Personally, Id go with the 48 inch but the 54 and 60 inch models will get you done faster. DEWALT. Ariens Edge 42 Any recommendations you can provide will be greatly appreciated. Universal Suspension SEAT KIT for Lawn Mowers. A little more practice needed but all of the point you made Paul are what made me decide. I would greatly appreciate your advice regarding the best mower for my needs. Its not on my Top 5 list but it probably should be. If I recall correctly, Bradley actually had a stand-on before Bob Cat. I went and looked at it last Saturday and got to drive it around the parking lot. Probably not but if your property is rough, has slopes greater than 10 degrees, you want to get done as quickly as possible or you have teenagers who are learning to use a zero-turn then it is worth moving up to the XT2. Toro TimeCutter MX Series MX5050 Zero Turn Rider 74774 (50): $3200 Mind you he has like 10 acres he cuts.. so he has a commercial grade Scag with EFI and all that good stuff. Now I own a house and boy there so much information about lawn mowers. I prefer the Walker. I do think Ill like the wider rear tires on the Deere though. I have it professionally serviced last July and informed them of the issue. The usage will be 2-5 acres Texas Gulf Coast, mostly flat, no big slopes but some shallow ditches, some trees/obstacles, mostly turf grasses but with some rougher stuff. 48-52 inch zero-turns will typically travel faster than 42-inch models and some models will cut grass as fast as 9 MPH! Thank you for the research and in-depth articles; Ive learned a great deal already. Expect 500-800 hour engine life. Here is the Gravely sales page: Gravely Mow The Distance Sale. From what Im reading here the Ariens is better built but is it worth the few hundred dollars? When not in use, should the deck be kept at a specific height (all the way up or down)? Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 50 in. Thanks Paul. I just dont think I need a heavy duty mower, but maybe the heavier Cub would last longer. The biggest problem with the TB30 is its lack of traction on any type of slope so most zero-turns will be better but I suggest a heavy-duty model. The offset deck sticks out more on the left of the mower making it very easy to trim around stuff. You simply mow and tow, and mow again forgetting the existence of a spindle. Thanks in advance! Hi iamdgw, My first choice is the Gravely/Ariens ZT-HD/APEX. There is also the Z525E but I keep reading about the Tuff Torq hydros burning up after the 2 yr warranty :(. Thanks Paul. Many thanks to you and for your website! Ive noticed that they offer two different engines though. 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.. The Ariens IKON XL and Gravely ZTXL (Same machine) are good choices. Hello Paul. Contenders must have serviceable trans with decks less than 50 to possibly wiggle through a large walk gate. Is the 3-blades on the Ariens an advantage for mulching? Hi Dave, Everyone is very satisfied with the Toro/Exmark engine. Hi Mark, Im not aware that Tractor Supply has a robotic mower. The full suspension platform on the Radius would be really nice for mowing your rougher area. 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. I mow just under 2 acres of mostly flat to gently sloping grass. Price-wise the Gravely is more but you get proportionately more. Quality of cut is secondary, because it is a rough country yard. . You might have decided to give your knees a break and invest in a riding mower, maybe you have fantasized about slashing the time and turning on a dime with a zero-turn, or are you seeking to try out a new brand? https://www.russopower.com/bob-cat-quickcat-48-stand-on-mower-20-5hp-kawasaki, https://www.walmart.com/ip/Bradley-Mowers-48SC-BS24V-48-Hydro-Drive-Stand-On-Compact-Zero-Turn-Mower-Briggs-Vanguard-24HP-Electric-Start/857626337?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0&adid=22222222227101833639&wmlspartner=wmtlabs&wl0=&wl1=s&wl2=c&wl3=217425214023&wl4=pla-351178471162&wl5=9007349&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=online&wl12=857626337&wl13=&veh=sem&gclid=CjwKCAjw8LTmBRBCEiwAbhh-6DkrXIHh6wBIoiq3Nq8irCQhs-bWBoJAYhEHyGtOPxcEuDgjojV9gxoCVFQQAvD_BwE. 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). The Gravely ZT XL and the Ariens Ikon XD are essentially the same mower the Gravely just has the heavier duty transmission and a few other small features. Thank you. 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. Hi Rob, Yes, there is a substantial difference between the Timecutter and HD models. Dont make this mistake! Both mowers have a padded high-back seat, and these can be adjusted to ensure maximum comfort. if I go with the ikon xl, which engine should I choose, Kawasaki or the Kohler? Hi Paul, want your view on a commercial quality/HD zero like the Scagg Tiger II 60ish deck, grasshopper, JD etc. Watch this video: Paul hope all is well. Since I can get the zt2 for only $300 more than the zt1, do I take my chances on it and hope the deck is good? My five is in engine, transmutation and durability with Max cut height in mind. 2. Long story short, I have recently moved into a new home that is 2.6 acres. Im always partial to the Exmark though many contractors also like the Scag. Cub Cadet Vs. Ive got about two acres of mostly flat lawn at my house. It looked fairly safe and stable to mow this way. Toro Timecutter: (they have a fabricated deck or a stamped deck not sure which to get) Havent seen no negative comments on these. Cutting Width (in.) I assume that the ZT-2200s would be fine for my use than. I really feel you are paying extra for the green paint compared to the Toro or even the Cub Cadet. I prefer the 50 inch model because the deck sticks out the side farther which makes it easier to trim around stuff. Ive used a California trimmer reel mower for the past 6 years, but want less maintenance and speed. Remember DO NOT buy E15 fuel. We have been wearing out two standard 21 mowers, and we need to buy a riding lawn mower. They are rated for over 500 hours which for most people equals 2 hours a week for over 10 years. Thanks again! It will last the life of the mower. Hi Paul, have you looked at the new Scag residential zero turn yet? 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. This makes the TimeCutter machine prone to overheating and wearing out quicker than it should. When I first researched this a couple of years ago, I found your positive comments about the Husqvarna Rider mower, and thought that might be an option. Residential ZTRs are rated for no more than 15-degree slopes. I think Im leaning towards the Gravley/Ariens product. (There are a lot of small assembly shops that do make components for most brands). An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Our turn-tight craftsman mower has been OK, but I really think that a zero turn would improve our efficiency cutting this yard. Thats very helpful. Having a really hard time deciding between the two if I make the jump from a 42 to the 50/52. Its been a great cart. (These seem to appear mostly on commercial units). And yes the Ultima XT2 can pull it loaded around your property once in a while. By the way, Paul, I am very impressed that your top choice for me is one that wouldnt get you a commission. powerful 35hp v-twin kawasaki engine !!! So I spent about $450 at local dealership to replace drive belt, tune up, etc. The Kawasaki option does not seem to be available unless I want to order through a big box store. I can spilt and mow separate days if need be. The other half is generally flat (this is the back, and the lower portion of the front). LapBars can really put a strain on your shoulders after a while. Its also taller and 7 inches longer, which means itll take up more space and look larger, neither of which appeals to me. Hi T. Dan, Feel free to stop by anytime and tell us how the Jonsered is working out. I like both of them a lot. Hi Jack, for that much lawn I suggest a high-end residential or entry-level commercial mower. and the picture! Im thinking its ok to go stamped since I dont commercially mow. You will like it. cub cadet vs toro zero turn 2020. Thanks for the quick reply. After I posted that I looked a little closer. The Titan 48 inch with MyRide is easily the best riding and best cutting residential mower. Either way, you have the Toro TimeCutter and Cub Cadet zt1 to the test with a spot for the best combatant. Hi I was wondering what you thought about the new Riding ego zero turn 360 mower battery one Im looking at getting that maybe at the end of the year or next year Right now its a low too expensive for my taste. It has smooth-running V-Twin and bags well. I really like the cut of the fabricated deck on the Toro MyRide. (same mower ones red the other is orange) The larger 20 inch rear tires really make a difference for traction on slopes. Hi Paul, Thanks so much for the reply. #1 Home Improvement Retailer. Both mowers are ideal for residential homeowners. 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. It is one of the best engines for fuel economy and is instantly responsive to heavy loads. It all seems easy enough for me to do it, but its got a 3 yr warranty so what is the best practice? Both brands have a cutting height difference of 1 4.5 inches, only that the Cub Cadet functions on a pin system to adjust cutting heights, and the Toro TimeCutter relies on a lever which I honestly prefer over picking and dropping a pin especially when you have to constantly take your eyes off the track. Ive also read about the Ariens mowers you recommend. The dealers near me have cub cadet and toro. If you get the Toro make sure you get a set of the standard mulching blades. The slow speed is especially great while learning how to use the machine and I have a cart that I can tow in the second speed. 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. 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. Paul, Thanks. Thanks, Hi Pam, They are both very high-quality machines. You dont seem to mention Bobcat what are your thoughts on both of these machines? 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. The Toro is the highest-rated. Your site has given me a good quick education. Do you have an aftermarket blade recommendation for use with a mulch kit, other than the OEM blades that cub cadet sells? Toro TimeCutter HD with MyRIDE with the Kawasaki 48. Finally, given I dont have a trailer and that my truck is a stepside bed, most of these mowers, I dont think will fit in my truck. Thank you very much, I appreciate your input. Would I be perfectly happy with the Toro for my very average small lawn? I am looking at the Deere Z335E and Z375R. The Ultima is getting all the advertising this year but the Troy-Bilt is basically the same mower for a little less money. You can get all three with the Kawasaki engine. Hi Anthony, Serviceable transmissions are something the internet wants but in reality, these transmissions hold up well. I got 1/3 acre to mow with not much obstacles in the way (4 trees). I believe the deck shell is the same one used as on the commercial mowers. Here is my review: Cub Cadet hauler Ill put a picture below. Considering that I dont seem to need the step-handrail, do you still consider the Boulevard my best option? Charlie Victor. The for the advice Paul. With a little practice, either one of these mowers will mow your lawn a lot quicker than your 46-inch lawn tractor. Hi Shane, mulching blades by themselves dont do much. I really appreciate your help. Paul Which One Is Best For You? Great Brand recognition = quality. Hi Carrie, Also, like the Ariens Facebook page. Suburban house in CT 0.3-0.5 acres, small slope, about 3 trees to mow around and my backyard has oak trees bordering the edge so tons of leaves ALL THE TIME lol. Ive owned them myself and my neighbor has had one for almost 20 years. Speed is nice, but the landscape will keep me moving slow to stay in the seat. I think I like the idea of a lighter, more nimble mower, but perhaps the heavier one is better for most general applications. I have been a follower of your site for a few years now. Quite an interesting way to store your thoughts when you get occupied with other important duties! I own a 48 Bad boy MZ 2011 now Looking to upgrade with suspension. I recommend the Cub Cadet Z-FORCE S 48 as your cheapest option. There is a ditch at 1 end and a hill/easement at the other. I also like one of my Ariens/Gravely dealers. Also some of the areas gets fairly dusty if we go a couple of weeks without rain. I have a 1 acre lot of which 80% is mowable with a lot of trees and landscaping. Its 25% more fuel-efficient and responds to heavy grass a lot faster than the carbd engines. What would you recommend? Discussed this with the dealer. I dont have an issue with the Cub Cadet ZT1 42. The two biggest problems for the Briggs Intek is slopes and dirt. The Toro engine is not as well-known as the Kawasaki FR but has better reliability. I was looking at this one from Home Depot: For years they sold a contractor grade engine that was $300 cheaper than the rest and it held up well so even though theyve raised their prices many small owner/operators still want the name. 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. Im spending days with my edger to get under the fences and around trees. Sorry for the long back story, but I thought it was important to provide as much detail as possible. Do you agree with that? If the model number starts with 247 it was made by MTD 917 it was made by Husqvarna. I recommend staying with a 48-54 inch deck. And because Ive had good luck with my Deere/Kohler and I feel less enthusiastic about the Briggs, Im leaning towards the Cub. While zero-turn mowers do in fact turn, they get their name from their ability to turn in a full circle without ever exceeding the boundaries of their own footprints. Do you think ZTRs would handle this? 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 inexperienced with standons check out this article: Spartan. Get free shipping on qualified Cub Cadet Zero Turn Mowers products or Buy Online Pick Up in Store today in the Outdoors Department. My only problem with this feature is that there isnt a way to turn the lights off. Yard is level. I see that a local dealer and Home Depot have the same mower for this. Hi Tommy, My first choice for mowing one acre and pulling a cart is the 42 in. Now, we are in a new home and are beginning to look for a mower to better meet our needs. 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! The Toro has the smart speed and a 3-point deck. Its a nice heavy ZTR and with the smaller deck, it should have plenty of traction for the ditch. A tractor mower on the other hand has the ability to collect grass, not a feature traditionally associated with a Zero turn. Not because of serviceability but most of the other brands mow a lot better. Thanks for your help. (It also has to do with the weight of the ZTR, the weight of the average operator, and how much downward weight the transmissions axles can handle). That said, You can get armrests for the XT1 and install them yourself. This includes the Vanguard and is only $200 more than the lowest price online for the base 48 ($3999). Hi James, The John Deere uses both the Intek and the ELS Briggs engines in various mowers. Two, If you are pulling a cart always put the smart speed in tow. Toro TimeCutter MX5075 with MyRIDE Suspension System 50 in. Look at this way, your paying the same amount as the Cub, and then making only a few additional payments to get a superior machine. I was thinking of the Toro Timecutter 75742. Hello Paul! john lucas tournament 2020 schedule Facebook does judge lafayette die in queen of the south Twitter illinois central college professor Instagram. Nz is slowly importing a few US mowers. Equipment. I researched and asked around about the engines and decided that all engines need good upkeep, and good clean air filtration is paramount. Not so much focused on comfort. ft. Tow-Behind Lawn Sweeper. Since then I have went to a local dealer that sells Toro and Cub Cadet. John Deere Z345R If you are fine with buying from the box store and then finding a dealer if you have issues to save $200 then go that way. It uses the ZT 2200 transmissions BUT, with the one-inch axles, the way the Walker is designed, the center steering, and the low center of gravity you will never have problems with them. Hi Kathy, I list ZTRs from the big box stores because many people today want to buy online (and I make a little commission off the sale) That said, You will get a better experience buying from a dealer. I say all that to ask your thoughts on the Toro MyRide and whether its worth the money? Thanks again in advance! Bradley Stander 48. Consider the size and shape of your yard. 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 back third is one long, flat, but fairly steep hillside, with a uniform slope at around 14-15 degrees, with one small section or dip that reaches 20 degrees. Others suggest Hustler, Bad Boy, and Husqvarna. I attribute that to the uncovered engine and its close proximity to the operator, and perhaps to the fact that the engine enclosure basically directs the sound straight up right in back of the operator. HD clutch,HD motors and hydraulics, and 30 to 37 HP engines. Thanks for all you do ! If you dont want to go through the Home Depot your local Gravely dealer sells the same mower under the Gravely brand. They are the same price. They both cut well and will last you a long time. If hill is wet I can walk behind to have more control Check it out here: Ariens Ikon 42. Even the engines are the same. Who Makes The Best Lawn Tractor or Zero Turn For You? Paul, The Toro is an efficient, easy-to-operate mower thats fitted with most of the components the Cub utilizes. John Deere, Toro, or Cub Cadet. Who takes the crown in this video for best stripe? There is a huge selection to pick from including Cub Cadet ZT2, Toro, Ariens etc. Should I be considering someone/something else? I dont necessarily want to mow the whole thing, but at least half of it. Im thinking of selling my ExMark Quest 42 inch steering wheel. The Intek is a good motor for someone who has a flat lawn and mows about 1/2 acre a week, but for what you want to mow it will last long enough to just get past the warranty. The only other thing I can think of is the deck shell is warped. Best riding lawn mower overall: Toro Timecutter 75755 Zero-Turn Mower - See at The Home Depot. Hi Beverly, Chickens are so much fun! So Im all jammed up! Dont really care for the gravely dealer. It has baffles under the deck for mulching so it will take about 30 minutes to switch from mulch to bag. Skaggs has a good blade change system, for no lift style. I think I would prefer the new one. The Ariens Apex is the mower I would buy for my father. The APEX is a heavy-duty mower and I strongly feel it can handle most any lawn. It has larger rear wheels than the Toro or Cub Cadet and that gives it better traction. Q: How hot do these transmissions get? Walker Model H. One really nice thing about the Walker is you can demo it on your yard before you buy. The company has a commercial implement office here in Ft Worth, but they dont stock any mowers at all. Dont use one from the local hardware store. We can get the veterans discount at Lowes and Home Depot. The hauler is rated to carry up to 1,000 pounds. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. The Ariens IKON X is last years model. I was set on Scag, but now I think if I go with Scag, it should be the Patroit. All the best to you and your granddaughter. 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. Which one is quieter? You get a lot more mower with the Ariens IKON. Consumers using both have found Toro's decks more durable than Cub Cadets'. The Kohler EFI and Exmark RED technology give you the power you need when you need it and will also reduce fuel consumption by 20% over other engines. Im not sure if he does anything different with the Scag. Thanks, You provide really good information and I feel like you put alot of thought and energy into responding to those who seek your advice. 2. Want to do most maintenance myself, easy blade change etc. heavier deck, and stronger transmissions. But I dont know if Id like the lighter Deere better than the heavier Cub, or if the heavier Cub would hold up and work better??? For about $500 more you can get the MX4200. Browse a wide selection of new and used Heavy Duty Zero Turn Lawn Mowers Outdoor Power for sale near you at TractorHouse.com. The Jonsered tractor is actually a 2014ish Craftsman Yard Tractor. Also, notice the specs for these heavier grade machines say things like 18,400 fpm blade tip speed, 1 aluminum spindles with sealed ball bearings, caster bearings, and axle bearings but Cub Cadet does not mention these? Hi Paul, Although I like the Ariens Edge and IKON XD they dont have a bagger for it right now. The blade speed on zero-turn mowers is faster than on a lawn tractor so you can travel over the lawn faster and still get a great cut. Torn on 3 brands. Their quality is what you expect. Wanted to get your thoughts on both. 2. Or Bagger for 42 inch Stamped Deck. Costco wont carry those items. 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. Blog Inizio Senza categoria cub cadet vs toro zero turn 2020. cub cadet vs toro zero turn 2020. 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. The John Deere Z345R gives you one of the best cuts on the market but the mower is lightweight and has small front caters which makes it much rougher to ride on than the other brands. The Toros height adjuster is easy to use. So at least Ive narrowed it down to 4 potential brands. Although the engines are mostly of the same company, the air filter system of the Toro TimeCutter is a little down the chart in quality as compared to the Cub Cadet. house/pond/etc) the cost for them vs. DIY justifies a new machine for the garage. I just had a ..make my day Clint Eastwood moment but in a good way (smile). WorldLawn used to be Encore. The dealer will be glad to sharpen and balance them while its in for the tune-up. I need a ZTR that can perform well on slopes. Most people are finding out that a good up front price ends up costing them later with this guy. 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. I mow a little over 1/2 acre that is flat but not smooth or soft ground. The Confidant Series has the same commercial quality as the old Command Pro engines. Given what I pay to have the lawn mowed, I think I could justify spending $3-4,000 on a mower and do it myself. My second choice is the Ariens IKON XL. I am looking at Scag Liberty z 48 and Bobcat ZT2000 48, Both look fairly similar. A 48-52 inch zero-turn will mow between 2 1/2 and 4 acres an hour at 6-9 MPH. The 54 deck would be welcome as I do have some wide open mowing spaces. The driveshaft is more durable than the Grasshoppers. They dont have enough traction and the center of gravity is too high. I cut my lawn high at 4 inches so in the fall when I mulch leaves most of the clippings disappears into the grass. By the way, the MX5050 compares to the Gravely ZT X. Planted a bunch of young 5-8 trees around the property. 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? While Toro uses an IronForged deck, Cub Cadets deck is made with 11-gauge steel. I want the look of a nicely manicured lawn. If you could help me, I would be so very grateful. Freshly cut lawns are not only visually appealing, as they feel and smell great too. 6. Any thoughts on those? Id like to stay cost conscious but I am willing to pay more for an exquisite end result. Rivets thanks for the info. Its maintenance free but expect to have to change the batteries every 5 years or so (about $200 times 4). I previously have used services but now with my new property 2-3 acres of mowable lawn (ex. Ive taken over an old horse pasture. I like the optional front flex forks for rough lawns. RYOBI. The cut of my cub cadet is pretty good so I assume the ultima would be as well. 3. Now I have a cub cadet rzt 50 inch to mow about 3 acres. Have your readers commented on it one way or the other? However, I can live without mulching. Yes, most people dont see the advantage of the steering wheel so Toro is discontinuing it. It gives you a slightly more even cut. Reason Im looking at this style of zero turn is stability on hills. I am more confident with the purchase now. So, well see if they last. You will also find that both machines use a dual hydrostatic drive system for ultimate maneuverability and ease of ride. Everyone really likes this mower. What about bushes, trees, lawn furniture, and other outdoor fixtures? The Radius E is the entry-level commercial Exmark. Hi Joe, that would be the Ariens IKON XD 52. All around homeowner use, what would you buy? Hi Randy, All have the EZT2200 axles. Cub Cadet. Can You Cut Grass After Frost? It is the most expensive of the mower I discuss. If you have a problem holding a gas can the SureCan is a great can. The best riding lawn mowers in 2023. Its a stand-on mower. Thank you! The engines generate about 22 to 24 horsepower also depending on the grade of the model. Both companies are renowned for producing reliable machines that withstand the test of time. He is very hard on the mower (over 150 trees to mow around) and its held up very well. The Toros controls are further back than the Country Clipper. How does the Ikon xd 52 stripe. I will check out the Z355R. Not everyone wants to show off at all times, you know? 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.