The History of Dixie Chopper: The Story Behind the "World’s Fastest Lawn Mower"
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For decades, Dixie Chopper has been a name synonymous with speed, power, and durability in the lawn care industry. Known as the "World’s Fastest Lawn Mower," this iconic brand has revolutionized mowing with innovations that prioritize efficiency and performance. Let’s take a deep dive into the history of Dixie Chopper and explore how it became a leader in commercial and residential mowing.
Humble Beginnings in Indiana
The Dixie Chopper story begins in 1980 in Coatesville, Indiana. Founder Art Evans, a self-taught engineer, was determined to build a better lawn mower. Dissatisfied with the machines available at the time, he sought to design a mower that was not only more powerful but also more efficient for large-scale mowing jobs.
In a small barn, Evans built the first Dixie Chopper prototype using a combination of off-the-shelf parts and his own ingenuity. This prototype laid the foundation for the first-ever zero-turn mower built with a focus on speed and durability for professional landscapers.
Early Innovations: Setting the Standard
From the very beginning, Dixie Chopper was a brand built on innovation. Some of the early breakthroughs that set the company apart included:
Stainless Steel Components: Dixie Chopper was the first to introduce stainless steel body Panels, ensuring unmatched durability and resistance to rust.
Twin Engine Power: In 1996, the company introduced a twin-engine mower, demonstrating its commitment to pushing the limits of power and performance.
Speed Record: Dixie Chopper didn’t just make reliable mowers—they became famous for their speed. To prove that a stock Dixie Chopper mower can handle a whopping 150 horsepower, Art Evans builds a jet powered lawn mower using a Chinook helicopter engine. The jet mower is made famous by Tim Allen and Bob Vila in a 1993 episode of the TV sitcom Home Improvement and later claimed the title of “The World’s Fastest Lawn Mower.”
Expanding the Brand
As word spread about Dixie Chopper’s quality and performance, the company gained traction in the professional landscaping industry. Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Dixie Chopper expanded its lineup to include a range of models suitable for both commercial and residential users.
Notable Milestones:
1990 - The Quad Loop Direct Hydrostatic Drive: The introduction of the quad loop direct hydrostatic drive, featuring advanced design previously found only in 100HP plus industrial machines. This innovation would pave the way for the commercial zero-turn mower industry.
1993 - Jet Mower Prototype: The introduction of a jet-powered mower prototype cemented Dixie Chopper’s reputation for thinking outside the box.
2003 - Generac Engine Partnership: Dixie Chopper partnered with Generac to incorporate high-performance engines designed to maximize mowing speed and efficiency.
2005 - American Chopper: In celebration of Dixie Chopper's 25th anniversary, the crew from television's American Choppers builds the famous Dixie Bike using a 1000cc Generac lawn mower engine.
2006 – LP Gas Engines: Dixie Chopper pioneers the use of LP gas for the industry’s first propane-powered commercial mower with an engine built to run on propane without the need of a conversion kit.
Built to Last: What Makes Dixie Chopper Unique
Dixie Chopper mowers have earned their loyal following for a reason. Key characteristics that have defined the brand over the years include:
Unmatched Durability: Heavy-duty construction of frames and decks ensure these mowers stand the test of time.
Speed and Efficiency: By reducing mowing time, Dixie Chopper mowers save both time and money for users.
American Made: Proudly manufactured in the United States, Dixie Chopper reflects the hardworking spirit of American innovation.
Recent Developments and Legacy
In 2014, Dixie Chopper was acquired by Jacobsen/Textron, which helped the brand expand its reach and refine its product line. However, the company underwent changes and was ultimately purchased by Alamo Group in 2019, ensuring that the legacy of Dixie Chopper continues to thrive.
Today, Dixie Chopper mowers remain a favorite for commercial landscapers and homeowners looking for high-performance machines with unparalleled reliability.
Experience Dixie Chopper at Humphreys Outdoor Power
At Humphreys Outdoor Power, we’re proud to carry the legendary Dixie Chopper lineup. Whether you’re a professional landscaper in need of a high-performance machine or a homeowner with a large property, there’s a Dixie Chopper model to fit your needs.
Why Choose Dixie Chopper from Humphreys?
Expert advice to help you find the perfect mower.
Service and support you can count on.
A commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Stop by our dealership today to see why Dixie Chopper has earned its reputation as the "World’s Fastest Lawn Mower."
