HESSTON, KS — Excel Industries, Inc., manufacturer of Hustler Turf Equipment, presents a new product line of residential and commercial zero-turn mowers. Big Dog Mowers made its debut at the 2009 GIE+EXPO in Louisville, KY.

“We developed the Big Dog Mowers brand because of the need in the distribution channel for a high quality, value priced, zero-turn product line,” said Paul Mullet, president and CEO of Excel Industries.

Big Dog Mowers will be sold through a new distribution network set-up by Excel Industries. These distributors will work with their dealers to market and sell Big Dog Mowers.

Big Dog Mowers will showcase three series of mowers for its value product line. All mowers come with fabricated decks.

The C Series residential line of mowers will be equipped with 17.5- and 21-hp Briggs & Stratton engines and come with 42- and 46-inch decks. These mowers feature proven Hydro-Gear transmissions for smooth operation and extended life. The C series mowers come with a limited 2-year residential warranty.

The R Series (pictured) is an upper end homeowner as well as commercial mower. This series is powered by Kohler V-Twin and Briggs & Stratton engines. Kohler is available in a 48-inch deck with 22 hp engine or 54-inch deck with 24 hp engine. Briggs & Stratton is available in a 48-inch deck with 21 hp engine or 54-inch deck with 26 hp engine. The R Series features commercial grade Hydro Gear ZT 3100 transmissions that provide smooth operation and durability. Large 20-inch tires and 13-inch caster tires provide a smooth ride. Top speed is 7.1 mph. ROPS is available for all R Series mowers. The R Series is backed by a limited 2-year residential and limited 1-year commercial warranty.

The X Series is a high quality commercial line of mowers powered by Kohler and Kawasaki commercial V-Twin engines with remote canister air cleaner and Briggs & Stratton ELS engines. Durable side discharge decks feature multiple reinforcements. The X-1052 model comes equipped with a 24 hp Kawasaki, 25 hp Kohler, or 26 hp Briggs & Stratton engine and the X-1060 model is equipped with a 26 hp Kawasaki, 26 hp Briggs & Stratton, or 27 hp Kohler engine. Large 24-inch drive and 13-inch front caster tires provide a smooth ride and optimal center of gravity provides superior balance. Get the job done fast with a top speed of 11 mph. Has 10-gallon fuel capacity. ROPS comes standard on all X Series mowers. The X Series comes with a 2-year/1200 hour or 4-year/500 hour limited warranty.

“Having two brands will help fill our manufacturing capacity”, added Mullet. “This will help provide stability for our employees and provide additional jobs during these difficult economic times.”

For more information on Big Dog Mowers or its products, visit www.bigdogmowers.com.