SC402 stump cutter: Behind the torque advantage on the latest Vermeer stump grinder 

Vermeer SC402 in action

Need more from your stump cutter? The new Vermeer SC402 stump cutter delivers a serious upgrade where it counts.  

More torque.  

More productivity.  

More control.  

That adds up to a lot more muscle.  

With a 40-hp (29.8-kW) Briggs & Stratton Vanguard® engine that delivers increased torque, this machine is built for tree care and landscaping professionals. 

Torque is what keeps your cutter wheel moving when you hit dense wood or go below grade. It’s what helps you regrind without stalling and finish jobs faster. The SC402 doesn’t just add horsepower — it gives you the torque to stay productive, cut deeper and progress to the next job. 

If you’re searching for a professional-grade stump grinder that handles tough terrain, fits through tight gates and cuts with consistent power, the SC402 is built to meet that demand. Whether you’re upgrading your tree care equipment or expanding your landscaping business, this machine is ready to work. 

“The SC402 stump cutter is engineered to meet the demands of tree care professionals who require robust performance and efficiency,” said Josh Vrieze, group product manager for Vermeer Environmental Equipment.  

What is the Vermeer SC402 stump grinder?

The SC402 is a new Vermeer stump cutter built for tree care and landscaping professionals. It replaces the SC382 and delivers more torque, better control and features to help boost your productivity. With a 40-hp (29.8-kW) Briggs & Stratton Vanguard® engine, the SC402 is designed for professionals who need reliable stump grinding equipment that performs in tight spaces and tough conditions. 

Why does torque matter in stump grinding?

The SC402 delivers up to 40% more productivity at the stump than the SC382. The key is the torque increase. The SC402 powers through hardwood, regrinds and below-grade cuts without bogging down. The electronic throttle control keeps torque steady under load, so the cutter wheel stays productive. 

More torque means fewer delays, faster cuts and more jobs completed each day. 

What’s new in the SC402 engine?

The SC402 runs on a 40-hp (29.8-kW) Briggs & Stratton Vanguard® EFI engine. This upgrade includes: 

  • Electronic throttle control for consistent torque 
  • Better fuel efficiency 
  • 10-gal (-L) fuel tank for longer runtime 

This engine helps the SC402 stay productive in tough conditions and reduces downtime between jobs. 

What features help tree care crews work faster?

The SC402 includes features that support productivity, safety and access: 

  • Optional remote control: Lets operators control the machine from a distance for better visibility 
  • Optional backfill blade: Speeds up cleanup by pushing chips back into the hole 
  • Four-wheel drive system: Balances torque across all wheels to reduce turf damage and improve traction 
  • SmartSweep™ system: Adjusts sweep rate based on engine load for smoother cutting 
  • Under-36 in (91.4 cm) width: Fits through standard gates when dual wheels are removed 
  • Operator presence system: Stops the cutter wheel if the operator leaves the controls 
  • Easy-access panels: Simplify routine maintenance 

Operators can choose between the Vermeer cutting system (VCS) or Yellow Jacket™ cutter system based on jobsite needs. 

How can I buy the SC402 stump cutter?

The SC402 is available at Vermeer dealers. Contact your dealer to ask about pricing, demos or financing. Contact your local Vermeer dealer for your tree care needs.  

FAQ: What should tree care pros know about the SC402?

What’s different from the SC382?

The SC402 has a new 40-hp (29.8-kW) engine, more torque and an optional remote control. 

Will it have a remote?

Yes, a remote control is available as an option.

Is it covered under Vermeer Confidence Plus®?

Yes. The SC402 is eligible for the Confidence Plus® asset protection program.

How does the SC402 improve productivity on the jobsite? 

The SC402 delivers more productivity thanks to its torque increase and electronic throttle control. This helps the cutter wheel maintain speed through tough wood and regrinds, reducing bog-downs and delays. Features like 4WD traction, SmartSweep™ control and a 10-gal (37.9-L) fuel tank help crews stay efficient and move from job to job with less downtime. 

What cutting systems are available on the SC402?

The SC402 is compatible with two cutting systems: the Vermeer cutting system (VCS) and the Yellow Jacket™ cutter system.  

What is SmartSweep™ and how does it help?

SmartSweep™ is a control system from Vermeer that monitors engine load and automatically adjusts the cutter wheel’s sweep rate. This helps maintain consistent cutting speed, reduces strain on the engine and minimizes wear on high-cost components for smoother operation and longer machine life.

What’s the fuel capacity of the SC402?

The SC402 features a 10-gal (37.9-L) fuel tank that allows for extended operating time between refueling. This larger tank, combined with the engine’s fuel efficiency, helps crews stay on the job longer without interruption. 

The productivity rates stated herein were obtained during corporate testing under controlled conditions and are provided for informational purposes only. Productivity rates obtained during operation will vary based upon your conditions, maintenance, operator experience, site preparation and many other factors.  

Vermeer Corporation reserves the right to make changes in engineering, design and specifications; add improvements; or discontinue manufacturing at any time without notice or obligation. 

Equipment shown is for illustrative purposes only and may display optional accessories or components specific to their global region. 

Please contact your local Vermeer dealer for more information on machine specifications. 

Vanguard is a trademark of Briggs & Stratton, LLC. 

Vermeer, the Vermeer logo, SmartSweep, Yellow Jacket, Vermeer Confidence Plus and Equipped to Do More are trademarks of Vermeer Manufacturing Company in the U.S. and/or other countries. 

© 2025 Vermeer Corporation. All Rights Reserved. 

SC402 stump cutter

Upgrade to more torque and control

The Vermeer SC402 stump cutter is built for tree care pros who need more torque, better control and increased productivity. Contact your dealer today to learn more or schedule a demo.

Get the latest news delivered right to your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Related News Articles

How Vermeer ATX compact articulated loaders deliver turf-friendly landscaping equipment solutions 

Vermeer ATX compact articulated loaders deliver turf-friendly landscaping equipment solutions that help tree care and landscape professionals work efficiently. Discover how the right model and attachments can transform your operation.

Read More

Vermeer mini loaders debut at Equip Expo 2025 for landscape professionals 

Contractors filled the Vermeer outdoor booth at Equip Expo 2025 for “Vermeer Gameday: Live,” a launch event introducing the company’s newest compact equipment. The ML80, ML100, ML130 and ML150 mini loaders made their first public appearance as attendees crowded around the demo area to see them in action and talk with Vermeer team members.  These models join the ML180 mini loader concept, first revealed at The […]

Read More

Building for what’s next: Inside the Vermeer electrification journey 

Vermeer has delivered electric solutions for over a decade—but our journey is just getting started. See what we’ve learned.

Read More