Hi Paul, Im looking at zero turns for hilly and bumpy terrain. Also I wonder if they all have 2200 axles, I thought I read that the toro had 2800s. Hence, Cub Cadet 60 Volt Max 21 Signature Cut Push Walk-Behind Mower emerges as the clear winner in this segment. Have a wonderful day! Toro TimeCutter vs Cub Cadet ZT1: Which is The Best? The 4-point is also strong enough that you can step on it to get on and off the tractor. Lets see if we can sort them all out. Im always partial to the Exmark though many contractors also like the Scag. (Its like having a locking diff on a Garden Tractor) I suggest the Z-Force S 48 for long life and the extra weight for traction. I have about 5 acres with a few bumps but not too bad I will cut about once a week. The cheap ones are also flimsy and the spouts break after the first year. If I buy the Boulevard, Ill try to make that up to you somehow. I prefer to by from a dealer for possible future support. 35 HP Kawasaki FX1000v (999cc) engine and 16cc Parker HTG transmission 60" triple-7-gauge fabricated steel cutting deck with top, bottom and side reinforcements 3-year limited commercial warranty (no hour limitations) and 5 year / 1,750 hour limited deck construction warranty You're shopping available inventory from Trailers N More, LLC 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. Thats why Tractor Supply carries Jonsered, Lowes carries Husqvarna and the Home Depot carries Poulan Pro. The Toro is the same engine that BTW Did you have a chance to look at the Bradley frame compared to the Bobcat? I really like how the deck sticks out the left side for trimming. Hi iamdgw, The Titan does not have the Smart Speed. I suggest taking a look at the Exmark Radius E and Radius S before you look at the Scag. If you let your lawn get over 10 inches you may have to go back over areas to get a clean cut. Thanks! Was curious your thoughts on a Bad Boy MZ Magnum 54 vs brands in your top models? My budge is around the $6000 mark, By far, the most important factor for me is the cut. The Costco units. Hi Dan, Yes, the Bad Boy Maverick is their best residential mower. Power. Its the best choice in your price range. 2. There are a ton of accessories available for tractor mowers easily converting them from mower to workhorse. They are both priced roughly the same, have similar specs and both carry 3 year unlimited hour warranties. 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! Both mowers run smoothly, and both are equipped with top-notch structural components. That being said, both mowers are powerful and efficient, in large part because of the engines and transmissions they employ. Are you kidding me? They wanted an engine that would last and one where they could do their own warranty approvals. Yes, Toro is discontinuing their steering wheel models. Hey, I'm John, and I'm a Red Seal Qualified Service Technician with over twenty-five years experience. Unlike the Toro, the Cub lacks an engine guard, as well as fenders which keep the mower clean. I recommend staying with a 48-54 inch deck. I will be cutting about 3.5 acres with a few rolling hills. However, Im wondering if either of these would be substantially easier to work on for basic maintenance (oil/filter changes, blade sharpening, etc. At The Home Depot Toro TimeCutter MX5000 50 in. If the grass has too much water in it they actually shred the grass not cut it and leave little grass balls all over your lawn. The John Deere 345r and the new Cub Cadet Ultima mowers are the best right now for bagging. There is a low, medium, and high trim speed. Everyone really likes this mower. Many repair shops carry a cheaper belt, although the same size, that is not designed for use on heat-generating engines. Which would you suggest? Thanks again for the information! The 42 inch Model 75746 is also a good choice since you have less than 1.5 acres. Heavy 7 gauge deck (apparently the same deck/frame as Bobcat). Check it out here: https://homedepot.sjv.io/P00q4N. Of the 40 or so mowers from the different brands in this size range, its average. It uses the residential grade ZT2200 transmissions so if you mow a lot, have hills or need a heavy duty mower I suggest moving up to the Alpha MP or larger. Just increase the engine rpm to mowing speed and the vibration disappears. Going to demo the Walker very soon and if I can manage to escape the seduction, Ill head down the road and pick up the Clipper saving a few bucks. Buy at Amazon. Paul, we have a rough 1.2 acre yard with some trees, beds, stumps, etc. The HD models have a significantly heavier frame and transmissions. 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. Gravely also offers this mower with the heavier ZT2800 transmissions The Gravely ZT XL. I have looked at both in person and there is no comparison the ultra heavy duty Apex (same as the Gravely ZT HD that sells for about $5200) makes the ZT2 look very basic and average. Shopping question: I had narrowed my choice to the new Ariens Apex 48 or 52 (991161 & 991159). The best riding lawn mowers in 2023. Only applies to Pro machines. I would also want to avoid overly sensitive control bars. One forum post claimed to have tested and found that parts are interchangeable. Hi Mike, Your biggest problem is traction. (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. They look good and could use sharpening but no dents. How do these compare to the new Ariens? Even though the Ultima is twice the cost of the tractor it will win when you look at the real cost of ownership especially for using it commercially. If you have ever pulled a boat or camper the specs always include total gross weight and the tongue weight. Both are a lot more agile so you can go around obstacles faster. (33) Synchro-Steer technology offers 4-wheel control and provides unrivaled stability for straight-line mowing on hillsides and slopes up to 20-degrees. Copyright Lawnmowerfixed.com 2018 Virginia, County Cavan, Ireland. It is the most expensive of the mower I discuss. I feel like I cant afford to buy the wrong mower, especially at these prices. 6. Its a stand-on mower. Ariens IKON XD with Kaw engine $3299. The Vanguard is B&S true commercial engine. Use the cart alot in the summer it seems to move alot. There should be almost no sound. Hi Adam, I recommend the Toro Titan with MyRide. Well scratch my last replythe more I talk to my neighbors with riding mowers the more I hear that they wished they wouldve gone with a bigger deck even for our small 1/3 to 1/2 acre yardsIll hear that around 50 is what people think is enough/wish they wouldve gotten. John deere Z540M with the Kawasaki engine 48 It is straightforward and simple to use. Thoughts on a JD or Cuba Cadet? Always use the John Deere or Briggs & Stratton Yellow Oil Filter and change the oil at the recommended intervals. I am in search of zero turn to run the fence line, pond and camp area on 22 acres. Why? Should I be considering someone/something else? Hey Paul. (I dont have a bagger) I usually mow in side discharge mode in the spring and then switch to mulching after the spring growth slows down. 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. This includes the Vanguard and is only $200 more than the lowest price online for the base 48 ($3999). Speed is nice, but the landscape will keep me moving slow to stay in the seat. The Smart speed is a lever that lets you reduce the maximum forward speed so you are not tempted to push the transmissions too hard when towing and it allows you to go slow when trimming so you dont bang into stuff as much. The 2016 is $900 cheaper, and I would ordinarily be tempted, but it looks a little rough, including some tears in the seat. Any ideas? Both riding mowers help you fit between flower beds, but Kubota has a 48" deck which measures in at 2" larger than its foe. In other words, it will last you years. The Cub utilizes a similar tire setup, with the only difference being the 20 x 8-inch rear tires. The alternative is the MX6050. I really like the cut of the fabricated deck on the Toro MyRide. My first choice for you is a Country Clipper Boulevard zero-turn. 3. John Deere Z345M 42 in. Types of Lawn Mowers & Tractors. I read everything you wrote about ZTRs, heck I even created a spreadsheet that shows, brand, model, engine, HP, transmission, deck type, deck size, and price. Ill make a small commission from the sale. Unless your grass is wet from rain they will work well for you. The Liberty Z Scag is a residential mower and is the cheapest in the Scag line. I like my Husqvarna tractor, and the Z254F is on lots of recommended lists, but the user reviews concern me. Im looking to spend around $3k or less for the mower; what would you suggest? (same mower ones red the other is orange) These mowers have commercial duty ZT3100 transmissions and Kawasaki engines like the Bad Boy Elite and the Scag Liberty Z. You should probably get a lawn service for your property so you could spend even more time answering our stupid questions. The flip=up mid-mount deck is unique and works well. I mow about 1 1/2 acre of old bumpy lawn every week and another 1 1/2 acre of former pasture every other week. You didnt say how much you are mowing but for example, 10 acres 25 times a year is only 60-75 hours a year. BTW If you look at the photos of both standers, the Bobcat frame / deck does look nearly identical (look at the caster arms, deck, deck suspensions). I recommend the Cub Cadet Z-FORCE S 48 as your cheapest option. Only the Timecutter has it. Thanks Paul. 2. Even the engines are the same. never go flat front tires !!! 3. While the battery of both machines is nearly similar, what makes the Cub Cadet mower stand out is the extra-high rear wheels. Finally needed work done on the trannys. By the way, Paul, I am very impressed that your top choice for me is one that wouldnt get you a commission. Its very easy to work on and has an accessory front step and handrail so its very easy to get on and off of. 25 cu. "This Gravely 48-inch zero-turn-radius . I guess I am just asking if you have any knowledge of this mower that you can share. Its very similar to the ZT X but has the stronger ZT2800 drives. The ELS version is an Extended Life engine and advertises 50% more life than the Intek. Ive really been eyeing the MX5075 so Im glad you mentioned that one. It flips up the easiest and fastest in fact, its easy enough to use that you can park it in your garage with the deck flipped up to save room. Its maintenance free but expect to have to change the batteries every 5 years or so (about $200 times 4). Great info. I do not need to tow anything. The 54 deck would be welcome as I do have some wide open mowing spaces. Always turn uphill. The Gravely ZT HD is the same mower as the Apex. Hi Ryan, I too have a lot of leaves. Many thanks to you and for your website! cub cadet vs toro zero turn 2020 - sosfoams.com Thank you very much! My only question is on the new Cub Cadet ZT2 is it worth the extra almost 900 dollars for the serviceable transmissions for a residential owner mowing 2.5 to 3 acres once a week or week and a half? I think they would have to be ordered. Aceitar Recusar. Added to that if I ever move to a bigger lawn I wont have to buy a new mower. Paul a number of years ago I purchased a Craftsman 42 inch mower (T2200) that you recommended. Do you agree with that? Cub Cadet Ultima 42 in. 22 HP V-Twin Kohler 7000 Engine Dual Ive been tasked with researching the options. The deck couldnt handle the bumpy ground. Both the Toro and Ariens have great cutting fabricated decks. Seems to be the biggest difference is the forged deck? 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. 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. The Deere probably looks a little better to me too, but my mower doesnt need to be pretty, as long as its not ugly and it mows well and has adequate service support if needed. Services issues are quickly fixed with Ariens Bad Boy has fewer dealers and the quality can be spotty. Just so you know. Lowes in particular has a habit of just taking the mower out of the crate and NOT doing any of the adjustments for example moving the seat on the Ariens mowers. I compared Toro, Bad Boy, John Deere, Husqvarna and Cub Cadet and based on . The Boulevard is one of the best-built residential mowers on the market. Im trying to find the balance between good quality and yet not go too overboard. price is less of a concern for me than performance. Being disabled money isnt coming in like it used to be but my back is very sensitive so wondering if it is worth the extra cash? (about $2699) This is a great, inexpensive mower and I know it will last years: Check it out here. How fast can this machine actually mow, your estimation? 679 cc Fuel Injected (EFI) V-Twin Engine Dual Hydro Gas ZeroTurn Riding Mower with Steering Wheel Control, https://service.webec.husqvarna.net/documents/HUSO/HUSO2020_NAen/HUSO2020_NAen__1141841-95.pdf, https://service.webec.husqvarna.net/documents/HUSO/HUSO2020_NAenNAesNAfrLApt/HUSO2020_NAenNAesNAfrLApt__1140537-38.pdf, Toro Timecutter HD 48 inch at the Home Depot, Toro TimeCutter MX5075 with MyRIDE Suspension, Toro TimeCutter MX5075 with MyRIDE Suspension System 50 in. It helps the fuel last longer and the escaping vapors wont wreck the environment. Unfortunately, the 50 inch is in high demand this year so you may have to go to a dealer to get it. That said. Use the side discharge until June or so. They are both great engines. Would the HG-2800 hydros on the toro be any concern for longevity going up my hilly terrain. Thanks, Thanks. It's not to say that they will not perform well, or that they will not last a long time, it's just that you are not paying for anything that has been built or designed to take any abuse. Watch this video: Paul hope all is well. But none of them add another year warranty like Gravely does. Have used it less than 6 times since. I had no idea where to start looking, but thanks to you Im on top of it now. Hi Tommy, My first choice for mowing one acre and pulling a cart is the 42 in. Hi Robert, On paper, the Liberty Z meets all the criteria for a good $4500 ZTR. So if you are nervous about the Briggs Intek in the John Deere lets focus on two Toro mowers. Hi Shane, I like the Ariens IKON X a lot for a one-acre yard. The Best Electric Riding Mowers, Lawn Tractors and ZTRs - TodaysMower.com Cub Cadet Adds Another Step Up With Commercial-Grade Residential Zero-Turn Other fuels stabilizers to check out: Fuel Stabilizers. Run the proper tire inflation or 2 lbs less in the rear and it will ride well. 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. 2023's Top 10 Zero Turn Mowers: Reviews and Comparisons - Best of Machinery Hi Rob, My first choice is the Ariens IKON XL at Home Depot. I am looking at zero turns and I feel like I can spend $3,000 or less and get a great mower. 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. Hi Larry, In this price range neither Ariens IKON XD is the best. I have seen some concern about the non-serviceable transmission on this model. While purchasing a mower online is possible, its not recommended for the following reasons: All things considered, the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 42 is a powerful, durable mower whereas the Toro TimeCutter ZS 4200S is great at delivering a refined mowing experience. If you see a pulley bouncing up and down or an idler bracket wobbling replace it. The two best are Stihl and Husqvarna for the U.S. market. , I am 6 and over 200 pounds but my wife is much smaller frame, so something that fits different body types is ideal. Use this dealer locator page to find a dealer in your area (Country Clipper dealers). Machines are only as good as the person standing behind them. EZT transmissions will hold up to regular mowing on normal slopes. Toro TimeCutter MX Mulch Kit. I appreciate your suggestion, and I am going to check out the Gravely ZTRs this week, at my local dealer. However, Im not sure how comfortable I am going to feel on that hillside. Others suggest Hustler, Bad Boy, and Husqvarna. It appears Cud Cadet has tried to up their game with the big boys. They make a good flaunt of their 11-gauge fabricated decks, which are highly dependable. Instead, move up to the $4000-4500 heavy-duty ZTRs with ZT2800 or ZT32OO transmissions. Have you heard of the transmission concerns? Rivets thanks for the info. Ariens, Toro, Cub Cadet, and Walker have all made major improvements in their ZTR lines. 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? Its only $300 more than the MX5075 but you get a whole lot more mower. Good to know that their ZTRs dont have the issue. Just the Toro has that extra feature. Its a very heavy-duty mower. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. I recommend the comfort seat and trailer hitch options. Appreciate it. 10 gauge deck, commercial ZT3100 drives, and huge tires will help this mower cut well, ride well and last a long time. Consumers using both have found Toro's decks more durable than Cub Cadets'. That mower should be in the $2700 range and the fact you have to spend an EXTRA $160 for a hitch is ridiculous. I dont know if they have CA versions. Kohler engine. Baggers for the MX and HD are very expensive. I bought the 42 inch because of a few tight landscaping spots but after having it for a few years I wish Id bought the 50 inch. Appreciate all the help! Hi John, Sorry, I too busy with movingsnow.com and helping my daughter move into their new house. Does anyone have experience with these two? Hi James, My goal here is not to tell you which mower to buy but to help you find the best mower for you. It has Toros great V-twin engine. Any suggestions? I was leaning toward the Gravely/Ariens just trying to suss this as thoroughly as I can. Is there a significant difference between the Toro TimeCutter and the HD models? Fabricated Deck 23 HP Kawasaki FR Series V-Twin Gas Engine Zero Turn Mower with Lap Bar ControlAvailable at, Cub Cadet Ultima ZT2 54 in. Spray Foam Equipment and Chemicals. In in the market for a zero turn and im not sure which one to go with. I always leave my decks at the mowing height. Post author By ; aleko lm137 manual Post date July 1, 2022; police clearance certificate in saudi arabia . Thanks. HD is about 200 cheaper right now. . Hi Carrie, Would a front deck do big berms? And I usually just side discharge, but a mulching option and a bagging option would always be nice. If you own a large patch of land, the Cub Cadet will serve you well for a long time. Pushing both bars forward makes the mower go forward, while pulling back makes the mower reverse. I like some of the stuff on the zt1, like the larger tires, the lights, my kids really like the looks of it, (they say it reminds them of bumblebee from the transformers movies), but Ive been reading about owners having problems with deck vibrations, so Im leery about getting it. To steer right, pull back the right bar while keeping the left bar pressed forward. I am considering an upgrade to a zero turn and would appreciate your input. In my opinion, this is the lowest price point you should go for what you want to mow. Love your site. Thoughts. Have they had problems? Also, do you know anything about the toro engine compared to the Kawasaki. Your options for the best walk-behind or riding lawn mower range from $170 gas push models to lawn tractors and zero-turn mowers that can cost upward of $5,000. Toro timecutter HD or Thank you! Having a really hard time deciding between the two if I make the jump from a 42 to the 50/52. A lot of deck designs have a harmonic vibration at certain speeds. That is an easy adjustment and found on page 20 of the operators manual. Hey Paul, Very informative article! I have it professionally serviced last July and informed them of the issue. I dont know how steep of slopes it covers. Mostly flat land. 10 years ago they were one of the best ZTRs on the market but today almost everyone else has passed them up for cut quality, service, etc. Yes, the Joystick does take a little practice but its actually a lot easier to use than lap bars and not as tiring. The yard is not what Id call perfectly evenprobably typical for the countrybut the man who mows says its not bad. Paul, Hustler fixed all the issues with the Raptor series with the new XD. 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. cub cadet vs toro zero turn 2020. When Sears and Husqvarna parted ways it looks like Husqvarna kept all the molds and just slapped the Jonsered name on it. Is the Toro 75742 the one youd recommend or something else? I like the flip up footplate, the Kohler, and the rear engine guard on the Cub Cadet a lot. Are there any inclines present? It all seems easy enough for me to do it, but its got a 3 yr warranty so what is the best practice? 3. I use a bungee cord to lift the discharge cover. cub cadet vs toro zero turn 2020 - askebiz.com Hi Rob, each one has its advantages but they are so close in cut quality and durability the only real difference is the dealer support. Hi Larry, There is nothing wrong with the Toro or ExMark except the sales didnt meet Toros expectations. Bush Hog has had zero-turns for many years and the current models are heavy-duty well-built units. Its built like a tank, rides well and cuts very well. 6. Either one will mow grass 8-12 inches tall in side discharge mode and give you a clean cut. John When my wife mows, she complains about how bumpy I want a mulching deck since I mow around my market garden and I cant sell lettuce mix that is covered in grass clippings. Paul Sikkema has been writing about snow blowers, riding mowers, and other lawn and garden equipment for over 10 years. When we need parts and service, I imagine we may end up going to Tractor Supply well see. It is mostly level ground and what is not is easy to use a push mower. What about bushes, trees, lawn furniture, and other outdoor fixtures? (Since I review mowers I like to keep a fairly new unit here) $3500, 200 hours, very well maintained. They are designed for nice lawns so the deck height is a little harder to adjust. How does the next step up Cub Cadet (ZTX4) stack up same tranny & engine I believe. Any insight on the Toro V-twin vs the Kohler V-twin 7000 series? Residential ZTRs are rated for no more than 15-degree slopes. The engines generate about 22 to 24 horsepower also depending on the grade of the model. With the SmartSpeed you can easily pull 350 lbs without hurting the tranny. Enjoyed reading your article. I cant really understand why Bad Boy wants to charge you $600 more for the Kawaski FR 630. Hi Rob, All of the current name-brand zero-turns are a lot easier to drive than the models made 20 years ago. I have a .5 acre yard planted with centipede grass with a drainage ditch along the road frontage. If you get the Toro make sure you get a set of the standard mulching blades. In this case, though the Kawasaki is a residential engine. The APEX is a heavy-duty mower and I strongly feel it can handle most any lawn. The SS4225 is a good ZTR with Toros good single cylinder engine. The Kawasaki in these mowers is the FR (residential) version. Hi Jerry this suspension goes between your existing seat and the mounting plate. Our current home is a new construction home with approximately 1 acre of flat yard with about 6-8 mature trees in our yard to cut around. Hi Dante, Thanks for the complete explanation. Just not sure if I should look for a ZTR that is heavy, one that has wide tires, etc. And maybe I wouldnt really be able to tell the difference. Exmark, Hustler, John Deere and Toro all make standon ZTRs. Torn on 3 brands. Our turn-tight craftsman mower has been OK, but I really think that a zero turn would improve our efficiency cutting this yard. Thanks for your opinion on my choices. I have about 1 acre of mowable grass. I have an ExMark 42 inch. I do my best to not mow wet grass and usually remove no more than 1 inche in a mow. It mows very well and is the right size for one acre. The 3100 trannys are nice but the mower is Kubotas entry model. Im looking at the Ariens Apex, Gravely ZT HD and Toro Titan all in 60 inch. . The Deere cuts well. Asides from that issue, I totally commend having headlights on your zero-turn and purchasing a Cub Cadet for that good reason. I also like the fact that the Ariens has a center anti-scalp wheel which will help with scalping on my uneven ground. Could I get 200 hours out of the Z335E? Your thoughts please. Ive never been a Cub Cadet fan, however, their new Ultimata series seems pretty legit after research.