OEM might even be kevlar belts but they pretty much always cost more. . I recommend the Cub Cadet Z-FORCE S 48 as your cheapest option. Titan IronForged Deck 24.5 HP Commercial V-Twin Gas Dual Hydrostatic Zero-Turn Riding Mower with MyRIDE, Cub Cadet Ultima ZT3 60 in. Here are my questions: if i am willing to spend between 6-7k.. what would you say is the best mower i can get (residential/commercial). If you have a very thick lawn you may wish you went with a V-Twin engine. Ive owned them over the years and my neighbor has one thats almost 20 years old it runs just as good now as it did new. But achieving a lush, vibrant lawn can be tough work, especially if theres a lot of ground to cover. Thank you for the research and in-depth articles; Ive learned a great deal already. Any insight on the Toro V-twin vs the Kohler V-twin 7000 series? heavier deck, and stronger transmissions. Hi Adam, The Apex is comparable to the Cub Cadet Z-Force in price and features. John deere, gravely, bob cat, toro, exmark. Is Your Yard Suitable For a Zero-Turn Mower? Have a 5ft gate (55 inches clear). Yard is level. So, yes, if you are willing to spend the money its a very good mower for what you want to do. It is the most expensive of the mower I discuss. Im also showing that Lowes is not going to carry most models in stock. The angle of the belt from the engine to mower is less when the deck is higher and that seems to help. For reference, I am mowing one acre, with some moderate slopes, trees, and landscaping. Any thoughts on that machine? fuel type: gas. Hi Adam, The Patriot is going to give you a suspension seat and a commercial-grade engine. Hey, I'm John, and I'm a Red Seal Qualified Service Technician with over twenty-five years experience. $4399 $3499 = $900. Theres no winner in terms of durability and maneuverability. 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? I have it professionally serviced last July and informed them of the issue. Have you heard of the transmission concerns? Solid, Paul. Even the new MyRide MX5075 uses the 2200. The Gravely has the best deck for cutting longer grass and it will handle the hills. (I grew up with International Harvester tractors so the Reb/Black paint scheme appeals to me too!). Nov 16, 2020 #2 . As much as you love the regular Toro Timecutter with the fabricated deck I would even consider that In any case, heres a link to a video about the Turning Point Center shelter for the elderly homeless in Houston, TX https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yRAJIH0veOM so you can get an idea about the organization and how it runs. Which brand wins the key to your shed? So the real difference and apples to apples price comparison is the ZT X to the ZT XL. Of course, durability is important. This article centers on helping you notice both brands distinct features to enable you to discern which machine is best for you. Hi Thomas, The Big Dog Alpha is a Hustler Raptor painted red. I would expect both would hold up well for my use. These mowers are also quieter, but youll be paying for all these benefits. My land is rough and still with the frequent stump and small Yaupon bushs still popping up in east Texas. 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. 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. They dont have enough traction and the center of gravity is too high. This peculiarity is very beneficial to the cutting deck of the machine. I can buy a 2019 for 6K out the door ? I think I have narrowed my choices to the Toro MX5075 and the Ariens IKON XL. TodaysMower.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, and we get a commission on purchases made through our links to Amazon. Im thinking of selling my ExMark Quest 42 inch steering wheel. Ive done extensive research, and my head is spinning. About Paul Sikkema Hi Paul. You must log in or register to reply here. I cant decide between the Ariens Ikon XD 42 or the Toro Time Cutter 42 with My Ride though my comfort is not the issue, I just want to best cut. I just had a ..make my day Clint Eastwood moment but in a good way (smile). Hey guys. I am 6 and over 200 pounds but my wife is much smaller frame, so something that fits different body types is ideal. Lourdani, The Z Master 2000 is the entry-level commercial Toro. Really appreciate the breakdown there! 2022 LawnMowerForum.com. Hi Anthony, Serviceable transmissions are something the internet wants but in reality, these transmissions hold up well. So at least Ive narrowed it down to 4 potential brands. The 4-point is also strong enough that you can step on it to get on and off the tractor. I imagine itll see approximately 1 hour of use a week during the mowing season. I would prefer one with mulching capacity that doesnt bog down, create mohawks, or leave grass clumps on my lawn or, worse, my sidewalk and driveway. 1, Walker Model R (new Model)42inch Kohler 7000 3 Luglio 2022; dekalb regional medical center ceo; when did ojukwu and bianca get married . Cub Cadet ZT1 42E Electric Riding Mower. Several years ago you helped me purchase my Craftsman Pro Series 42 riding mower. Ok, thank you for the clarification. Troy-Bilt Zero-Turn Mower Review Inexpensive Quality ZTRs. Many features define a potential zero-turn, but the most important and commonly considered traits are power, durability, convenience, effectiveness, and a way to look dapper as possible whilst hanging out on the grass under the scorching sun. The Grasshopper is unique no one else still produces that style of mower. This is how I make money to keep this website up and running. Thanks. Toro: The Toro utilizes a patented Toro 452cc gasoline engine and a duel hydrostatic transmission. It has the same heavy-duty features as the Ariens IKON XL but the deck is designed more for weekly mowing. 4. The other hidden gem is County Clipper. 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). Starting with the most important facts and how the brands compare. Its been good but Id like to upgrade. Manage Settings Ive been tasked with researching the options. The for the advice Paul. I am in search of zero turn to run the fence line, pond and camp area on 22 acres. Most ZTRs dont have enough traction to go up that hill. The Kohler Confidant EFI is the state-of-the-art in engine tech right now. If you have to sit on the seat to start the mower there is an electrical pressure switch inside the seat. I like both of them a lot. Loncin is one of the worlds largest engine manufactures and their quality is legendary. My personal first choice is always a stand-on but I dont recommend stand-on mowers smaller than 40 inches. He spends as much time with his granddaughter as he can. Q: What are your thoughts about Kohler vs Kawasaki quality? Hi JD, I have no problems with any of the engines. I also like one of my Ariens/Gravely dealers. Awesome site and comments. 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. It has Toros great V-twin engine. In my area, Home Depot is still showing delivery April 30. Im looking at the Ariels and Cub Cadet zero turn mowers. In addition, some companies want their own exclusive brand so they dont have to price match another retailer. Appreciate it. Im looking at the 42 inch airlines ikon x and the hustler raptor. Hey Paul have you ever looked into Dixie Chopper or Bush Hog ZT products? The Toro engine is developing a stellar reputation. With the belt loose wiggle the pulley on the electric clutch up and down (on the bottom of the engine) there should be no play. Let me know if Im completely out to lunch on this. That is an easy adjustment and found on page 20 of the operators manual. I prefer to deal with local dealers versus the big box stores. Dont worry about the commission. He did a great job and cut down a lot of the smaller trees etc. If you want a one and done mower the Vanguard is definitely the engine to buy. Hes also fairly rough on equipment, (He killed an Exmark Lazer Z in 10 years) so the Ariens Apex/Gravely can put up with his abuse. 4. 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? The Kawasaki option does not seem to be available unless I want to order through a big box store. 1. Yard is about 1 acre. Hi Bill, Dixie Chopper is under new ownership again. 54 (137 cm) TimeCutter MyRIDE Zero Turn Mower (75754), Toros 42 (107 cm) TimeCutter Zero Turn Mower, Toro 21 (53cm) 60V MAX Electric Battery SMARTSTOW Self-Propel High Wheel Mower, Cub Cadet 60 Volt Max 21 Signature Cut Push Walk-Behind Mower. By the way, is that cub cadet engine in a ZT1 it must be a previous year because this years model has the Kohler 7000 series (also a good engine) Personally if I have a choice Ill pick the Kaw first and then the Toro engine. 1. The front half of the lawn is level, and thus can be mowed with even a basic riding mower. Hi Jack, for that much lawn I suggest a high-end residential or entry-level commercial mower. As time goes by and my father in law and neighbor get older Ill be cutting probably in the 10 acre range. 4. Thanks for the information. But you are saying that isnt the case? By far, the most important factor for me is the cut. Dave. Hi Tawanda, A good 42-inch zero-turn is a good size for your yard. In general, if your yard is or greater than 1/3 of an acre, a residential zero-turn mower will work great. 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. Hi Paul, 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. Thoughts. Thank you!! I personally dont like baggers because they are big, bulky, and hard to store so I mulch the leaves and then pick up whats left with a high-speed sweeper. Do you have a preference between those 2? Thanks Paul. The Boulevard is one of the best-built residential mowers on the market. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. One of the signature traits of the Toro TimeCutter is the ease of getting on and off; theres a little gap right at the front edge of the footplate for you to place your foot in for a step. Im leaning towards the Toro and more of the 50 inch model with the Kawasaki engine. Below that list, I discuss the more popular brands and why buying a certain brand may be the best choice for you. A mowers engine and transmission are two of its most important components. Skag, Ferris, ExMark and Walker are on the heavy price point side for similar specs in these others (at least thats my interpretation of what Im reading). When not in use, should the deck be kept at a specific height (all the way up or down)? If you are inexperienced with standons check out this article: Spartan. 3. 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. Warren, RI, Hi Mike, I knew you would like it! I bought an MTD from HD 14 years ago and I mow about 1 1/2 acre. Im trying to find the balance between good quality and yet not go too overboard. 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. I too am a stand-on guy so I really like your list. Just not sure I need that much but also dont want to deal with issues after I buy it!! 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. In reality, they both weigh the same. Finally, learn to use your knees to cushion the ride and it is the second-best riding mower on this list. My budget is $6,000 or less. The wider deck will allow you to trim around obstacles easier than the 42 inch model below. Doesnt the Toro have limits on towing to 85 lbs? I feel like I cant afford to buy the wrong mower, especially at these prices. If you have any questions or problems your local dealer will be glad to help you. I have been using a Husqvarna 48 lawn tractor and have been very satisfied with it. And Im perfectly happy to buy the ZT HD instead; I just hadnt really had Gravely on my radar before I talked with them. This is going to get priceysoon! I went and looked at it last Saturday and got to drive it around the parking lot. It just would not move. Hi Greg, You have to move up to the Toro Timecutter HD and the Ariens IKON XL to get the larger transmissions. That is a much larger market than Lawnmowers and there are hundreds of little hole-in-the-wall making engines for that market sector. Thank you for your input! My understanding is he was originally a part owner in Bad Boy mowers he didnt like the direction Bad Boy was heading so he started his own brand of ZTRs. I have a one acre lot. -Its very easy to tip up the deck, remove the mulch kit and then use the Accelerator side mount grass catcher if needed. 3. Single-cylinder engines are less efficient and typically very loud. The best cut/mulching and the best ride is the Toro TimeCutter with MyRide suspension. Find Zero Turn Lawn Mowers Outdoor Power from CUB CADET, FERRIS, and JOHN DEERE, and more, for sale in MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN So with proper care anything will last a lifetime. The Cub Cadet is the clear winner right now but we need to give the EGO a chance this year to prove itself. Fab 24.5 HP V-Twin Gas Dual Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower, Toro TimeCutter MX6050 60 in. Price/performance/and working your hills this is the best choice. The full suspension platform on the Radius would be really nice for mowing your rougher area. Its been more helpful than you know! What model should i be looking at for a rough and hilly yard? 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. Thanks for your opinion on my choices. 46 . Spent the last couple months searching for a ZTR. Its smoother than the 7000 series and has a larger air cleaner. It could be sent here to pick up, but this location isnt open on Saturdays at all which means Id have to take time off from a new job to pick it up. John Deere Z530M (Local Dealer) It shows ZT-2200 on the MX5000 (both new and old versions) For the Toro, the following are popular accessories: For the Cub, these accessories are often bought: To know more about the accessories that are commonly purchased for mowers, read this post. Am I right Im thinking that the Toro MX5000 has the Hydro Gear 2800 and the Ariens Ikon X has the smaller Hydro Gear 2200? Paul, our 1 acre lot in PA has some trees, and is a bit bumpy in spots. All around homeowner use, what would you buy? Paul does most of his writing out in his workshop where he feeds the wildlife and birds in the yard. The gray AUTOMOWER 435X AWD Model 967 85 33-66 is the homeowner version. Im always partial to the Exmark though many contractors also like the Scag. Hi Joe, Im not a big fan of the 300 series Deere ZTRs. Hi Steve, Please ask the Home Depot store manager. My budge is around the $6000 mark, This will be handy for my open / flat areas Thanks, Ive pretty much narrowed my choice down to the JD Z355R (maybe the Z375R) or the Toro MX5075 (a bit under 2 acres, somewhat bumpy, with a few hills and some trees and obstacles to dodge). Do you have any reason that you would value one over the other? I have two in mind. It also has the heavy-duty ZT2800 transmissions. Hi Paul, A 50-52 inch mower has a wider stance so youll feel more comfortable on your slope. With todays ethanol-blended fuel you need a gas can that seals tight. The ZT 3100 with charge pumps has a history of blowing the o-rings around 500 hours. Hi Daron, Would you please point me to where you read or heard that Toro only has a tow limit of 85lbs? Get free shipping on qualified Cub Cadet Zero Turn Mowers products or Buy Online Pick Up in Store today in the Outdoors Department. Toro TimeCutter MX Mulch Kit. I suggest that you dont mulch until your lawn growth has settled down. Both have the same Kawasaki engine and appear pretty similar on the surface. Have your readers commented on it one way or the other? Its only $300 more than the MX5075 but you get a whole lot more mower. 22.5 HP Time Cutter V-Twin Gas Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Smart Speed Model# 75742 Available at The Home Depot Also available at Tractor Supply, ACME Tools and your local Toro Dealer. Now, The commercial Kawasaki FS and FX are great engines. I had a Toro time cutter Z5035 model 74376 that lasted 10 years. I visited the nearest Jonsered dealer today, and he said that Husqvarna has bought up several brand names and hasnt figured out how to deploy them in the marketplace. I like having my weekends free for fun time. I can get on and off without the rail, but it involves using the deck as a step, which the dealer says is fine. They compare favorably to the high-end Kohler Command and Briggs Vanguard. John deere Z540M with the Kawasaki engine 48 3. Opposite hand positions will turn the mower left. Both are rated for a lawn up to .9 acres and max cutting height of 2.8 inches. Paul, I am looking for a zero turn mower for a yard that is about 2.75 acres. You should not use Gator Blades for SIDE-DISCHARGE. I also like the Gravely/Ariens in that price range. Should I be looking at ExMark as well? 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. Your thoughts please. All the other lap bar ZTRS will struggle if they can mow it at all. thanks for your great reviews. I am orderingI dont think I can live with the regrets Ill have if I pass on this and buy a $4200 Gravely/Hustler locally! You are right that the dealer can often make the difference, and the one I got mine from is awesome! 5. What would be your advise for a mostly level 2 acre lawn but use to be an old farm crop filed that is pretty rough? I have around two acres to mow, with a lot of flower beds, a large flower/vegetable garden, two out buildings, two houses, two driveways, quite a few trees, fencing along a cow pasture, and a ditch along the highway. The Exmarks are geared towards commercial use. Could I get 200 hours out of the Z335E? Hi Mark, I have not done any testing myself but I spent a lot of time with them at the National GIE-EXPO last fall. Their side discharge decks get the grass out quickly so it cuts evenly and doesnt clump the grass. Not sure if there is a limit on the amount or not. I like 60-inch decks but the 52-inch deck is plenty big for your lawn. Are you kidding me? Inasmuch as I know that Im going to buy a 42 steering wheel zero turn; my question is do you have any idea why the Toro SW4200 and the Exmark Front steering machines are no longer being made? But Ariens, Husqvarna (254) are coming into view. Hi Ted, If you buy from the Box stores I recommend reading the operators manual before you go mow with it. Or Bagger for 42 inch Fab Deck. Thanks Paul. About half the lot is sloped from 11 13.7 degrees (measured with angle finder phone app calibrated with a level). Paul, The Compacts (all brands) are only for small residential flat areas that have gates you have to deal with. 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. Appreciate your passion and what you do for the common folks on here. 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. It built better than the commercial mowers we used 20 years ago. Trying to decide between a 54 Magnum MZ ztr Bad Boy and a Ariens Ikon X 52, any words of advise? These start around $2500 and the good Cub Cadet and Husqvarna models are around $3200. I live in Wisconsin and surely like to support the local manufacturers. Leaning towards the 42 that you specified above with the forged deck and smart speed. Hi Jon, Wow! The new 2018 Boulevard would be $400 more than a 2019 Ariens IKON XL 52 (I cannot find one locally to test, but I havent given up yet). Hi Paul, The smaller deck may let you trim more areas of your woods also. (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. How does the next step up Cub Cadet (ZTX4) stack up same tranny & engine I believe. Paul, I bought a Cub Cadet Ultima 54 inch deck ZTR. 2. Based on my reading here (and other online platforms), Im pretty much in line with everyone elsereliability, durability, maintainability, reasonable cut (dont need golf course perfection! Country Clipper was one of the first brands to make zero-turn mowers for other brands. Available at CubCadet.com, The Home Depot, Local Dealer Best All-Around: Toro 42 in. I never recommend paying extra for the Kawasaki name. Kohler engine. Come and get it in Northern Wisconsin. A little history first. I like the ZT XL 52. Having a really hard time deciding between the two if I make the jump from a 42 to the 50/52. If the last what could the cause be? The most important thing to me besides the bagger is reliability. Fabricated Deck 23 HP Kawasaki FR Series V-Twin Gas Engine Zero Turn Mower with Lap Bar ControlAvailable at, Cub Cadet Ultima ZT2 60 in. I always leave my decks at the mowing height. It will give you a cut you can be proud of. 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. I am leaning towards the Ryobi, but there isnt much online about it besides the HD and the manufacturers site. The Toro TimeCutter and Cub Cadet zt1 have models with different motors and capacities depending on the grade. Appreciate the in depth insight on the towing/tongue weight. Looking for my first zero turn. That said. The ZT 3100 is the entry-level commercial tranny. My Deere dealer, on the other hand, is a large ag dealer and every time I go visit it feels like since I dont own a million dollars of farm equipment they arent that interested in developing the trust I expect. Thanks again! The TimeCutter machines are distinct for having a small compartment right under the seat in front of you to store little gems you might have found during your adventure on the lawn. 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. They revised it and its now called the EDGE. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to on this site. With the 48 inch deck, you can trim around a fence post and never slow down. Its being replaced with the Z560 https://www.husqvarna.com/us/products/zero-turn-mowers/z560/967929901/. 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. For $300 more you can get the 75746. 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). I suggest mulching your leaves in the fall. From what Im reading here the Ariens is better built but is it worth the few hundred dollars?