An Honest Review On The Scag 30” SFC (My Likes & Dislikes)

[@allenjessee8860]

Thanks so much for your review! I bought the same mower without swivel wheels and just got the add on swivel wheels and it makes a huge improvement over just stationary wheels. The power is awesome! The handles fit me perfectly. I don’t have a problem with the side shute however I do agree the mulch plug is really hard to get in and out. I used some other commercial push mowers and I definitely think Scag is the best. Thanks for an excellent review!!

[@kevinayers4941]

Great video bud ! The segment detailing the height adjustment was just what I needed to see. I haven't watched any other videos that illustrated it so clearly.

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

Thank you 🤙 glad I could help

[@cliffdawson3327]

I like the The concept of the mower, I put four hours on it and traded in this past Monday and got a Scagg SWZT 36 the SFC 30 it’s just too damn heavy. It’s like driving a car with no power steering.

[@Pantera972]

Very well said I sold mine too. It's a pain in the ass to turn

[@robertmachen4364]

Amen brother. And the Kawasaki engines are balls out.

[@briankelley617]

Nice review. I bought a 2022 fixed wheel SFC30 for my home in May. It's a great machine overall. The mulch plug sucks big time. I have much more a problem getting it out. What I do is use a dead blow hammer (sand in the head). I turn the mower on its side and start with the dead blow from the inside against the flat wall of the mulch plug. Start tapping. This loosens the dirt and wet stuck grass. You have to then squeeze the top of the handle on the rear of the mulch plug to get the ridge lip of it at its top to flex down and stop locking or catching with the rear housing cutout. Then use the dead blow again, and a wiggle on the plug handle, and it comes out. A pain in the ass. But it works and can save money spent on busting them. I love the single adjust height lever too. One thing I would have Scag improve is the locking height pin. The height pin can bounce out of the bottom position hole and show up crooked. I suspect the caster wheel locking pin has some sort of detent or rib to keep it positive and from bouncing out. They need a similar thing on the deck cutting height position pin. Finally the rear bag placing in place is funky and not so positive, because lifting the spring shield blocks your view. Small things. Great mower!

[@justtrinalynn]

I just got my second. Your mower is the California model with the factory Kohler tank, I actually like yours because these tanks require another bracket and they shake. The side chute, I never used them until I saw your video a few days ago, so I checked and mine slide on and are very secure. I also cut just above half throttle and at some point I’m going to add a throttle detent for that position. One thing that I did do to the belt covers is add rubber isolators to the knobs and a rubber weather strip to the front center to eliminate vibration. Anyone watching videos on sfc 30’s either owning one or thinking of purchasing one, must adjust all cable controls and look over everything on these mowers, and it’s a must to get a mower with the low cut deck because you will start dragging at 2-1/2 or less especially going over concrete. I wish the rear tires were just a little wider. I almost forgot about the mulch plug, they need fitted. My first was perfect, but the second wouldn’t even go in, so I kept forcing it in so that it would show wear on any edges, then I took a utility knife and dragged it sideways slightly trimming it lightly so that it slips in freely, but still seals up. Once they fit properly, repetitiously put it in to remember the angle. It’s sort of like putting one in a Honda HRC216. Overall, they’re a little cumbersome as I’m not a big fan of that transmission setup, but turning that throttle back on smaller yards does help, plus it’s much quieter. I don’t love them, but I do like them enough to buy another and maybe the electric model. I’m going to buy a non swivel model next but only with the low cut deck. I don’t love the swivel wheels but if you are only buying one, the swivels are a must. I’ve used the standard wheel model and find no problem of maneuvering it, I think it’s actually easier for certain jobs, but 10 out of 10 people will think I’m wrong. I will say this, I personally would never recommend these mowers to anyone. Again I do like them a lot, but everyone always wants to try them and they have troubles and wear themselves out in less than ten minutes. I guess there is a little more of getting used to them, especially maneuvering then getting it pointed straight. They can steer themselves a little when engaging the transmission. My favorites are they cut great, they have tons of power, and they bag awesome!

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

Couldn’t of said it any better 🫵

[@tgallon9789]

Low cut deck? Are there different decks for this model? Thank you,

[@BillyGoatLawnService]

Enjoyed reading your comment. Very informative! I’m on the fence about selling my Ferris FW15 and getting a Scag 30. I would definitely need a low cut model.

[@jamesmacdonnell4085]

@@BillyGoatLawnService BillyGoat LawnService, can you say what you don’t like about the Ferris FW15 ? I like the higher engine HP..I do not own either mower, I have old school 36” Bunton belt machine. Thank you; Jim

[@jbogert100]

Lightweight is good and what did I use it for it’s a lawnmower kzbin.infoUgkxTPN04aT-Qdjr_KS3ql7ng8wnU3wwsCqk also recommend Yes it is lightweight so hence not as robust as our old one. But if you take care it does the job really well.

[@tahoejoe109]

Glad to see you’re proud of your mower it’s a nice machine

[@roberthartley5430]

Thanks for review. Would you recommend this mower for a yard with a steep hill? Going up and down or even mowing side to side on the hill? Or is the weight a con when it comes to this? Debating between this or Toro TimeMaster for my yard with steep hill.

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

I’d recommend it 👍 very reliable mower and handles good on hills

[@blackheart9068]

How good has this mower been since you bought it. Trying to get something reliable and does great stripes

[@adamthelawnguy228]

Great review! It did help me see what its like to have a sfc 30, some personal opinions on some of yourself cons though, if the mulch plug is too tight to take out or put back in, would it be easier to slide in by sand it out just a bit?(making a bit smaller to have more room to wiggle), also about the loose side chute, wouldn't it be better if you file out the inside of the slot(the latch side)where the latch should be on? That way the latch can bite it closer so it can be locked up tight? I don't have a sfc 30, it's just my thoughts based on the way they look with my imagination

[@TrentonWilliams34250603]

Man, you sold me on the height adjustment. That is very crucial for me.

[@TrentonWilliams34250603]

Update, I purchase it and I love my SCAG.

[@devon3244]

Give me some more insight, please. Do you cut multiple lawns? Im considering this mower in 2 days and i need to know asap lol. ​@TrentonWilliams34250603

[@BillyGoatLawnService]

Great Video! Very informative! Just subscribed to your channel. Looking forward to more Scag 30 videos in the future.

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

Awesome thanks for the support 🤙

[@mikewilson436]

You know I have the same mower mine has the non-removable tabs on the deck. And they scrub the hell out of the grass if you're not careful. So bad in fact I'm thinking about cutting them off... you really never hear anything about those tabs but I can't be the only one having trouble. Like I said mine was one of the first models without the swivel front wheels but my gas tank is huge compared to yours and I don't think the lawn mowers went up that much in price between the swivel and non swivel wheel models. I'm wondering if that's the reason you have a small gas tank to save some money?

[@mattlorentzen5146]

Hi Again! Does that handle go into an upright position just by loosening those silver bolts and pulling out the black knobs?

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

Yes

[@neverstopneverstopcruising]

Have you removed the baffle under the deck? Curious if you actually see a difference as the manual recommends it for side discharging/mulching.

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

No I haven’t but I may soon

[@David-ik8wj]

the baffle should be out for side discharge. It will not vent properly and the cut is not as good. Blades tend to bend over before they are cut.

[@jlhudock]

I bought a new Ferris FW15 32” hydro about 16 months ago. I like it a lot. What’s the horsepower on your Scag? Appreciate your review of the mower. I also wish the fuel tank on my Ferris was bigger.

[@markescartin1915]

The FW15 is the natural complement to the 52" zero turn Ferris. These commercial machines were meant to operate all day under the most demanding conditions season after season!

[@jjj7218]

Hey how's the ferris fw 15 for you on mulching? I'm debating between the ferris one and scag one. I know both are heavy @jlhudock I got the z3x 52 and z1 36 and is awesome

[@jlhudock]

@@jjj7218 sorry for the delayed response, been crazy busy. I don’t use it for mulching at all. All my lawns are side discharge. Wish I could help u with that question.

[@BrenttheGreat]

I have around 10 Exmark 30s. Would you go with scarf over Exmark if we mulch 90% of our lawns?

[@genesisoutdoor3875]

Are you still using it? If so what are your thoughts on it now?

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

@@genesisoutdoor3875 yes I am, overall still a great mower, I’ve small minor issues here and there but nothing you wouldn’t have with any other mower, overall I still highly recommend it 👍

[@DK-nv6xn]

Thanks the fact that you came from Toro 22 recycler we are in the exact same boat. Getting this mower next week.

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

Glad I could help

[@devon3244]

How is it??? I may be getting one in 2 days.

[@yairROBLOX]

@@devon3244 lol any update? how did it go on the scag

[@devon3244]

@@yairROBLOX I ended up purchasing a used 36" instead. Watching many videos kn this one made it seem like way too much of a pain in the ass.

[@hossmoss3378]

Yo thanks man .. Best review yet on KZbin

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

Thanks for watching 🤙 hope it was helpful!

[@jasonmckinney3636]

How does this mower perform going up a steep hill? Also, how does it perform mowing at an angle on a steep hill?

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

Handles great up hill and on slopes 👍

[@CodyH88]

It does alright but Scag highly recommends not going up hills or on slopes with the mower. Weight is most of the issue why. I have lost it twice on a curb due to it sliding off and angle and most of that was weight related.

[@jasonmckinney3636]

Which Scag mower would you recommend for mowing on slopes and hills? Or would you recommend a different mower?

[@CodyH88]

@@jasonmckinney3636 I my opinion none of them. They specifically state to not do so, including on decals. It's heavy mowers that Scag makes. Not saying you can't, but wouldn't. Usually if you HAVE to do hills, go parallel with the hill; never up and down it. My experiences haven't been great it trying either. I also value my feet a lot so I'm not going to be crazy.

[@markescartin1915]

The Toro time Master is a great machine If you don't like it someone else will so you CAN always sell. Surprisingly it's NOT rated commercial and there are plenty of folks who will work on it too!

[@mpn7jxc]

But the toro breaks down too much. They make a commercial version… it’s more $ than this machine and not built as well. This a big improvement for the industry need of real commercialized 30. This machine will be cloned by others, no doubt.

[@buckbenelli8]

Yup, two of ‘em were taken from my curb by sheenies. Pulley,belt,spindle system is a major flaw. Grass and dirt accumulate under the black plastic cover, from underneath. I even ran the darn thing with the cover off because it got real old taking the bolts off to clean underneath it after just a few cuts. Other than that $1200 for less than 5 years of residential use is the norm I guess.

[@osiris4130]

YO DEO its been a year since this video. how's you opinion of the scag 30''sfc holding up ?

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

I’m coming up on 100 hours! My still very happy with it! Minor complaints but overall very good mower

[@3507jason]

Hey great video where did you get the back plastic grass blocked mine broke as well??

[@3507jason]

Mulch plug ? Where did you order it ? Sort missed spelled it

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

@@3507jason I got one from my dealer

[@MBballer2]

Hey I’ll take the 1 gallon tank. The toro timemaster tank is 0.25 gallons..which is terrible for a 30 inch

[@rbnjr]

question, what is the max height this mower will cut? I need 4.5 inches.

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

@@rbnjr 5 inches 👍

[@runningdogapiary5009]

looks like the front left wheel doesn't sit on the ground. Does the mower cut level?

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

You it cut a lovely 👍

[@charlesdjones1]

It looks amazing tbh, but the cons are just to big of a negative imo. Definitely needs a second generation of improvements. Hopefully Scag keeps putting money into this, unlike how long it took Toro/ Exmark to update their 30in models.

[@mdozier43]

When I use the bagger on mine I get so much blow back that I end up wearing half of my grass clippings it seems.

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

Hmmmm that’s odd, there might be something wrong with yours cuz that’s not supposed to happen

[@bradbarefoot2986]

On the side discharge chute problem. Noticed that the mulch cap's retainer was slightly bent higher, the side chute not so much, maybe if it was bent some more "up" that's cure your problem.

[@NewVisionLCS]

Excellent Review!! I'm looking to step up from my Toro Recycler to a 30" mower.

[@pattayperformance]

what did you do? I have modded Timemaster that I love...a random local landscaper stopped by and asked if f I was interested in a trade with cash on top. He says the mower is heavy and the guys hate it. I have the nicest lawn in town, timemaster took a few years to make perfect. What I like about the Scag is that I can run X Blade Set Up.

[@NewVisionLCS]

@@pattayperformance I'm still running my Toro Recycler. I like the fact that the Scag has front casters.

[@kelvincortez12]

@@pattayperformancewhat mods ? Because I have one and I am hating it

[@chasetaylor474]

Should I buy a scag now after a yr review

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

I still highly recommend 🤙

[@Abel3270]

Thanks for the review big dawg 🔥

[@CodyH88]

Great review! For me personally, I really dislike several things about this mower; some big issue's for me, others nitpicking. 1. I really don't like the drive unit at all. The mower takes off real quick and goes to fast. It's supposed to be run at full throttle but it isn't fun to do so. It definitely needs the speed control that the SFC 21 has and still maintains full engine throttle. My hands will blister trying to constantly use the variable speed handle crap. Definitely my biggest problem. 2. Kohler engine. Enough said for me right there. Not a fan personally. Starts hard at times, idles like crap, known to leak oil as it gets to 70+ hrs. But my dealer told me they're all that's left. All other engine companies pulled out due to going electric or regulations and that what Scag basically had left. 3. It's REALLY heavy. Definitely could go a bit lighter on the deck thickness without making it cheap and losing its incredible quality. It's a bit overkill for what it is. Dealer told me the rumor is they may go to a stamped deck that's similar to the current one but less costly to produce. 4. Oil change. Nothing wrong with the system but Scag literally doesn't tell you how is done. For some reason the process isn't it the manual properly. And Kohler only covers their engines, not how Scag modified it to drain under the back of the mower through a tube. Changed mine at the plug cause it didn't make sense; not a good outcome for me lol 5. A grip on the handle. Easy fix for a DIY job but would be nice to be included. I could see your cons come into play but so far so good for me. I know the mulch plug on my SFC 21 I own is a huge pain, as is the door to keep it open. They do recommend a couple options at least for the door in the manual. All things said, it a great mower. No company will ever make a perfect mower because if they did, they wouldn't be in business for too long. It's all by design. All companies need to have a "new and improved!" Unit after 3-5 years for sales, sadly. Hopefully a few things will be improved, especially once they do the electric crap being forced on us. And yes, I do care about the plant in case someone takes it wrong, but electric isn't solving our problems. Throwing stuff away after a years, however, IS the problem.

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

Thanks for watching and the thought out comment lol 🤙 yeah like you said, overall I’m happy with my purchase, I’m grateful I even have to resources to make an investment like this one and so far, it’s paid off 🤙

[@CodyH88]

@@deoglorialawncare1795 thank you as well. People can get all riled up over the smallest of things, but what you said made good sense. Nothing is perfect. But looking through a manual usually is worth it and more people should try it lol. For a person that runs a business like yourself ( I dont), details matter big time. Glad you enjoy it! I do for the most part as well.

[@rbnjr]

I would not install the side discharge chute. I side discharge all my lawns and need to get close to things so no chute.

[@andreabond3501]

Had mine since January side blocks up rear blocks up dishcharge holes to small for volume of cut grass and size of deck on mower

[@mpn7jxc]

Mine is slightly different. Maybe because you’re in CA. But pretty much the same. I would add the best pro is the amazing cut with no need to go back over rows, saving time. I feel this will be a 5 year machine compared to the timemasters that won’t get past 2 commercially. In fact they break down monthly.

[@jodyclancy5995]

I cant help but notice how many of these mowers are on Facebook market place for sale, do they suck or something

[@thomato981]

Too heavy from what I've heard. Probably difficult to maneuver on lawns with slopes and obstacles.

[@higrosswdnh234]

Would you recommend this mower for a 1/2 acre lot? Just a homeowner, non commercial use

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

I would yes

[@higrosswdnh234]

Thanks for the reply. Are the castor wheels a must have? Or do you still lift the front of the mower when turning at the end of a line? The salesman at my local dealer said they aren’t necessary. In my head they might just make the front of the machine heavier if you are lifting the deck to turn anyways.

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

@@higrosswdnh234 oh no! Their a most have! I don’t lift the front at all anymore

[@rubenvillarreal3729]

How about the tires are they holding up?

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

Yes their holding up well

[@andrewjohnston6230]

Thanks for your honesty about your gear

[@nickcooper8322]

How well does it strip just buy itself

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

Very nice strips from the factory 👍

[@ptslawncare577]

When did you do your 1st oil change

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

I plan on doing it this week

[@BobFord-i3n]

i really scag products but have no use for a mower that scall. have a 36" swz that i never use. found a nice used one for 2500.00 an bought it because i didnt have one that size. my 52" v ride is the smallest i use. 61" cheetah an 61" turftiger gets used the most.

[@lundsay]

hi there love the review. going one 3rd year with my scag. 1:12 YES about the mulch plug. pain in th e butt to simly insert it. 2:17 when i use the grass hopper/ catcher, its hard too hock on/ plugs up right away. 3:25 the pin that holds the latch together less then 50 hours broke, i had it replaced under warranty . 4:55 you have a small tank, i have the upgrade 1.5 gallon. 5:51 yes i still have mine attatch, it catches anything. 6:34 love it but when your doing a property on a incline the machine wants to go to the lowest direction you mowing without it locked. did you have the PTO replaced? just over 100 hours the bearings in the PTO grenade in mine. $800 in pulleys, luckily there was a bullietin for it. in the end its a great machine to mulch, side discharge, but to catch clippings or do a property with a incline........

[@roberthoward2610]

I can't believe you didn't talk about this mower not being a timed blade system which I believe is a pro because those mowers out their that has a time blade system is very dangerous if that belt hops a tooth the blades will come into contact with one another.Also, you didn't talk about changing the drive belts for the blades.

[@robertmachen4364]

I own one. It's a heavy ass POS! But I paid $2000 for it so I'm stuck with it. You know its bad when Scag discontinued this mower entirely.

[@Texasguy316]

I love it, but it bogs down a lot. Southern yards though. It’s rough on thick grass.

[@higrosswdnh234]

Mine bogs down a lot too. I wonder if there is an adjustment for higher rpm’s on the motor. Or if some different blades could help. Cutting thick lush grass in Michigan almost feels like it could stall sometimes

[@CodyH88]

I bought this sfc 30 for my grandpa's yard and I hear you. The best advice i have is raise the deck up early in the year and use your side discharge if possible. It does help with the thick grass.

[@davidnorth3411]

The discharge shoot ,you need to bend the metal tab down , it got bent , why it’s a loser fit

[@davidjaskiewicz3461]

How does it stripe?

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

It stripes really good with no attachments 👍

[@chrisdalton6016]

I have one and it does just as well as the bigger model Scags. Just a smaller foot print 👣.

[@GrantsLawnCare802]

Great review ,, new sub 💯✅

[@TroublesBig]

if my lawn and scag are not level, the mower scalps. its not worth 4k

[@2700Kenny]

I got mine for $1999 with swivels. Scag sale for $800 off through September 2023. Where did you see them for $4k ???

[@TroublesBig]

@@2700Kenny 30 inch scag was almost $4k (canadian)

[@randy1108]

Spray that Mulch plug with WD40. Before you put it in and whenever it's time to take it out, it's a lot easier.

[@cleanclippingslawnservice7128]

Thank you

[@ryanfoley9999]

I've heard the Toro Turfmaster is the best , the Exmark 30" X has to many bad flaws.

[@robertdemaree2165]

Ferris FW 15 king of the 30 something push mower

[@Mr777WELD]

Nice Mower

[@Dstromb232]

Nice.

[@MowingMichaelA]

I'm looking at one with 16 hours on it for $1900.00 right now.

[@simonhernandez9634]

Dont do it. Get a 30in residential toro with commercial pulleys for the blades. I had a very bad experience with the clutch. My local dealership had switched out 16 clutches, by the time they developed a solution.

[@cv3137]

It’s a Terrible Mower, it will not cut damp grass it bogs down, I can’t tell you how many times the Pull Rope to start the mower has broke and I own 2 of them, and it’s just problem after problem! I have taken it to the shop 6X in the last 2 months! It’s not worth $3,000 dollars

[@thomasshea8165]

Only good for throwing them as far as you can 😂

[@David-ik8wj]

i bought this mower when it was first released i want to buy the swivel kit but the local asshole dealer wants 800 bucks for it. I think scag should offer the kit to early adopters at a discount. my only dislike is this mower self propulsion is way too fast. i have to run to keep up with it. i will try running half power.

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

Check out my other video to adjust the speed on you transmission 👍

[@David-ik8wj]

that POS broke down with only 77 hours on it. Clutch smoked. not worth fixing for what it will cost. Gave it away. This was used once a week mowing my own lawn. I always engaged with power lowered and locked it engaged so not cycling on and off much. Good riddance.

[@greenbeans7666]

Them things you complaining about is small as hell. People buy the mower

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

I recommend it

[@andreabond3501]

About 4 hrs per tank big tank

[@georgiafan6618]

This mower weighs 230 lbs. Scapers complain about pushing it around. Handlebar is awesome. Toro Turfmaster is like 50 lbs lighter. I looked at the Ferris FW15 too. All three are good. I had a Timemaster and it was crap. Turfmaster much better. Everything Scag makes is good. 👍

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

💯

[@David-ik8wj]

it is heavybut after a while you get a technique down for going around trees and making turns. Im just a homeowner. its a good workout.

[@ryanfoley9999]

I'd rather weedeat than mow so I hate that Scag they got into a big hurry about producing it so to many flaws for me I'll never waste my time on a 30" Scag.

[@mpn7jxc]

These machine are in big demand as they fill a specific need not met by the industry. Time masters are very unreliable with constant break downs.

[@ryanfoley9999]

Ya but on top of all that they don't screw you over for 3, grand...

[@fernandezmaintenance1984]

​@Ryan Foley what would you recommend, looking alot of video exmark or scag 30in

[@ryanfoley9999]

Neither

[@fernandezmaintenance1984]

@@ryanfoley9999 what about worldlawn 28in

[@noampitlik2332]

Electric mowers cannot compare to one of these.

[@yrios5927]

Scag? No thanks!

[@andreabond3501]

Side clip weak as on my second for the year

[@michaelcarydakis790]

Just fit a bigger tank

[@pdiddy823]

Fix you flag. Stars to the left homeboy !

[@Zanderthelab]

You obviously failed high school geometry

[@littlegearheadboy5765]

No dip you’re sweating your in a long sleeve shirt

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

Lol

[@MatthewSmith-uf6tr]

Looks like junk

[@deoglorialawncare1795]

Thanks

[@Amer1can1nfidel]

​@@deoglorialawncare1795 😂

[@David-ik8wj]

its not junk very sturdy and easy to repair. I think it is a tad over built in my opinion.

[@smallfry1463]

Dog shit mower. Big for nothing. Cumbersome and if you want the swivel wheels you have to pay an additional 350-400$. For the price point, just not worth it. Buy a smaller zero turn, save your money. I truly can’t understand why this mower exists. You want a push mower, the sfc21 is better but still wayyy to expensive. Go to Lowe’s or Home Depot if you want a push mower. And if you have that much grass, zero turn. Got mine for free and still have nothing nice to say about it. It bogged out in 8” grass. I mean come on.