2019 Troy-Bilt Lawn Tractor, Yard Tractor, Garden Tractor, and Zero-Turn Review
Here is the updated articles on the 2020 Troy-Bilts
Troy-Bilt Zero-Turn Mower Review – Inexpensive Quality ZTRs
Troy-Bilt Pony, Bronco & Super Bronco Mower Review – Ten Inexpensive Quality Mowers
The rest of this article is obsolete.
This review of Troy-Bilt is a little late this year because there have been some very large shakeups in the lawn tractor industry and I wanted to see how Troy-Bilt was affected before writing this review.
The Good News is Troy-Bilt is alive and well. Even better, the entire Troy-Bilt line of lawn tractors, yard tractors, garden tractors, zero-turns, rear tine tillers, and walk-behind mowers are now at The Home Depot! Yes, even The Big Red and Horse Tillers are available there.
For most suburban homeowners Troy-Bilt riding mowers are a great choice. They have the largest selection of inexpensive lawn tractors. In addition, they have a nationwide network of servicing dealers if you need maintenance parts or ever need repairs.
I’m going to break down this article into four types of Troy-Bilt mowers – lawn tractors, yard tractors, garden tractors, and zero-turns
Please note! **This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. But, please feel free to visit your local authorized dealer and purchase locally. I don’t make a commission when you do that but I don’t mind.
Lawn Tractors:
I define lawn tractors as inexpensive riding mowers that are designed to mow 1/3 to 1-acre yards. These mowers can pull a small yard cart, sprayer or dethatcher. They are not designed for pulling heavy loads, mounting snow blowers or using ground engaging attachments. I don’t recommend them for slopes. Many people buy these because their lawn is just a little too big to use a walk-behind to mow. With the proper maintenance, these mowers will last most owners 10 years.
Troy-Bilt has three models that fall into this classification.
Troy-Bilt Pony 42 in. 17.5 hp Manual Drive Model# Pony 42
Troy-Bilt-Pony-42
If you don’t want to hold down the accelerator pedal (drive pedal) and don’t want to spend the extra money for a yard tractor with cruise control this may be the mower you are looking for! This is also a great mower if you just like to putt around the yard and are not in a big hurry to get the lawn mowed. The 17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine gives you plenty of power for weekly mowing. The step-through frame makes it easy to get on and off. If you have a small yard and want a riding mower this is a great choice.
- 17.5 HP 500 cc PowerBuilt series single-cylinder OHV Briggs & Stratton engine delivers reliability and convenience combined like never before, these engines deliver easy starting and superior performance
- 7-speed shift-on-the-go transmission for smooth change of speed and direction and operator-controlled reverse mowing
- 42 in. Twin-blade, side discharge deck cuts quickly and cleanly, 5-position deck height adjustment
- 13-Gauge fully-welded step-thru frame with cup holder is easy to get on and off
- 18 in. turn radius allows you to mow in tighter spaces and navigate around obstacles, trim close to trees and other landscaping features in confidence
- Comfortable low-back seat
- Increased visibility with automatic headlights
- Optional accessories include baggers, mulch kits, carts, and many other attachments (sold separately)
- 2-year limited warranty
Troy-Bilt Bronco 42 in. 19 hp Automatic Model# Bronco 42
Troy-Bilt-Bronco-42
This is one of the most popular economy mowers on the market. The automatic transmission means no shifting. Step through design makes it easy to get on and off. The 19 HP Briggs & Stratton engine is the “standard” for this price range. This is a good “first” mower and works well on relatively flat lawns up to one acre. It mows well and you can use it to pull a yard cart, dethatcher, and other useful attachments. Yes, you can add bagger or mulch kit.
- 19 HP 540 cc Intek series single-cylinder OHV Briggs & Stratton engine delivers reliability and convenience combined like never before, these engines deliver easy starting and superior performance
- Foot pedal controlled automatic transmission for smooth change of speed and operator-controlled reverse mowing
- 42 in. twin-blade, side discharge deck cuts quickly and cleanly, 5-position deck height adjustment
- 13-Gauge fully-welded step-thru frame with cup holder is easy to get on and off
- 18 in. turn radius allows you to mow in tighter spaces and navigate around obstacles, trim close to trees and other landscaping features in confidence
- Ride in more comfort with adjustable 11 in. mid-back seat accommodates users of different heights and rubber footpads that help absorb vibration
- Increased visibility with automatic headlights
- Two 5 in. anti-scalp deck wheels protect your lawn from damage, so it always looks perfectly groomed
- Bagging capability allows you to collect grass clippings, and the mulching capability allows you to return nutrients to the soil for a healthier lawn (rear bagger and mulch kit sold separately)
- Optional accessories include baggers, mulch kits, carts, and many other attachments (sold separately)
- 2-year limited warranty
Troy-Bilt Horse 46 in. 20 hp V-Twin Automatic Model# Horse 46
Troy-Bilt-Horse-46
If you like the Horse 42 but want a larger deck and smooth running V-Twin engine this mower is a good choice. I prefer the 46-inch deck because the deck sticks out from the mower a little more and makes it easier to trim around “stuff.”
- 20 HP 656cc Intek series twin-cylinder OHV Briggs & Stratton engine is conceived and designed from the ground up to give you what you want- rugged components, smoother operation, and longer life
- Foot pedal controlled automatic transmission for smooth change of speed and operator-controlled reverse mowing
- 46 in. Twin-blade, side discharge deck cuts quickly and cleanly, 5-position deck height adjustment
- 13-Gauge fully-welded step-thru frame with cup holder is easy to get on and off
- 18 in. turn radius allows you to mow in tighter spaces and navigate around obstacles, trim close to trees and other landscaping features in confidence
- Ride in more comfort with adjustable 11 in. mid-back seat accommodates users of different heights and rubber footpads that help absorb vibration
- Increased visibility with automatic headlights
- Two 5 in. anti-scalp deck wheels protect your lawn from damage, so it always looks perfectly groomed
- 2 Gal. fuel capacity is ideal for mowing 2 plus acre lawns without having to stop and refuel
- Bagging capability allows you to collect grass clippings, and the mulching capability allows you to return nutrients to the soil for a healthier lawn (rear bagger and mulch kit sold separately)
- Optional accessories include baggers, mulch kits, carts, and many other attachments (sold separately)
- 2-year limited warranty
For those of you who live on the west coast, there are two Troy-Bilt Lawn Tractors with California Compliant engines. Troy-Bilt California Compliant
Yard Tractors
Yard Tractors are built heavier, have better engines, and will last longer than the lawn tractors above. If you want a good mowing tractor that can also pull anything in your yard cart, pull a lawn sweeper or mount a bagger, these are the best choice. These yard tractors will accept a snow blade and a snow blower attachment.
The three Troy-Bilt yard tractors below use the same heavy-duty frame and drive components as the Cub Cadet tractors so expect a mower that mows well and lasts a long, long time.
Troy-Bilt Super Bronco 46 in. 679 cc V-Twin Hydrostatic Transmission Model# Super Bronco 46
Troy-Bilt-Super Bronco-46
If I were to buy a Troy-Bilt for my one-acre yard this would be the model I chose. I like the full pressure Troy-Bilt engine and the deck is one of the best cutting 46-inch decks in the industry. The hydrostatic transmission will last and the offers cruise control so you can take your foot off the drive pedal when mowing larger areas. The steering is precise and many owners rave about how easy it is to steer – It’s almost as easy as the power steering in your car. This mower will last you a long time and the price is right for what you get.
- 679 cc V-twin OHV Troy-Bilt engine features full pressure lubrication to ensure smooth delivery of oil to critical components and a forged steel crankshaft making it stronger and more durable
- Hydrostatic transmission with cruise control offers smooth change of speed and direction with the foot pedal control and a maximum speed of 5.5 MPH in forward and reverse
- Heavy-duty cast-iron front axle provides durability and strength for long-lasting performance
- Systems monitor includes hour meter and ammeter to track usage and remind when it’s time for regular maintenance
- 46 in. twin blade cutting deck features 12 cutting height adjustments between 1.5 in. H to 3.75 in. H
- 4 anti-scalp deck wheels help prevent damage to the deck and your yard when the mower encounters uneven or sloped areas
- Attach a standard garden hose to the integrated deck wash port on the cutting deck to quickly rinse grass clippings from the underside of the deck
- Automatic headlights provide increased visibility and added safety at any time day or night
- StepThru frame design provides easier access on and off the tractor by increasing the space between the seat and control panel and providing more leg room
- Ride in more comfort with reduced vibration with the high-back seat and soft touch steering wheel
- Designed with a 16 in. turning radius for greater maneuverability with 15 in. x 6 in. front wheels and 20 in. x 8 in. rear wheels
- Rear hitch is handy for pulling small dump carts and other tow behind accessories such as aerators, sprayers, and dethatchers (sold separately)
- Add versatility to your riding mower with optional attachments like a rear bagger or mulch kit (sold separately)
- Includes operator-controlled mow-in-reverse capability
- Use fuel stabilizers to maintain your engine and increase the longevity of your mower (not included)
- 2-year limited warranty
Troy-Bilt Super Bronco XP 50 in. 679 cc V-Twin, Hydrostatic Transmission, Cruise Control, Mow in Reverse Model# Super Bronco XP 50 FAB
Troy-Bilt-Super Bronco-50
This is not one of those mowers.
There are a lot of 48-54 inch mowers in this price range and most of them I do not recommend. The other mowers use a lawn tractor transmission, add large 23-inch tires and the 54-inch deck. These “Light Garden Tractor or LGT” mowers will not last if you have slopes or pull heavy loads. This is not one of those mowers.
The Super Bronco is different and I can easily recommend it for suburban yards up to 2-3 acres. Yes, it has the lawn tractor transmission but it is equipped with the correct size 20 inch rear wheels and 50-inch deck. On paper, this looks like a small difference but over the life of a lawn mower, this will mean the difference between this one that will last 10 years or more to one of the others that may only last a couple of years.
I also want to point out that for a good price you also get the heavy-duty fabricated deck.
- 679 cc V-twin OHV Troy-Bilt engine features full pressure lubrication to ensure smooth delivery of oil to critical components and a forged steel crankshaft making it stronger and more durable
- Hydrostatic transmission with cruise control offers smooth change of speed and direction with the foot pedal control and a maximum speed of 5.5 MPH in forward and reverse
- Heavy-duty 50 in. fabricated steel cutting deck has reinforced bottom edges for rugged performance and enhanced durability and features 3 separate cutting blades
- Electric PTO quickly and easily engages cutting blades
- 12 cutting height adjustments between 1.5 in. to 3.75 in. lets you customize for your individual needs
- Heavy-duty cast-iron front axle provides durability and strength for long-lasting performance
- Systems monitor includes hour meter and ammeter to track usage and remind when it’s time for regular maintenance
- 4 anti-scalp deck wheels help prevent damage to the deck and your yard when the mower encounters uneven or sloped areas
- Attach a standard garden hose to the integrated deck wash port on the cutting deck to quickly rinse grass clippings from the underside of the deck
- Automatic headlights provide increased visibility and added safety at any time day or night
- StepThru frame design provides easier access on and off the tractor by increasing the space between the seat and control panel and providing more leg room
- Ride in more comfort with reduced vibration with the high-back seat and soft touch steering wheel
- Designed with a 16 in. turning radius for greater maneuverability with 15 in. x 6 in. front wheels and 20 in. x 8 in. rear wheels
- Rear hitch is handy for pulling small dump carts and other tow behind accessories such as aerators, sprayers and dethatchers (sold separately)
- Add versatility to your riding mower with optional attachments like a rear bagger or mulch kit (sold separately)
- Includes operator-controlled mow-in-reverse capability
- Use fuel stabilizers to maintain your engine and increase the longevity of your mower (not included)
- 3-year limited warranty
Garden Tractors
Troy-Bilt Super Bronco XP 54 in. 26 hp V-Twin, Kohler, Garden Tractor, Hydrostatic Transmission Model# Super Bronco XP 54 FAB GT
Troy-Bilt-Super Bronco-GT-54
This is a true Garden Tractor with a heavy-duty hydrostatic transmission, strong, fabricated deck and all the other nicer features you expect in a $3000+ mower. I particularly like the nice seat with arm-rests, the handholds on the fenders and the large front and rear wheels.
This mower compares with the Cub Cadet XT2 Garden Tractor, The Husqvarna TS354D, and Craftsman Pro Garden Tractor at Sears. Craftsman SBD at Lowes does not have a riding mower that compares to this one. John Deere and Simplicity will charge almost $6000+ for a lawn tractor with this transmission.
- 26 HP 747 cc Kohler KT7000 series twin-cylinder engine with Consistent-Cut technology provides steadier power to your deck, helping you get the perfect cut
- Hydrostatic transmission with cruise control offers smooth change of speed and direction with the foot pedal control and a maximum speed of 5.5 MPH in forward and reverse
- Heavy-duty 54 in. fabricated steel cutting deck has reinforced bottom edges for rugged performance and enhanced durability and features 3 separate cutting blades
- Electric PTO quickly and easily engages cutting blades
- 12 cutting height adjustments between 1.5 in. H to 3.75 in. H lets you customize for your individual needs
- Heavy-duty cast-iron front axle provides durability and strength for long-lasting performance
- Deluxe high-back seat with armrests and soft touch steering wheel provide more comfort when mowing larger areas and for longer periods of time
- Systems monitor includes hour meter and ammeter to track usage and remind when it’s time for regular maintenance
- 4 anti-scalp deck wheels and a front nose roller help prevent damage to the deck and your yard when the mower encounters uneven or sloped areas
- Attach a standard garden hose to the integrated deck wash port on the cutting deck to quickly rinse grass clippings from the underside of the deck
- Automatic headlights provide increased visibility and added safety at any time day or night
- StepThru frame design provides easier access on and off the tractor by increasing the space between the seat and control panel and providing more leg room
- Designed with a 16 in. turning radius for greater maneuverability with 16.5 in. x 6.5 in. front wheels and 22 in. x 9.5 in. rear wheels
- Rear hitch is handy for pulling dump carts and other tow behind accessories such as aerators, sprayers and dethatchers (sold separately)
- Add versatility to your riding mower with optional attachments like a rear bagger or mulch kit (sold separately)
- Includes operator-controlled mow-in-reverse capability
- Use fuel stabilizers to maintain your engine and increase the longevity of your mower (not included)
- 3-year limited warranty
Buy Here: Troy-Bilt Super Bronco XP 54 in. 26 hp V2 Kohler Gas Garden Tractor with Hydrostatic Transmission
Zero Turns
Troy-Bilt Mustang 34 in. 452 cc OHV Zero-Turn Riding Mower Dual Hydrostatic Transmission Model# Mustang Fit 34
Troy-Bilt-Mustang-34
There is always one mower in a brand’s lineup that is not a good choice for most people. This is the Troy-Bilt I DO NOT recommend. This small zero-turn is too big to fit through a 36-inch gate and too small to turn without tearing up the turf. It will not work well on any type of slope. I don’t recommend this mower to anyone unless you have very small flat areas to mow and can turn the mower off of the turf.
- Compact size zero turn rider is perfect for smaller yards with trees or obstacles and can be stored in the same space as a wide area walk behind mower in the garage or shed
- 452 cc single-cylinder OHV Troy-Bilt engine features full pressure lubrication to ensure smooth delivery of oil to critical components and an automotive-style oil filter to maintain solid performance by removing contaminants
- Dual hydrostatic transmission with lap bar controls delivers true zero turn performance for quicker mow times and improved maneuverability with a maximum forward speed of 7 MPH and 2.5 MPH in reverse
- 34 in. twin blade cutting deck features 8 cutting height adjustments between 1.25 in. to 3.75 in. H
- Lap bar controls have an integrated parking brake to safely and quickly stop the mower
- Ride in more comfort with reduced vibration with the high-back seat and foam grip steering controls
- 11 in. x 4.5 in. front ribbed front wheels and 18 in. x 6.5 in. rear tires provide improved traction when turning
Buy Here: Troy-Bilt Mustang 34 in. 452 cc OHV Engine Gas Zero Turn Riding Mower
Troy-Bilt Mustang 42 in. 679 cc V-Twin OHV Engine Gas Zero Turn Riding Mower Model# Mustang Z42
Troy-Bilt-Mustang-42
If you like the new Cub Cadet Ultima zero-turns but just don’t like the “Ricky Race Car” rear engine guard this is the mower for you! It’s about $200 less than the Ultima because it doesn’t come standard with LED lights or the foot assist deck height. But, it has the same frame and great cutting deck. The V-twin engine is MTD’s own full pressure, long life engine.
- 679cc V-twin OHV Troy-Bilt engine features full pressure lubrication to ensure smooth delivery of oil to critical components and a forged steel crankshaft making it stronger and more durable
- Dual hydrostatic transmission with lap bar controls delivers true zero-turn performance for quicker mow times and improved maneuverability with a maximum forward speed of 7 MPH and 2.5 MPH in reverse
- Newly designed heavy-duty, full length, fully welded, tubular frame is built for added strength and durability in the yard
- 42 in. twin blade cutting deck features 9 cutting height adjustments between 1.25 in. to 3.75 in. H
- Electric PTO quickly and easily engages cutting blades
- Lap bar controls have an integrated parking brake to safely and quickly stop the mower
- Ride in more comfort with reduced vibration with the high-back seat and foam grip steering controls
- 11 in. x 5 in front ribbed front wheels and 20 in. x 8 in. rear tires provide improved traction when turning
- Attach a standard garden hose to the integrated deck wash port on the cutting deck to quickly rinse grass clippings from the underside of deck
- Add versatility to your riding mower with optional attachments like a rear bagger or mulch kit (sold separately)
- Includes operator-controlled mow-in-reverse capability
- Use fuel stabilizers to maintain your engine and increase the longevity of your mower (not included)
- Limited lifetime warranty on the frame and a 2-year limited/120-hours warranty on the remaining components offers peace of mind
Buy Here: Troy-Bilt Mustang 42 in. 679 cc V-Twin OHV Zero-Turn Riding Mower.
Feel free to ask questions in the comment section below. Thanks for reading this article!
Paul – great site. I’ve already learned a lot. Here’s my problem. I had a Craftsman Pro Series 27042 that I liked a lot. I bought it because of these 3 stats: It was a 46″, Kohler 24HP 725cc motor with a 5″ turn radius. Unfortunately, it burned to the ground. No idea why. But it doesn’t seem to be available anywhere and I can’t find anything else with similar stats. I have 1.6 acres. What do you suggest?
Hi Joe, There are two that are close. The first is the Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro 46 in. 22 HP V-Twin Kohler Gas Hydrostatic Front-Engine Lawn Tractor (Home Depot Link). The 22 and 24 HP Kohler is the same engine. It just different carb. The Cub Cadet does not have the 5″ inch turn tight but is does turn sharply.
The second is the Dealer Only XT2 LX46. (Cub Cadet Link) It also does not have the TurnTight steering but actually has more features than your Craftsman Pro including 4-ply tires, ballbearing front wheels, a nice seat and bumper.
Paul, I’ve been having trouble locating the bagger for my Z42 at a big box store. You mention that the Z42 is built on the same chassis as the Ultima ZT1. Do you think that bagger will work on my Z42? Thanks!
Hi Earl, Yes, it appears that bagger is out of stock for the season at both Home Depot and Amazon. The bagger you need is 19A70054OEM and is different than the Cub Cadet model. It is available directly from Troy-Bilt if you want to go that way. Here is a link to the bagger.
Double Bagger for 42- and 46-inch Decks19A70054OEMFits Troy-Bilt Mustang Z42 and Z46 Zero Turn Mowers (2019- )
I have been reading tons of your reviews. I am in the market for a new yard tractor, I just purchased a nice piece of land with 2.5 acres to mow in addition to a 6.5 acre pasture (not mowed). I have a decent slope on the piece that needs to be mowed (10 to 16 degrees in areas) and I would also like to pull a dump cart and possibly push a bit of snow. I have been trying to steer away from the K46 transmission. My budget is $2000 – $2400. What would you recommend? We don’t care about brand, have mostly considered Husqvarna or Craftsman Pro but I am intrigued by the Super Bronco XP 50. Thanks in advance!
Hi Jared, 1. Husqvarna: In that price range, the Husqvarna decks are not strong enough to go out in the pasture and mow if you ever need to go out and knock down weeds. The higher priced models with the ClearCut decks don’t like tall grass. Stay far away from the LGT models – they will not hold up for your application on the hill.
2. Craftsman Pro: Under the hood, the Craftsman Pro, Troy-Bilt Super Bronco and Cub Cadet XT1 LT50 are the same – just a different engine or transmission makes the difference. But the Craftsman Pro is impossible to find right now. Unless you have a local Sears Hometown Store near you with one in stock cross it off your list.
3. Super Bronco 50: In that price range, you are not going to be able to get away from the K46 transmission but the Troy-Bilt Super Bronco 50 has the smaller 20 inch rear tires and a fabricated deck so if you have to stay in that price range it’s the best choice.
4. The best choice: I strongly suggest saving up a little and buying the Cub Cadet XT1 GT 50 over the first three mowers. This Cub Cadet gives you the heavy-duty K58 transmission, larger rear wheels (to better handle the slope) and their great cutting 50 inch stamped deck.
Thanks for the feedback! The only Craftsman Pro we can find locally is the 27038 42″ 20 HP model. I’m worried it will fall short trying to do what we need to with it, I really wanted to get one of the 46″ models but it was impossible to find. Sears was really trying to sell us a Husqvarna but something about them doesn’t appeal to me, we will avoid them for our application for sure, leaving Sears was the biggest thing to prompt commenting and asking your opinion. I will give the Cub Cadet XT1 GT50 a good look, and if not I will pick up one of the Super Bronco 50’s! Thanks again for the feedback. The Cub Cadet looks like the better option the long run.
Paul,
I’m a long-time reader, but first time commenter from Cleveland, OH. The site is great, with a wealth of information!
I am looking for a tractor to mow a 2/3 acre lot in a subdivision. The land is relatively flat but slopes a little (less than 10 degrees) down toward the back of the lot. I’d like to get a tractor with a high-quality cut that can tow an aerator, dethatcher, lawn cart, and use a bagger as needed. Also, I want to use the tractor to mount a snow blower in winter.
I am wide open to brand, but right now I am looking at the John Deere E100 series, or the Cub Cadet Enduro XT1 series. Would a tractor with the K46 standard transaxle work for these purposes, or should I go bigger with a K58 transaxle? I am looking for a 10+ year tractor. I think a 42″ deck is probably all I need. However, but it looks like the K58 only comes in the Cub Cadet XT1 GT series (50″) or a much more expensive John Deere. Are there any other suggested models you may have in mind?
Thanks very much for your input, and thank you again for maintaining such a great site!
Best,
Jake
Hi Jake, Thank you! Yes, a 42 inch deck is really all you need to mow but you will really appreciate the larger tires and heavy-duty transmission of the Cub Cadet XT1 GT 50 (Home Depot Link) for the snow blower and overall long life of the tractor.
In other words, the K46 transmission in the Cub Cadet 42 and 46-inch lawn tractors will get the job done but the K58 in the Cub Cadet GT is a lot stronger and you can pull anything and snow blow with it and not worry about overloading it and wearing it out over the years. In addition, the 50-inch deck cut very well and will save you 20-30 minutes each time you mow.
Hi Paul,
Any reason you don’t mention the Husqvarna R322t in your article? I watched your video made in 2013 about the articulated rider and it seemed you really liked it.
Hi Dennis, Yes, I really like it but here in the U.S. we are so focused on Zero-turns that it’s never gained any recognition. In Fact! Half the dealers don’t even know they can order it.
Hi Paul, thanks for your reply. Do you or did you own the articulated rider you drove in the 2013 video? If you owned it, how long have you had it and have you had any problems with it?
Hi Dennis, I actually had two at the time of the video. Owned one for 8 years and the other for 5. The one I was mowing with is a 1999 model and I had another 2001 without a deck my wife used to pull her carts around with. Mechanically, they are built like a tank and other than normal maintenance I had to do nothing to them. They were 15 years old when I got them and over the time I had them I only had to replace one deck spindle and two gauge wheels (they had the ground-hugging European decks)
I sold both of them last year and replaced them with an Exmark Radius Steering Wheel ZTR.