Cub Cadet Lawn Tractors and Garden Tractors
Lawn tractors and garden tractors are disappearing from the U.S. because zero-turn mowers are taking over. Because of that, finding a good, dependable lawn tractor or garden tractor is a lot harder today than it was just 5 years ago.
So, what brand still has the largest selection of affordably priced, best value lawn & garden tractors? Cub Cadet.
I rate products differently than most sites. I not only look at the number of products, the price, the craftsmanship, and the quality of cut but also the dealers, ease of warranty service, and parts networks that support the product. That is what sets Cub Cadet apart from the rest.
This article will discuss:
- Features that make Cub Cadet the best value.
- Do You need a Lawn or Garden Tractor?
- XT1 or XT2 or XT3?
- The Tractors – By Deck Size
Features that make Cub Cadet the best value.
Engines: When it comes to lawn & garden tractors Cub Cadet is leading the way in engine tech.
- Cub Cadet Intellipower Technology: Offered on the XT1 & XT2 series. Intellipower delivers up to 20% more available power to the engine, resulting in less bogging down, higher blade tip speed and a consistent cut when mowing in heavy, wet grass
- Cub Cadet EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection.) Offered on select XT1 & XT2 models EFI provides reliable starting, better fuel economy, and IntelliPower™ Technology* which adds more power when you need it most.
- Kohler Professional 7000 series: Offered on the XT1 & XT2 series. The 7000 series has quickly gained the reputation as one of the best lawn mower engines on the market. Reliable, fuel-efficient and will last you many years.
- Kohler Command Pro: Offered in the XT3 series. The Command PRO engines are the benchmark for commercial power. They’re built to last for years.
Transmissions. Transmissions define what you can pull and how well the mower will last mowing slopes. Cub Cadet uses five transmissions and they are matched correctly to the lawn/garden tractor and what you expect the tractor to do. Cub Cadet only offers hydrostatic transmissions. They do not offer cheap CVT or gear drives.
- TL200. Riding Mowers. This economical transmission is used for tractors with 42-46 inch decks. Designed for smaller suburban yards. You can pull a small yard cart, sprayer, dethatcher, etc.
- K46. Lawn/Yard TractorsThis is the “standard” transmission for lawn tractors with 42-50 inch decks and 18-20 inch rear tires. This transmission will handle mowing slopes, pulling larger yard carts and lawn rollers. I don’t recommend it in lawn tractors with 54-inch decks and 22-24 inch tires that mow slopes. (Cub Cadet has one I’ll warn you about later)
- K58. Garden Tractors. This is an economical heavy-duty transmission designed to handle any size deck and pull ground engaging equipment. This transmission uses one-inch axles so it will handle more weight and is a great choice if you want to add a mounted snowblower. (Other brands use the K57 which has lighter 3/4 inch axles)
- K62. Heavy-Duty Garden Tractors. This is the heaviest-duty transmission available for garden tractors with a vertical shaft engine. It replaces the K66 still found in other brands
- Shaft drive Cast Iron Hydrostatic. (XT3 series ONLY) automotive style direct shaft drive from the engine to the transmission. The XT3 is the only Garden tractor left on the market with a cast iron transmission and driveshaft. Yes, It’s the best there is and easily will be the last mower you need to buy.
Frame. Cub Cadet uses the strongest frame for all their lawn & garden tractors!
Cub Cadet uses one strong frame for all the XT1 & XT2 lawn and garden tractors so you can be assured that it will last. It is a stiff frame so it will not flex and break over the years. The frames have automotive-grade corrosion resistance to protect against wear and tear.
Decks. Consistent quality cut. Quick-Attach decks on all models allow you to easily remove the deck for cleaning, blade sharpening, and maintenance.
- Stamped: Cub Cadet’s stamped decks are among the best cutting decks. They are the best for bagging and mulching.
- Fabricated: Most zero-turn mowers have switched to fabricated decks because most ZTRs mow faster than lawn tractors and fabricated decks are stronger and will take more punishment when hitting trees, posts, and foundations. Cub Cadet fabricated decks cut well and most people can’t see the difference between these decks and a stamped deck’s cut quality, Cub Cadet was the first to add fabricated decks to their lawn and garden tractor lines.
Accessories: Cub Cadet has the largest selection of accessories and attachments for your lawn and garden tractor. In addition, they will pull the thousands of attachments fro Agri-Fab, Ohio Steel and others.
Do You need a Lawn or Garden Tractor?
Lawn Tractors. (LT, LX, SLX, ST) are designed to mow your lawn and pull small yard carts, dethatchers, sprayers, and leaf rakes. They will handle hills well when equipped with 42-50 inch decks. They will last years on your “typical” suburban or city lot up to 3 acres. Most of us will be quite happy with this style and durability.
Garden tractors. (GT, GX, GSX series) are designed to handle mounted snowblowers well, pull large yard carts full of material, and pull grading rakes for gravel driveways and horse arenas. They can push dirt/gravel with a front-mounted blade. The larger front and rear wheels give you a better ride on rough lawns and better traction on slopes. Garden Tractors only come with 50 or 54-inch decks. The largest model has a differential lock for hills and pulling ground engaging equipment.
XT3 Garden Tractors. The XT3 series can handle anything you want to use them for. Mowing, snow blowing, pulling large lawn rollers, arena rakes and even small manure spreaders. They have decks available from 42 to 60 inches. There is a model with a differential lock.
XT1 or XT2 or XT3?
The XT1 series is what most of you will buy. You get great performance and a reasonable price. It’s a great value! It is available at The Home Depot, Tractor Supply, Farm & Fleet, at your local dealer and online through cubcadet.com. Online shopping made easy. Buy online through the stores above or at cubcadet.com and schedule your product to be delivered right to you, ready to work. If you need it sooner, you can pick-up your order from your dealer the next day.
- Industry-standard 2-ply tires
- Industry-standard front wheel bushings
- Comfort Seat
- 3-year warranty
The XT2 series is the same lawn/garden tractor as the XT1 but adds more comfort features, better tires and all come with a front bumper or brush guard. It is available at your local dealer and online through cubcadet.com. Online shopping made easy. Buy online at cubcadet.com and schedule your product to be delivered right to you, ready to work. If you need it sooner, you can pick-up your order from your dealer the next day.
- Heavy-Duty Aggressive Multi-Trac 4-ply tires
- Ball-bearing front wheels
- Armrests
- Soft Touch steering wheel
- V-twin engines on all models
- K46 transmission on 42-inch models.
- 3-year warranty
The XT3 series is a completely different garden tractor and is the only tractor on the market “built the way they used to.” It is noticeably built heavier and stronger than just about any lawn/garden tractor on the market and is thousands less than similar quality tractors from the other brands. It is available at your local dealer and online through cubcadet.com. Online shopping made easy. Buy online at cubcadet.com and schedule your product to be delivered right to you, ready to work. If you need it sooner, you can pick-up your order from your dealer the next day.
- 25 HP Kohler® Command twin horizontal engine
- Shaft Driven Cast Iron Transmission with Diff-Lock
- LED Headlights
- Power Steering (GSX)
- Differential Lock (GSX)
- Full wrap-around brush guard
- Ball-bearing front wheels
- Armrests
- Soft Touch steering wheel
- Steel (not cast) drive hubs
- 4-year Warranty, Welded twin C-channel frame assembly (5-year limited warranty)
- 42″, 50″, 54″ Stamped and 48″, 54″, 60″ Fabricated (SOLD SEPARATELY)
My uncle Bob was one of the engineers in the late 50’s who designed the original Cub Cadet mower introduced in 1961. The original driveshaft model was introduced in 1963. The first hydrostatic driveshaft model was introduced in 1994. The XT3 still uses an upgraded version of that drive-shaft, cast-iron hydrostatic transmission.
The Tractors – By Deck Size
42 Inch Deck Models
XT1 LT42 with IntelliPower™ Lawn Tractor
- 547cc single-cylinder Cub Cadet engine with IntelliPower™ Technology.
- Intellipower Technology delivers up to 20% more available power to the engine, resulting in less bogging down, higher blade tip speed and a consistent cut when mowing in heavy, wet grass.*
- Stamped QuickAttach™ 42 in. twin-blade cutting deck designed to deliver the pristine Cub Cadet Signature Cut with a SmartJet™ high-pressure deck washing system for a quick and easy cleanup
- Hydrostatic transmission; no shifting – just push a pedal and go
- Automotive-style 16 in. turning radius provides smooth cutting and maneuvering, whether straight away or around obstacles
- Tuff Torq TL-200 foot-controlled hydrostatic transmission, no shifting – just push the pedal and go
- Model Number 13A6A9CS010
$1,699.00 List Price. Check Price and Buy Here: It is available at The Home Depot, Tractor Supply, Farm & Fleet, at your local dealer and online through cubcadet.com. Online shopping made easy. Buy online through the stores above or at cubcadet.com and schedule your product to be delivered right to you, ready to work. If you need it sooner, you can pick-up your order from your dealer the next day.
XT1 LT42 EFI Lawn Tractor
- 547cc Cub Cadet EFI single-cylinder engine with IntelliPower™ Technology.
- EFI technology provides quicker startup, making both hot and cold restarts easier.
- EFI uses up to 25% less fuel versus standard carburated engines, which means fewer emissions and fewer fill-ups.
- Intellipower Technology delivers up to 20% more available power to the engine, resulting in less bogging down, higher blade tip speed and a consistent cut when mowing in heavy, wet grass.*
- Stamped QuickAttach™ 42 in. twin-blade cutting deck designed to deliver the pristine Cub Cadet Signature Cut with a SmartJet™ high-pressure deck washing system for a quick and easy cleanup
- Automotive-style 16 in. turning radius provides smooth cutting and maneuvering, whether straight away or around obstacles
- Tuff Torq TL-200 foot-controlled hydrostatic transmission, no shifting – just push the pedal and go
- Model Number 13A9A9CS010
$1,949.00 List Price. Check Price and Buy Here: It is available at The Home Depot, Tractor Supply, Farm & Fleet, at your local dealer and online through cubcadet.com. Online shopping made easy. Buy online through the stores above or at cubcadet.com and schedule your product to be delivered right to you, ready to work. If you need it sooner, you can pick-up your order from your dealer the next day.
XT2 LX42 Lawn Tractor
- 679cc Cub Cadet twin-cylinder engine
- Stamped QuickAttach™ 42 in. twin-blade cutting deck designed to deliver the pristine Cub Cadet Signature Cut with a SmartJet™ high-pressure deck washing system for a quick and easy cleanup
- Heavy-Duty Aggressive Multi-Trac 4-ply tires
- Ball-bearing front wheels
- Armrests
- Soft Touch steering wheel
- Front Bumper
- Automotive-style 16 in. turning radius provides smooth cutting and maneuvering, whether straight away or around obstacles
- Tuff Torq K46 foot-controlled hydrostatic transmission, no shifting – just push the pedal and go
- Model Number 13AJA1CS010
$2099.00 List Price. Check Price and Buy Here: It is available at your local dealer and online through cubcadet.com. Online shopping made easy. Buy online through the stores above or at cubcadet.com and schedule your product to be delivered right to you, ready to work. If you need it sooner, you can pick-up your order from your dealer the next day.
46 Inch Deck Models
XT1 LT46 Lawn Tractor
- 22 HP Kohler 7000 series twin-cylinder engine
- Stamped QuickAttach™ 46 in. twin-blade cutting deck designed to deliver the pristine Cub Cadet Signature Cut with a SmartJet™ high-pressure deck washing system for a quick and easy cleanup
- Automotive-style 16 in. turning radius provides smooth cutting and maneuvering, whether straight away or around obstacles
- Tuff Torq Tl200 foot-controlled hydrostatic transmission, no shifting – just push the pedal and go
- Model Number 13APA9CT010
$1899.00 List Price. Check Price and Buy Here: It is available at The Home Depot, Tractor Supply, Farm & Fleet, at your local dealer and online through cubcadet.com. Online shopping made easy. Buy online through the stores above or at cubcadet.com and schedule your product to be delivered right to you, ready to work. If you need it sooner, you can pick-up your order from your dealer the next day.
XT1 LT46 EFI FAB Lawn Tractor
- 547cc Cub Cadet® EFI engine with push button start
- 11 gauge Fabricated QuickAttach™ 46 in. twin-blade cutting deck designed to deliver the pristine Cub Cadet Signature Cut with a SmartJet™ high-pressure deck washing system for a quick and easy cleanup
- Automotive-style 16 in. turning radius provides smooth cutting and maneuvering, whether straight away or around obstacles
- Tuff Torq K46 foot-controlled hydrostatic transmission, no shifting – just push the pedal and go
- Model Number 13B9A1CN010
XT2 LX46 Lawn Tractor
- 22 HP Kohler 7000 series twin-cylinder engine
- Stamped QuickAttach™ 46 in. twin-blade cutting deck designed to deliver the pristine Cub Cadet Signature Cut with a SmartJet™ high-pressure deck washing system for a quick and easy cleanup
- Automotive-style 16 in. turning radius provides smooth cutting and maneuvering, whether straight away or around obstacles
- Tuff Torq K46 foot-controlled hydrostatic transmission, no shifting – just push the pedal and go
- Model Number 13AJA1CT010
XT2 LX46 EFI Lawn Tractor
- 679cc EFI Cub Cadet V-twin OHV engine with increased efficiency and maintenance benefits
- Keyless engine start: Easy push-button control
- Electric PTO
- 11 gauge Fabricated QuickAttach™ 46 in. twin-blade cutting deck designed to deliver the pristine Cub Cadet Signature Cut with a SmartJet™ high-pressure deck washing system for a quick and easy cleanup
- Automotive-style 16 in. turning radius provides smooth cutting and maneuvering, whether straight away or around obstacles
- Tuff Torq K46 foot-controlled hydrostatic transmission, no shifting – just push the pedal and go
- Model Number 13AZA1CN010
$2,599.00 List Price. Check Price and Buy Here: It is available at your local dealer and online through cubcadet.com. Online shopping made easy. Buy online through the stores above or at cubcadet.com and schedule your product to be delivered right to you, ready to work. If you need it sooner, you can pick-up your order from your dealer the next day.
50 Inch Deck Models
XT1 LT50 Lawn Tractor
- 24 HP Kohler 7000 series V-Twin
- 11 gauge Fabricated QuickAttach™ 50 in. three-blade cutting deck designed to deliver the pristine Cub Cadet Signature Cut with a SmartJet™ high-pressure deck washing system for a quick and easy cleanup
- Automotive-style 16 in. turning radius provides smooth cutting and maneuvering, whether straight away or around obstacles
- Tuff Torq K46 foot-controlled hydrostatic transmission, no shifting – just push the pedal and go
- Model Number 13BQA1CZ010
XT2 SLX50 EFI Lawn Tractor
- 679cc EFI Cub Cadet V-twin OHV engine with increased efficiency and maintenance benefits.
- 11 gauge Fabricated QuickAttach™ 50 in. three-blade cutting deck designed to deliver the pristine Cub Cadet Signature Cut with a SmartJet™ high-pressure deck washing system for a quick and easy cleanup
- Automotive-style 16 in. turning radius provides smooth cutting and maneuvering, whether straight away or around obstacles
- Tuff Torq K46 foot-controlled hydrostatic transmission, no shifting – just push the pedal and go
- Model Number 13BZA2CZ010
XT1 GT50 Garden tractor
- 24 HP Kohler 7000 series V-Twin
- Stamped QuickAttach™ 50 in. three-blade cutting deck designed to deliver the pristine Cub Cadet Signature Cut with a SmartJet™ high-pressure deck washing system for a quick and easy cleanup
- Automotive-style 16 in. turning radius provides smooth cutting and maneuvering, whether straight away or around obstacles
- Tuff Torq K58 ground engaging foot-controlled hydrostatic transmission, no shifting – just push the pedal and go
- Model Number 14AQA3CQ010
XT2 GX50 Garden tractor
- 25 HP Kohler® twin engine auto-choke
- 11 gauge Fabricated QuickAttach™ 50 in. three-blade cutting deck designed to deliver the pristine Cub Cadet Signature Cut with a SmartJet™ high-pressure deck washing system for a quick and easy cleanup
- Automotive-style 16 in. turning radius provides smooth cutting and maneuvering, whether straight away or around obstacles
- Tuff Torq K58 foot-controlled hydrostatic transmission, no shifting – just push the pedal and go
- Model Number 14BQA3CZ010
54 Inch Deck Models
XT1 ST54 FAB Lawn Tractor
- 24 HP Kohler® twin engine
- 11 gauge Fabricated QuickAttach™ 54 in. three-blade cutting deck designed to deliver the pristine Cub Cadet Signature Cut with a SmartJet™ high-pressure deck washing system for a quick and easy cleanup
- Automotive-style 16 in. turning radius provides smooth cutting and maneuvering, whether straight away or around obstacles
- Tuff Torq K46 foot-controlled hydrostatic transmission, no shifting – just push the pedal and go
- Model Number 13BQA2CA010
XT2 SLX54 Lawn Tractor
- 25 HP Kohler® twin engine with Smart-Choke
- 11 gauge Fabricated QuickAttach™ 54 in. three-blade cutting deck designed to deliver the pristine Cub Cadet Signature Cut with a SmartJet™ high-pressure deck washing system for a quick and easy cleanup
- Automotive-style 16 in. turning radius provides smooth cutting and maneuvering, whether straight away or around obstacles
- Tuff Torq K46 foot-controlled hydrostatic transmission, no shifting – just push the pedal and go
- Model Number 132QA2CA010
XT1 GT54 Garden tractor
- 25 HP Kohler® twin-engine auto-choke
- 11 gauge Fabricated QuickAttach™ 54 in. three-blade cutting deck designed to deliver the pristine Cub Cadet Signature Cut with a SmartJet™ high-pressure deck washing system for a quick and easy cleanup
- Automotive-style 16 in. turning radius provides smooth cutting and maneuvering, whether straight away or around obstacles
- Tuff Torq K58 foot-controlled hydrostatic transmission, no shifting – just push the pedal and go
- Model Number 14BQA3CA010
XT2 GX54 D FAB Garden tractor
- 26 HP Kohler® twin-engine auto-choke
- 11 gauge Fabricated QuickAttach™ 54 in. three-blade cutting deck designed to deliver the pristine Cub Cadet Signature Cut with a SmartJet™ high-pressure deck washing system for a quick and easy cleanup
- Automotive-style 16 in. turning radius provides smooth cutting and maneuvering, whether straight away or around obstacles
- Garden Tractor Hydrostatic Transmission equipped with differential lock control for increased traction. Heavy-Duty Tuff Torq K62 foot-controlled hydrostatic transmission, no shifting – just push the pedal and go
- Model Number 14D7A6CA010
42-60 Inch XT3 Deck Models
XT3 GS Garden tractor
- 22.5 HP Kohler® Professional-grade Command OHV twin horizontal engine
- 42″, 50″, 54″ Stamped and 48″, 54″, 60″ Fabricated (SOLD SEPARATELY) QuickAttach™ (no tools required)
- Automotive-style 18 in. turning radius provides smooth cutting and maneuvering, whether straight away or around obstacles
- Shaft Driven Cast Iron Transmission
- Seat TypeDeluxe high-back seat with armrests and 6″ slide
- Arm Rests
- Model Number 14R-3JM-010
- Warranty4-year unlimited hours (includes powertrain)
- Front Axle Warranty 5-year chassis & front axle unlimited hours/limited lifetime fabricated deck shell
XT3 GSX Garden tractor
- 25 HP Kohler® Professional-grade Command OHV twin horizontal engine
- 42″, 50″, 54″ Stamped and 48″, 54″, 60″ Fabricated (SOLD SEPARATELY) QuickAttach™ (no tools required)
- Electronic Power Steering (EPS) 18 in. turning radius provides smooth cutting and maneuvering, whether straight away or around obstacles
- Shaft Driven Cast Iron Transmission with Diff Lock
- Seat TypeDeluxe high-back seat with armrests and 6″ slide
- Arm Rests
- Model Number 14RD3LE-010
- Warranty4-year unlimited hours (includes powertrain)
- Front Axle Warranty 5-year chassis & front axle unlimited hours/limited lifetime fabricated deck shell
Hi Paul,
That was great. You put everything I have been trying to find in a perfectly organized easy to read text book.
I was wondering if you were going to do the same thing for The 2020 John Deer and other makes also. I am impartial to either! I have owned the lowest level $1000 craftsman for 10 years and it is time to move on. I am very interested in the XT1 GT54 Garden tractor. I was just wondering what the competition has comparable. Again thank you for sharing all of this knowledge.
Jeff
Hi Jeff, Deere hasn’t changed anything so here is the latest review: Which New 2018-2019 John Deere E100 Series Lawn Tractor Is Right For Me?. You have to spend over $5000 in a Deere to get the K58 tranny.
Husqvarna has a couple of Garden Tractors but it will be a month before I get them reviewed. That said, the model you are looking at is a good mower and I highly recommend it. You won’t find a Husqvarna any better for the same price.
Thanks for the reply Paul, you read my mind in the K58 Tranny! I will check out the John Deere link for fun, but I’m getting pretty set on the XT1 GT54 . I will be sure to use your links when I do purchase. Have a great summer, stay safe and God bless.
Jeff
Paul, great write up. Thank you for the informed data. In your opinion, do I need the K62 or will the K58 suffice if I am planning to plow & disc a small gardened areas 2-3 times a year, also using scraper blades rather often, along with cutting just under an acre 40 times / year on rough slightly inclined terrain? I would be looking at this as a 12+ year investment. (though I must admit I am considering the XT3 as a life-long purchase as well) Thanks in advance for your help. Take Care…
Hi James, Today’s garden tractors are pretty light in the rear so the locking diff on the K62 will be a big advantage.
The XT3 doesn’t have that weight problem because it still uses the cast iron hydro transmission. Even so, I still recommend getting the XT3 GSX because it also has the locking diff (and power steering) so you’ll have the most traction of any “garden” tractor on the market.
Thanks so much for your quick response and clear knowledge of the details. I didn’t even notice the cast iron housing vs cast aluminum. The locking diff is a big factor in choosing the GX54D over the XT3GS and the iron may help tip the balance back the other way.
The XT3 GSX rivals the price range of a good used “Tractor” with a 3 point and hydraulics though, so that practically negates that option for me, personally. My wife does prefer new with warranty though, and peace of mind. It’s just hard to swallow spending that much on something that doesn’t even come with a sleeve hitch. Know what I mean? Then again, you’re doubling that cost for anything new that even compares, right?
Thanks again for your insight.
We are comparing the Cub Cadet XT2 LX42 to the XT1 LT46. Looking to mow 1 1/4 acres relatively flat with one small hill. Appears the XT2 LX42 may have the better transmission with a standard K46; however, the 42 has the new 679 cc Cub Cadet engine. The XT1 LT46 has a downgraded TL-200 transmission but has the well respected Kohler 7000 engine. What are your thoughts on engine vs. transmission. Do you have any knowledge or feedback on the 679cc Cub Cadet engine?
Hi Michelle, The TL-200 and the K46 are the two most popular trannys on the market. The brands typically put the TL-200 in 42-46 tractors under $1900 and the K46 in 42-48 inch tractors over $1800. The TL-200 will last if you basically just mow and pull a yard cart. If you wanted to attach a snowblower then go for the K46.
I have no preference between the Kohler 7000 and the 679cc Cub Cadet V-Twin. The Kohler has been around longer and it does have a great reputation.
Personally, I would spend an extra $300 and get the XT2 LX46 EFI. You get the heavy-duty 46 inch fabricated deck and the 679cc EFI engine. The EFI is about 25% more fuel efficient and the eletronic governor gives you more power quicker than the Kohler or regular 679 Cub Cadet engine. Plus the XT2 series gives you the K46, armrests, ball bearing front wheels, front bumper and 4 ply tires.
Thanks much! Very helpful!
Hi Paul. I’m looking at the GT50,SLX54 & GX50. I’ll use it for mowing & hauling a yard cart & lots of vacuuming up yard debris (Leaves & sticks). I’m looking for durability, power to weight, lbs/Sq inch, suction.
I can’t seem to find accurate wts for these models that make any sense. Anywhere from 470-700 lbs can’t be correct.
Which deck has better suction? Stamped or fabbed? 2 blade or 3?
The LX 46 is also an option if the twin blade has better suction, but I’m concerned with the smaller tires leaving wheel ruts.
Thanks for all the great info.
Hi Mark, The SLX 54 has a lightweight K46 transmission in it. You don’t want that model for pulling at lof stuff or for hills. It has the same tranny as the LX 46
The GT 50 has a heavier K58 transmission and a stamped deck. Cub Cadet’s fabricated decks do a better job filling a bagger. So I don’t recommend this one.
The GX 50 has the heavier transmission, a fabricated deck, armrests, ball-bearing front wheels, and 4-ply tires so they won’t go flat as often. This is the one I’d pick.
I don’t understand the weights either. It appears some weights are just the tractor and the higher weights are shipping weights which includes the shipping crate. In other words I’ll guess that the SLX54 is about right with the K46, the GT 50 is about right with the stamped deck, but the GX 50 includes the packing crate. My guess is it’s around 550 lbs.
Thanks Paul, The GX50 is the one that I prefer. It’s the 700 lbs that I didn’t like. I was also under the impression that the stamped decks created more vacuum. If it’s only 550 lbs & the fab deck works better, then it’s a no brainer. Except now, I’m thinking that if the GX54D is the same weight, then it would be the better choice since it has the K62 tranny, locking differential & even bigger tires. Am I missing anything? Thanks.
Hi Mark, No you are not missing anything and I like the GX54D the best! The only tractor better than that one on the market is the Cub Cadet XT3 GSX but that’s around $6,000 with a deck.
Paul, How does the JD X380 compare to the Cub Cadet XT2 GX54 D? I mow a little over 1 acre and use the mower to pull my Cyclone leaf vac in the fall. The X380 has the K58 transmission and the XT2 GX54 D has the K62. Any recommendations as to which one would perform better over the long term? They both seem like great tractors.
Hi Michael, They both have one inch rear axles. The XT2 GX54 D has the locking differential so you can get more traction when you need it for hills and pulling stuff. The K62 is slightly heavier duty but not that much to say it’s “better”
The X380 has the optional MulchControl so you can switch from mulching to side discharge easily. The X380 has better resale value but you are also paying at least $600 more upfront for “green paint”
Both decks cut well, the Deere mulches better. The Kohler and Deere iTorque engines both have a good reputation.
Paul, Just wanted to say thanks for the work you put in on this website. I just purchased my first riding mower, a Cub Cadet XT1 LT46, so my Honda hrx217 hka can take a rest. After mowing with the Honda for the past 12 years I’m looking forward to mowing with the Cub and its Kohler engine. There is a dichotomy that you understand between what the manufacturer is attempting to sell us on vs what has worked and what should work. You do a great job of blending that spectrum. Therefore a person can make a decision with more confidence trusting that they aren’t simply falling for hype and that these days is more and more challenging to find. God Bless.
Do you like the XT2 SLX50 ? I like the added features. Am currently a JD owner.
Hi Duty, Yes, It’s a good tractor and the 50-inch deck cuts very well. In fact, it cuts as well or better than the 48 inch Deere decks.
Hi Paul,
Thinking about going with the XT2 46″ Non-EFI…Cub Cadet’s website states that this model has a 679cc Cub Cadet engine…is this made by Kohler?…the other thing is that I move around a lot for work (usually every 18 months or so)…and may have the tractor in long-term storage if I end up at a place where a tractor is not needed…could be storing for two years)…would this sway you to recommending an EFI model? What is the process for preparing the tractor for long term storage in terms of the engine? Drain the tank? Put Tru-Fuel in? Thanks for your help!
Hi Eli, The Cub Cadet engine is their own. It is not made for them by Briggs, Kohler or Kawaski. It’s a good design and very fuel-efficient.
TruFuel is the best way. Drain the tank (you can drain it by removing the fuel filter) then put a can of Tru-Fuel in the tank. Run it for 10-15 minutes and it’s good for 2 years.
Hi Paul..I’m impressed by the current Cub Cadet lineup but am also intrigued by the “Turn tight” feature of the Craftsman series. The T240 offered by Lowe’s has a Kohler 7000 engine and overall good reviews…How do you think it stacks up against the comparable CC Lawn Tractors?
Hi Joe, I’m not going to recommend Craftsman at Lowes mowers yet. Why?
1. Stanley, Black and Decker is the company selling these mowers. They have no experience in servicing gas-powered equipment so they set up regional repair centers instead of using local dealers. To get any service after the 30 day return policy from Lowes you have to take it to the nearest service center. In most cases that’s not in your local area. The service wait time is 3 weeks to six months. I’m also not aware that you can get parts online – you have to call to get parts.
2. Almost all of the reviews are “Sweepstakes” or “part of a promotion” reviews. People who have a chance of winning something will always give a better review than owners who just write in. Because of that I don’t trust the reviews.
3. The Turn-Tight is not the same as what was on the Sears Craftsman tractors and is also not the same as the turn-tight on the Husqvarna mowers. The geometry of the Turn-Tight has to be exact or else the mower will scuff and tear up your lawn. I haven’t had a chance to test this version of the Turn-tight to see if it actually works.
4. I also don’t understand why owners are complaining of the Craftsman throwing belts. That was fixed on the Cub Cadet and Troy-Bilt mowers way back in 2015 (These Craftsman mowers are made in the same factory that makes the Troy-Bilts.)
So, The Cub Cadet has local dealers if you have warranty issues. They can get you parts or you can order parts through Cub Cadet online. The reviews for the Cub Cadets are not solicited so I trust them more. For $100 less I’ll buy the Cub Cadet at this time.
Thanks for that eye-opening information, I’ll surely pass on the Craftsmans.
One other question, the information on your website indicates that the 679cc Cub Cadet EFI engines are V-Twins, however the Cub Cadet website says they are all single cylinder. Which is correct?
Hi Joe, I’m not sure. Their single-cylinder model is 547cc. The 679cc Cub Cadet EFI is listed as a single cylinder in the lawn tractors but listed as a V-Twin in the Zero-turn. the Kohler 7000 and Kawasaki FR691 are both about 670cc so I’m going to guess Cub Cadet’s website is wrong for the lawn tractors.
Thanks again for all the help and information Paul. I notice now at Home Depot, they have a “New this Season” tag on a XT1 LT46 single cylinder EFI mower with a fabricated deck. I like the idea of EFI, but I am really drawn to original LT46 v twin Kohler over the single cylindar CC. What are your thoughts between these two?
Hi Nicole, Unless you specifically want EFI I still recommend the Kohler for you. The V-Twin Kohler is one of the smoothest running engines in lawn tractors and it has an excellent reputation. The Kohler also has quite a bit more HP so it will handle any grass you have to mow.
Hi Paul, great summary as always. I’m in the market for a lawn tractor…I have about 1 acre (but also have a lot next door that I mow sometimes when the town doesn’t get to it and it looks bad, which is an additional 1 acre). I also plan to pull a cart with dirt for the garden, mulch, etc…I’m looking at the XT2 46” EFI, but I’m thinking it might be overkill. Just seems like a lot more engine and transmission than the Cubs with the 42”’deck and the 547cc engine. I like that the 46”
Deck has four anti-scalp wheels instead of 2 and the electric PTO. Which would you suggest? How heavy of a yard cart+load is “too heavy” for the transmission to handle? Would you go with the EFI option vs non-EFI? I have EFI in my Ariens Platinum 24 snowblower, that came highly recommended from you, and I love it. Never bogs down. Appreciate your help as always.
Hi Eli, The 547cc is a single-cylinder the XT2 46 is a V-Twin. The V-Twin is a lot smoother when running. Personally, if you are pulling dirt and other loads over 300 lbs I strongly suggest going with the XT2 because of the heavier duty transmission.
EFI is nice but the Kohler in the XT2 is a very dependable engine and it will never give you any problems.
Thanks so much for the thoughtful response Paul and the info on Consumer Reports. I also like the 46″ for the Kohler engine. For the last 16 years, I have been mowing on my dad’s old Craftsman 15.5 OHV Kohler automatic mower. It has got to be about 20 years old at this point and still mows great. I am trying to get my ducks in a row because each summer I think, it can’y go another summer, but it always does. I have never replaced a thing on it, other than the battery, just regular oil changes and grease. What do you think about the Intellipower? When I was on the CC website, it made it seem that the EFI engine used Intellipower technology but when I got on their chat, they told me it is two different engine options. Thanks again for all the information…very helpful.
Hi Nicole, The EFI engine does use an electronic governor and solid-state ignition. The Intellipower is that electronic governor and solid-state ignition. So, yes the EFI has Intellipower even though it’s not listed as such on the chat person’s cheat sheet.
Just remember, the people on chat are customer service reps – not technicians. So they tend to work “from the script” not from common sense…
Hi Paul. I am currently trying to decide on a riding mower. I mow about 1.5 – 2 acres of lawn, mostly flat, with some obstacles. I am trying to decide between the XT1 LT42 EFI, XT1 LT42 with Intellipower or the XT1 LT46. I am leaning toward the LT46 for a few reasons. First, in my mind, the more “computer/sensors” components in the Intellipower makes me nervous that there would just be more to go wrong/replace. The EFI is not rated overly well in Consumer Reports, though I’ve noticed the Cubs were rated really well in 2018, then all fell in ratings and were replaced by mostly John Deere mowers. The LT 46 seems like a good choice, but I think maybe I am leaning that way because there isn’t the same number of reviews on the other two. What would you chose?
Hi Nicole, You can’t just go by the number rating with Consumer Reports. Why? “The Overall Score for each model in CR’s mower ratings incorporates all that performance data, along with predicted reliability and owner satisfaction ratings from our latest member survey. The survey leverages data on more than 43,916 lawnmowers and tractors that members purchased between 2008 and 2018.”
CR puts as much weight in their number ratings for a “general survey” and owner reviews as they do in their testing. What that means is if a brand had an issue with a certain lawnmower in the last 10 years the “predicted reliability” rating for the entire brand is skewed. For example, Cub Cadet did have an issue with mower deck belts between 2010 and 2014. They fixed this issue in 2016 and the reviews have been great since then. But because CR averages those owner reviews over 10 years Cub Cadet can’t get a higher number rating until 2024.
I wish they would use owner reviews of the actual product they are testing. They also don’t look at the actual service and parts networks for the products.
So, if you are using Consumer Reports look at the actual features you want in the mower. Myself, I only look at the side-discharge, bagging and mulching categories. Ohio State tested the cut quality also and the Cub Cadet rated the highest of all the lawn tractors. That said,
I also was cautious about EFI the first few years but we have actually have had EFI on Lawn & Garden equipment now for over 10 years. It’s just finally coming to residential mowers and snow blowers. EFI has no moving parts so it eliminates all the wear and tear on carburetors and mechanical governors. In addition, the EFI systems can sense a load a lot quicker so your mower actually mows better in heavy grass. Cub Cadet is working with Walbro on the EFI. Walbro is the leading manufacturer of fuel-related parts for small engines.
Personally, I also like the LT 46. It cuts very well and the deck sticks out of the side of the mower more than the 42-inch tractors. That lets you get a little closer to stuff for trimming and saves time because you don’t have to trim as much. I also like the Kohler engine. It’s been a very reliable engine over the years and runs very smoothly.