The cutting deck is the part of the mower which houses the blades. Edge, I like the Kohler. I was looking at this one from Home Depot: Hi Dan, Yes, the Bad Boy Maverick is their best residential mower. Youll need to sharpen the blades twice a year and replace them every 2-3 years. Dont be surprised if your neighbors take videos just to show their friends how fast you are mowing . I always leave my decks at the mowing height. Both are good engines. One or two tree stumps, some large anthills. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. And maybe I wouldnt really be able to tell the difference. Hi Jake, I like the Ariens better. They arevented inside the spout so the fuel pours quickly yet seals tightly when not in use. Get free shipping on qualified Cub Cadet Zero Turn Mowers products or Buy Online Pick Up in Store today in the Outdoors Department. Both mowers are good residential machines but I will have to say the Bobcat is a little more heavy-duty and it also will ride over rougher lawns better. Its a nicety, not a necessity. As I look at prices for what I can get for a 50 with Toro and Ariens it looks like I can get either at around $3100 which is $400 more than what 42 V-Twin costs. Appreciate it. never go flat front tires !!! I also like the Gravely/Ariens in that price range. Hi Paul, great website and very informative. The Cub Cadet has slightly larger tires so it will ride a little better and have a little more traction than the Deere. Toro researched and went with Loncin primarily because five years ago the quality control and warranty repairs for some of the other engine brands you recognize was becoming problematic. Great website and I love how you respond to everyones questions cause I actually browsed all your comments to help with my search and narrowed down my choices. Im looking at the cub cadet ultima zt2, ariens apex and Toro timecutter all in 60 inch. These start around $2500 and the good Cub Cadet and Husqvarna models are around $3200. The Gravely ZT XL model seems to be a good sweet spot with the 2800 transaxles and well-built machine. The best mower in that price range for ride, cut quality, cutting speed and long life components including the drive belts is the Exmark Lazer Z X-Series. The Apex with the commercial style 5.5 deep deck and ZT3100 drives will last longer, cut better and mow FASTER, especially in demanding conditions like tall or wet grass.it will also be more comfortable over your mixed 10 acres, it has 22 rear tires, and weighs 853 lbs.,compared to the ZT2 at 640 lbs. A tractor mower on the other hand has the ability to collect grass, not a feature traditionally associated with a Zero turn. Do you have any thoughts on how easy (or not) the Toros vs. the Deeres are to work on? Copyright Lawnmowerfixed.com 2018 Virginia, County Cavan, Ireland. I really appreciate your help. Was curious your thoughts on a Bad Boy MZ Magnum 54 vs brands in your top models? Yes, most people dont see the advantage of the steering wheel so Toro is discontinuing it. The Ikon XLs blades will last 3-5 years or longer and youll only need to sharpen them once a year. My problem is that most dealers are out of stock right now, so I need to make a choice without actually testing one myself. They have not been around long enough to know for sure. The Kohler Confidant EFI is the state-of-the-art in engine tech right now. Get fast shipping and low prices from Power Mower Sales! These have the better tranny with the ZT-3100 but I feel like I read on your site that for towing a leaf vac maybe even more would be required? The Toros controls are further back than the Country Clipper. A homeowner doesnt need a commercial-grade zero-turn mower, as these are intended for very large areas. There are a ton of accessories available for tractor mowers easily converting them from mower to workhorse. If you have a problem holding a gas can the SureCan is a great can. Here is my review: Cub Cadet hauler Ill put a picture below. If you have any questions or problems your local dealer will be glad to help you. Nov 16, 2020 #2 . Some day, we may find a good reason to switch over. Also, Id consider the CC RZT42S. The front half of the lawn is level, and thus can be mowed with even a basic riding mower. I imagine itll see approximately 1 hour of use a week during the mowing season. The Cub utilizes a similar tire setup, with the only difference being the 20 x 8-inch rear tires. (I grew up with International Harvester tractors so the Reb/Black paint scheme appeals to me too!). May 28, 2020 / Cub Cadet ZT2 or Toro Timecutter #4 They are both priced roughly the same, have similar specs and both carry 3 year unlimited hour warranties. Paul. While the TimeCutter possesses wider traction tires in comparison to the Cub Cadet and is much noted for their rocking seat features to help you ease vibration whilst mowing, the ZT1 is built for slopes, bumps, and uneven terrains. Now thats different from what a ZTR can pull. Good to know. The Cub Cadet ZTX4 is also a great mower. The 50-inch size will get the lawn mowed quickly. After I posted that I looked a little closer. Starting with the most important facts and how the brands compare. I followed the company since the 90s and their equipment has always been built very strong for the price. Q: How hot do these transmissions get? As time goes by and my father in law and neighbor get older Ill be cutting probably in the 10 acre range. But, you would notice that because one blade would cut higher than the other. Looking at either the Toro 42 in Time cutter with the Toro branded engine (75744) or the 50 in with the Kawasaki engine (75750) Then on the flip side on the Cub Cadet Im looking at the 46 in (ZT1 46) with the Cub Cadet branded engine or the 50 in (ZT1 50) with the Kawasaki engine. But at the end of the day its irrelevant the Bradley looks more than durable enough on its own,. By the way, Paul, I am very impressed that your top choice for me is one that wouldnt get you a commission. I favored the Kohler, but I dont care for the black and yellow or the dune buggy look. Gravely ZT HD 52: $5100 I decided Id get a ZTR this spring to replace my 15 year old, 42 Deere L110, Kohler 17.5hp, lawn tractor. If you have ever pulled a boat or camper the specs always include total gross weight and the tongue weight. It helps the fuel last longer and the escaping vapors wont wreck the environment. The Jonsered tractor is actually a 2014ish Craftsman Yard Tractor. Reasons: The 24.5 hp engine used in the Toro is essential the same as what I had in my Exmark Radius and it was both smooth and powerful. 2. Hey Paul, Very informative article! Best For Rough Lawns Toro 50 in. Personally, Id go with a little heavier machine. Im not sure if he does anything different with the Scag. Browse a wide selection of new and used Heavy Duty Zero Turn Lawn Mowers Outdoor Power for sale near you at TractorHouse.com. I will definitely take advantage of the discounts. I was hoping for Ariens (good bang for buck), but they only offer the 2200 transaxles through their X and XDunits and can only get the 3100 axles on the Apex units which are pretty close to the same price as gravely ZT HD. Hi Jon, I have no preference. Now I just have to find one!! I am in need a smoother more comfortable ride that doesnt brake my back every time I mow..Good ideas for a ZTR mower with suspension? Beast. 2. I hope you find a good dealer to work with and enjoy the mower you decide on. 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. The tire size somewhat justifies the extra $40 you pay for the Cub Cadet mower. I dont have an issue with the Cub Cadet ZT1 42. My craftsman mower that recently died on me did a far superior job with the mulching. This will be fairly detailed, since I read in another comment that details help you. Thank you. Stepping up from there is the Ariens / Gravely APEX / ZT-HD 52. Cleaning both cutting decks is a breeze. Both show it online so should be able to at least order the model I want. Also, the price for their 1 time leaf collection last year easily justifies a better solution there. Its worth a $1000 more because the frame, deck, and transmissions are all more heavy-duty than the Ultima Series and the Toro Timecutter. My second choice is either the Toro or Cub Cadet 50 inch. They both use a collection of Kawasaki, Kohler, and in-house engines (for the Toro TimeCutter) to function effectively. It uses ZT3200 commercial transmissions. Love the articles. The common range of accessories include trailers, sweepers, snowblowers, aerators, scarifiers, rollers, feeders, sprayers and the list goes on. Can the ZT2 transmission handle that? Any advise would be great. Sorry for the long back story, but I thought it was important to provide as much detail as possible. 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. Zero-turn mowers are ideal because they ensure no patches of lawn go uncut, and theyre also pretty easy to get the hang of. Read more here: How to Support TodaysMower.com, I will list below three different types of residential zero-turn mowers. Hi Sean, If you are going to mulch all the time Im going to suggest the Toro V-Twin 42 at this time. (Since I review mowers I like to keep a fairly new unit here) $3500, 200 hours, very well maintained. The mulch kit is also semi-permanent. Hi Adam, I recommend the Toro Titan with MyRide. Costco always wants a product they can sell at a special price and this Jonsered is no exception. Which One Is Best For You?. And with 2 larger diameter tires, it may have a higher center of gravity that I may not care for. That mower should be in the $2700 range and the fact you have to spend an EXTRA $160 for a hitch is ridiculous. Hi Paul. What Im looking for: reliability, ease of maintenance, easy to handle, budget around $3k and comfort (I can see him spending A LOT of time on it). I plan to go look at the other 2 brands but have no clue if they are even in that range (scag, exmark). Toro Titan (overkill) They seem comparable but I like the Hydrogear 3100 transmission on the Kubota and the John Deere Kawasaki engine. In retrospect, Toro TimeCutter has the luxury of being able to change cutting speed, although both of the machines have a good cut quality. Its made for lawns like yours. Have the dealer do the 1st annual tune-up? All three mowers ride well, cut well and will last. 2. Whats your thought on the John Deere Z355E? Both mowers are ideal for residential homeowners. Looking for a workhorse that will last, not difficult to maintain, power through high grass, good cut and smooth ride. Blower has a steel blade. This peculiarity is very beneficial to the cutting deck of the machine. Toro TimeCutter HD with MyRIDE with the Kawasaki 48. Hi Frank, I wrote an article comparing it to the Ryobi and Cub Cadet here: 42-inch Electric Zero Turn Mowers Ryobi, EGO, or Cub Cadet? It built better than the commercial mowers we used 20 years ago. I researched and asked around about the engines and decided that all engines need good upkeep, and good clean air filtration is paramount. Its the latest design. I reached out to you before on some suggestions. I would I just need a residential as opposed to commerical. For the reason the cutting blades maintaining high rotational speed is applauded, there is a corresponding feature consisting of large wing-like spray blocking fenders to keep the grass from dowsing its landscaper with clippings. My main wants are dependability, comfort and look of cut. Thanks again. Only applies to Pro machines. Any suggestions? The two best brands are the Grasshopper and the Walker. The deck independently rides over bumps, dips, and follows the contour of your lawn exactly. option as I could buy two of those for the price of the Walker or Clipper, Decisions, decisions.. Hi Wilson, Yes, Bradley is a hard sell to many people because he has never set up a larger dealer network. Lots to still contemplate. The 4-point deck doesnt bounce on rough ground and follows the wheels of the mower. I recommend only looking at the Husqvarna AUTOMOWER 430XH or the just introduced Worx Landroid L. These are the only robitic mowers that will mow the grass high enough (3-3.5 inches) so that you dont get soil erosion on that slope. (There are a lot of small assembly shops that do make components for most brands). Would a front deck do big berms? Q: What are your thoughts about transmissions with and without charge pumps? I would never mow across the hill horizontally, just up and down vertically. Zero-Turn Stand On. Its as heavy-duty as many of the commercial machines. Are you familiar with or have you had experience with this Toro model? I know you said, walking is a pain but there is the Toro TimeMaster 30 in. I appreciate any suggestions that you can offer. I would also want to avoid overly sensitive control bars. Its the same mower as the IKON XD with the serviceable ZT2800 trannys. Personally, Id go with the 48 inch but the 54 and 60 inch models will get you done faster. Toro is the only one using the 2100 and they have been using them for years. I researched Zero Turn mowers. Its not a manicured lawn but its not bad either. I live in Wisconsin and surely like to support the local manufacturers. Thank you so much for the insight. The angle of the belt from the engine to mower is less when the deck is higher and that seems to help. In your case the Walker H with a rear discharge deck would be the ultimate choice. I bought a Hustler FasTrack thinking it was going to be my last mower. The 2016 is $900 cheaper, and I would ordinarily be tempted, but it looks a little rough, including some tears in the seat. The Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 42 is more powerful and durable than the Toro TimeCutter ZS 4200S, but this additional strength makes the Cub more expensive than the Toro. Thanks in advance! However, I like the 60 inch deck for the price and also the fabricated deck. Hi JD, I have no problems with any of the engines. Mow high, mow in the afternoon and side discharge until the spring growth has subsided. Im looking to spend around $3k or less for the mower; what would you suggest? With todays ethanol-blended fuel you need a gas can that seals tight. 3. Hi paul, Great review!!! Does anyone have experience with these two? I wanted to get your thoughts on a few different mowers. This deck is the best cutting 42-inch deck in the industry and its very rugged a lot more rugged than a stamped deck. Earl, Depends on the slope. Fab 24.5 HP V-Twin Gas Dual Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower or I think you made my decision much easier! John deere Z540M with the Kawasaki engine 48 Hi Ryan, I too have a lot of leaves. I also use the mulcher in the fall for leaves. Most ZTRs dont have enough traction to go up that hill. Small ZTRS like the Ariens compact should NEVER be operated on any kind of slope. Who knows? Plus I just really like it over anything else under $3000. Ive seen it cut roadside grass two feet tall cleanly on the first pass. What do you think about the Craftsman 42 inch Steering wheel zero turn. 1. I guess I am torn between the Ariens Ikon 42 and the Cub ZT1 42. Personally, I use Mobil One in all my engines and Ive never had an engine failure on any of my gas powered equipment, cars or trucks. I use 2 tablespoons per gallon of fuel. I like the Ariens IKON X 42, the Troy Bilt Mustang Z42 670 cc V-TWIN as it seems like it has been built to last and supposedly has a smooth ride. KutKwick ZTRs can handle 45-degree slopes (start at $30,000). You can get the HD without MyRide and be close to your budget: Toro TimeCutter HD 48 in. The hauler is rated to carry up to 1,000 pounds. But you are saying that isnt the case? Doesnt the Toro have limits on towing to 85 lbs? Q: What are your thoughts about transmissions with and without charge pumps? First off I would like to thank you for taking the time to answer all of these questions! Hi Joe, Im not a big fan of the 300 series Deere ZTRs. Hi Larry, There is nothing wrong with the Toro or ExMark except the sales didnt meet Toros expectations. If it were me I would go for the Toro as well. Chews up small twigs from trees like nothing. I really ran across this URL of yours [I think]as a matter of the odds of just browsing, at times, painfully. Thanks for the quick reply. Thanks Paul for the quick response. Can You Rent Riding Lawn Mower? Yes, there are many good ZTRs when you get up in the 6K price range. Both are heavier duty than the ZT2, have better decks that will cut better and faster, however the Apex is only a few hundred more so is the best choice in my opinion. I often allow the grass to reach 10. People like their Scag commercial mowers and owners really like how well this one bags but to me its just another middle-of-the-road mower. They are the same price. If you want a heavy-duty mower and its the last one you ever want to buy then the ZT HD is a good choice. The clipping gets everywhere into your lungs and mower engine for a good measure. Q: What are your thoughts about Kohler vs Kawasaki quality? A good size for snow blowers and push mowers. We also have a gorilla yard cart and would like some thing with a hitch pin to pull around firewood or brush etc. The Cub is designed with a more open engine compartment so maybe the sound will be dispersed outwards better. 4. Having a really hard time deciding between the two if I make the jump from a 42 to the 50/52. I am looking at a 60 Toro Z Master 2000 with 708cc 24.5 HP V Twin Toro Commercial Engine. You get a better experience when you buy from a dealer. 60 inches. Thoughts on a JD or Cuba Cadet? Looking around at other manufacturers They are all charging $800-$1100 for the ZT 2800 trannys over the ZT 2200. I also understand Briggs parts are much cheaper than the other manufacturers, should I ever need them. Is there a significant difference between the Toro TimeCutter and the HD models? Feel free to keep asking questions until you are comfortable buying the right mower for you. Keep it in a shed, out of the weather and you wont have to buy another mower, ever! Just so you know. The list: Are Spartans dependable and here to stay? I do wish I could have the ELS engine, but maybe I can find a way to enhance the existing stock configuration to extend engine life, and in the process improve my chances. And it really helps to have an expert such as yourself to bounce thoughts off of. Will those help with preventing the deck from getting clogged? 2. The 48-inch deck will give you a better cut than the 54 inch and still get done quickly. 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! Post author By ; impossible burger font Post date July 1, 2022; southern california hunting dog training . Ariens, Toro, Cub Cadet, and Walker have all made major improvements in their ZTR lines. Thank you so much. Husqvarna has two brands, Poulan Pro and Jonsered, that they use for retail sales and if they dont want to overpopulate an area with Husqvarna dealers. Hi..I am looking for the best battery (about 1.5 acres) riding mower with a steering wheel, that will bag, about 38 in, power steering, dont have to change the blade when I am mulching or cutting (bagging).Thank you. That said, the larger displacement of the Kohler (725cc) will give you more torque going up the hills with thick grass. It will handle the Cyclone Rake Z-10. Any thoughts on which way I should go? Thanks, Mark. I have about 1 acre of mowable grass. We are looking for something with good construction and good cut with reasonable price point. If you have inexperienced operators a fabricated deck will hold up better to them banging it against foundations and trees. The Kawasaki I believe is the lower end residential mower engine and Kohler is the introduction lower end Commercial engine. Toro. If you ever have any issues with it and you bought it from your local dealer you will get a lot faster service. I think Im leaning towards the Gravley/Ariens product. Please Subscribe to my YouTube Channel Please Note:If you click on most of the links in this article and buy any product I will make a small commission from that sale. Have used it less than 6 times since. Appreciate the in depth insight on the towing/tongue weight. You also have the Ariens XL 60 and the Hustler SD 60 at around the ZT2 price. Residential ZTRs are rated for no more than 15-degree slopes. If you feel there is an different product that would better fit my needs then Id love to hear from you! Hi Travis, The armrests are worth every penny! Also, any recommendations for best time of year to purchase? 7. Was looking at Toro with myRide setup.. Hi Dave, the only choice is the MyRide. Just the Toro has that extra feature. How does the Ikon xd 52 stripe. Im leaning towards a 42 inch deck for either mower I choose. Hi Robert, On paper, the Liberty Z meets all the criteria for a good $4500 ZTR. I own a JD LX280, which has been a great mower, but I have been looking at a ZTR for a couple years as an addition to the JD. The mower will be used for residential 5 plus acres. The HD models have a significantly heavier frame and transmissions. You provide really good information and I feel like you put alot of thought and energy into responding to those who seek your advice. Speed is nice, but the landscape will keep me moving slow to stay in the seat. I did not want to step into the $4000 price class to get something like the Hustler SD w/ ZT2800s (the Ikon XL lacks 13 tires). Finally needed work done on the trannys. Hi Frederic, The 75742 is an excellent choice and a great value. which is more solid and reliable unit? There a many good brands but Ive used SeaFoam for years and its always worked well. All of these machines seem to be comparable to each other but of course theyre a lot of money and I definitely want to make the right choice. Its Ariens Decision not Home Depots. I mow a little over 1/2 acre that is flat but not smooth or soft ground. However, I just saw your comment that Toro is dropping their steering wheel models, so if I went that direction, Id almost certainly be getting the Cub Cadet, one of the models with a 46 cutting deck. Both are rated for a lawn up to .9 acres and max cutting height of 2.8 inches. If you dive into the specs, there are a few small differences but none of which will make a difference in your cut. Hi Daron, Would you please point me to where you read or heard that Toro only has a tow limit of 85lbs? It will do the job for you. I am not reading about anyone having the EZT hydros die early on. -Do you think 50 is overkill? Cub Cadet ZTS (steering wheel ZTR) 50 inch and larger can handle 20-degree slopes because the front steering wheels help to hold the mower on the slope. Basically, its the ELS residential with a high flow commercial air filter. The Toro mower includes many pro elements like a canister-style air filter, a commercial drop pin, and a rubber chute. Aceitar Recusar. 2022 hustler super z for sale - 2022 hustler super z with hard to find 66 inch awesome cutting deck !!! The Briggs is the base Intek and the Kohler will have a longer life. Of those 400 there are actually quite a few good zero-turn mowers on the market right now. I wanted to have beefier Transaxles. Motor repair on commercial mowers can range anywhere from $1000-$4000 for 60-inch commercial zero-turn. Use the side discharge until June or so. Hi Mark, if you would like to go to a 54-inch deck tractor and have slopes you will need to move up to a garden tractor. However, I can live without mulching. The fully articulated deck hugs all the dips and bumps in your yards and does a great job of striping. Never had a ZTR, but I was initially leaning ZTR (looking at Spartan and Hustler SDX) UNTIL I stumbled on the Bradley Stand on in the same price range! Gravely ZT XL 52 with Kawasaki engine $4399 That stuff is not covered by Costcos guarantee. The seat is thick, padded and has springs to help the ride. Looks like the Cub has a stronger transmission than the Toro with the ZT2200 and the Toro has the ZT2100. The Ariens/Gravely, Bad Boy Elite, and Toro Titan are all priced around $5000. I would like a bigger deck, at least a 54inch so I can be donestyle points on grass not important. 6. Always use the John Deere or Briggs & Stratton Yellow Oil Filter and change the oil at the recommended intervals. The used one would be $900 cheaper, but it actually looks a little rough to me, including seat tears. Appreciate all the help and insight. My second choice is the Gravely ZT XL 52 inch. It will last 10 years with normal maintenance for you. Hey Paul. I had a Toro time cutter Z5035 model 74376 that lasted 10 years. The blocking fenders offer good coverage from the unruly clippings during mulching and mowing on your lawn or land. The Intek is the standard Briggs engine and is found in lawn tractors under $2000 and ZTRs under $3000. When Sears and Husqvarna parted ways it looks like Husqvarna kept all the molds and just slapped the Jonsered name on it. 10 gauge deck, commercial ZT3100 drives, and huge tires will help this mower cut well, ride well and last a long time. I think they would have to be ordered. A Walker mower has a lot less stress on the transmission than the mid-mount ZTRs. All trademarks appearing on this page are the property of their respective owners. My current seat does not have (that I can find) any electrical connections and a seated person is required to start the mower. 2. They are both great engines. And the transmissions are not strong enough to pull that cart with more than 200 lbs in it. The 50 inch Model 75750 will go through your gates with the side discharge up. Do you think using the deck for a step is acceptable? I have read a lot of articles that seem to prohibit the use of a ZTR on any slope greater than 15 degrees. Thanks for your super helpful work. Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 50 in. I have a .5 acre yard planted with centipede grass with a drainage ditch along the road frontage. This product is a high-performance gas-operated zero-turn mower that will suit the needs of both homeowners and professionals. I have two in mind. Check them out here: Toro TimeCutter MX5075 with MyRIDE Suspension System 50 in. The Toro is an efficient, easy-to-operate mower thats fitted with most of the components the Cub utilizes. I will have to think hard about the collection aspect I am seeking. Run the proper tire inflation or 2 lbs less in the rear and it will ride well. Father in law says he believes i could take a 60 inch back there with no problem and just lift the deck to avoid any small stumps etc that was left over from the guy clearing. Time to decide, I have narrowed my search down to two. Seems the Toro deck is 10 Ga and the Cub is 11. You can check out my videos of the Toro Timecutter and Ariens IKON XD here: https://www.youtube.com/paulsikkema. Husky has a big presence here but havent heard good things about reliability. It cuts well and is built like a tank. Both will hold up on hilly terrain. A secret mowing steeper slopes. The deck is a lot stronger than the stamped deck and will handle banging against tree roots, etc. The Toro has the smart speed and a 3-point deck. It is a nice machine. Stay away from the $3000 TRs with 54-inch decks the ZT2500 transmissions will also fail. The Kawasaki in these mowers is the FR (residential) version. I have just under an acre to mow with one 18 degree slope that drops off to nearly flat in about a 12 foot run in my backyard. Recap: willing 2 spend 6-7k. It is straightforward and simple to use. Its been more helpful than you know! I simply have lost all confidence in residential quality mowers after my previous experience. And trying to spend around $4-5k tops. Hi Art, Good comment! Now, The commercial Kawasaki FS and FX are great engines. Husqvarna Z254F Hydrostatic Zero-Turn Riding Mower.