Hi guys,
Couldn't find any recent threads for lawnmower threads, looking for a good value lawn mower for under $500. Don't mind between petrol and electric, but do care about serviceability, spare parts and reliability.
Good value lawnmower for under $500?
Jimothy Wongingtons on 04/11/2015 - 17:22
Comments
great advise, will see what local mower shops are around.
I would ask myself. How big is the lawn? Any falling branches? How long do i intend to keep the mower?
Lawn is not that big really.. ive mowed it before and it takes about 30 minutes ( empty basket a few times ). No branches but a buttload of the pods from leopard tree on sidewalk.
Mower i want to keep for at least 5 years..
If it takes 30 mins for 5 years, think it is better to get
- self propelled ie no need to push,
- pods ie prefer more power and vacuum, petrol not electric
- must buy a 4 stokes, ie no need to mix fuel
- 5 years - buy something you will enjoy to use and can re sell.You may find most brand from the lower end 4 strokes to $500 all share the same mower engine from Briggs and Stratton. The differences are the size and made of catcher, wheels, casing and handles.
My personal preference is Honda but it does not seem to be under $500 Not sure if you are in need to get one now, otherwise wait for special. Ask for advice from professional shop.
Check this earlier thread
I bought a Rover last time and while the quality is very good, the actual design and usability is a bit hit and miss - removing and replacing the catcher, for instance, is fiddly and awkward. I think next time I'll pay the extra moolah and get a Honda.
Yeah replacing catcher/ ease of use is definitely priority. But I guess if I go mulcher feature I won't need to care..
Agree with WalterPPK. Spend a little more and get a Honda. Something like this:
http://www.mackayoutdoorpowercentre.com.au/products/HRU19K1.…
Honda are great, no question about it. Toro is another 'high end' brand that are worth the money (this is what our grounds/maintenance team use at work).
But honestly most people would be fine with something like the Masport I suggested. Mowers aren't that complicated at the end of the day and if you take the small amount of effort required to keep them maintained, they should last ages (although this assumes that they are well designed / built to begin with).
Yeah was originally looking at Honda, but Masport looks like its getting a great wrap too.
For that budget, I would go a brand like Masport, with a Briggs and Stratton engine. I would also get one that can mulch- once you have had a mulching mower you will never go back.
Here's an example (from Bunnings, but as suggested getting from a mower place is probably better):
http://www.bunnings.com.au/masport-470-2n1-catch-or-mulch_p3…
Definitely made it on my shortlist, thanks :)
I've got a Sanli Powermulch. I've had no issues with it, but it sounds like you're after a more reputable brand at the $500 price point. What I will suggest though is make sure to get one with a Mulching attachment. I love that feature. No need to empty the catcher every 5 minutes :)
I'm open to brands, as long as it's going to not cause trouble. And mulching attachment sounds good!
I would go/have gone for a 4 stroke. no stuffing around with mixing fuel. Very happy with my Honda.
definitely going 4 stroke no question :)
There are some benefits here.
low running costs, if careful can get produce 1, can keep you warm in winter 2, can help with garden or not 4 and when old can sustain you 3.http://www.burkesbackyard.com.au/fact-sheets/pets/pet-road-t…
- milk and cheese
2 jumper or rugs
3 http://www.sbs.com.au/food/recipes/goat-stew
4 http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/manures/goat-manu…
- milk and cheese
Bought the Masport 2 in 1 runs great!
bought a flymo 4 stroke for $120 off a guy on gumtree. runs good! he said don't put ethanol fuel in them though.
I just bought a rover mower off eBay for $3 advertised as not running. Governor spring had come off. 10 second fix and I have a awesome mower for virtually nothing. Will give it a service - Filter, oil, sparkplug, and as good clean, sharpen blades. Bam - as good as new.
Hey guys just updating on how I went - firstly thanks to everyone's feedback.
We actually went the Ryobi with Subaru engine from bunnings. The girlfriend was sold on the reviews online and she just got a bunnings voucher.
I have to say, mulching function is a GAME CHANGER.
Hey mate. You still happy with this mower? Am buying this weekend in Darwin, probably bunnings.
It is freaking awesome yeah. Highly recommended if budget allows. Cant really comment on comparisons on cheaper mowers as havent really got anything to compare it to…
Cheers. Yeah going to grab one this weekend. Just looking for ways of getting discount, am grabbing a whipper snipper as well, another google search fest.
Damnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn.
Let me know what you go for with the whipper snipper..I could use one too.
I bought a Masport for $400 from my local mower shop and its been going great so far, details here:
http://www.masport.com.au/outdoor-garden-products/lawnmowers…
I recommend going to a specialist shop, they will help you out and usually offer a free maintenance/service period. I don't think Bunnings/Masters will offer the same level of service. Also go a petrol, electrics are usually a lot weaker and more annoying.