It will easily last through your sons learning stage and go on to last you years. My budge is around the $6000 mark, Its a few dollars more than the Ariens, but I like having a local dealer in case anything goes wrong. Hi Travis, I have a list of the mowers I like best at the beginning of the article. Use the side discharge until June or so. The small front casters will make it ride rougher than many of the other mowers in that price range. Chris, Walker Model R: If you want the best possible cut I suggest the Walker Model R with the 48-inch deck. If you want a one and done mower the Vanguard is definitely the engine to buy. Going green The Best Electric Riding Mowers, Lawn Tractors and ZTRs. Ill look then up. Today the Kawasaki FR is the oldest engine on the market. I recommend buying through an Ariens dealer instead of the big box stores. Just increase the engine rpm to mowing speed and the vibration disappears. Hi Adam, The Patriot is going to give you a suspension seat and a commercial-grade engine. Love the tire size for stability, traction, and to ease the bumps. In terms of riding stability and safety (making turns) on a 15 degree slope, would a 46 zero turn with a steering wheel be more stable than a lawn tractor with a 46 deck? Calculator tells me (for my peace of mind) that I ought to be looking in the 50-60 range if I dont want to spend much more than a few hours doing my lawn every other weekend. The 2019 JD Z740 and the 2019 Exmark Radius X. I cut 2+ acres with a some what rough ( lack of rolling the last two years ), A medium incline for a drain field. $4399 $3499 = $900. Trying to decide between a 54 Magnum MZ ztr Bad Boy and a Ariens Ikon X 52, any words of advise? Let me start with the cart. I was able to test drive the 2016. You'll find gas-powered models . If you go any less than this price range and they ZTR will only last you a couple of years. It is a yard in the country, not a city lawn. Toro timecutter HD or Others suggest Hustler, Bad Boy, and Husqvarna. The Kawasaki I believe is the lower end residential mower engine and Kohler is the introduction lower end Commercial engine. The Toro is the highest-rated. HI Greg, I use the specs page at toro.com. Im looking for a new mower to handle about an acre of gently sloped (about 10 degrees in spots) yard and am seriously considering going for a ZTR mower. Its worth a $1000 more because the frame, deck, and transmissions are all more heavy-duty than the Ultima Series and the Toro Timecutter. The JD dealers seems good and I looked at the Z700 series. The cost difference is around $1200 between the two. A popular rivalry between Kubota and Cub Cadet is between the Cub Cadet XT1 LT46 and Kubota T2380. Both mowers are ideal for residential homeowners. Disappointed that the Toro no longer is available with the Kawasaki engine. With the warmer weather and the rain weve had in North Texas, especially the last and projected next week, I have rye thats about a foot tall right now! Its the 48 inch Bradley Stand-On. 100 Ah Zero-Turn Electric Mower. This is Walkers first-ever residential mower. The owner is the type that likes to jump into a market, disrupt it, and move on to something else if he cant make a fortune. (all those clipping need someplace to go and raising the deck up will let them drop into the grass) They will both work flawlessly on your normal lawn. Then if you still need help deciding which mower to buy feel free to come back and ask more questions here. I like the ZT XL 52. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. I would like something in the 48 inch to 52 inch cut range. Here is my review: Cub Cadet hauler Ill put a picture below. 2020 The Thirteen Best 42-46 Inch Zero Turn Mowers, I dont have a problem buying through the Home Depot. In addition, ANY ZTR under 48 inches will have traction issues like sliding even on dry ground. . Both Toro and Cub Cadet Walk-Behind mowers are classy and durable. Later, if it gets harder to get on and off you can always add the step and hand bar. (I dont fertilize it, or treat it with lawn chemicals). Which brand wins the key to your shed? Thinking about the Deere 345r but worried the bagger will just get plugged all the time. My local Husqvarna/Stihl/Toro dealer went with the Stihl because they have the best dealer support. Based on your post and previous comments I know this is going to be 1 of the 2 choices so go ahead and scroll up and pick 1 of the 3 others lol. A bagger is big, semi-permanent and expensive. Best ZTR Mower: Toro Vs. Cub Cadet Vs. BEAST zero turn mower Just not sure if I should look for a ZTR that is heavy, one that has wide tires, etc. When you are looking at the price of the Deere just remember the hitch is $150 additional! Im looking at the Ariels and Cub Cadet zero turn mowers. The ZT 3400 is the industry standard commercial tranny and youll find it on most commercial ZTRs in the $8000-$14,000 price range. I dont think youll be happy with Husqvarna 254 over the years. Check out this video I mow a ditch that Ive never been able to mow with any other ZTR. Paul, Pro Z 960L KW | Commercial Zero Turn Mower | Cub Cadet US Setting: On the other side, the Cub Cadet has a fairly tougher deck which would serve you better if you have obstacle-filled lawns. The Kawasaki has the best fan club. I think I have a truly fun exercise for you with a varied list of contenders. While both mowers will cut grass a Zero turn is associated as you know with larger law areas. Paul, I purchased a 2018 Gravely ZTHD52 last spring. The mowers battery, fuel, and some other electronic components are under the seat. 42-inch Electric Zero Turn Mowers Ryobi, EGO, or Cub Cadet? Ive been reading your articles and I want to get your help. Have someone engage the deck and watch the belt, idler bracket, spring, and each pulley. (same mower ones red the other is orange) The larger 20 inch rear tires really make a difference for traction on slopes. Hi Paul, Hi Larry, I have not seen that anyone has possession of one of the new Ryobi ZTRs yet. First a disclaimer, Im a Toro guy, so I favor the Toro. The Gravely ZT XL is also the same mower with the next larger transmissions and a 4-year warranty instead of 3 years. If he balks at that try for a tune-up kit, blades or air cleaner etc. Its going to be a great mower for the average suburban lawn but not for tall grass of really bumpy lawns. Sure would appreciate any input (Brain muscle tired).. Hi Mark, Its very easy to get analysis paralysis when there are about 40 mowers that really could do the job well for you. Should I be considering someone/something else? Some of the mowers you recommend are not sold by dealers in my area (or at least highly recommended dealers), only big box stores. I currently either mulch or side-discharge my clippings and will likely continue to do so. Because it has a Smart Speed control that lets you pull carts without damaging your transmissions. The deck wont lift up for transport or going over curbs. If you want the best possible cut and a unit that will last you years I also suggest the Ariens IKON XL 52 in. Toro with its smart speed control allows you to pull much heavier loads than all the other ZTRs. The ZT 3400 with charge pumps has no o-ring issues. Ive been using my Dads Ikonx52 bc his grandson was cutting his yard but that stopped so he needs his back now so my turn to cough up for a ZTM. The new Toro Titan and the Cub Cadet XT2 will give you a much longer life. Toro is offering a $300 discount on the 2000 series so check to see if you can stack that with the $1000 discount. I want to go the mulching route so that I can avoid so many grass clippings. Youll need to sharpen the blades twice a year and replace them every 2-3 years. Copyright Lawnmowerfixed.com 2018 Virginia, County Cavan, Ireland. When I first bought the property, the previous owner left me an old (and basic) Craftsman riding mower, which he had used for mowing. Im spending days with my edger to get under the fences and around trees. Your site here and responsiveness is some of the best I have seen in my researching journey. Budget is around 3K or less. Have they had problems? My second choice is the Gravely ZT XL 52 inch. Toro TimeCutter MX Mulch Kit. Hi T. Dan, Feel free to stop by anytime and tell us how the Jonsered is working out. Thanks! About half of this area is a long wide slope in the front (well under 13deg that Deere warns about). Ive narrowed it down to the Deere Z345R w 22hp Briggs for $2899 or a Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 w 22hp Kohler for $2699 from TSC. They dont have many dealers but if you order from them they will always take care of you if you ever have a problem with their products. Dont use one from the local hardware store. Also I wonder if they all have 2200 axles, I thought I read that the toro had 2800s. I also like the Gravely/Ariens in that price range. The transmission is mounted to the rear tires and cutting deck. Thanks. It is the most expensive of the mower I discuss. Thank you Paul. Usually, for some brands, this feature is only added to the commercial zero-turn machines since they cover more acreages, but Toro has better plans for their residential ZTR mowers and now you get to change speed as you desire on the lawn. Stamped Decks Inexpensive Mow well, bag well, and are great for smooth lawns. New grass in the spring has a lot more moisture than grass later in the year. The front half of the lawn is level, and thus can be mowed with even a basic riding mower. Its worth the extra $400 over the Toro has better transmissions than the Toro and cuts as well as the Ariens. But if you have to drive 50 miles to get one serviced it not always the best choice. Your thoughts please. Any suggestions? As stated before, Husqvarna tractors are designed to tackle heavy-duty mowing . So unless you can think of anything else I need to consider that might change my mind, I think Ill be going with the green and yellow Z-TRAK to start my ZTR experience. Putting all 5 mowers (Cub Cadet ProZ, Gravely Prostance Stand On, Walker T25i, Walker B23i and the Hustler X-One) to the test, we will see who. (It also has to do with the weight of the ZTR, the weight of the average operator, and how much downward weight the transmissions axles can handle). Click on each item to see them at The Home Depot. So, well see if they last. But, the price of Toro's zero turn mower is much higher than Cub Cadets. The wire comes out the middle of the underside of the seat. Hi Paul, have you looked at the new Scag residential zero turn yet? Troy-Bilt Zero-Turn Mower Review Inexpensive Quality ZTRs. Paul Are you familiar with or have you had experience with this Toro model? Do you know of any difference between the ones you get from the dealer and the big box stores? The last option Ive thought about is to use a robotic mower for the back hill, and go with a lower priced mower for the flat part. 4. Hi Daron, The differences are so minor between the 50 inch Cub Cadet and the 50 Toro that it almost boils down to Which color you do like? On 2.5 acres you may only need to replace the blades every 3-4 years. The man who mows for me would like for the mowing to take less time and the mower to require less repair. While the battery of both machines is nearly similar, what makes the Cub Cadet mower stand out is the extra-high rear wheels. Leaning towards the 42 that you specified above with the forged deck and smart speed. Just wanted to mention a few things the Apex is currently $300 off, making it a very good deal. This feature is mostly overlooked, but its highly important if you mow obstacle-filled lawns to ward off the possibility of damaging any important part in an accident. If you still want to pick up the mulched leaves then get this sweeper> Agri-Fab 44 in. Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 50 in. I also like one of my Ariens/Gravely dealers. John deere Z540M with the Kawasaki engine 48 Can you tell me if the Kohler 7000 is a quieter engine? ft. Tow-Behind Lawn Sweeper. The owners really like how it mulches with the Toro mulch kit installed. They still convince municipalities to purchase them but the municipalities quickly realize the ZTRs are better for the type of mowing they do. Thanks in advance. If . Hi Wilson, Wow, what a wonderful list to work with! Kawasaki slowly increased the price but because of the brand acceptance the owners kept buying them. Two, If you are pulling a cart always put the smart speed in tow. Toro TimeCutter MX5075 with MyRIDE Suspension System 50 in. Appreciate the in depth insight on the towing/tongue weight. Do you think I should go down to a 42, or stay with the larger engines and beefier decks that come with the larger mowers? The Toro fab deck cuts better and the Toro will also pull more but overall the Cub Cadet is one of my top choices for a 42-inch ZTR. Hi Daron, Most commercial guys will point you to the Toro/Exmark because they have been making a commercial ZTR since 1996 and its still the one to beat. If you ever have any issues with it and you bought it from your local dealer you will get a lot faster service. It will easily last you 10 years or more. Even though the John Deere cuts very well I just have a problem with the price. I have 2 1/2 acres and my Husky is 9 years old. Im not clear about whether theyre planning to stock any of the new Apex models, but if its the same as the ZT HD then I dont really see why they would. Check Out The Cut & Clean TV MERCH!https://teespring.com/stores/cutandcleantvBest Residential Zero Turn Mower | Ariens IKON X vs Cub Cadet ULTIMA ZT1 LawnTha. Are they dependable? Please rank or help me eliminate machines that would be overkill/over buy. Im also not a big fan of mowers where the whole mower uses the suspension (like your car) because the deck can bounce up and down. He has been learning and practicing different trades since he was a kid, and hes often the first one called when a friend or family member needs a helping hand at home. So Im all jammed up! Id like to stay cost conscious but I am willing to pay more for an exquisite end result. 10 gauge deck, commercial ZT3100 drives, and huge tires will help this mower cut well, ride well and last a long time. (see it here at the Home Depot) It will have the weight to give you great traction along the drainage ditch. Warren, RI, Hi Mike, I knew you would like it! I think I have narrowed it to an Commercial grade Ariens 61 with the Kawasaki or a Toro Titan. Small ZTRS like the Ariens compact should NEVER be operated on any kind of slope. The for the advice Paul. Ive taken over an old horse pasture. Power. Paul Sikkema has been writing about snow blowers, riding mowers, and other lawn and garden equipment for over 10 years. Its really interesting how the Internet can get facts turned upside down. 3400 pumps, 23 tires, 7 gauge deck, 10mph, B&S Vanguard for $4200? But, the price of Toros zero turn mower is much higher than Cub Cadets. It appears Cud Cadet has tried to up their game with the big boys. Hi Frank, there is only one the Ryobi 38 inch rider. Is 3 acres pushing the capabilities of the batteries too far? Remember What I think is the best may not be the best for you so please take the time and read the entire article before you buy your mower. Your site is the best, by far. We have been in touch over the past few years. The 75746 also comes with the U.S.A.-made Kohler engine. You will like the cut of the John Deere a lot. They are rated for over 500 hours which for most people equals 2 hours a week for over 10 years. So with proper care anything will last a lifetime. Thanks in advance! Fab 22.5 HP V-Twin Gas Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Smart Speed, Agri-Fab 44 in. I have heard the EZT can be very reliable if the machine weight is not excessive and theyre not cutting 5 acres a week. The Vanguard is B&S true commercial engine. It is straightforward and simple to use. In addition, the easy access deck makes it very easy to clean and allows you to do your own maintenance on the blades. If you use them with side discharge the work most of the time but if your grass is wet, long or the stringy (like some Fescues) they wont cut the grass into little pieces and throw it out the discharge. What do you recommend? It has a heavier deck, heavier transmissions, and heavier frame. Ive used a California trimmer reel mower for the past 6 years, but want less maintenance and speed. Much appreciate the insight. I have been using a Troybuilt TB30 but it slips and the drive wheel spins a lot as well the cut tends to be uneven. I mow 2 1/2 acres with some inclines and trees. I just had a ..make my day Clint Eastwood moment but in a good way (smile). My first choice for slopes is the Ariens IKON XD 52. Like using a sit-on zero turn to mow a customers 1/4 acre lot, they screw the grass up in spots where they gotta do a 180, need to use the weed wacker a bunch more because of the poor choice of mower.. . Dave. Perennial Rye and Tall Fescue have a lot more moisture in the stalk than Bluegrass, especially in the spring. Hi Jeffery, I have no preference between the Kawasaki and Kohler. Yard is level. I use a bungee cord to lift the discharge cover. Im looking at the 42 inch airlines ikon x and the hustler raptor. The second choice is the Scag Tiger II. It wasnt badits just that the email communication back and forth left me conflicted with information I was gleaning on the internetacross several manufacturers by the way. 2. My choice though is the IKON XL 52. The Cub Cadet tractor mower sports a heavy-duty AeroForce deck and rear diff lock to ensure optimal performance in hostile conditions. Enjoyed reading your article. The Toro TimeCutter and Cub Cadet zt1 have models with different motors and capacities depending on the grade. Hi Dave, All five brands are a great choice in that price range. While Toro uses an IronForged deck, Cub Cadets deck is made with 11-gauge steel. It mows very well and is the right size for one acre. Thinking I have the wife talked into a ZRT but it would be from Lowes. He can get parts for the Jonsered and many of the parts he has on the shelf for the Husqvarna tractors and ZTRs will fit. Cub Cadet has no plans to discontinue their Z-Force or Pro steering wheel models. Hi Paul. If you own a large patch of land, the Cub Cadet will serve you well for a long time. I really like how the deck sticks out the left side for trimming. Run the proper tire inflation or 2 lbs less in the rear and it will ride well. Metal, however, can be straightened out after bending, whereas broken plastic is useless. As always, if you have any questions please ask them in the comment section at the end of this article. The governor on the Kohler is a little more responsive when mowing tall, heavy grass. Hi Adam, I recommend the Toro Titan with MyRide. Im starting off this article with a list of my choice for the best zero-turn mowers for 2022. So, yes, if you are willing to spend the money its a very good mower for what you want to do. Also, can you still find the Husqvarna articulating mower? Youll like the Toro and at $1000 less it a great buy. But, if you want the best cut, the best mulching, and the best bagging the stamped decks are the right choice. Personally, Id go with a little heavier machine. Hi Deb, A year ago Bobcat the skid loader company purchased Bob-Cat mowers from Schuler Industries. Use the cart alot in the summer it seems to move alot. A good size for lawn tractors and zero-turns. In the 42 range, Toro is a clear winner. As simple as this may seem, you could get used to it quicker than you might suspect. I considered the battery-powered Ryobi briefly for its quieter operation, but as of now I think Ill wait to ensure the battery technology is up to par, and save on the upfront costs. These mowers are also quieter, but youll be paying for all these benefits. Have used it less than 6 times since. The Z930M is the most popular John Deere mower for commercial operators. It seems to me Id get a stamped deck, better engine and some comfort things like arm rests if I do upgrade to the 50/52 in either model so the $400 may be very much worth it. Suggestions please! The Fastrac is a great mower and the Raptor series has a good reputation especially if you have a good dealer to set the mower up initially. We are finally in the position to invest in a new mower and we are considering the 2020 Husqvarna Power Zero Turn Mowers Commercial M-ZT61 Kawasaki (967 17 70-08), $7,000. I would like to get something better preferably a zero turn to handle the flower beds but I am open to any suggestion you might have. cub cadet vs toro zero turn 2020 - eachoneteachoneffi.com Its not on my Top 5 list but it probably should be. Yes, the cart will hold 1000lbs. (cost divided by the years of use) 2-3 years for the lawn tractor, 3-5 years for the Jonsered zero-turn and 10 years for the Ultima. Ive seen it cut roadside grass two feet tall cleanly on the first pass. 2, Toro Timecutter HD48inch 75201 Because that alone could be the difference maker for me. If the non pro Gavely units were part of the 20% off deal, I might go that route as the dealer is 5 or 6 miles from the house. That Craftsman Pro is made by MTD. Im looking at the Ariens Apex, Gravely ZT HD and Toro Titan all in 60 inch. I also use the mulcher in the fall for leaves. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to on this site. I was thinking of the Toro Timecutter 75742. In addition, some companies want their own exclusive brand so they dont have to price match another retailer. Its the latest design. 7. Hi Paul, Thanks so much for the reply. never go flat front tires !!! He is very hard on the mower (over 150 trees to mow around) and its held up very well. I noticed right away the Deere appears to have a lighter frame, which I liked, so it weighs less. I have an ExMark 42 inch. 2. Pull the lap bars together in front of you, as this will disengage the parking brakes. Kohler engine. Q: Is Kohler EFI engine a reliable engine? Home Depot doesnt seem to carry the Apex models anymore, nor does Lowes, and none of my local dealers have any Apex models in stock. factory warranty !!!! Anyone considering buying the new Gravely zero turns need to reconsider it. Ventracs can handle 30-degree slopes ($25,000) Hi Thomas, The Big Dog Alpha is a Hustler Raptor painted red. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Fabricated Deck 24-HP Kohler Pro, It is a hard one. What would you suggest? I actually would prefer the Exmark or Toro. Cub Cadet or Toro - The one I'd choose - Lawnmowerfixed Q: What are your thoughts about Kohler vs Kawasaki quality? Im looking at the specs from a booklet recently supplied by the local Cub Cadet dealer, and for the ZT2 50, and it says that the power train is a Dual Hydro-Gear ZT-2800. This Cub Cadet is in second place only because the Toro 75742 has the Smart Speed Control. One last question, my dealer also carries the ExMark line, in addition to the Toro and Ariens I mentioned above. My second choice is the Toro Timecutter HD 48 inch at the Home Depot. Not too worried about that because three of my neighbors have similar topography and mow with ZTRs. This includes the Vanguard and is only $200 more than the lowest price online for the base 48 ($3999). He did, on two occasions, lose traction at the steepest part of the hill and took short sleigh ride into the flat portion at the bottom of the hill. It was a great lawn tractor when it was a Craftsman but it is not the right tractor for you from Costco. Hi Dick, The Toro TimeCutter and Cub Cadet XT1 will give you about the same life expectancy as your old Toro. In front of the seat is a non-slip floor pan, and its here where one rests their feet while mowing. Only applies to Pro machines. Im looking to spend less than 4000 Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated! It has really helped me through the process of shopping and gaining confidence with my decision. Hi Trent, The Commercial Series is an economical engine designed to have more 50% life than the Intek residential models. Buy genuine and aftermarket Cub Cadet parts and accessories for lawn tractors, zero-turn mowers, walk-behind mowers, snow blowers, utility vehicles, garden tillers, leaf blowers, chainsaws, log splitters, chipper shredders, vacuums, string trimmers, edgers, trenchers, and pressure washers. One dealer is steering me toward the MZ Magnum, but I am concerned about its non-serviceable transmission and also think its not for two acres of mowing. 679 cc Fuel Injected (EFI) V-Twin Engine Dual Hydro Gas ZeroTurn Riding Mower with Steering Wheel Control. The APEX is one of those mowers that it a solid step up from the MZ61. powerful 35hp v-twin kawasaki engine !!! Its a very heavy-duty mower. Hi Shane, Yes, Deere has made a lot of improvements in their decks in the last 10 years. Prices all seems around the same $2,900 to $3,200 locally. This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Thank You in advance! If you go lap-bar I STRONGLY suggest that you demo it on your yard to see if the mower will hold on your slope. Looked at: Ariens, Walker, Ferris, Skag, Toro, ExMark, JD, Husqvarna, Hustler, Gravely, Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, Bad Boy, and Snapper maybe a couple others losing count. Hi Glen, if stripes are your thing and it doesnt do the best for you Gravely does make a stripe kit for that deck (Ariens and Gravely are the same). Price/performance/and working your hills this is the best choice. Hi Adam, The Apex is comparable to the Cub Cadet Z-Force in price and features. Hi Larry, In this price range neither Ariens IKON XD is the best. Thank you! The driveshaft is more durable than the Grasshoppers. Thank you. Gravely also offers this mower with the heavier ZT2800 transmissions The Gravely ZT XL. Well we got the E170 and its a great mower but took forever to mow the lawn and sucked almost a tank of gas. Stay away from the $3000 TRs with 54-inch decks the ZT2500 transmissions will also fail. Its well worth the extra money. Im in my 70s and I want this to be the last mower I buy. Several years ago you helped me purchase my Craftsman Pro Series 42 riding mower. Im going to be down in the Bradley, Il area the middle of June. Are they here to stay? Hi Tawanda, A good 42-inch zero-turn is a good size for your yard. Thank you for the post great information! PLEASE ADVISE. To get a ZTR heavy enough to hang on that slope you need to be in the $6000 plus range. , and. Centipede grass needs to be cut at 1 1/2 inches, requires more power to cut and can quickly wear out cheap residential mower blades. It gives you a much better experience if you ever have an issue with your mowers engine. Do you think using the deck for a step is acceptable? 1, Walker Model R (new Model)42inch Kohler 7000 The Walker also rides great because you sit directly over the large drive tires. The Toro TimeCutter comes in an array of deck width sizes such as 42, 50, 52, 54, and 60 inches respectively. ), good speed, would like towing capability (limited I suppose), and riding comfort (albeit, reliability is more important to me).