Though this might seem minor, have you ever tried mowing a very wet lawn? I know I am giving up the warranty but I am still tempted to buy it. Another option is one of the zero turns with a steering wheel, either a Toro or Cub Cadet. 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! Great machine! Ive been looking at the Ariens Ikon XD 42 which seems well reviewed. The Model R is very easy to work on. Would I be perfectly happy with the Toro for my very average small lawn? 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. The Ariens has slightly larger rear tires for better traction and an offset deck so you can trim right around smaller obstacles like telephone poles. 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? Fab Deck 24 HP Kawasaki FR V-Twin with Roll Over Protection and Front Wheel Suspension Available assembled and delivered through, Ariens APEX 60 Kawasaki Model 991163 60 Cutting Width Kawasaki FR730 engine 24 hp/726cc. The Cub Cadet ZTX4 is also a great mower. The owners really like how it mulches with the Toro mulch kit installed. 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. Ive been looking at Walker and some higher end Hustler and have up to $15000 New Zealand dollars budget ($9500 USD). 2. Ive always liked John Deere, but I am concerned that their decks accumulate too much grass clippings and get clogged. ), The Ryobi is a good choice. Or Bagger for 42 inch Fab Deck. I just think the Deere is a more refined machine, and it looks it. My John Deere riding mower had issues with grass building up under the deck, but its 2004 model. Zero-Turn Stand On. Toro is offering a $300 discount on the 2000 series so check to see if you can stack that with the $1000 discount. 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. But, Since you have a very rough lawn I recommend that you buy the Titan series with MyRide. It shows ZT-2200 on the MX5000 (both new and old versions) Its not a popular brand and I dont know anyone who actually owns one meaning I dont know enough about it to tell you if its good or bad. The Cub Cadet ZT2 is a decent mower I just like the Gravely better. I will check out the Z355R. agpro of new albany is the premier power equipment in the midwest ----- financing available, we take trades, delivery available -----only 221 hours----- ag pro is your premier equipment . When you are looking at the price of the Deere just remember the hitch is $150 additional! But, if you want the best cut, the best mulching, and the best bagging the stamped decks are the right choice. The ZT 3400 is the industry standard commercial tranny and youll find it on most commercial ZTRs in the $8000-$14,000 price range. My land is rough and still with the frequent stump and small Yaupon bushs still popping up in east Texas. If so, pros and cons and recommendations on the one you would go with. I've worked on all types of mechanical equipment, from cars to grass machinery, and this site is where I share fluff-free hacks, tips, and insider know-how. I would I just need a residential as opposed to commerical. All the other lap bar ZTRS will struggle if they can mow it at all. They both use a collection of Kawasaki, Kohler, and in-house engines (for the Toro TimeCutter) to function effectively. Finally, learn to use your knees to cushion the ride and it is the second-best riding mower on this list. Id go visit each dealer and buy from the one you trust the most. Unless your grass is wet from rain they will work well for you. Hi James, The John Deere uses both the Intek and the ELS Briggs engines in various mowers. Hi John, Sorry, I too busy with movingsnow.com and helping my daughter move into their new house. CR members with digital access can read on for ratings and reviews of the 12 best lawn tractors, zero-turn mowers, and rear-engine riders on the market right now. I never recommend paying extra for the Kawasaki name. There is a low, medium, and high trim speed. Looks like the stripes would be off with the deck hanging out past the wheels so far. john lucas tournament 2020 schedule Facebook does judge lafayette die in queen of the south Twitter illinois central college professor Instagram. The highest-rated zero-turn lawn mower that Consumer Reports recommends is the Gravely ZT HD 48 991152. In all honestly, there are so many different brands, it can be a challenge to keep track of them all. So inclined to think the Cub might be better overall for towing. From what Im reading here the Ariens is better built but is it worth the few hundred dollars? Toro TimeCutter MX6050 60 in. Yes they are expensive, but then I dont have the maintenance and cost to run. Seems like a few people I have talked to during my research have all said to not get Cub and go with the Toro. Have used it less than 6 times since. Hi Randy, The XT2 gives you taller wider tires, 2800 hydros, thicker handles, comfy seat, and a reinforced deck. Yes, the Joystick does take a little practice but its actually a lot easier to use than lap bars and not as tiring. Its here where zero-turn, ride-on mowers are a tremendous help. In addition, ANY ZTR under 48 inches will have traction issues like sliding even on dry ground. The common range of accessories include trailers, sweepers, snowblowers, aerators, scarifiers, rollers, feeders, sprayers and the list goes on. Also, think about which dealer you feel will help you out the best down the road. So if you are nervous about the Briggs Intek in the John Deere lets focus on two Toro mowers. Mowers in the price range are built tough enough to handle a sapling or 2-inch stump without damage but again thats not what they are designed to do. The most recommended dealer for service in my area sells mainly Hustler ZTs in my price range. Lazer Z X-Series. Here is my review: Cub Cadet hauler Ill put a picture below. I have an ultima zt2. The 48 48SC-BS24 is on sale for $4207 at sleequipment.com which seems to make it the best value of the 4 Bradley Stand on options. If you want the Cub Cadet I suggest looking seriously at the ZT2. There is a huge selection to pick from including Cub Cadet ZT2, Toro, Ariens etc. Hi Rob, The Boulevards deck is definitely strong enough to step on it. They are expensive and Im not sure if the listed price includes installation. The best part is the price, the Toro is quite a bit cheaper than the Cub. When it died, I decided I didnt want to put more money into having an old mower refurbished. The cut doesnt look quite as good, and he cant follow the bed lines as well as before. The used one would be $900 cheaper, but it actually looks a little rough to me, including seat tears. I own a summer camp with 3 large sport fields. 2. Now I have a cub cadet rzt 50 inch to mow about 3 acres. It is developing a stellar reputation. I prefer a mower where the operator (not the whole mower) has a suspension seat. The John Deere mulches, bags and side discharges the best of all the 42-inch ZTRs on the market. Hi Jim, Instead of waiting for a sale you can always ask the dealer to waive the setup and/or delivery fees. Both are rated for a lawn up to .9 acres and max cutting height of 2.8 inches. A lot of deck designs have a harmonic vibration at certain speeds. There are 15-20 trees/plants and 3 buildings (home, garage, shed) to mow around. Any thoughts or comments? With the 48 inch deck, you can trim around a fence post and never slow down. The Model R is a culmination of over 40 years of commercial experience. It built better than the commercial mowers we used 20 years ago. (I grew up with International Harvester tractors so the Reb/Black paint scheme appeals to me too!). Clean your deck with the deck wash every time you mow when the grass is still wet under the deck. No, it doesnt ride quite as smooth as the Toro MX5075 but rides well and is built stronger than that Toro. If you really want a Toro it would be the Toro Titan Model 75310. Hi Jonathan, Both are great machines and you wont mind the 50-52 inch decks once you get used to them. 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. Dealer did mention that Cub Cadet is the hottest mower they sell now, even though he had a Toro shirt on ha ha. I wanted to begin my research. I also like the fact that the Ariens has a center anti-scalp wheel which will help with scalping on my uneven ground. The Tractor itself is good but they put a cheap Briggs Intek motor in it. Pay, particular attention to the uncrating and setting up section of the manual. I do like the 42 in you sent above. This will be my first zero turn. Why? Have the dealer do the 1st annual tune-up? Its made for lawns like yours. The Ikon XLs blades will last 3-5 years or longer and youll only need to sharpen them once a year. Price/performance/and working your hills this is the best choice. Scag Liberty Z with the Kawasaki engine 48 Any thoughts on Gravely ZT XL model versus a Toro for my situation? The decks are manufactured to incorporate aerodynamic force for a much more intentional distribution of clippings; to avoid clumping, stragglers, trailing, and improve the overall cutting quality of the deck. Home Depot has both the MX5075 and MX6050 available in CA compliant models. I mow our residential, flat, 1 acre yard with ~10 trees and fence in Pittsburgh, PA. (It will be set up and delivered by a local dealer) I checked the Redding, CA website and they can get either one to you in about 2 weeks. You may find the following posts helpful: John Cunningham is an Automotive Technician and writer at Lawnmowerfixed.com. Im looking to purchase a zero turn ride on and to be completely honest and am over the place with what I want to do. Hey Paul have you ever looked into Dixie Chopper or Bush Hog ZT products? And to know which is bettera Toro or a Cub Cadetread through this guide! never go flat front tires !!! Thanks in advance. Keith, If you feel comfortable doing this: Please wear safety glasses, a face shield or a motorcycle helmet and shield. Thank you! I want to try a ZTR mainly because I feel like Im wrestling the steering wheel constantly and I have to back up and pull forward too much at the corners of the yard. I use 2 tablespoons per gallon of fuel. You dont need the armrests because of the way you drive the Walker. I realize that I wont be towing all of the time and more of a nice to have when I need it. Plus I just really like it over anything else under $3000. I do like the 42 inch Toro over the 46 inch Cub Cadet. Any advice would be appreciated. Hi Eric, The Toro rides better the Gravely is a heavier built machine. 2. Im looking for a residential and will be cutting about 3.5 acres. My first choice is the Toro Model 75742. For a rugged mower for two acres, I like the Ariens IKON XL and Ariens APEX at the Home Depot. 1. SO, you really did make my day today. Paul, Electric Riding Mower Lithium-Ion and Lead Acid Battery- 10 Best Tips. Long story short, I have recently moved into a new home that is 2.6 acres. Thanks again! I suggest getting the Cyclone with the dual-wheel casters and the electric start engine. Remember DO NOT buy E15 fuel. I am used to walk behind operation / handling Heavy-Duty Fabricated Decks Built with many commercial components so the mower will take a beating Good for acreages, estates, farm lawns, farm ditches, and mowing pastures monthly. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Just tell your friends about Todaysmower.com and MovingSnow.com. I didnt leave the Cub Cadet/Toro dealer feeling very confident as they didnt seem overly confident in their product and also having difficulty getting parts/units in because of the pandemic. The ZT1 42 zero-turn mower features a 22 HP/725 cc Kohler 7000 twin-cylinder engine that delivers high-performance power for a consistent cut. If the cutting performance isnt the highlight of a good zero-turn mower, I cannot figure out what is. Finally, I am a little concerned that your local dealer cant get a CA compliant mower. This is how I make money to keep this website up and running. The APEX is one of those mowers that it a solid step up from the MZ61. You will like it. Thanks Paul, thats great that you drove this and would buy one. Anything you can tell me will be greatly appreciated. Ill have to take a look at the land again and make a decision. Most people seem to lean towards wanting Kawasaki engines. From poor structural design to poor deck hangers that break and the fact that they have changed the mower from having 10 rear tires to 8 rear tires causes the mower to slide more easily, even on dry ground. I really tried to like the Cub. The 50-inch decks are two of the best cutting decks on the market right now. . Thanks for taking the time to answer. The Kubota is overpriced for what you get. 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. My Deere 212 lasted me 25 years and I would like to get the same from this machine. Not everyone wants to show off at all times, you know? With that being said, treat whichever machine you get with respect and be meticulous about maintenance. Not too worried about that because three of my neighbors have similar topography and mow with ZTRs. 1. The cost difference is around $1200 between the two. Theres a local Gravely dealer that seems reliable and good to work with. Owners need to know this! Hi Travis, I have a list of the mowers I like best at the beginning of the article. But, you would notice that because one blade would cut higher than the other. One of my local dealers does have some 2018 Gravely ZT HD 48 & 52 models in stock, and Im tempted. Its being replaced with the Z560 https://www.husqvarna.com/us/products/zero-turn-mowers/z560/967929901/. Any recommendations you can provide will be greatly appreciated. free pickup and delivery or a discount on the turn-up) My question is are the Ferris mowers worth it compared to some of these on your list? Im leaning towards the MyRides at this point. 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. If you are interested in the Bad Boy I would buy from a local dealer or make sure if you buy from Tractor Supply that you can get it serviced locally. Then if you still need help deciding which mower to buy feel free to come back and ask more questions here. Belts, blades, steering dampeners, bearings, idler pulleys, front wheel bearings, new tires, clutch repair etc., are all 2-3 times more expensive than your current residential machine. The Radius E is the entry-level commercial Exmark. Check out my article here on the Toro Titan. I purposely did not expand on my Toro dealer experience. Thanks for your reply. 1. Both mowers make use of lap bar controls. This steering wheel model is heavy enough to go up the hill and the front steering wheels will help to keep it on the slope. Someone who mows more than once a week is better off with a twin-cylinder engine, as they are more fuel-efficient and durable than their single cylinder counterparts. 2021 Cub Cadet Lawn and Garden Tractors New Models! It is still a very popular mower with farmers who have long ditches and large areas to mow. Believe it or not, I didnt have to replace the blade belt but about two years ago. The MX5050 is an old model. 2. Ive got about two acres of mostly flat lawn at my house. One or two tree stumps, some large anthills. Other than that I dont have a preference. thanks for your great reviews. Cub Cadet: The Cub Cadets 725cc professional-grade KOHLER 7000 V-twin engine is a lot larger than the Toro 452cc, and this mower can reach 7 miles/hour. Your Get free, zero-commitment quotes from pro contractors near you. JavaScript is disabled. (Since I review mowers I like to keep a fairly new unit here) $3500, 200 hours, very well maintained. The Ultima ZT2 will last. I really wanted to see the deck engaged before making my choice between the two. I dont know how steep of slopes it covers. Hes been a mechanic for over twenty-five years and shares his know-how and hands-on experience in our DIY repair guides. On the Toro, however, height is controlled using a lever thats beside the speed control. I would love not doing that since I have to almost schedule in like 3 hours per week and that is around other demands of my time and also around the weather which can be challenging. Toro TimeCutter MX4200. Unfortunately, he dropped me as a customer after the second year, saying that the hillside was tearing up the transmission on his (relatively old) mower. I researched and asked around about the engines and decided that all engines need good upkeep, and good clean air filtration is paramount. Hi Paul, what do you think ? So, yes, if you are willing to spend the money its a very good mower for what you want to do. The mufflers are specd by the application. Then decide the best mower for you based on the features you like and how well you like the dealer. They are both great engines. It is more on the lush side in the spring and fall. Does your boss understand that lawn mowers need regular maintenance? The bolt-in mulch kit is easy to take in and out for fall cleanup. I know you dont recommend buying used but Im looking at a Deere Z930M with 300 hours. Now, we are in a new home and are beginning to look for a mower to better meet our needs. It mows very well and is the right size for one acre. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. I only want to look at shaft drive, to reduce belts. Both Cub Cadet and Toro offer many feature-rich zero-turn mowers. Its a very heavy-duty mower. When the mower is out of service, should the deck be at a specific height, like all the way up or all the way down? The Kawasaki option does not seem to be available unless I want to order through a big box store. I have a small lawn that is only about 1/3 of an acre mowable and it has a gentle slope in the entire backyard of about 6-8., However, I have 22, 60+ year old (mostly) oak tree in my yard that makes fall cleanup by hand impossible for someone with a full-time job and two young kids at home. 6. I would prefer to get the ikon xI but since it is $1000 more than the x, its out of my budget range. Stay away from the $3000 TRs with 54-inch decks the ZT2500 transmissions will also fail. Thanks Paul. My second choice is either the Toro or Cub Cadet 50 inch. If you are financing, buy the one that has the best finance offer. i just need help deciding which mower to go for, i run my own gardening business of three years and its now time to upgrade to a ZT, I do a few commercial jobs which are about 1 acre in size and alot of smaller residencial properties with small gate access around 1/2 acre. Its a heavy-duty mower and is stronger than the TimeCutter series so it will last mowing your lawn. Ill look then up. With a little practice, either one of these mowers will mow your lawn a lot quicker than your 46-inch lawn tractor. 1. Since both companies produce world-class machines, choosing one over the other can be a pretty challenging task for most mower buyers. RYOBI. Great information! It will last the life of the mower. It will easily last you 10 years or more. Remove the deck belt (you may want to remove the deck) spin each blade. Do you have a suggestion for the engine choice, Toro twin 24.5 hp or Kohler 22hp? Both are good dependable mowers. Thank you for the research and in-depth articles; Ive learned a great deal already. The Toro has the SmartSpeed control so you can slow the top speed down when mowing on the slope but, they are both good mowers. If you dont have the experience get a 36-44 inch walk-behind and use that until you get the experience. Also, can you still find the Husqvarna articulating mower? Im looking into a 48-52 mower. For either of the above options, is a ROPS available? Prices all seems around the same $2,900 to $3,200 locally. Browse a wide selection of new and used Heavy Duty Zero Turn Lawn Mowers Outdoor Power for sale near you at TractorHouse.com. Very comfortable to mow with The cut is even no lines. DO not know enough about the hydraulic drive motors to know what is the best of the HD motors. Just the Toro has that extra feature. Its very easy to switch from mulch to bag to side discharge. Which would you suggest? The original seat is a good comfortable seat but I want one more conducive to one with back problems. We store towels, medicine, toiletry supplies, first-aid gear, massage devices, facial steamers, spare Painting your garage is a great way to improve the look of the space and make the walls easier to clean. Their quality is what you expect. To get a ZTR heavy enough to hang on that slope you need to be in the $6000 plus range. What do you say? This is because the spindles are sealed properly to prevent impurities from getting into it, staving off the potential of wear and tear by 99%. Red dirt sandy soil. Thanks for all your informative responses. Fabricated Deck 24 HP Kohler Pro 7000 Series Engine with Roll Over Protection Available at, Cub Cadet Ultima ZTX5 60 in. If the last what could the cause be? Rivets thanks for the info. I bought an MTD from HD 14 years ago and I mow about 1 1/2 acre. This will be fairly detailed, since I read in another comment that details help you. 2022 hustler super z with hard to find 66 inch awesome cutting deck !!! Loncin and the manufacture that makes MTDs Powermore engine are exceptions. Nationwide we are very early in the season ( I still have 2 feet of snow on the ground) so Im fairly sure that there is plenty of stock. Thank you for what you do. Hi Paul, I have 1 acre of land, flat, with fenced backyard and trees on the side in the front yard. Also, like the Ariens Facebook page. Here's why I wouldn't 24 HP 725cc KOHLER 7000 series V-twin automatic OHV engine. Hello Paul. For that money is there a better brand i should consider that has serviceable parts like John Dear, Toro, or Husk? 2. Single-cylinder engines are, however, more affordable, and someone who mows once a week can make good use of a single cylinder. I looked at the Toro Time Cutter 54 with my ride and decided for $200 more to get the 60 without MyRide as it has a beefier trans and larger wheels in front. Paul I know i dont need anything crazy because ill be mowing up to an acre a week but i like nice things and always but more then i need. Thank you! Let me start with the cart. DO NOT buy the Dash. If you only have 10-degree slopes and you are not planning on pulling a lot of heavier loads with the ZTR then Id stay with the Ariens IKON XD or the Gravely ZT X. Oddly enough I was just at the Home Depot and looking at both and wound up talking to a commercial lawn care guy. So, well see if they last. 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. Thanks, Mark. John Deere probably had the most mixed reviews of all, either people loved them or hated them. 25 cu. The Toro Titan with MyRide is the best riding residential mower on the market. Lots to still contemplate. 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.. A zero-turn mower is no light purchase, which explains why so many potential buyers ask questions about both of the mowers weve discussed. Paul Exmark, Hustler, John Deere and Toro all make standon ZTRs. I am considering an upgrade to a zero turn and would appreciate your input. Out of the apex and mz61 which one would have the overall better quality and longevity and have the best cut quality. Thanks so much for your guidance Paul, much appreciated! Both show it online so should be able to at least order the model I want. They are not designed to cleanly cut tall overgrowth. Im not sure if Havener/Bradley would be buying decks and frames from Schiller/Bob Cat but Ill check next time I talk to them.