Buying used golf course equipment can be a smart way to control equipment costs while still getting the performance needed to maintain a golf course. However, with so many manufacturers and models available, knowing which brands to consider can make the buying process easier. Some manufacturers have long histories in the turf industry and offer a wide range of equipment, from greens and fairway mowers to aerators, utility vehicles, and other maintenance equipment.
Here are three of the most established brands to consider when shopping for used golf course equipment.
TORO is one of the most widely recognized names in professional turf equipment and has a long history in the golf course industry. Its golf equipment lineup includes greens mowers, fairway mowers, rough mowers, aerators, utility vehicles, and other turf-maintenance equipment.
Toro equipment is particularly common in the used market, giving golf courses a wide selection of models to consider when replacing or adding equipment to their fleet.
Popular used Toro equipment includes:
- Greensmaster 3150 riding greens mowers
- Greensmaster 3250-D riding greens mowers
- Greensmaster 3300, 3320, 3400, and 3420 riding greens mowers
- Reelmaster 3100-D fairway and trim mowers
- Reelmaster 3550, 3555, and 3575 fairway mowers
- Reelmaster 5010, 5410, 5510, and 5610 fairway mowers
- Reelmaster 7000 heavy-duty fairway and rough mowers
- Groundsmaster rotary and rough mowers
- ProCore 648, 864, and 1298 aerators
- Workman utility vehicles
- Pro Force debris blowers
The Greensmaster 3150, for example, is a well-known riding greens mower designed for quality of cut and professional golf course applications. Toro continues to provide parts and support information for the 3150 series.
When considering a used Toro, look closely at engine hours, reel and cutting-unit condition, hydraulic systems, tires, and the overall maintenance history. The condition of the individual machine is often more important than the model name alone.
JOHN DEERE is another major manufacturer of professional turf equipment and has a long presence in the golf course industry. Its turf equipment lineup includes greens mowers, fairway mowers, rough mowers, utility vehicles, aerators, and other equipment used in golf course maintenance.
John Deere equipment can be a good option for courses already operating a John Deere fleet because mechanics may already be familiar with the machines and parts and service resources may already be established.
Popular used John Deere equipment includes:
- Greens mowers such as the 180SL, 220SL, and 260SL
- Fairway mowers such as the 2653B and 8000 Series
- Rough and rotary mowers
- Aerators and turf maintenance equipment
- Gator utility vehicles
- Other commercial turf equipment
When considering a used John Deere, look closely at engine hours, reel and cutting-unit condition, hydraulic systems, tires, and the overall maintenance history.
Jacobsen
Jacobsen has a long history in the professional turf industry and is well known for equipment used on golf courses. Its product lineup includes greens mowers, fairway mowers, rough mowers, and other turf equipment.
Jacobsen is particularly well known for reel mowing equipment and precision cutting. Its used equipment can be found on golf courses and turf operations around the world.
Popular used Jacobsen equipment includes:
- PGM series walk-behind greens mowers
- Greens King greens mowers
- Eclipse greens mowers
- LF Series fairway mowers
- HR Series rough mowers
- Turf maintenance and utility equipment
As with any used machine, the individual equipment's condition, service history, and availability of parts should be evaluated before making a purchase.
Which Brand Is Best for Used Golf Course Equipment?
There isn't one brand that is automatically the best choice for every golf course. The right equipment depends on what you need the machine to do and how well the particular machine has been maintained.
When comparing used equipment, consider:
- Overall mechanical condition
- Hours of use
- Maintenance and service history
- Engine and hydraulic condition
- Reel and bedknife condition
- Availability and cost of replacement parts
- Availability of local service
- Age and model of the equipment
- Current market value
- How well the machine fits your existing fleet
A well-maintained used mower from an established manufacturer can often be a better purchase than a newer machine that has been poorly maintained.
Don't Buy the Brand—Buy the Machine
Brand reputation is important, but it should only be one part of the buying decision. Two machines of the same make and model can have very different values depending on their hours, maintenance history, condition, and how they were used.
Before purchasing used golf course equipment, inspect the machine carefully and, when possible, review its maintenance records. Pay particular attention to the components that can be expensive to repair or replace.
At Statewide Turf Equipment, we have been selling used turf equipment for over 30 years. We help golf courses, turf professionals, and equipment dealers find quality used equipment from manufacturers including Toro, John Deere, and Jacobsen.
To learn more about our current inventory, visit www.statewideturfequipment.com or contact us at info@statewideturf.com.