Husqvarna introduces all-new PZ Series zero-turn mower

 Husqvarna is launching a completely new series of zero-turn mowers for landscape professionals seeking increased productivity and a higher quality of cut. Available in October, the PZ Series will consist of 5 models ranging from 54- to 72-inch cutting widths and include a liquid propane gas model. The PZ Series couples leading-edge design and engineering with the landscape contractor’s wish list for a unit that exceeds expectations.

“Husqvarna’s team of designers and engineers have developed a product that integrates five design elements into one machine that is destined to set the industry standard in zero-turn mowers,” said Lennie Rhoades, head of wheeled ride-on products, Husqvarna. “We created a mower that addresses the unique needs of the commercial landscaper, then asked landscape companies from coast-to-coast to put the mowers to rigorous in-the-field tests. The landscape professionals provided real-world feedback to make the PZ Series the very best in the industry.” 

Focal areas for the design and engineering team included five components that commercial landscapers consider paramount to operating a successful business and productive and profitable crews.

High productivity

The PZ Series offers a high level of productivity through a balance of optimized ground speed, cut quality, clipping dispersal and maneuverability.

“Productivity is not measured by ground speed alone, though the PZ Series can certainly hold its own in that department,” said Sean Dwyer, product manager, Husqvarna.

The new hydro drive system uses 16-cc Hydro-Gear fan-cooled pumps and Parker wheel motors to achieve ground speeds up to 12 mph. The combination of oversized pumps, cooling fans and large (1.5-gallon) reservoir effectively reduce heat for extended service life and provide high torque and smooth operation.

The largest productivity gain is the result of a new series cutting deck featuring state-of-the-art computer-aided design to increase cut quality and processing of clippings at higher ground speeds.

Best quality cut

The cutting deck utilized extensive computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling and extensive field testing in various grass conditions, to optimize flow patterns, provide high cut quality, even clipping dispersal and reduced blowout, even at high ground speeds. The wide mouth opening also allows superior discharge in heavy cutting conditions so that ground speeds can be increased.

“This benefit is an immediate productivity gain, hence, more profitable for the landscape contractor,” said Dwyer.

In addition, the new deck lift features a foot-activated quick-release mechanism that allows the operator to keep both hands on the levers while moving the deck from transport to cutting position, and back again. Oversized deck lift assist springs effectively reduce the effort required to raise and lower the deck while a locking mechanism that activates when the pedal is released eliminates the possibility of deck “float.”

“The most noticeable, best feature to me is that since we’re in the green industry and we’re into putting down lines on turf, to be able to lay down the lines that this machine lays down, and the clean cut that it puts on, it throws down a really nice cut and at very good ground speed, is just amazing,” said Tony Fisher, general manager, maintenance department, Senske Tree and Lawn Mower in Kennewick, Wash. Fisher’s business participated in field testing.

Maximum durability and ruggedness

All components of the PZ Series were carefully designed to stand up to the day-to-day abuse of commercial cutting. The combination of a rugged welded tube frame, cast-iron lift arms and spindles, premium commercial engines and oversized hydro systems make a product that will not only be productive, but stay in the field longer.

“We strived to achieve long service life, even in demanding conditions,” said
Dwyer. “Extended component life means reduced repair costs and higher productivity overall.”

The new 6-inch-deep cutting deck features a seven-gauge steel shell with reinforced scalp roller supports and a new cast-iron blade spindle assembly that is 10 inches in diameter to spread impact loads over a wider area. In order to extend the service life of the deck belt, larger idlers were used to reduce belt flex and extend bearing life. A discharge shield — constructed of molded rubber — withstands impact without damage to the deck and rounds out the package.

For more information about Husqvarna’s new PZ Series, visit www.husqvarna.com/us.