Walker mowers
 

Anyone here have or use one? If so, what did you think?

Walker Manufacturing

Never owned one personally but they have been in the lawn care industry for a very long time and are quite popular.

I've always liked the design. Not sure if they still make a 42" cut but that's a nice compact size for getting into smaller places on a rider.

Thanks Baz. I assume the commercial crowd uses them for good reasons (that's what caught my attention) but hope someone here has first hand experience with them.

The factory is about 5 miles from my house. I met Mr. Walker, Jr about 2 years ago who runs the company now, very nice guy. I believe Mr. Walker, Sr has passed away some years ago. All I know about their mowers is they are commercial-grade expensive and have a great reputation. I believe their claim to fame for years was their zero turning radius and hand control system, but their patents ran out and the competitors have all copy-catted Walker's designs. The original is probably still the best.

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My dad has a 2007 diesel GHS. He bought it earlier this year. Mower has 1200 hours, and he has only put 30-40 hours on it. I have only driven it a few times, but have spent quite a few hours tending to minor issues and maintenance.

The controls are unlike most zero-turns. It takes some time to adjust, but I do believe the control system is better. When you are moving in a straight line, you have to provide no force to the controls.

The engineering and design are pretty good. The compact design does make belt service a bit more complicated, but it's not impossible. There are loads of grease fittings on the mower. The driveshaft grease fittings are the worst to access. Unfortunately, the recommended service interval is every 8 hours. I don't know how professional landscapers handle this task.

Cut quality is excellent to perfect. I don't know how the mower does this, but lawns look excellent after cutting. Hybrid bermuda cuts very well. Zoysia looks picture perfect after being mown with a Walker. I have read the Super Bee (non bagging Walker) cut quality is even better, but honestly, I feel the GHS is already perfect.

Cons:
1) It is not fast. If you are looking for production, look elsewhere.
2) Relatively small deck.
3) No real options besides collecting the clippings.
4) Pricey.

That said, my dad has zero regrets about buying a Walker. It's made in the US. It's a very high quality machine that produces excellent turf, and it is made to last.

Jurgen

I've no experience with the Walker brand, but did take delivery of a Hustler Raptor last week, just do do the yard:)

It's an amazing package, from the inventors of the zero-turn, for a very reasonable price.

If you're heart isn't set on Walker, consider these guys... Hustler Turf

I currently have two. A lot of good mowers out there that fit the zero turn. I have a dump bagger and a mulch deck. Both are 48 inch decks. Nothing can compete is size and turn. A few friends have a hustler and commercial toro. Both didn't want to spend the extra for the walker. Both have been on mine now and regret it. The work ability and lift deck for blade main. Should help make up your mind. Awesome machines. I prefer the mulch deck overall. Keep blades sharp and it flies!!

I'm on my 3rd Walker. A fine machine, a pleasure to operate.

1973 911 T MFI Coupe, Aubergine

Steve