Parker-Hannifin presents Grasshopper with innovation award
Oct 25, 2007
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The Grasshopper Company, a leader in zero-turn radius mower technology for more than 35 years, was presented with a “Partnership Award for Excellence in Pioneering Innovation” today by the Parker-Hannifin Corporation.
Presenting the award at the GIE+EXPO in Louisville, Ky., Jeff Osterman of the Parker Hydraulic Pump and Motor Division says “the award is in recognition for The Grasshopper Company’s extraordinary collaborative design and test efforts in the co-development of a new innovative hydrostatic drive system.” The system, referred to as the T-Drive™ by Grasshopper, is incorporated into a new AntiVibe Power Platform™ in select 2008 models.
Receiving the award, Stan Guyer – president of Grasshopper – reaffirmed the company’s commitment to raising the bar in commercial mower technology.
“The outstanding support provided by Parker-Hannifin has enabled our hydrostatic research facility to co-develop several important innovations. The emerging revolutionary drive system has led to, among other benefits, ergonomic handling never before felt in commercial mowing equipment,” says Guyer.
The T-Drive hydrostatic system features tandem pumps-in-reservoir design with integral filter, direct-driven from the engine crankshaft, which eliminates many moving parts and increases power transfer efficiency. An inline fan further complements the system’s superior cooling features. The space-saving modular design also improves serviceability.
About Grasshopper The Grasshopper Company is a privately-held corporation dedicated solely to the design and production of commercial and large-acreage mowing and grounds maintenance equipment. Among other industry firsts, Grasshopper introduced the dual, swing-away steering lever concept in 1973, the first diesel-powered zero-turn radius mower in 1983, and the first electric-actuated fold-up mower deck in 2004. Based in Moundridge, Kan., the company distributes its products worldwide through a network of knowledgeable, independent dealers offering sales, parts and service.
About Grasshopper A family-owned business with nearly 55 years of manufacturing experience, The Grasshopper Company has specialized in manufacturing True ZeroTurn™ riding rotary mowers since 1969. For 40 years, Grasshopper has studied the needs of government entities, turf care professionals and equipment owners across the nation and around the world. Grasshopper products are available through a worldwide network of knowledgeable, independent dealers offering sales, parts and service to turf care professionals, business and government entities, and discerning individuals.
