric Mower for Normal Residential Needs

For those looking for a more eco-friendly and efficient option, electric mowers are a viable alternative, especially for normal residential use. Brands like Echo have invested heavily in developing their electric lines, and their products have proven to be reliable and powerful. Electric mowers are lightweight, protect air quality, and are usually quieter, making them a convenient choice.

Advantages of Electric Mowers

Protect air quality Lightweight and easy to maneuver Plenty of power for normal residential use Quieter operation, reducing noise pollution Ability to start work earlier in the day (e.g., 6 AM during summertime)

Conclusion

Choosing the right lawn mower is not just about initial cost but long-term value. Premium brands like Toro, Honda, and others offer excellent features and robust construction, making them a worthy investment. If you're looking for an eco-friendly alternative, electric mowers are definitely worth considering. Remember, spending money on a high-quality tool is often better than choosing a cheaper option that may break down frequently.