Tools of the Trade: Sold from the Start

Whether your business is shrinking, holding its own or growing, efficiency is key. You need to accomplish as much as possible in as little time as possible. Safety and operator comfort are also issues to consider. So of course, Matt Nichols was pleased when he finally found a solution that helped increase both for his family’s Dover, Del.-based lawn and tree business.

Nichols was originally using another ride-on applicator, but it wasn’t providing the productivity he was seeking. Then he took delivery of a new prototype Turfco T3000 riding turf applicator last April, and quickly found that the T3000 helped decrease average stop times per client from 38 minutes to 20 minutes.

But before ordering a T3000, Nichols says he spent some time on the Internet sharing ideas with other lawn care operators. When he heard that Turfco was researching a new applicator, he contacted the company directly, saying he was interested in finding out more about it. Soon after, Turfco invited Nichols to Minneapolis for an up-close look at their new product, and he was chosen to provide feedback as part of Turfco’s “A-Team.” While Nichols says Turfco was already on the right track, the Dover contractor was able to offer several suggestions to make the applicator even more user-friendly and productive.

“User fatigue was a big factor in completing our lawn applications,” Nichols says. “The operator had to use his body to turn our old applicator. The wear and tear on the body would increase as the day progressed, and the operator would be worn down by the end of the day. The T3000’s steering is much easier and the operator doesn’t get nearly as tired. The pivoting front axle provides better comfort and control on both hills and rough terrain.”

Another feature of the T3000 is its ability to apply liquids or granules. It has a 16-gallon spray tank and a carrier tray that can hold 120 pounds of material. Nichols says that the tray operator can place everything he needs for one lawn’s application on the unit.

“You don’t have to make a second trip back to the truck for an extra bag or two, then try to figure out where you left off in the application process.”

Turfco impressed Nichols enough that he ordered a T3000 to test on his own.

He likes the wider, adjustable spray pattern of his T3000, which is particularly important since 90 percent of Jonny Nichols Lawn & Tree business consists of residential properties of all sizes. And with cruise control, Nichols says he can cover grounds with a consistent speed and more evenly apply the desired product.

“This cuts down on expensive callbacks,” he adds. “The width of the unit makes it easy to get into yards with standard gates. With a wider unit, many of the backyards had to be treated with a hand push spreader or sprayer. This really added to stop time.”

As with any ride-on equipment, safety is always a concern. Nichols likes the low center of gravity of his new applicator and its ability to handle hills and rough terrain. He also likes the way the feet are surrounded for operator protection.

“With the T3000, I don’t have to worry when the technician is out. It gives me peace of mind.”

Coming from a family business, Nichols says he really appreciates the support he has received from Turfco.

“Turfco has been quick to respond to any questions I’ve asked. They have listened to what I and others have offered and made some great improvements to an already good concept. They put everything we wanted into one piece of equipment.”

No matter what wrenches the economy throws, Nichols’ lawn and tree service is planning for a more efficient and profitable 2009. And having the right equipment should help satisfy both employees and customers.