Zero Turn Mower Buyer’s Guide: Introduction
This guide will help you begin to sort through the differences for the hundreds of zero-turn mowers on the market so you can decide the best brand and model for you.
Take your time – there is a lot to read – be sure to scan through the comments at the end of the article. We may have already answered your question.
When you’re done here I’ll help you find the best one for you here: 2021 The Best Residential Zero Turn Mowers
Buying a zero turn lawn mower is similar to shopping for a vehicle. Some people just want a cheap car that gets them around town, others want a luxury vehicle that gives them a smooth ride, and a few need a gravel truck that will last 500,000 miles or more.
So, just like vehicles, there are cheap Zero Turn Mowers that will mow your flat, smooth lawn or more expensive models that will mow your lawn as fast as possible while making your ride as comfortable as that of a Lincoln Town Car. Some are no more durable than your $1200 lawn tractor while there are others capable of mowing 50 acres a week for 15-20 years.
In other words, zero turning radius (ZTR) lawn mowers are all similar because they all cut grass, but the different models just do it with varying degrees of comfort, speed, and quality of components.
Finding the right zero turn mower for you can be very difficult to figure out on your own.
Although there are hundreds of mowers available to buy there is no one organization that lists all the models – let alone reviews and rates them. For example, Consumer Reports only rates the entry-level zero turns and lawn tractors. The other 90% of the mowers available are not rated or tested anywhere online. There have been one or two websites that have tried but their rating systems did not reflect the actual quality or performance of the mower. The rest of the websites only rate the particular brands that they sell (or Amazon sells) and don’t represent the market as a whole. Even I don’t have the time to list them all – let alone rate each one. But feel free to ask – I try to keep track of even the brands you’ve never heard of.
Which brings up a good point – There are many great quality zero-turn mowers available from well-respected companies that have been in this business for 30-40 years that you probably have never heard of. Many of these zero-turn mowers are considerably better and more cost-effective than the models you see at the big box store. As a consumer, you really only hear of the largest brands with the largest advertising budgets. You are probably not aware of the hidden gems like Country Clipper, Walker and Bradley sold by your local dealer store, farm store, and hardware store.
NOTE: I just want to remind you that zero-turn mowers are lawnmowers. These economy residential machines are NOT designed to go out and mow your horse pasture, paddock, roadside ditch or field. I repeat, do not use these for tall grass or mowing rough areas. The tall grass will wrap around the spindles under the deck and burn out your belts and deck bearings. Bouncing through the pasture will quickly destroy your deck, crack your frame and/or transmissions. These mowers are not designed to cut higher than 4-4.5 inches. If you have fields, paddocks, and pastures to mow I strongly suggest you look at the Acre-Ease rough cut mower for those areas instead. Swisher has also updated their line of rough-cut mowers and they now have some heavy-duty models Swisher Rough Cut
Note: Be very careful buying zero turn mowers on Amazon. There are some very reputable sellers but there are also a few just “out to make a buck.” There is a lot of “old stock” that wholesalers are just trying to dump.
But you can have an excellent experience with Amazon. If a current model is available directly from Amazon or a reputable seller on Amazon I will offer you a buy link. Amazon literally is the best place to buy anything online. The delivery is swift, and if there are any issues with the shipping or the item Amazon takes care of it immediately. Buy at Amazon
NOTE: I don’t deal with used ZTR’s. I don’t keep current with used ZTR prices. In reality, unless you understand engines, hydro-transmissions and can repair your own equipment I strongly suggest you stay away from a used residential ZTR. Parts and labor to change out the components can quickly add up to more than a new machine.
At TodaysMower.com I usually only write articles on the entry level, estate and semi-pro models that work well for your residential lawns. Pro, Commercial and Industrial mowers are outside the scope of this website.
When you’re done here I’ll help you find the best one for you here: 2021 The Best Residential Zero Turn Mowers
The industry generally classifies every zero turn mower into one of five quality grades, three types, and two styles.
Quality: Economy, Estate/MidGrade, Semi-Pro, Commercial, Industrial. I’ll explain the different quality levels below. I’ll also play Myth-Buster to help you wade through all the advertising hype in the Economy and Estate quality.
Types: Lap-Bar, Steering Wheel, Joy-Stick, Stand-on.
- Lap-Bar Steering is the most common and uses two levers that fold in front of you to drive and steer the mower. You either like it or hate it.
- Steering Wheel ZTR’s drive just like your car with a steering wheel and foot pedal speed control.
- Joy-Stick models drive like a video game.
- Stand-on mowers use two levers and are used by professional contractors. They are highly maneuverable and used for production mowing.
(Gravely introduced a completely new way to drive a ZTR on the Gravely Pro-Walk in 2018. I’m hoping we will see something similar on sit down ZTR’s in the future.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8IMWEwjiqo
Grillo Front Deck ZTR.
Styles: Mid-Deck, Front Deck. Mid-deck mowers are the most common in the U.S. and you sit over the deck. A front deck mower is the most common in Europe where the deck sticks out the front of the mower. The front deck mower is highly maneuverable and gives you the highest quality of cut. (Commercial users like the mid-mount mowers because you can fit more of them on a trailer than you can front deck machines)
Safety Tip: NEVER, I repeat never mow a slope with a pond or drop-off at the bottom of the slope. Even the most expensive ZTR’s can lose traction, slide down the slope, slide into the water or tip over on the drop-off. Animals burrowing into the bank or erosion under the sod can be deadly. Plan on using a walk-behind mower or develop a nature area for those types of slopes. It’s good practice to stay at least two deck widths away from that edge. Yes, the old neighbor next door has been doing it for years but trust me…His streak of good luck won’t last.
Before we get into the specifics of the different mowers you may also want to read this article: Do you really need a zero-turn mower? 17 reasons why you may not want one.
So Which One Is Best For You? I will go through the different quality levels in the next sections to help you decide. But first, let’s cover one more basic area – deck size.
When you’re done here I’ll help you find the best one for you here: 2021 The Best Residential Zero Turn Mowers
Zero Turn Mower Buyer’s Guide: Sizing Your Mower Deck:
Use the chart below to give you an idea of what size to get. I do suggest going with a smaller deck if you want the best cut possible but do not go less than 42 inches with a zero-turn. I also suggest staying away from decks larger than 61 inches. Bigger decks may cut larger areas quickly but they will scalp and gouge most lawns.
Go around your yard and measure between landscape features like trees, landscape beds and buildings. A 42-inch deck requires 48 inches with discharge chute down so areas narrower than that will have to be mowed with a push mower or string trimmer.
- Less than 42 inches: Zero-turn mowers less than 42 inches will be very unstable on slopes. Never use one on a slope greater than 10 degrees. In fact, don’t even try to trim around an older tree where the roots taper up to the trunk. The small 32-34 inch zero-turns that I don’t recommend also have traction problems when turning and will tear up your yard. If you have gates that require a smaller ZTR I suggest making the gates bigger. These small zero-turn mowers take a lot of practice to use because they don’t have good traction in the rear and are notorious for tearing up your lawn. They are also very top-heavy compared to the larger zero-turns and in my opinion are not safe to operate on any type of slope. You can actually tip one over going around the roots of an old tree. Yes, they sell a 32-inch ZTR – but that doesn’t mean you should buy it.
- 42-46″ Decks. A 42 or 46-inch deck will fit in the back of a full-size pickup. If you have plenty of room to mow your residential lawn I now suggest a 46-inch deck for 1-acre yards. Today’s 46-inch, 2 blade decks all cut very well.
- 48″-50” Decks. A 48-inch deck will mow your lawn about 20% faster than a 42 inch so they are a good choice for one to three acres. With the discharge chute down a 48-inch deck needs about 54 inches to go between an obstruction
- 52″-54″ Decks. If you have the room between your obstructions or have large open areas to mow a 50-54 inch deck will save you 30-40% time over a 42 inch. The wheelbase is typically wider than a 42-inch ZTR so it can handle slight to moderate slopes better. Economy model decks tend to “flop” around so the cut will not be as good as a smaller deck. The estate and semi-pro models will cut well.
- 60″-61″ decks. This size is a very common size for landscape professionals. The brands all engineer these decks to cut well and fast. With a 25 HP or larger commercial-grade engine, these decks will cut up to 5 acres an hour.
- 72″ decks. I don’t recommend 72-inch decks unless you have 5 acres or more of flat, smooth lawn. In addition, the 72-inch decks in your price range usually have too small of an engine. A 60 inch will actually mow faster. These huge decks are best suited for large-scale commercial properties where the quality of cut is not as important as the quantity.
Summary: Slopes steeper than 15 degrees will have to be mowed with a walk-behind or string trimmer.
Up to 1 Acre = 42” Deck
Up to 2 Acres = 42, 46” Deck – Give you the best cut for Residential ZTR’s
2+ Acres = 48, 50, 52, 54″ Deck – Most common sizes for Residential and Estate ZTR’s. Great for 2 acres and many trees.
2+ Acres = 60, 61″ Deck – Gives you the best cut for Estate and Commercial ZTR’s
2+ Acres = 72″ Deck – I don’t recommend this size EXCEPT for large, flat properties.
When you’re done here I’ll help you find the best one for you here: 2021 The Best Residential Zero Turn Mowers
Zero Turn Mower Buyer’s Guide: Economy or Entry-Level Residential Zero Turn Mowers
Two-Types: Lap-Bar, Steering Wheel.
Styles: Mid-Deck.
Good For: Smooth Lawns With Light Slopes
Cost: $2600-$3500 depending on size.
Economy zero-turns are meant to directly replace your old lawn tractor. They have the same quality and features as today’s mid-priced lawn/yard tractors but are more agile so they will get your mowing task done faster. They save time by being more agile – the decks are the same as your lawn tractor so they won’t mow well at a faster speed. Two brands now have steering wheel models that drive like your economy car – the rest all use the Lap-Bar steering system that makes the zero turn lawn mower a lot more agile than your old lawn tractor.
Myth-Buster No. 1: “These dependable – yet affordable – mowing machines will cut a yard twice as fast as a lawn tractor. They feature smaller, less-powerful engines with smaller gas tanks, maxing out at 6-7 miles per hour.” One manufacturer started this mess by advertising in 2012 “that you can cut your mowing time almost in half.*” What that actually means is using their lap-bar zero-turn – your mower is more agile so the total time it takes to mow yard your is less than with their lawn tractor. (They no longer make the lawn tractor that was used in that claim.) * Watch this video to see the original advertising claim: Toro Time Cutter
Economy Lap Bar Zero Turn
In reality, most economy zero-turns use the same decks and engines as the mid-priced lawn tractors so they mow in a straight line at the same speed as a lawn tractor. But having two transmissions allows them to maneuver faster around obstructions and turn around faster at the end of a mowing run (zero-turn). In addition, they go around trees and corners better than a conventional lawn tractor so you may save some time when trimming. Yes, they will zip around your yard at 5-6 mph but they actually only mow well at 3-4 mph – just like your lawn tractor. If you have a lot of landscaping and other obstructions in your lawn they can save you up to 45% in the time it takes to mow your lawn.
Myth-Buster No. 2: “entry-level zero turn lawn mowers are constructed with less expensive components like stamped vs. welded decks and steel vs. cast iron spindle materials. They’re typically not designed for daily use, but they will still cut your weekend mowing time in half.” Economy zero-turn mowers use the same deck components as the lawn tractor they are designed to replace. If you mow your normal suburban lawn once a week and your old lawn tractor lasted 10-15 years, this economy zero-turn will last as long. There are other zero-turn mowers that are built much stronger for heavy-duty and commercial use. Those types use heavier components like cast iron spindles and welded decks.
Transmissions: All economy zero-turn mowers use two hydrostatic transmissions instead of one like a lawn tractor. The transmissions are as durable as the transmissions in your lawn tractor so you can pull the normal stuff like a yard cart, small aerator, and dethatcher. I don’t recommend pulling a 400-600 lb lawn roller or 500 pound plus loads though. That extra transmission adds about $400 to the cost. Typically economy zero-turn mowers cost $2600 to $3200.
Cub Cadet LZT SX 42 EFI
Myth-Buster No. 3: “Entry-level models are ideal for the weekend warrior wanting the excitement of a zero-turn mower without a professional price tag.” Written by a true advertising copy-writer. The only time I have ever been “excited” using a zero-turn was sliding down a slope towards a pond.
Lap-Bar zero-turns are the most agile and are easy to learn to use for most people. They give you the most time savings. Steering wheel zero-turns are more expensive but anyone can use them because they drive just like your car. The steering wheel versions give you the advantages of a zero-turn mower without tearing up your lawn.
One company, Country Clipper uses a patented single joy-stick control that works very well. They also have step and handrail options for those of us with mobility issues. I recommend the Country Clipper to anyone who is handicapped or has a hard time getting on and off a zero-turn.
If an Economy Zero Turn Is Best For You go here to select the best size and brand for you: 2020 The Best Residential Zero Turn Mowers
When you’re done here I’ll help you find the best one for you here: 2021 The Best Residential Zero Turn Mowers
Zero Turn Mower Buyer’s Guide: Estate, Mid-Grade or Heavy-Duty Residential Zero Turn Mower.
Two-Types: Lap-Bar/Joy Stick, Steering Wheel.
Styles: Mid-Deck.
Good For: Smooth-ish Lawns With Light/Medium Slopes
Cost: $4000-$7000 depending on size. Higher cost than economy but longer life, higher quality and easier to use.
This is the most popular segment of zero-turns for homeowners. These mowers are an upgrade over your old lawn or garden tractor. This quality level of zero-turn mower will easily cut your mowing time in half because they are more agile than a lawn or garden tractor and are designed to mow faster than your tractor. These mowers will mow well at 6-8 mph.
Unfortunately, Consumer Reports and the other Review Websites do not test and evaluate these models. I don’t have the cash to buy and test these myself, but I do have years of experience listening to owners and using them myself. I can help you narrow down the choices to decide on the best model for you.
Lap Bar Estate Zero Turn
When you increase the speed that you are mowing by 40% over the Economy models, you also have to increase the strength of the mower considerably. If you don’t the mower will quickly self-destruct. Estate zero-turns use thicker steel for the frame and fabricated decks are built stronger. They use heavier-duty components than the entry-level models. Because of that, they will last a lot longer. If you size the mower to your yard this grade will easily last 15 years or more.
Being heavier they will also handle bumps and rough spots better. They typically have larger tires and seats to smooth out the ride.
Decks: Decks in this class generally use a metal that is too thick to stamp with a hydraulic press so these decks are fabricated out of sheet steel. Most decks have extra wear bars welded to the sides and front so they will take more of a beating than a stamped deck.
Transmissions: A heavy-duty residential zero-turn also has heavier duty transmissions. These transmissions can handle slopes and the increased speed without overheating. You can pull an aerator, fertilizer spreader and heavy-duty cart without quickly ruining these transmissions.
Frame and Wheels: Like the decks, the frames, axles, casters, and wheels use thicker steel and will take more use and abuse than the economy class.
Joy Stick Country Clipper Zero-Turn
Myth-Buster No. 1: You will have a wider variety of engine choices in this class but the engines are still rated as residential or “Pro” grade. The brand of the engine in this class does not mean a better engine so don’t let a dealer or another website lead you to believe that their mower is better because it has a certain brand engine on it. The quality of the engine is based on what’s on the inside – not what brand is stuck on the outside.
If a Heavy Duty Residential Zero Turn Is Best For You go here to select the best size and brand for you: 2021 The Best Residential Zero Turn Mowers
Zero Turn Mower Buyer’s Guide: Entry Level Commercial or Semi-Pro Zero Turn Mowers
Two Types: Lap-Bar/Joy Stick, Steering Wheel. (I’d like to see them bring back Stand-ons in this grade.)
Styles: Mid-Deck.
Good For: Smooth to Bumpy Lawns With Medium Slopes
Cost: $5000-$10,000 depending on size. Higher cost but longer life and higher quality components.
Entry-Level Commercial zero-turns are good machines for homeowners with 5 or more acres. They are the best choice for farm lawns and acreages where vehicles and farm machinery drive over the lawns. They are very popular with new landscape contractors who mow 10-20 homeowner lawns a week.
Mid Deck Zero Turn
Being heavier they will also handle bumps and rough spots better. They typically have heavier gauge steel frames, larger fuel tanks, and stronger transmissions than the Estate class. They are built well enough to handle the daily beating of taking them on an off a trailer when mowing a few homeowner lawns for hire. Most have thicker, high back seats to smooth out the ride. Some even have basic suspension seats. They don’t have cruise control but have armrests and use hydraulic dampeners attached to the steering levers so your shoulder muscles don’t get sore.
Entry-Level Commercial zero-turns generally use Pro duty engines that last 2-3 times longer than Economy/Residential zero-turn engines. Some also have commercial engine options and those engines will easily run 2000 hours and longer without major repairs. Again, the brand name of the engine does not designate the quality. Briggs & Stratton, Toro, Kohler, Yamaha, and Kawasaki all make dependable Pro and Commercial engines in this class.
Mean Green Electric
Most Semi-Pro mowers can mow up to 8 mph and the 60-inch size can mow 5 acres an hour.
Which Semi-Pro Zero Turn Is Best For You? There are a few of these models available through retail but I suggest using a local dealer instead. Selecting the best model is a combination of selecting not only the best mower but also selecting a dealer that you trust. These mowers will last you many years and when you need normal maintenance parts or repair you will enjoy the long-term relationship with that dealer.
When you’re done here I’ll help you find the best one for you here: 2021 The Best Residential Zero Turn Mowers
Zero Turn Mower Buyer’s Guide: Professional or Commercial Zero Turn Mowers
Three Types: Lap-Bar/Joy Stick, Stand-On, Steering Wheel.
Styles: Mid-Deck, Front Deck.
Good For: Smooth to Rough Lawns With Medium Slopes. Most will mow in all weather conditions.
Cost $6999 to $17,999.
Stand-On Zero Turn
Commercial Mowers are outside the scope of Todaysmower.com. Commercial mowers are not sold online or at retail stores. Commercial zero-turn mowers are big and fast. Some can mow at 10-15 mph in all weather conditions. Professional mowing contractors use this grade because they can mow 40-50 hours a week, all year long and the machines will still last years.
All commercial zero turns have thicker, high back seats to smooth out the ride. Some are now equipped with air-ride seats or vibration damping operator platforms. More and more models now come standard with electronic fuel injection and are more fuel-efficient than carbureted engines.
They are fast, comfortable and fun to drive.
Front Deck Commercial Zero Turns follow the ground contours the best. If your lawn has a lot of berms to mow over or if you want the best possible cut the front deck ZTRs are your best choice. There is even a front deck zero-turn small enough to fit into an elevator so you can mow and bag your rooftop lawn in downtown New York. The Walker brand has a very low center of gravity so it mows slopes better than the mid-deck models.
Stand-on mowers are particularly agile and great for properties that have many landscaped areas, slopes, and berms to mow around. They are also shorter than the commercial sit-down mowers so landscape contractors can fit more on a trailer. Stand-on mowers are my favorite way to mow. Toro/Exmark, Wright Stander and Gravely have always been the go-to brands. Bradley Stand-ons are commercial mowers with a residential price tags
Front Deck Zero Turn
Here is a list of the most popular brands. The list is sorted by popularity – not by the numbers sold.
Exmark, Scag, Toro, Walker, John Deere, Kubota, Ferris, Grasshopper, Hustler, Wright, BOB-CAT, Gravely, Dixie Chopper, Husqvarna, Bradley, Cub Cadet Commercial, Bush Hog, Bad Boy, Country Clipper, Big Dog.
In addition to this list, there are another 20 or so other great U.S. manufacturers including Jacobson, Bradley, and the all-electric Mean Green Mower,
Which Professional Zero Turn Is Best For You? Selecting the best Professional model is a combination of selecting not only the best mower but also selecting a dealer that can get you parts and service quickly so you can keep your machine out on the lawns making money. Please see your local Commercial Mower Dealer for these models.
Zero Turn Mower Buyer’s Guide: Industrial Zero Turn Mowers – Government, Sports Fields, Municipalities, Golf.
Styles: Mid-Deck, Front Deck, Rear Steer
Typically Industrial zero-turn mowers cost $15,999 to $149,999. A few of these mowers can mow up to 150 acres a day! These are specialty mowers and typically there is only one dealer per state that has the expertise to help you pick the right unit for your property or municipal projects. There are only a few brands that make these large area mowers with Jacobson, Hustler, LasTec, and Toro producing the highest quality machines.
Industrial Zero-Turn
Industrial Rear Steer Zero Turn
When you’re done here I’ll help you find the best one for you here: 2021 The Best Residential Zero Turn Mowers
Yes, You need a new Gas Can!
With today’s fuels, you need a gas can that seals tight. It helps the fuel last longer and the escaping vapors won’t wreck the environment. But the biggest problem is finding one that works. The cheap ones ($20 or more now) don’t have vents so it takes forever to fill the tank on your lawn tractor. The cheap ones are also flimsy and the spouts break after the first year.
Well, I’ve found one brand that works great! It’s vented inside the spout so it pours fuel quickly yet seals tightly when not in use. I’ll give you links at Amazon for two sizes. I suggest buying the size so that you don’t keep more than a month of fuel around the house.
No-Spill 1405 2-1/2-Gallon Poly Gas Can. A good size for snow blowers and push mowers.
No-Spill 1450 5-Gallon Poly Gas Can (CARB Compliant) This one has a second handle on the back so it is very easy to use and hang onto when pouring into your fuel tank. A good size for lawn tractors and zero-turns.
If you have a problem holding a gas can the SureCan is a great can. It’s very comfortable to use to use and built well. It also self-sealing and vented.
SureCan – Gas Can with Rotating Spout.
Fuel Stabilizer: When I go to the gas station and buy fuel I always put fuel stabilizer in the storage tank. It helps keep the fuel fresh and some also clean your carb and fuel system without messing it up. There a man good brands but I’ve used
SeaFoam for years and it’s always worked well. I use 2 tablespoons per gallon of fuel.
Other fuels stabilizers to check out: Fuel Stabilizers
By Paul Sikkema. Please Subscribe to my YouTube Channel Please Note: If you click on most of the links in this article and buy any product I will make a small commission from that sale. This is how I make money to keep this website up and running. Read more here: How to Support TodaysMower.com
How to leave a comment that will get the best answer. When asking a question please tell me about your lawn. The size of your lawn, what city, state you live in or the general area so I can tell what type of grass you have. Do you have a good, smooth lawn or is it rough? Do you have slopes steeper than 15 degrees? Have you used a ZTR before? There are over 40 good brands so if you can take the time please do a Google search for local dealers so you can tell me what brands you have locally. There is no use suggesting a certain brand if the closest dealer is 100 miles away. Of course, if you have a specific model or brand you need help deciding on – I’ll be glad to offer my opinion.
When you decide that a zero-turn mower is the best choice for you check out this article: 2021 The Best Residential Zero Turn Mowers
Alan Hammack
Hey Paul, first off, I love your articles and have found them incredibly helpful. I’ve been researching zt mowers for a few months now, and it seems all the information, while helpful, is making it harder and harder to choose. Couple questions, when do you plan on starting to go over 2021 equipment? And then my bigger question, transmissions. This is the part that seems to add the most confusion. My question is how important is it too have serviceable transmissions? I don’t want to go much over 4000-4200, which limits me to ezt or zt2800. While I don’t have a huge yard at a half an acre, I do have many obstacles, and it can get kinda bumpy in certain areas. I would love this to last 12-15 years or more if possible. I will be towing a sweeper and possibly a small cart from time to time. With me being a heavier guy at 250ish, I hear many many conflicting reports on what and how much you can tow before you start to effect the life of the transmissions. So is it worth the upgrade to the zt2800 and finding the best machine and cut quality that uses that transmission. Or can I feel safe in buying a machine with an ezt in hopes that it will last a long time? Also, a bonus question, of you had day 4000 to spend on a ZT, which would it be? Thank you for all you do!
Paul
Hi Alan, I started working on the 2021 models two weeks ago but this last snowstorm got in the way.
You only need a serviceable transmission if you are mowing 10-50 lawns a week. In your case, you will mow about an hour a week, 25 times a year. The ZT2200 is rated for at least 500 hours. So 25 hours a year gives you 20 years before you have to worry about the ZT2200 transmissions.
The total gross weight for the ZT2200 is 900 lbs. The ZT2800 is 1000 lbs. I recommend keeping your trailer weight to 250 lbs. DON’T pull a full load of dirt (500lbs) or gravel (1000 lbs) up a slope too many times or you will overheat the trannys.
The Ariens IKON XD 52 inch has an offset deck that makes trimming really easy to do. I like this mower a lot! It’s around $3200
The Cub Cadet XT1 and XT2 mowers have an offset front caster wheel so it is easier to trim with them also. I can also recommend these machines. The Cub Cadet ZT2 50 is around $3700
Mitchell
Hi Paul, I’m in the market for a zero turn mower. I’m looking for a 48″ mid-mount. I live south of the Augusta, Georgia area. I’ve got two flat acres with some trees/obstacles, and a couple of challenging drainage ditches. I’ll probably be using it once a week. My main priorities are durability and ease of service. Money is not an issue. I want this mower to last as long as possible. At the same time, I realize that availability of replacement parts for it have to last just as long. There are several dealers around my location, which pretty much have all the brands covered, except for Ferris, Worldlawn, Ventrac, Simplicity, and Bob-cat. I’d like to know what your top two choices are for my application? I’m not very confident in the mowers sold at the big box retailers, however if you think they sell one that’d do the job and hold-up, I’m definitely open.
Also, do you know of a good, long-lasting, battery-powered string trimmer you’d recommend?
Paul
Hi Mitchell, Trimmers: Since you are going to a dealer to buy your mower you might as well get the best trimmer. It’s the Stihl FSA 85 or FSA 90 R. They are commercial grade battery trimmers and are built to last a long, long time. Plus, the Stihl batteries are the best on the market. Get an AP 300 or AP 300S and you’ll have a good battery to use with a leaf blower and/or a push mower if you ever want to add on to your collection.
You’ll also find ECHO or Toro 60 volt trimmers at the dealer. They are good homeowner trimmers. People like their EGO trimmers but most dealers won’t carry the EGO line.
DO NOT BUY a Husqvarna or Red Max cordless trimmer. There are too many problems with the batteries.
Mowers: First, I suggest sticking with a 48-52 inch deck. Decks 54 inches and larger tend to get stuck in ditches. The ZTR with the larger decks just don’t have enough traction to hold the mower on a slope and it will slide into the bottom of the ditch and get stuck all the time. Also, zero-turns are not designed for slopes over 15 degrees. If you ditch is steeper than that you may want to use a self-propelled walk-behind to mow them.
Toro Titan, Ariens Apex, Gravely ZT XL, Gravely ZT HD, Cub Cadet ZT3, Bob-Cat CRZ, Bob-Cat XRZ are all good choices. I suggest walking into the various dealers and see which dealer you like. If you then have any questions feel free to ask me and I can help you narrow the choices down.
Mitchell
Yes sir, Toro, Ariens, and Gravely are all ones I’m considering. I’m also looking at one by Grasshopper. Are you familiar with their mowers? It’s a Grasshopper model 125V. I’m wondering how well it’d stack up to a Toro Titan or Gravely ZT HD?
Paul
Hi Mitchell, That Grasshopper is comparable to the Gravely Pro Z and is a solid step up from the Titan and Gravely ZT HD. It’s also almost twice the money. The Grasshopper is a tank. It’s very heavy so if you have soft/sandy soils I strongly suggest demoing it on your property before you buy.
Is it a good machine? Yes.
Mitchell
I saw in another comment where you had mentioned that the Gravely ZT HD and Ariens Apex are basically the same machine. Do you know if they’re identical? I looked at the specs for each and everything’s the same, but the Gravely (model 991152) is listed with a Kohler 7000 Pro Twin w/ smart choke at 25 hp and the Ariens (model 991161) is listed with a Kohler 7000 series at 23 hp. I wasn’t sure if they had the same engine and it was just a typo or if they’re different. Maybe I need to get with the dealer to discuss.
Paul
Hi Mitchell, yes the engines are different. The Gravely also has the Kawasaki option.
Mitchell
Thank you very much for the helpful information, Paul.
Paul
Hi Mitchell, And thank you so much for the tip!
Kevin
Paul
Thanks for this article and all the very helpful information. I am looking to purchase my first zero turn mower. I have over an acre of nice lawn to mow and another 2 acres of field/pasture. In addition to that, I have several rental properties and vacant lots to mow which is another acre and a half of good lawn to be mowed weekly and another 4 acres that is field to be mowed about every other week during the spring and summer. The ground is pretty much all flat and there are not very many trees to mow around. When the fields are too high I have a tractor and pull behind mower to mow the tall grass. I want something that is comfortable and that will last. I have been looking at higher end residential and entry level commercial. I am tall at 6’7 and there are some mowers that just don’t work with my long legs. I feel cramped sitting on them and the lap bars hit my knees before they are at full throttle.
I have been considering 52″, 54″ or 60″ deck. Here are the mowers in which I have narrowed my search.
1. Toro Titan Hd 60″ 74452 with the Toro engine. A local dealer has a leftover model for $5799 or Titan Myride 75312 with the Toro engine for $5280 The 74452 gives you the bigger transmission but no Myride.
2. I looked at the Country Clipper XLT with the Kawaski FR730 and drove one with the joystick. It was very easy to drive but I didn’t like the local dealers price at $7200 and the leg room was’t ideal for my height.
3. Bad Boy Maverick 54″ was very comfortable to sit on. Price is not to bad. Last years model is priced at $5899 with the Kawaski FS730 engine. Based on your past comments and some research, I’m concerned about getting service and parts when needed. I do have a local dealer that is a former John Deere dealer and has been in the same location for 30 plus years. I think they would take care of me.
4. I went and looked at a Gravely Pro Turn ZX 52 today and came away very impressed. It has the Kawaski FX engine and is currently priced at 6999 but the dealer told me that Gravely is having a one day sale on May 15th and I can buy that for $6396, This seems like a lot of mower for that price.
Picking the right mower is so challenging and I would appreciate your thoughts. Please let me know if any of these mowers are a good choice or if I should be looking at other options. I have looked a little at the Exmark’s as well but have not spent a lot of time on them. My budget is around the $6500 or so but willing to spend more for the right mower that will last.
Paul
Hi Kevin, You’ve created a good list of mowers to choose from. I don’t have any others that may be better for what you want to do.
1. The Gravely is the best mower of the bunch. You get a true entry-level commercial mower with Kawaski’s “Standard” commercial engine. The combination should last you years without any issues at all. One big plus with the Gravely deck is it’s one of the best for cutting longer grass. While no ZTR will cut 24-inch tall grass cleanly on the first pass the Gravely will handle 6-12 inches better than most. With the big tires and seat isolators, it also rides very well. The 52-inch deck is a good size for your open areas and mowing the smaller rental properties. It will give you a great cut for small areas and will cut fast for the larger areas. Two options you may want to consider. 1. Gravely’s laser-cut blades. They are self-sharpening and you can go at least 50 hours without touching them up. 2. Ariens has a “chute blocker” It allows you to mow up against flower beds and driveways without throwing grass into or on them. It also acts like a mulching plug.
2. I also like the Country Clipper XLT but if it doesn’t fit it’s not for you. I also think the price is too high compared to the Gravely.
3. The Titan is a close second to the Gravely. It will ride a little rougher than the Gravely and with that big deck you may have to go slower when mowing the pasture to keep the engine from lugging down too much. The 60-inch deck is also not that great for residential mowing unless the properties are perfectly flat.
4. The MyRide gives you the best ride. It has the high-end residential transmissions whereas the Gravely are much stronger and will last the life of the mower. The Gravely at $6400 is still a better deal.
5. I have the same feelings about the Bad Boy. For the price the Gravely is a better deal because the deck cuts taller grass better and you get the “standard” commercial FX engine. (the FS is the mid-grade Kaw)
Kevin
Paul
Thanks for the feedback. It’s very helpful in making a decision. I will go drive the Gravely today. Thanks for the tip on the lazer-cut blades, I was not aware of those.
Jesse
Hi Paul, I really appreciate the detailed information you have here. I’d love any insight you can share on my situation. I have a just shy of 3/4 acre lot with a variety of obstacles including flower beds, trees, well, two sheds, a fenced area inside a fenced area. There are two small slopes one 15ft from top to bottom running for 20ft and the other 10ft from top to bottom running 30ft.
For the past 2 years we’ve been using a Kobalt 80v self propelled mower which works but takes about 2hours to mow or more if it’s been rainy here in North Carolina and I’ve had to wait for things to dry out before the next rain comes. We have our 3rd child due in June and I’m seriously considering the practicality of that mow time given a newborn, two kids and a full time job.
Since the main goal is to minimize mow time, I’ve been looking at zero turn mowers given all the obstacles in my yard. I have a Gravely/Toro dealer very close, John Deere about 10 minutes further out than that and a Cub Cadet dealer about 50 minutes away along with both the blue and orange big box stores nearby.
I’m leaning toward the Gravely/Toro dealer given their proximity, repair shop and being a small business. My kids would love a JD and my grandparents had a GX75 RER with a Kawasaki engine that ran close to 20 years, the final 10 of which with little to no maintenance. Nostalgia and perhaps outlier longevity aside, I don’t love their shorter warranty and the sense that you’re paying a bit for a name and paint job. For Cub, their new offerings look strong but I don’t love the MTD connection nor how far I’d have to go for repairs.
All that said the current top 3 are the Gravely ZTX 52in fabricated with the Kawasaki FR691V, Toro 75750 50in fabricated also with the Kawasaki FR691V and the Gravely ZTX 42in fabricated with a Kohler 7000 in that order. I’d also looked at the Toro Timecutter 75742 with 42in stamped deck but my goal for this purchase is to have it last a very long time given I take good care of my equipment and that didn’t seem to fit the bill.
I lean toward the 52in Gravely because the deck overhangs more which seems useful for trimming under some of my bushes (my fence gates are wide enough). The 50in Toro was nice but didn’t seem quite as solid as the Gravely. There’s only a $200 price difference between the two Gravely’s and the Kawasaki alone seems worth that not to mention the deck was even with the wheels which seemed less ideal.
After doing research and coming to the edge of making a decision I’ve started to wonder if I’m trying to kill a mosquito with a shotgun by getting a ZTR. Based on what I’ve described what do you think? (FYI, Financing wise the payment difference between a big box tractor and a ZTR from the dealer is about $25/mo. Put that way I like the ZTR but don’t want to turn a blind eye to the overall cost.)
My next question is what do you think of my top 3 and are there any others you’d recommend? Also do you have thoughts on power assisted baggers vs not? (The Gravely’s have one but the Toro doesn’t.)
Thanks for reading my book,
Jesse
Paul
Hi Jesse, 1. You only need a powered bagger if you collect your grass clippings all the time and mow when the grass is wet. Non-powered baggers handle normal mowing, picking up leaves in the fall well. Myself, I don’t bag at all anymore. I mulch as much as possible. If the grass was too tall when I cut it or if the leaves are too thick I have a lawn sweeper I use. I normally don’t get it out more than twice a year.
2. The Gravely you are looking at will last three times longer than a lawn tractor. You are correct, the Toro is a great mower but the Gravely does have heavier-duty deck mounts and a solid welded frame. I also like how well the Gravely cuts.
3. After owning 42-inch tractors and ZTRs the mower I purchased this year will have the wider deck. I like that it sticks out of the mower so I can trim around my chainlink fence and rock border without getting the front or rear wheels caught. Plus, you get done faster with the larger deck.
4. People buy John Deere because of their reputation and because their Dad’s or Grandfathers’ Deere lasted 25 years. What they don’t realize is their Grandfather’s tractor now costs $5000-$8000. The green lawn tractors and ZTRs in the $1500-$4000 are well built – but they won’t last 20 years.
Jesse
Thanks Paul. That makes sense about green mowers and matches my experience with my grandparents’ mower. Good to know about the deck size I was leaning toward the larger for the same reason. I was mainly thinking the bagger for pine needles during the year as we have a lot of pine trees as well as leaves in the fall. The powered vs non powered bagger are $200 apart and while that’s not nothing thought it might be worth the jump. I hadn’t really considered sweepers because I wasn’t planning on pulling much with a ZTR. Do you think the Gravely would handle a sweeper well? Also how do well sweepers work with pine needles/pine cones and do you have any recommendations for sweepers?
Thanks again for your time and expertise!
Jesse
Paul
Hi Jesse, only $200 extra for the powered bagger? I need to pay more attention to prices. The last I checked they were double the cost. Anyway, the sweeper I recommend will pick up pine needles very well. I have 30 Jack Pines in a grove and they have a small, 2-inch pine cone and it also picks up those well. I have a couple of white pines though and it won’t pick up those larger, 6 inch cones.
Yes, the Gravely will handle the sweeper very well.
I probably pick up needles differently than most. I wait until spring then set the mower to 2 inches and then go through a chop up the needles. The deck also pull them out of the grass. Then I take the sweeper and pick up the mulched needles.
If you want to pick up needles out of 4 inch grass sweepers are not the best choice. They can’t get down into the grass.
I’ve spent a lot of time testing sweepers over the years and the Argi-Fab High-speed sweeper is one of the best (especially for the price). Brinley/Hardy and Ohio Steel also make good ones but don’t spend less than $300 for one.
Jesse
Appreciate the sweeper recommendation. That one looks solid. I noticed some reviews saying the teeth that drive the brush stripped out on the wheels. Did you have that issue at all with yours?
Regarding the bagger I checked and it was the Toro bagger that was $200 less than the Gravely powered bagger ($999) It looks like maybe that’s the only OEM bagger for Gravely?
Doing final measurements making sure a 50/52 inch deck could fit I realized I have closer to .5acre to mow with the sloped section at as much as 17 degrees. Am I crazy buying a 52 inch Gravely to mow that an paying $900-1100 more than a mid grade JD tractor or Cubs 50 inch fabricated deck tractor with a Kohler 7000 in it?
Paul
Hi Jesse, 17 degrees is steeper than the manufacturers suggest you mow at (they recommend no more than 15) so I’m concerned that a mid-priced lawn tractor will have traction issues on that hill. If you want a tractor I would recommend one with the differential lock. Those cost around $4000 and all of them have 54-inch decks.
Mowers with a 50-52 inch deck have a wider wheelbase than 42-inch ZTRs so it will feel more stable if you have to turn around on that hill or drive across it. For example, the 50 inch Toro TimeCutter’s deck is only 6 inches wider than the 42 but the wheelbase is also 6 inches wider – and that makes a difference in how it handles slopes. My daughter has .5 acre and she loves the 50 inch – she can get her entire lawn mowed and trimmed in less than 1/2 hour 🙂
All the sweepers today have plastic drive wheels with the ring gear built into the wheel. The secret is adjusting the broom low enough so it picks up the clipping or leaves but it not so low that the bristles bend on the ground. This sweeper has an easy to use height adjustment. So, hook it up to the mower and then adjust the bristles so they stick about 1/2 inch into the grass. That way it will pick up everything and not strip out the gears over time.
The owners who strip out the gears have the sweeper adjusted to low so the bristles are rubbing on the ground all the time.
Dennis r Parker
Hey Paul, you seem very knowledgeable so I am going to ask you for some advice. I will try to keep this short. I have 2 to 3 acres to mow with 60 to 70 trees and a long steep ditch to mow next to the highway. I mowed for about 10 years with a 42 inch Husqvarna lawn mower and it took all day and couldn’t mow the steep ditch without sliding off. So after the mower bit the dust I decided to go with a zero turn. I bought a Cub Cadet RZT S 54 inch with a fabricated deck and Kawasaki engine, because my wife does all of the mowing and said she couldn’t get use to the lap bars. Okay, bought the mower in 2015 and it left a streak of grass the day i brought it home. Didn’t think much about it, but 2 years later I had to start adding oil and it had about 30 hours on it. Had to replace a couple of belts on it over 4 and half years and came home one day and my wife said it had caught on fire at the muffler, the engine locked up. My neighbor finished mowing my yard last year with a Hustler but couldn’t quite get my ditch line because of it being so steep. Now, my question is, I am in the market again and not sure which way to go. We live in a very rural area with a couple of Cub Cadet dealers and Lowes and Walmart, I need a Steering Wheel model, or she does, should I go back to a regular lawn mower or did I get a lemon on the Cub Cadet zero turn? It did cut her mowing time down from 5 or 6 hours a day to about 2. I would appreciate any expert advice. Thank you very much.
Paul
Hi Dennis, It appears the slope was too steep for the engine to pump oil into all the areas. I am surprised the FR Kawasaki couldn’t handle the task. That said, I suggest spending a little more and getting the Kohler Pro or Kawasaki Pro engine this time. With the Z-Force S 54 and Z-Force SX 54 you get an all-around heavier duty machine including heavy-duty transmissions and frame. The Z-Force models have 3-year, no hour limit warranties so any issues with an engine should show up in that time frame. Click on that link and you can check them out.
The deck is also a better deck. It cuts great and you can go a lot faster with it on “normal” mowing.
Dennis r Parker
Thank you. Yes I should have took it back when I starting having problems early on while it was under warranty. It was 4 and a half years and 109 hours on the machine when it locked up. Again, do you think it was just a fluke?? Also, out of the local Club dealers, only one has a Z Force S60 and also an RZT S42 and RZT S54,( like my old one). They said they are probably not going to get anymore in unless I wanted them to order one?
Paul
Hi Dennis, The Z-Force is a lot more money but you do get a considerably heavier-duty mower. The 60-inch deck will save you time mowing and the Z-Force will also mow at a faster ground speed. You can easily cut another 1/2 hour off the mow time. I suggest checking with the dealer to see if he will let you demo the mower on your property.
It may have been a fluke with the RZT. If you get a new one I’d watch the engine carefully and get it in right away if it starts to use oil.
Dennis r Parker
Hey Paul, sorry to bother again, but the local Cub Cadet dealer has a New 2018 RZT SX 54 Fab deck with a FR Kawasaki engine for 3899 or a 2017 RZT S 54 with a Fab deck and a 25 horse Kohler engine with 1.2 hours on it for 3000. They are going to give a 2 year warranty on the used one, but it doesn’t have the nice cushioned seat or the headlight on it that my wife likes, so what do you think is the better deal? They might come down on the used one if I offered cash, I don’t know. They just said a man bought it for his wife and she didn’t use it, it just sat in the garage so he traded it in on something else. Any advice?? Thanks again..
Paul
Hi Dennis, I’ve learned that if I want my wife to mow the lawn I need to get the mower she wants… For example, I like lap bar ZTRs but we own a steering wheel ZTR because that’s what she wants. 🙂
Dennis
Haha. I mow the steep ditch along the highway, she mows everything else. Just curious, which Zero Turn with steering wheel do you own, or does she own?? Thanks again
Paul
Hi Dennis, I have an Exmark Quest steering wheel. It’s discontinued so when it wears out I’ll have to buy the Cub Cadet.
Dennis r Parker
Again just curious, If and when you have to get a Cub would you get a RZT or Zforce? And do you think the steering wheel models will go away anytime soon like the Toro model did? It really seems like they are pushing the Ultimas.
Paul
Hi Dennis, In my opinion the Z-Force will last almost twice as long as the RZT. It’s built a lot stronger and will be more durable. Steering wheel ZTRs work a lot better on hills but is that enough to keep the demand up so it’s worth Cub Cadet selling them? (Craftsman and Troy-Bilt also dropped their models)
I wouldn’t be surprised to see an Ultima steering wheel version and an electric version in the next 2 years.
The Pro models are selling well.
The technology is there to switch from lap bar to drive-by-wire where you just have a small joystick. That could easily incorporate steerable front wheels.
Dennis r Parker
You just answered my next question. You seem to know the goings-on in the mower world. I was wondering about them coming out with an Ultima steering wheel version in the near future. I thought you might know something. Thanks again for the info as always…
Zach
Hey Paul,
Thanks for an awesome article and taking the time to respond to everyone’s questions. I tried to read through all of them to find someone with the same situation as me, but there were just too many to go through! Anyway, I have just under 3 acres that I mow weekly. About an acre of it is very bumpy, previously-farmed land- it is very unpleasant to mow. I also have two short, steep hills, maybe 20-25% grade? I don’t have a push mower. I also have a bad lower back so ride comfort is important. My budget is around $3500, plus or minus. I was hoping to find a used low-end commercial mower but I see that you don’t recommend buying used unless you’re mechanically inclined, which I am not. I would love to hear your recommendations! Thanks in advance!
Paul
Hi Zach, My first choice is the Toro 48 in. Titan IronForged Deck 24.5 HP Commercial V-Twin Gas Dual Hydrostatic Zero-Turn Riding Mower with MyRIDE. It has the full suspension platform and strong hydro transmissions. But it’s above your budget.
My second choice is the Toro 60 in. 24.5 HP TimeCutter IronForged Deck Commercial V-Twin Gas Dual Hydrostatic Zero-Turn Riding Mower. It has the stronger transmissions and a conventional seat suspension. Personally, I have the 50 inch version here and I’m very impressed with the ride. It rides a lot better than my 4-year-old Exmark. But it’s $3999
My third choice is the Toro 50 in. 24.5 HP TimeCutter IronForged Deck Commercial V-Twin Gas Dual Hydrostatic Zero-Turn Riding Mower with MyRIDE. It has the MyRIDE suspension seat but does not have the stronger transmissions. It’s in your price range. That said, if you promise to just mow those hills and not try to pull 500 lbs load of rocks or firewood up the hills it will last you many years.
You can read more about these mowers here:
Toro Introduces New 2020 TimeCutter Zero-Turn Mowers and Toro Introduces New 2020 Toro Titan Zero Turn Mowers
Zach
Paul-
Thanks for the thoughtful response, those are some great recommendations. After doing some research on these models, I am definitely going to go with a “MyRide” mower. That being said, I have a few concerns with the 50-inch TimeCutter you recommended. I learned that it is a “sealed” unit, meaning the hydros are not serviceable. Also, there is no hour meter. Correct me if I am wrong, but shouldn’t non-serviceable hydros be a deal-breaker? I want this mower to last AT LEAST 10 years, is that reasonable? I would obviously prefer the Titan you recommended, but it is $1800 more. I am trying to decide if I should find a way to increase my budget to afford the Titan. Thanks again for your thoughts!
Paul
Hi Zach, The Titan is a solid step up from the TimeCutter. If you have rough ground the frame is heavier. It is well worth the extra money if you want your mower to last 15 years or more.
That said, I’ve changed my opinion of the ZT2200 trannys. If you are just mowing they will last. If one fails you just replace it – in fact it is not that much more to replace one than to rebuild a serviceable tranny.
FYI, The 60 inch Timecutter does use the serviceable transmissions. But you lose the MyRide.
WK
Hi Paul,
I’m in the market for a new tractor and want one that can be used to move logs in a cart.
All things equal, would a Cub Cadet XT2 LX42 lawn tractor or a Toro TimeCutter SS4225 ZTR prove to be more durable pulling a 500 pound load in a cart?
Thank you.
Paul
Hi WK, neither one is designed to pull that much weight regularly. But if you only doing it once in a while either one will work. The Toro has a “tow” mode that allows you to pull heavier loads like a lawn roller.
If you move a lot of heavy loads I recommend a garden tractor with the K57 or K58 transmission. Here is an example: Cub Cadet XT1 GT50
WK
Thank you, Paul.
I probably do about 10-20 hours per year of hauling with a 1995 Sabre 15HP hydro.
I noticed that the 2020 version of the CC XT2 LX42 is going to have a cub cadet engine instead of the Kohler. Would this alter your opinion of it?
Paul
Hi WK, no, the 679cc Cub Cadet engine is proving to be very reliable and fuel-efficient.
Tim
I have about 2 1/2 acres, mostly flat, some woods with trails. I’m looking at two options:
Toro 74778 Timcutter MX5075 50″ My Ride or
Toro 74467 Titan HD 60″ MyRide.
My wife sometimes cuts the grass while I edge, etc and she wants a smoother ride. I saw your comment about the Timcutter lasting approx 10 years. Is the Titan an overkill? And how long should I expect it to last?
Paul
Hi Tim, Yes, The Titan is overkill but because it is so heavy-duty it should last 20 years or longer on your 2.5-acre lawn.
Joe
Paul, I do have another question. Which mower will perform better on hills or slanted lawns? Zero turn or ride on?
Thank you
Paul
Hi Joe, Residential zero turns and lawn tractor perform about the same on slopes less than 15 degrees. Zero-turns that cost more than $5000 do better on hills than lawn tractors.
Joe
Thank you. What if we have some more then 15 degrees? Any preference? Not a huge area of these particular hills but we have a couple.
Paul
Hi Joe, If we are still talking about the JD E160 it will handle smaller, steeper slopes if you can go up and down them AND you have plenty of clearance at the bottom and top so you can make your turns on shallower slopes.
Never mow across a slope steeper than 15 degrees. Use a push mower for that area.
Never mow a steeper slope if there is a pond or drop-off at the bottom of the slope. The mower will slide into the pond, overturn, and probably kill the operator. Use a push mower or string trimmer for areas around a pond or drop-off. Always stay at least 2 mower widths away from them.
The only ZTR Lowes carries that can handle a little more than 15-degree slopes is the Ariens APEX.
Joe
Thanks Paul! It’s actually the E-170 and is due to be delivered tomorrow. I just really wanted a zero turn but the wife doesn’t. I just think it will take forever to mow the lawn but she doesn’t care. So if your saying it will do good going up and down the hills it sounds like it’s the right choice for us. Thanks for all your help. I would have never looked at that model if not for you!
Joe
Paul- one last thing. Can you take a look at the Craftsman t260 again? Has a Kohler motor in it and is on sale? Any further thoughts on that one?
Thanks!
Paul
Hi Joe, I just can’t recommend the Craftsman at this time. Yes, It’s made by MTD and comes off the same assembly line as the Troy-Bilt Lawn Tractors. Yes, it shares many components with the other MTD brands like Cub Cadet. But, Craftsman is owned by Stanley, Black & Decker and this is their first foray into gas-powered equipment. Yes, SBD is really pushing hard to get their products sold by offering great deals.
It’s not the mower, but the service after the sale. Who works on it if there is a warranty problem? Mowers require maintenance so where do you get parts? Where’s the parts list so you can order and repair it yourself?
One question for you about the extended warranty. Who fixes your mower under that warranty? Is it a local repair center who gives you priority or does Lowes ship it off to some far away service center where it may sit for months before it’s even looked at?
Joe
Makes sense! Just went and looked at both at Lowes and the Deere blows the craftsman away wow!! Going with that one thank you Paul!
Joe
Paul- love the articles thank you! Question. We can only buy from Lowes as my wife works there. We have about 1.5 acres to mow with 18 pines we planted on each side. Some slight hills as well. What would be your choice $3100 and under at Lowes?
Thanks!
Paul
Hi Joe, If you are limited to $3100 the best choice at Lowes for your size lawn is the Ariens IKON X 52 inch. It’s a good, rugged mower that mows well. It’s available with two engines and either one is a good choice.
If you are rough on outdoor equipment I do suggest saving up a little more and buying the Ariens IKON XL 52 inch. It’s a residential mower but built so heavy that most people mistake it for a commercial model. It cuts great, has stronger transmissions than the IKON X and will last you many, many years.
Joe
Paul once again thank you! Your info is so valuable! Little curveball for you, the wife now says she wants a rider and not a zero turn. Same story Lowes what would you pick? We were looking at the the Craftsman T260 as they put it on sale today. What’s you pick for 3k and under for a rider from Lowes?
Thank you so much!
Paul
Hi Joe, I’m not confident the engines in the new Craftsman at Lowes will give you the life expectancy of the other brands. As far as I can tell they are only using the “basic” Briggs Intek series. All the other brands are using the Briggs Intek Plus, Kohler 7000 or Kawasaki FR series which all have 50% greater life expectancy.
The John Deere 48 inch E170 will give you the best cut, has a great engine and will last you a long time. It’s a very reliable, well-built lawn tractor and well under your budget limit. DO NOT go with the 54 inch E180.
Joe
Thank you sir!
Joe
Paul I was also looking at the Craftsman riders at Lowe’s 2 months ago. The 46 and 50 I looked at had the Kohler 7000 series V twin engine (not intek), and the tight turn steering. They appear to be very similar to the Cub Cadets, which is to say a good value. Link below.
Also – a few tips that I learned for getting the best deal. Not sure if you are getting an employee discount already but if you order with the Pro Desk, they will take 5% off. Then you can use a 10% mover coupon on top (available online). They will also ship to you free if you ask, and I believe the Deere equipment is setup by a Deere technician (but ask your store mgr).
A few more thoughts. I have a similar sized lot, with a lot of trees and obstacles, (and hills), and I went with the Hustler Raptor SD. The cut is pro grade (I use to have a 48″ Bobcat commercial walk-behind) and it mows at full speed (7 mph) on the long flats where you can do this. If you go with a tractor your mowing time will be 80-100% longer (almost double). But tractors have some advantages.. Just food for thought…
Paul
Hi Joe, I just can’t recommend the Craftsman at this time. Yes, It’s made by MTD and comes off the same assembly line as the Troy-Bilt Lawn Tractors. Yes, it shares many components with the other MTD brands like Cub Cadet. But, Craftsman is owned by Stanley, Black & Decker and this is their first foray into gas-powered equipment. Yes, SBD is really pushing hard to get their products sold by offering great deals.
It’s not the mower, but the service after the sale. Who works on it if there is a warranty problem? Mowers require maintenance so where do you get parts? Where’s the parts list so you can order and repair it yourself?
Evan
Looking to get a zero turn mower between 48-60 in deck. I have 2.5 acres of slight slow. There are many many small rocks within the grass. What mower brand can handle this properly and hold up? Can budget for 6000. My eyes have been on Ferris, toro , exmark and scag for the most park – thanks
Paul
Hi Evan, Look seriously at the Gravely ZT XL or Ariens IKON XL. They have tough decks that mow very well.
Evan
I will for sure. Do you know if either of those have any parts in them that once they are destroyed or broken you have to buy a whole new deck? I was looking at a bobcat and there was a piece that if destroyed you would have to replace the whole darn thing
Paul
Hi Evan, these decks a pretty tough. 10 gauge steel with reinforced spindle and side areas. Even if you broke a spindle completely out of one and twisted the deck you would only have to buy the shell. Besides these decks are fabricated so a sledge hammer can fix most dents and a welder can fix most cracks you may get over the next 20 years. That said, unless you are trying to mow over 8-inch rocks or large tree stumps you’ll never have an issue.
Evan Mcgough
Yes I have no plans of running over anything that large ha ha. It looks like both of the models you suggested are now 11 gauge. I noticed both models that you gave are well below my price range. Is anything above what you showed me for my application just a novelty?
Paul
Hi Evan, I was wrong, the decks are 11 ga. If you want to spend more money look at the Gravely ZT HD /Ariens APEX. They are built like a tank and you can easily mow 5 acres an hour with the 60-inch deck ($5099)
Evan
Hey Paul I haven’t heard you mention much about the gravely or ariens brand much in your article or feedback . Is this primarily because of the the terrain I’m mowing in that you are suggesting them? I was pretty set on them scag, Ferris or exmark based on your comments. I’ve always been told to be wary of buying mowers from a box store like Lowe’s or home depo. I see that you can buy the ariens from there. Just has me a little worried. I fully trust your voice and experience just curious about the choice of those opposed to more of the known commercial brands – thank you!
Paul
Hi Evan, In your price range Ariens/Gravely is the best. Ariens mowers are aimed for residential. Gravely has residential and commercial mowers that are as tough as anything else on the market. Above $6000 then Scag and Exmark have most of the market share. The Exmark deck on the Lazer mowers are the best.
Homeowners tend to gravitate to the Ferris because of the “suspension” but commercial operators quickly realize it has too many moving parts and the other brands leave a smoother cut.
Evan
I ‘could’ swing the exmark lazer z E. Sounds like 40 percent less parts and 10/7 gauge – I’d imagine it would be hard to beat that. I like how the maintenance is very low.
Evan
Hey Paul – we have brought in a new excavating team In and have removed the hillside and transferred the material lower to create more flat yard. We also are about to go through with what he calls a commercial rototiller to pick out all the rocks. We will then put 3-4 inches of top soil over the existing dirt. Given this new information should I continue to get the lazer Z e? Thank you
Paul
Hi Evan, If you want to save money, buy a product that will last and still stick with Exmark the Radius E series is an excellent choice. I suggest a 52-inch deck for your size of yard. It’s well within your original budget and will last you many years.
Here is the sales page:
Evan
Thanks for the quick reply Paul. Do you have any experience with exmark engines? The lazer had a Kawasaki. So clearly they are saving money within the motor. The machine is much more reasonably priced and reads very well. The engine did leave me a bit concerned though.
Paul
Hi Evan, The Kawasaki is a popular engine with mowing contractors because of the price but it is not the best engine on the market. The Kawasaki offered in the $5000 mower price range is not the same engine as the one on the Lazer Z that the contractors love. (It’s a residential grade engine) I won’t go into the details of that statement here… That said,
Four years ago Exmark/Toro introduced their own engines. Since the engines are owned by them there is never a problem with warranty service or getting parts. The engines are contractor grade and have quickly proven themselves to be dependable, fuel-efficient and will give you the same (or better) life than the Kawasaki contractor series.
Evan
So just for the record you prefer exmark over Toro? I realize that they are both owned by the same company. Just making sure I got my i’s and cross my t’s.
Paul
Hi Evan, I have no preference. Toro caters to the homeowner, golf courses and large municipalities. They sell mowers and landscaping equipment costing as little as $300 and a few for more than $150,000. They also are really big into irrigation.
Exmark caters to the commercial operator (professional contractor). The independent businesses who mow multiple lawns.
I own an Exmark Quest right now but that’s mainly because Exmark had a sale that put it $400 cheaper than the almost identical Toro that I was planning to buy.
Evan
oh perfect – I was assuming they would overlap to some degree. Do you happen to know the equivalent model Toro to the Radius E?
how do you like the quest? I assume you have not delt with too much around customer service or warranty things but as a machine. Do you like the ride and the 10g deck – hows the cut?
Paul
Hi Evan, I have the 42-inch steering wheel model which they no longer make. (My wife is not very good with lap bars) Yes, I’ve had a lot of warranty issues but they have all been with the steering wheel system and the starter on the Kohler engine. My local Toro/Exmark dealer has been great. Even though it’s a large dealer the repairs are quick, I got a discount on the pickup/delivery and I always felt like I was the only customer that mattered.
The rest of the machine is great. I love the deck and how it cuts. It mows well at 6-7 mph. And three years of banging the deck into rock landscape borders, chain link fences and 50 pine trees and it looks like new. It’s a very tough deck. That said, My lawn is extremely rough so my next mower will be a 50 inch Toro My-Ride or the heavier 48-inch Timecutter HD. It will have the Toro engine on it.
John M MacCarthy
I am new to zero turns and really appreciate your article. I have a newly bought property, about 2.5 acres of mostly level, slightly bumpy, grass to cut. I don’t need a manicured field, just need it maitained for when I’m camping with trailer until house build. I have about $3000 to spend and wondering what your suggestions would be. Do you have any thoughts on the Craftsman z550 or z560. Also could I get away with a 42 or 46 inch cut on my land, because they would fit in shed I already have. Thanks, John
Paul
Hi John, The time difference between mowing with a 46 inch and a 50-inch deck ZTR for 2.5 acres will only be about 20 minutes. A 54-inch deck 30 minutes faster. So, you could easily “get away” with a 46-inch deck.
My thoughts about the Craftsman @ Lowes ZTRs: At this time I feel the Cub Cadet Uptima series is a better deal. For $100-$200 more you get a foot assist deck lift, LED headlights and a better engine. The Craftsman is using the Briggs Intek series engines (with Ready-Start). Cub Cadet is using Kohler 7000 or Kawasaki FR engines which have a 25-50% greater life expectancy than the Briggs Intek.
Jeff
What do you think of the Grasshopper 200 Series mid mount mowers? I really like the ZT4400/Vanguard combination with a great price point!
Paul
Hi Jeff, Grasshopper is one of the oldest names in the industry and they’ve been making high-quality machines all along. As a homeowner, you can’t go wrong with one!
Jimmy
I have just purshase an exmark quest s series 50″ deck with the exmark 708cc motor from same brand this are the motors exmark just came out what do u think about this mower in general and I use it to mow about 2.5 acres
Paul
Hi Jimmy, Congrats on getting one of the best mowers on the market. I own the 42 inch myself. It’s just right for 2.5 acres
Jimmy
Thanks my only concern was the motor but they told me it is just as good as Kawasaki or Kohler so far is doing good only thing I change was the air filter it came with it I went with the canister to get more hours between replacements and blades but that’s maintance
Paul
Hi Jimmy, Yes, The Exmark/Toro engines are proving to be as good or better than the Kawasaki FR and The Kohler 7000 series. You will get many years out of it.
Jimmy
Thanks Paul very usefull information with a peace of mind to hear it from some one that know about this machines
Jon
Hey Paul, great site with lots of good info. My wife and I currently cut our 6-8 acres, using 2 riding mowers 1 38” Deere & 1 42” Craftsman. Craftsman is at end of its life, (been a great mower). Never used zero turn and know nothing about them, but I have decided to try one. Was originally looking at residential models but dealer said they wouldn’t hold up cutting that much grass weekly.? So here is what I’m considering.
1. Gravely ZTX 52” $3200
2. Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 54” $3000
3. Scag Liberty 52” $3825 (after discount)
Will these first 3 really not hold up as dealer said?
Mowers w/ ZT-2800 transaxles;
1. Gravely ZTXL 52” $4000
2. Bobcat CRZ 52” $4500
3. Scag Freedom 52” $4850 (after discount)
4. Cub Cadet Ultima ZT2 54” $3900
Mowers with ZT=3100 transaxles;
1. Gravely ZT HD 52” $5200
2. Bobcat XRZ 52” $5700
3. Spartan RZ-PRO 61” $4700 / RZ HD 54” $5200
Any suggestions on these? I do like the Gravely ZT HD most (even though that’s more than I wanted to spend initially) and Scag Freedom. I still need to go back and actually sit on the Bobcats and see if that is best price so not sure about them yet. I’m looking at Kawasaki engines on these also. Spartan looked like good machines but cant really find enough reviews on them to be sure, I think they use different type of transaxle than others? And also what do you think about Cub ZT2? Is it good quality and would it hold up to cutting 6-8 acres every week? I had also thought about just getting 2 50 -52 inch riding mowers for both of us to use, would 1 of these 52” zero turns outcut 2 riders? Thanks for any info and your great website.
Paul
Hi Jon, You get what you pay for. The first three on your list will mow the 6-8 acres – for a couple of years. About the time they get out of warranty you will start to have major issues with them like frame cracks, worn out spindles, idler pulleys, transmission failure, etc. They are designed to mow 2-3 acres of smooth lawn.
The second four will give you about 30% more life. They cut well and can mow 1-2 mph faster. You should be able to easily get 5-7 years out of them on your property before they need major repairs. Both of the Cub Cadet mowers are the same frame. They just add larger transmissions, fabricated deck and armrests to XT2.
The last three: I also really like the Gravely ZT HD (It’s also painted orange and called the Ariens APEX) It a “Pro” grade mower that will last you many years. It’s my first choice for your property. The BobCat XRZ is also a very good mower. If you have a local servicing dealer it’s also a great choice. It will mow twice as fast as a lawn tractor and hold up a lot better over the years.
You are correct about the Spartan. It looks cool and got a lot of hype when it was introduced 2 years ago. But since then, no one is talking about it. I would only consider the Spartan if you had a good local dealer you can trust.
Dan
Hi Paul, thanks for your article. Very informative! I’d appreciate your advice. I got 1.5 acres in northeast Tennessee on a moderate slope. Been using a Husky 52 inch 25 hp lawn tractor for 16 years. I think the transmission just died, pulling a cart of dirt. Serviceman is looking at it to give me a repair quote, but he suggested I not spend money on a repair and recommended a Gravely ZT HD. The whole yard is sloped. We built on the property in 2003, and prior it was pasture. Yard is fairly smooth though a bit bumpy. What do you think of the Gravely recommendation? Competitors to consider? Deck size?
Paul
Hi Dan, The Gravely ZT HD is a very good mower and the transmissions are strong enough to last – even if you need to pull loads of dirt a few times a year. I highly recommend it.
That said, If you have no experience driving a ZTR be sure you can return the mower if you don’t like it, can’t drive it, or it slides around on your slope and makes you nervous driving it.
If you decide you would rather have a new tractor I suggest the Husqvarna TS 354D or TS 354X.
Dan
Thanks!
Scott
Hi and thanks for a very informative article. I’ve moved to central Texas, and I’ve got about 10000 sq feet of lawn, plus about 2.5 acres of pasture grass, wildflowers and weeds mostly 1-2 feet high. I’ve been advised that I need to mow the field once the dry season starts here. The whole place is flat. Is there one machine that will mow the lawn every week or two, plus knock down the field once or twice a year?
Paul
Hi Scott, Head over to this article: 2019 The Best Residential Zero Turn Mowers at the top of the article look at the first four mowers in the 48-50 inch list.
These mowers will cut your lawn well and are rugged enough to handle the pasture. No lawn mower will mow 24-inch grass clean on the first pass but they will “knock” it down with not too much effort. When you mow the pasture raise the deck up as high as it will go. Mow back and forth then mow it again at a 90-degree angle to your first mow. If you can safely mow – raise the discharge chute up and let the grass spread where it wants. Please don’t raise the discharge if there are people, animals or something you don’t want to be dinged up in the area.
Toby O
very helpful site, Paul! I am on a bit over 8 acres in the hill country in TX. All the land is undeveloped (aka natural growth). some rocks and stumps and bumpy, but not really hilly or big slopes. I’ve been looking for something that can withstand the occasional baseball sized rock without self destructing like my old poulon pro rider, which I literally went through 3 blades in a weekend with rock hits. I also get heavy spring growth (taller grasses and some thistles) which i can cut down with a brush hog, but normally just need something to maintain the grass and weeds and not take the whole weekend to mow. I was thinking a heavier duty zero turn because of the faster speeds, and ideally something that could go up to 5 inches (most only go to 4 or 4.5″). i’m comparing a used (300 hours) Gravely 52 XL HD (the HD has the heaviest gauge steel of the residential models) for around $3000, and i discovered the toro timecutters on your site, for around $4000. I like the Gravely because they are commercial grade and will go the full 5″ up. do you have a recommendation?
Paul
Hi Toby, I normally don’t recommend buying used unless you are mechanically inclined and do all your own maintenance. Used doesn’t have any warranties so you really need to be sure you know what you are getting for the price. That said, the Gravely is a very good price! A Toro Timecutter with all the same features will be around $4700.
Jared
Hello, thank you for this great article! I have 5 acres with mostly hilly/sloped area and few flat areas. Which one should I look at, estate/ mid grade/ heavy duty RZT or entry level commercial/semi pro ZT? I’m looking at new Cub Cadet ZT1 Ultima kohler 7000. Is it enough?
Thanks sir!
Paul
Hi Jared, The ZT1 has the light-duty ZT2200 transmissions. Since you have hills these transmissions will only hold up in the 42-inch version of the ZT1. The larger decks/mowers are too heavy and you’ll burn up the trans.
For 5 acres of hills, I strongly suggest a ZTR in the $5000-6000 range. These mowers will give you the heavy-duty frames, decks, transmissions, and engines to last many years on hills.
w jones
Hi Paul, This is a great site thank you for sharing your input. I manage a large retreat in South TX and am in the market for a new mower. We have been running a Scag with a 54 ” deck for about 18 years, I am actually very proud of it. We have practically rebuilt the entire machine once about 5 years ago only it’s not what it use to be. Our grounds keeper is wanting us to purchase a Ferris 72 inch. We are mowing about 15 Acres, that is about half smooth flat yard and half semi rough flat yard. I need a tough machine. What do you think?
Paul
Hi w Jones, Why not stick with Scag? You know the brand, you’ve had good luck and you know the dealer well. A couple of things,
I’m not a big fan of 72-inch decks. A 60-inch deck cuts more evenly and you can actually trim around more landscaping with the smaller deck. In addition, the 60-inch decks in mowers like the 2019 Scag cut 2-4 mph faster than your old ZTR. In other words, you don’t get a lot of time savings with a 72-inch deck but you get more benefits overall with a 60 inch.
Yes, the Ferris is very competitively priced. The suspension system does make a smooth ride but there are a lot more parts that will wear out over time compared to a Scag with a good suspension seat. I see a lot of contractors buying Ferris because of the price and advertising features – but they go back to their old brand after a few years.
Dionne Tracy
Hi Paul, I own a lawn care/landscaping business in Michigan. I am looking to upgrade one of the business mowers. We started out with a new cheaper Husqvarna zero turn 24hp/54″. It was fine in the beginning because we were only cutting a small amount of lawns. Now business has more then quadrupled which is great but the Husqvarna can’t keep up anymore! So I am trying to decide between a 52″/25.5hp Ferris is2100 @ $10,371 and a Country Clipper 52″/25.5hp Challenger @ $9646. I want a well made, beefy mower that is sturdy and sticks to the ground and has a deck that continues to cut while going over bump or uneven ground. Currently it feels like our brains are shaking when riding the Husqvarna, you literally walk away with a headache! We cut all kinds of terrain, hills, flat, lots of houses with trees with roots and bumps, some open areas etc, you name it we mow it. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks, Dionne
Paul
Hi Dionne, My first choice is always Exmark then Scag. (They have over half of the commercial market) Gravely is also a top choice. If you have good local dealers for any of these three please take a hard look at them before you pick the Ferris or Country Clipper.
The Lazer Z E series is a solid step up from your old machine. The Lazer Z S series is one of the best riding, best cutting mowers in the industry.
I love the Country Clipper residential line and I know their commercial models are built well and will last. They Challenger is listed as a high-end residential, entry level commercial so it will be a solid step up from the Husqvarna. But, I don’t have enough experience with the Challenger line to know how it mows.
The Ferris will give you a smooth ride but there are a lot of extra moving parts that will wear over time. I’m not confident that you will get the same cut out of it after 1500-2000 hours like you would with an Exmark, Scag or Gravely.
Peter
Hi Paul,
I mow 5 acres of grass and it takes me about 7 hours on and old hand me down Murray 42 inch tractor. My father in law can get it done in about 2 and a half hours on his zero turn. I’m not sure how big his deck is. I want to say 50 inches is what he told me?
My yard is mostly flat, but it is pretty rough in areas. It was a farm field before we bought the place.
The main things I’m looking for is a mower that can significantly increase my speed. I wouldnt complain at all if I could get the job down to 2 hours. I’m also looking for a mower that is durable. Im not hard on my equipment but I do want to not have to worry about whether the bump I just hit is going to cause any damage. And I want a mower that will last me the better part of 20 years and be durable enough to not have to constantly be replacing parts due to excessive wear because the parts are simply smaller than they should be in order to cut manufacturing costs. Hopefully that’s not asking too much.
I am NOT concerned very much with cut quality, ride quality, Or fancy features.
My budget is about $5,000.
Based off of the information I have given you, can you suggest a make and model that would work well for me?
Also what is your opinion on buying used?
A landscaper I’m acquainted with suggested a Toro titan HD but at the local dealer it is over my budget. I havent checked prices at any other dealers.
Also, when buying from a dealer, is it similar to buying a car where it’s normal to negotiate price or is it more like shopping at Walmart where the price is non negotiable?
Thank you!
Paul
Hi Peter, A Toro Titan is pretty much overkill for 5 acres. I suggest the $2999 Toro MX5000 or $3599 MX5025.
The best prices are through the links to Home Depot in the paragraph above. They discount the price a little and include free setup and delivery. They actually use a local dealer for setup and delivery and that dealer will handle any warranty work you may need.
No, buying a mower from a dealer is a completely different experience than buying a car. The manufactures set the prices so any discount you may get from a dealer comes right out of their profit. (there are no kick-backs or other “smoke and mirrors” tactics) Most dealers charge the retail price and some will match the Home Depot price if they have a THD nearby. Most will charge setup and delivery and a very few may negotiate that cost. In other words, if a dealer heavily discounts (more than 10%) don’t expect them to stay in business long.
Daniel J Lalli
Hi, I am looking to replace my jd 180lt with a zero turn. I have 3 acres with a few trees and the land is flat. Looking at ferris is600 husqvarna 554 and big boy diablo. Is this overkill for what I’m mowing?
Paul
Hi Daniel, Any one of those mowers will cut your mowing time is half or more and last a lot longer than the 180 LT. FYI. You may want to look at the Big Dog Stout – it will hold up well for 3 acres – the Diablo is a true commercial mower that is a little overkill. That said,
The Husqvarna has no reviews so I can’t comment on it. Industry-wise the commercial operators will pick the Ferris or Big Dog/Hustler over the Husqvarna every time.
I really don’t have a preference between the Ferris and the Big Dog I would buy from the dealer that you like.
Alex Lorack
Paul,
I’m in the market for a new zero turn. I currently have an ’07 zforce 60. I live on 1.5ac rural homestead. I was looking at a Toro 75212. Would this be a good unit or should I look more at Gravely,Hustler, or Deere? If so what are the models I should look at. If not whats a good price(Iowa) for the Toro?
Paul
Hi Alex, The Toro 75212 is one of the best mid-priced zero-turns on the market for cut, durability, and efficiency. It will last you a lot longer than the ZForce. The exclusive MyRide suspension makes it the best riding mower right now.
Price: Retail $6199. Some dealers will give you a small discount or offer free delivery, etc. but generally expect the price to be close to that. The exception is Home Depot.
Home Depot currently has it on sale for $5599 and that includes their free “White Glove” setup and delivery. Check it out here: Toro TimeCutter HD with MyRIDE 54 in. Fab 24.5 HP V-Twin Gas Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Smart Speed
Rob
Hi Paul, I have a 1/2 acre yard with combination of a large flat area, some eyedrop shaped raised garden berms to maneuver around and some slightly sloped areas on the parkway that provide a natural gutter for storm water (thus they can be pretty damp sometimes). From reading your web page I assume a 42” residential zero turn is best, but I have a few questions: (1) I plan to mulch for the most part but may need to bag sometimes if the grass is too long. I get the idea changing the mulching kit is not a simple process. Are there models more favorable than others for an easy switch? (2) For the fall leaves I would like a large rear bagger, but they seem expensive and may require adding and removing weights. Do you think the smaller side bagger (2 bushels) is sufficient enough for moderate leaf collection maybe 4-5 weeks in the fall? I had been looking at the Hustler Dash as it was in my price range ($2,300) but it doesn’t support a rear bagger. Would you recommend the Dash or other models within the $2,000-2,500 range? Thank you, Rob
Paul
Hi Rob, The cheapest ZTR’s I can recommend are the:
These two mowers both have available two-bag baggers and don’t require weights. Personally, instead of a bagger I mulch the leaves with the mower and then pick them up with a lawn sweeper. This one has held up perfectly for me over the years: Agri-Fab 44 in. 25 cu. ft. Tow-Behind Lawn Sweeper. It’s not as bulky to use as a bagger and it will fold up smaller for storage.
I don’t recommend the Dash at all – period. It has a tiny, cheap, splash lube motor. All the other ZTr’s have engine that are twice the size and the other engines will last many years. It has the cheapest and smallest hydrostatic transmissions (no one else uses them) and small rear tires so it’s guaranteed to dig in on turns and tear up your turf. For only $2-300 more you can buy one of the two above and get a good, dependable, pressurized engine with oil filter – a good, solid frame, standard hydrostatic transmissions that will last, and a proven deck that side-discharges, mulches and bags well.
Rob
Thank you Paul! I’m glad I found this website. I assume the Toro is the better pick for only $100 more than the Troy-Bilt? Rob
Paul
Hi Rob, Yes, The Toro is a very good mower and well worth the extra $100. One thing I really like about the Toro is the Smart-Speed. You can flip a lever and the Toro is capable of pulling stuff without worrying about burning out the transmissions. I also like the ride and the cut.
Jim
Hello Paul – kudos on a great resource you have provided and continue to support! With your help, I have narrowed my focus for purchase of new ZTR, but am struggling with that final decision and hoping you could offer some feedback. I am cutting 1.5-2 acres of mildly manicured lawn, very flat, a few trees to get around and about 250′ of landscaped/mulch beds to cut around. My teenage son may start mowing some neighborhood lawns next summer, very similar profile. I live in Maryland, I want a good, quick cut. I typically spend more than minimum required, as I prefer to invest in quality equipment, that will last longer and require less frequent service. I am replacing a 20 year old Deere lawn tractor with 42″ deck. I have no tight areas and plenty of storage space. Would be nice to periodicaly pull cart, broadcast spreader and plu aerator, so that I can completely retire the Deere.
I have narrowed down to Cub Cadet ZT2 and Toro TimeCutter MX50xx. I havent been able to find any at local dealer where I can physically see and touch these (not currently in their inventories). For ZT2, Im thinking of going to 54″ instead of 50″ deck, and have a local dealer I can purchase from if willing to wait until mid June. For Toro, looking at MX5050 and MX5075. Im not convinced that I need to spend an extra $600 for a better ride. Would I be giving up anything else of substance if I stay with 5050 model? Any why is 5025 more expensive? Any concerns with the Toro engine? Looks like I would have to settle for 50″ deck, since 60″ is next step up and that may be too unwieldy. I was told by a Cub dealer, that they dropped Toro because they are no longer dealer friendly. Any truth to that statement from what you have heard? Much appreciate your feedback, thanks!
Paul
Hi Jim, If your son is going to mow other lawns you will want the 50-inch cut. It mows more evenly than a 54-inch deck.
The only difference between the 5050 and the 5075 is the suspension platform on the 5075. It’s worth it if you have a rough lawn.
The 5025 has a Kawasaki engine. Kawasaki thinks their engines are worth more than anyone else. In my opinion, the Toro Commercial and Kohler 7000 engines are equal to the Kaw and you don’t need to spend the extra money.
Absolutely no concerns with the Toro engine.
The Cub Cadet ZT2 does have the next size up transmissions compared to the Toro’s but on flat lawns that is really not a concern. If your son is going to mow 15-20 hours a week you may want to consider jumping up to an entry-level commercial ZTR or plan on upgrading to the commercial ZTR’s after 4 years or so.
Toro/Exmark has over 50% of the zero-turn market. The other 40 or so brands are all fighting for the rest. Toro wants to keep that market share so in general Toro is still VERY dealer friendly. But, like most of the other brands, they offer better dealer incentives if you buy in bulk, buy early and sell Toro as your primary brand. It’s hard to say why that dealer thought he was getting a better deal from Cub Cadet.
Jon
Paul, you helped me decide to buy my Ariens snowblower last year and it has been awesome – thanks!
Now time for a lawnmower. The only lawnmower dealer within an hour of me carries Snapper, simplicity, and Ferris (which they suggested, but can’t spent close to $6k on a mower). I have a full acre of grass to cut and an considering a Simplicity Regent tractor, maybe a Broadmoore, Snapper 360Z zero turn. I am looking for speed, and ability to tow a cart and lawn sweeper.
I was also looking at Cub Cadet tractors as they’re less expensive, but won’t have anywhere close by to service it under warranty. How confident are you in ZT towing capabilities? Any thoughts on Snapper zero turns?
Thanks again!
Paul
Hi Jon, Lets’ go through the options.
1, Regent: It’s overpriced by $800-$1000. You can get a much better mower from Cub Cadet for $1899-$1999 Cub Cadet LT46 or Cub Cadet LT50 Lawn Tractors are not fast. You mow at 3-4 mph. But they can pull stuff well.
2. Broadmore: The Broadmore is a really nice lawn tractor and compares to the John Deere X300 series. It uses a ground-hugging deck so it stripes well, but it is again slow – 3-4 mph. It is a lawn tractor that will last you many years. But, it’s expensive.
3. 360Z: The 21.5/48 KAW or 23/48 B&S will cut your mowing time in half over the lawn tractors. If you promise to keep the loads in your cart to under 500LBs I can recommend it for your one-acre yard.
4. SZ series: Do NOT buy the SZ series. They are made for Snapper by MTD and are the old design MTD just dumped for the new Ultima ZTRs.
5. 460Z: For about $300 more than the Broadmore you can get the 460Z Model 25/48 B&S. It’s built like a tank and does not have the suspension system. (That I hate) It will mow at 7-8 mph and last you a long, long time. You can pull anything you want with it.
Kurt
Hello Paul, I just purchased a house that sits on about three acres of land in Wisconsin. I have a hustler/exmark dealer walking distance from the house but also have a friend who works at a dealer about 8 miles away that may be able to work a good deal for me on a Gravely or Scag. Both are reputable dealerships but the one 8 miles away will charge to pick up and deliver the mower whereas the close dealership would pick it up for free and provide a loaner if needed. Is this type of service worth the normal sticker price in your experience? I wouldn’t do any service work myself to ensure longevity of the machine I would leave it to the pros and send it in annually for tune ups. Thank you for your time and expertise!
Paul
Hi Kurt, A good local dealer is worth paying a competitive price. A good local Exmark is worth their weight in gold. An Exmark Radius S mowing three acres will last as long as your house payments 🙂
Most dealers charge $65-125 for pickup and delivery. Even if you only have it serviced every two years that’s a $650-$1000 savings over the life of the mower. In addition, Exmark is the best for parts. If your mower needs a part the dealer doesn’t have in stock 95% of the time the dealer can order the part and get it within a day or two.
Don’t expect to “steal” a mower from a good dealer. Their profit margin is not a great as most people think it is because they have a lot of overhead. That overhead includes well trained and well-paid mechanics, parts people and in-stock parts.
Kurt Peeters
Thank you for the response. I test drove the exmarks but they seemed very touchy and less smooth than the scags. I demo’d a Scag Patriot at the new house and liked it but thought it may be better to consider a stander due to some of the hilly areas, ditch and about 25 trees over 3 acres. Do you think it makes sense in my case? I also don’t know if getting a scag without their velocity deck makes it worth the money when I could essentially downgrade to something cheaper. $5000 would be better than $8000 on the wallet but if it will last longer I would be willing to pay now rather than later.
Paul
Hi Hurt, I’m a stand on guy. I’ve been using them since 1997. In the late 90’s I was mowing 400 electrical substations, 125 every week, 200 every other week and the rest once a month. Totaling about 400 acres a month. I did all of those myself with one 60 inch Stand-on and a string trimmer. My crews did the residential and commercial accounts.
In my opinion, a stand-on is a lot easier on your back, it trims a lot closer/better than a sit-down ZTR, and I never was afraid to stick it in a ditch or mow a berm the ZTRs would just slide off of or tip over on. Using them on residential lawns I could always mow a lawn 20% faster with the Stand On than my crews could with the lap-bar ZTRs – and I did less damage to the turf. I always ran 60-inch decks. The extra width meant it would not tip over – ever – if the slope was too steep it would just slide off the hill. Safety-wise, if I ever did get in trouble all I had to do was step off the mower and it stopped.
Trimming under tress is also easier. Just bend your knees and crouch down. You can trim under branches only 48 inches off the ground. The Scag, Gravely and Exmark stand-ons will all mow as fast as the sit-down versions and they all have the better decks.
Kurt Peeters
I appreciate the feedback on the standers! I got quoted a great deal on a new Ferris Z2 with 30HP Kawa EFI for around $8000 out the door. Do you think this mower makes sense for a residential first time buyer or would you recommend getting something cheaper? I figured that investing in a mower I plan to have for many years might make more sense but buying cheaper or used has crossed my mind. These things are expensive!
Paul
Hi Kurt, That’s a lot of mower for the price! Yes, you could go with a sit-down mower in the $6000 and have one that will last years but this Ferris has all the features, a great ride, a great engine and will last you long enough for you to will it to your grandkids.
I don’t recommend used – especially with the higher priced ZTR’s. Most of them have been abused and used to the point that you are just buying someone else’s problems. Without any warranty at all, any repair can easily cost $500 to $3000. Yes, the person selling it makes it look “as-good-as-new” but there is always some underlying reason why it’s for sale.
Kurt Peeters
I can’t thank you enough for the feedback Paul!
Matthew Wyman
I have a half acre, and a fence opening 48”. I’m looking at 3 brands: Gravely, Hustler, and Scag. It’s been suggested that I buy a Kawasaki motor, over the Kohler. It has also been suggested that I step up to the Hydro-Gear ZT-2800 because it is serviceable. Much of this seems overkill for a 1/2 acre yard, so I’m just trying to make the right decision.
1. 2018 Gravely ZTX 42” with Kohler and EZT 2200 trans for $2,899
2. 2019 Gravely ZTXL 42” with 21.5hp Kawasaki and ZT 2800 trans for $3,999
3. 2018 Hustler Raptor 42” with 21.5 hp Kawasaki and EZT 2200 trans for $2,899
4. Scag Freedom Z 36” with 18hp Kawasaki and ZT2800 transmission for $3,800
If you were me, which mower would you buy.
Thanks,
Matt
Paul
Hi Matthew, The current Kohler 7000 series engines are as good or better than the Kawasaki residential engines. They have been out for a few years now and they just don’t have any issues. In fact, they are designed for ZTR’s and are much more responsive when mowing heavy grass.
The EXT2200 transmissions with a 42-inch deck will last you and never give you any issues. You don’t need the 2800 trannys unless you go to a 50-inch deck or mow commercially.
My first choice is the Gravely ZTX 42 or Ariens IKON X 42. The 2019 retail price for both is $2899. They did not change the mower for 2019 but you should be able to get a little discount for that “old Stock” Gravely. Ariens/Gravely does not charge extra for the Kawasaki.
The Hustler Raptor 42 is also a good choice. There were a few complaints with intiial build quality last year but I’m confident Hustler has their assembly line running perfectly this year.
I am not a big fan of ZTR with decks smaller than 42 inches. All of them suffer from traction issues and they will tear up your turf. They are also very unstable and you can easily tip one over mowing around an old tree.
Matt
Thanks. I went to the local gravely dealer and saw a year old 2018 ZTXL with 11 hours on it for less than I could get a new ZTX, so I bought it. Hopefully that was the right call.
Paul
Hi Matt, Sounds like a good deal. Stop back later this year and tell us how you like it!
Greg
I live in the valley in Oregon and early spring mowing is tough with lots of moisture. I have been using the commercial Honda walk behind that does a great job. I bag the grass as we have a dog and don’t want the grass in the house. I’m considering a zero turn mower. Baggers look a bit expensive and questionable for doing the job with wet grass. I’m 2 hours mowing currently. I have looked at the Bad Boy mowers and Grasshopper. Can you weigh in on those and my situation?
Paul
Hi Greg, You said the bagger where expensive so I’m going to guess the mowers you are looking have the auxiliary blower. That powered blower takes the grass from the deck and blows it into the bagger. If they do then you won’t have any issues picking up wet grass.
If you are looking at that expensive of a mower I suggest you also look at the Walker. Walker mowers are dedicated bagging mowers and designed to handle wet grass. Here’s the link: Walker Mowers
Gary
Trying to decide between the……
Skag Freedom 52inch $5500 with Kohler 24HP
John Deere 54 inch $4800 witih 24 HP
Hustler Raptor 54 inch $4100 with Kawasaki 24 HP
My yard is clean, mostly flat ( a few mild hills), fairly smooth, some trees and mowed twice weekly.
Looking to buy new but want the one that will last the longest and do a great job. I don’t do repairs beyond the very basic. A bit more than one acre. The less money spent the better.
Thanks
Paul
Hi Gary, The John Deere gives you the best cut. It will last years and any John Deere dealer will service it.
The Skag is the toughest of the three. It will also last years.
That’s an awful lot of money for a Raptor. Do you mean a Raptor HD? You get what you pay for meaning – the Raptor HD is a decent mower but the Deere and Skag will give you a better cut and last longer.
Since you don’t do repairs I suggest picking the mower from this selection and buying it from a local dealer – that you trust.
Matt
Hi am interested in buying the zero turn mower I have two in mind gravely ZTHD or the grasshopper 125 I really wanted the Gravley until I drove the grasshopper but this is my first zero turn purchase. I am mowing 4 acres and was wanting a 60 inch deck and would like your input thanks in advance.
Paul
Hi Matt, I don’t have any experience with the mid-mount Grasshopper but I know their front-deck machines well. Grasshopper caters to the rural homeowner and farmers so their equipment is built like a tank and will hold up well on rough “farm” lawns.
The Gravely is also built well and should give you the best cut. It rides better and will cut faster than the Grasshopper. I like the Gravely a lot.
Jeremy Fultz
Paul,
This is an amazing site full of great information!
Been doing a lot of research but I’m stuck deciding on a short list of mowers.
I had in mind buying the Bradley stand on but was a little anxious about how I would like the stand on style mower and the lack of local dealer support. So, I did some shopping around for one of the other top recommended mowers locally. Looking for a 54 or 52 inch. I can get a Hustler Raptor SDX for $5k out the door. Gravely HD ZT about $5500 out the door. Or the Bradley would be around $4600 with shipping but no dealer support. Then also came across a WorldLawn Diamond Back that’s also about 5k our the door and has a local dealer.
So I would like your advice on 2 things. First, do you know anything about these WorldLawn mowers? Has the 3200 trans and same Kawi motor as the Gravely and Hustler. Seems to be heavy duty and well built.
Second, if it was your $5k which of these mowers would you spend it on?
Thanks in advance for your wisdom!
Paul
Hi Jeremy, First choice. I have a slight preference to the Gravely HD over the Hustler SDX. The cut is the same, the quality is the same and they will both last you a long time. They are both high-quality residential/estate machines and both brands take care of the customer. I don’t have a good Hustler dealer in my area but my Gravely dealer is top notch so that is mainly why I have a preference for the Gravely. So, I suggest buying from the dealer you like (and trust) the most.
3rd choice. I know the Bradley Mowers and I’ve been following Havener Enterprises (the company that makes them) since the early 90’s. I can work on my own equipment so I have no problems buying the Bradley. If I ever have an issue or need parts I know they will quickly help me get the problem resolved. Plus, if I need maintenance parts they ship quickly or I can always stop by their showroom when I go visit my granddaughter. (the factory is about 30 minutes from her.) That said, if you are uncomfortable doing your own repairs or the type who wants someone else to do your warranty work then the Bradley is not for you.
Last place. Encore mowers was purchased about 10 years ago by Jiangsu World Plant-Protecting Machinery Co. They changed the Encore name to Worldlawn at that time. The mowers are still manufactured in Beatrice, Nebraska but they are a wholly owned Chinese company. It’s always been an average-good mower and still is.
Laurie
Hi Paul,
I have just over 2 acres and previously cut with John deere L130 slow and rough ride and alot of trimming ! I am looking to buy a new one this spring one acre is rough terrain not many trees and the other acre is fairly smooth with medium inclines and a berm also . Looking for something reliable and faster and not much trimming around trees . I am looking at ZTR in John deere and cub cadet and Toro. Any other suggestions are welcome .
I have read articles where you mention Toro has best suspension for rough terrain . What are your thoughts on the 3 brands l mentioned for my property.
Thks Laurie
Paul
Hi Laurie, I’m running behind answering comments. Sorry. Check out this article on the 2019 zero-turns: 2019 The Best Residential Zero Turn Mowers The 48-50 inch mowers listed are a good choice for your property.
My choice from that article:
If your property is rough the No. 1 Toro in the 48-50 inch list is the best choice.
The new Cub Cadet (No. 4) won’t ride as well but it’s a good mower. It will last but you won’t be able to mow as fast as the Toro.
Finally, the 54 inch John Deere will give you the best cut on a smooth lawn but you won’t like it on a rough lawn. It will bounce and mow unevenly and you will bounce and fell like you riding a paint shaker.
Guido J. Borgnini
Paul
i am returnng after a few years absence.
i need a replacement seat for a Sears riding tractor with low turning radius – don’t recall the model but I can look it up. The current seat causes back pain – any suggestions for brand ?
thanks, Guido
Paul
Hi Guido, If your tractor is red or black any seat made for Husqvarna lawn tractors will fit. If your tractor is black and yellow then any seats for Cub Cadet will work.
You can lift up the seat and measure between the mounting bolts (the ones it tips on) and then go to your local Tractor Supply or other farm store and check out their replacement seats.
Charlie Green
Hi Paul, Looking for my first ZTR. I have a little under 2 acres with some rough bumpy areas mainly due to tire ruts etc but some areas are a little sketchy as severity. Plan to smooth out over time. Not really sure what my best options would be. What do you suggest?
Thank you,
Paul
Hi Charlie, I have four ZTR’s that will work well. They all have nice, large wheels to smooth out the bumps somewhat. They all cut well and will last.
This link has all four ZTR’s listed. After you read below use this link to check them out more: Best ZTR’s for Charlie
1. The Cub Cadet Ultima has the best cutting deck.
2. The Toro MyRide has a full suspension platform that separates you from the bumps. It’s the best riding ZTR on the market. It also cuts well.
3. The Ariens Ikon X is a good choice if you don’t want a Cub Cadet
4. The Ariens Ikon XL is built like a tank. It mows well and will last many years.
Brian
Hi Paul. I have the option to buy a Toro Timecutter HD 60″ with MyRide for $5000. It has 58hrs on it. I have about 3 mostly flat acres to mow (residential). Seem like a good deal. Do you know much about that machine?
Thanks!
Paul
Hi Brian, That is one of the best residential ZTR’s on the market. It has the best ride and you can easily mow 10 acres a week for years. It typically goes for $6300 so it sounds like a great deal.
tony
Paul, have you heard of the World lawn diamondback mower and if so is it any good?
Paul
Hi Tony, The WroldLawn DiamondBack is a good mower. It’s built well and mows well. But, just so you know. This company was originally called Encore. They made good mowers but their dealer network and parts distribution was horrible. About 10 years ago a Chinese company bought them out. The mowers are still made in Beatrice, Nebraska – it’s just under a different name and ownership. Their dealer network is growing but is still spotty in many areas of the country.
Why am I telling you this? It’s a good mower and I don’t have any problems suggesting it, especially for the price but make sure you have a local, servicing dealer where you can take it for warranty work and get parts.
tony
if you had to choose between a World Lawn 52″ diamondback or a Gravely ZXT XL 52″ which one would you choose?
Paul
Hi Tony, Gravely
Jeanne
Help! Retired, we now mow 2 farm acreages; one 1.5 acres, another 3 to 4 acres depending on whether we rough cut the old pasture or want a cleaner look. Both are rolling acreages with some rough terrain. The larger has a 15-25% grade bank along the road. Both have several outbuildings and trees. We currently mow both with a 48″ Snapper ZT. We want a bigger mower at the larger acreage which could also mow both when needed. The farmhouse on the larger acreage rents as a BnB so we want a nice cut.
At local dealers we’ve explored a Gravely HD60 (demo model with 20 hours), JD 540R and 540M (don’t like the key/choke system) and a CubCadet ZForce S (because our neighbor loves their garden tractor). We’ve also looked at a Skag Patriot, Exmark Radius and Hustler Fastrak SDX 25-30 miles away. Our trailer will carry a 54″ mower but the dealer of the HD60 says we can use their trailer to bring it in for maintenance. We’d do the Gravely because of the < 5K demo price but the ride is rough (might it need rebalancing?). At 71 we need reasonable comfort. We've a week to snag end-of-season markdowns. We're overwhelmed by the options. Feedback?
Paul
Hi Jeanne, Does the Gravely have a suspension seat? If it does, can you adjust it so it’s not so stiff? If it doesn’t can the dealer install a suspension kit under the seat?
All ZTR’s ride rough. A suspension seat helps but the only way to really mow a rough lawn is to slow down to 4-5 mph.
ExMark and Toro does make a heavy duty mower is the MYRIDE suspension. It’s the best on the market. The Toro 48″ (122 cm) MyRIDE® TimeCutter® HD Zero Turn Mower (75211) is about $5700 and the ExMark Radius Suspension also comes in a 48, 52 and 60 inch. If you want the best ride that is the best choice.
Jeanne
Thanks, Paul! I can’t say enough about your site and your experienced responses! As much as I want to want the Gravely due to price and dealer location, it really does hurt the back to mow on it; and you’re correct, it’s better at a slower speed but my Snapper is still more comfortable perhaps because it’s smaller. The dealer said he could order a suspension kit for it. It seems to rattle a lot…is that normal too? I’ll see if I can get a test drive on the Exmark and Toro MyRide; good suggestions as they both highlight their suspension systems.
Paul
Hi Jeanne, Yes, the closer you get to a commercial version the more robust they are – and the more rattles they have. The goal is a machine that will last, parts that won’t bind up, and mows a perfect as possible. Not so much how it looks or how quiet it is.
Tommy
Paul,
Very much appreciate what you are doing with your site. I reached out to you about 2 years ago and ended up buying a Craftsman 27042 46″ riding mower. Its been a great mower for our current 1.1 acre lot with some moderate slopes. Cuts better than many of my neighbors JD’s riders. We are going to be building a home a moving next spring and the next home will have a 1.3 acre flat lot with a few trees. Do you suggest making the jump to a zero turn, or keeping the Craftsman (about 180 hrs on the craftsman). Not much use for the tractor beside just mowing the lawn. With our budget, I’m probably looking at upper entry level or possibly mid level zero turn if I go that direction. The biggest thing I’d like to gain is to be able to mow in less time.
Thanks in advance for your advice.
Paul
Hi Tommy, If your main goal is to mow faster you will have to spend about $4000 on a zero-turn. The entry level ($2500-3500) machines use the same decks as your 27042 use the same decks as your lawn tractor. They don’t mow any faster – they just go around corners faster.
Shari
Hi Paul, I have 1/2 acre filled with gardens with winding grass paths around them as well as some flat and slightly sloped areas. Against the advice in your article I have to go with a zero turn 34″ anything larger won’t fit my paths. I am deciding between a Gravely ZT 34″ and a Cub Cadet RZT L 34″. Got a fantastic price quote on the Cub Cadet but I’m leaning toward the Gravely because it’s seems much more heavy duty and has a larger engine. I only mulch mow and have huge trees so lots of leaves to mow. How do you think these mowers compare?
Thanks!
Paul
Hi Shari, If you have to buy a 34 inch my first choice is actually the Toro TimeCutter SS3225 32 in. 452cc Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Smart Speed. It has a big advantage with the smart speed. You can put the ZTR in Trim mode and it won’t tear up your grass as quickly as the other ZTRs. (These small ZTRs all have traction issues when turning)
Then the Ariens Zoom 34 in. / Gravely ZT. I like the build quality a lot. The Gravely and Ariens are the same machine.
MTD also makes the exact mower as the Cub Cadet in the Yard Machines line for $1999. Yard Machines 34 in. 452cc. It’s not build as strong as the Toro or Gravely/Ariens.
Finally, if you can go 38 inches the Ryobi 38 in. 100 Ah Battery Electric Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower is a great choice instead of a ZTR. It does not have the traction issues of the tiny ZTRs.
Shari
Thanks for the reply Paul. I think I’ll go with the Gravely. Had a Dixon ZTR 30″ I bought used and mowed with it for 20 years. Only traction problems on turns was if the lawn was wet or the ground wet and mushy. Here where I am in Ohio I’ve got a fescue/blue grass blend that’s mostly corse fescue in sun and fine in shade. I am very used to steering with zero turn lap bars and fine you only experience traction problems in wet conditions while trying to speed demon around the lawn lol Thanks again!
Paul
Hi Shari. The old Dixon 30 inch was one of the worst for turning. You love the Gravely.
Jimmy
Well Paul, I took your advice and bought a Ryobi 480ex last year, it arrived in December, so I waited patiently, and put a good charge on the battery. Now at the end of the first season, of cutting my yard and six others ( weekly) it has stood up to the test, and past with flying colors!! I’ve noticed a few squeaks up front, near the wheels, Should I be greasing something ?
Paul
Hi Jimmy, You Manual states “Lubricate mower pivot points, front axle pivot and axle spindles, front axle wheel bushings, and deck pivot points.” Every 25 hours. There are no diagrams showing those points.
Most tractors and ZTR’s squeak – even my ExMark ZTR. I use Liquid Wrench L711 Chain & Cable Lube. I just spray it on and around the joint and it works into the pivot point and the squeak goes away for months.
Beth
Hello Paul! I am very glad to have found your informative article, comments and feedback! We are Wisconsinites now, former Chicagoans with zero lawn, all perennials. Our 5 acres of mowing is a new world. We are trying to convert some over to prairie and have many berms. There are many trees and shrubs, as well as stumps that we still need to remove. Our yard also likes to periodically purge itself of lovely glaciated boulders which are always a shock to find. We have many invasives like buckthorn, garlic mustard etc. that I am now in a better position to mow down now that other scrub trees have been removed.
We have a John Deere F735 front deck commercial that has had a myriad of problems, my most irritating that it overheats and stops. The water pump may be going (per it’s last visit to the shop) and it is no longer made. I, as a middle-aged woman, can also run circles around it as I mow. It is S. L. O. W. However, I do love it for helping clear and hope to keep it operational for a while longer.
So, yard is rough, w divots from decaying roots below the lawn surface, stumps, attacking rocks, berms, slopes, marshy areas (getting marshier!) and, get this, moguls which I mow w the F735. I won’t even tell you about the pond! Actually, no slope on the pond. But the moguls are at 25-30 degrees. They are short though.
Our neighbor has a John Deere commercial 700 series zero turn that is just fabulous to zip around on and get the yard mowed in less that 8 hours!
We looked at John Deere and Scag, commercial and they were more than we wanted to spend. We happened across Wright, very near by, and will be test mowing a Wright ZTO in our yard tomorrow. It is a 60” same as our F735. It is still a bit pricey but no where near JD or Scag. Are we going overboard potentially? I am rough on our F735. I am sure I would horrify you if I admitted some of the things I have done with it. I mean it. Horrify you. But you know, I am learning! And if it is overkill, what else would you recommend? Keep in mind, when I say horrify you, I really do mean it! We have done all the clearing and work on our property ourselves which has included removing many 50’ dead white pines planted to close together (I stopped counting after 70).
Thanks so much for any thoughts you have for us.
Beth
Paul
Hi Beth, Sorry, I’ve been out of town researching snow blowers the last few days. Your property sounds a lot like mine. I had over 150 Jack Pines planted 6 foot apart 50 years ago. Many of them never got over 4 inches in diameter but like yours were 50 feet tall. Over the last 10 years I’ve cut out all but 35 of them and now the place looks like a park!
No, you can’t surprise me about using your old F735. In its day it was a very good mower, it’s tough and overall takes a lot of abuse. The engine has always been the weak link in that mower though. I’ve seen many scrapped over the years because of the engine – the rest of the mower worked just fine.
The Wright ZTO is one of the toughest mowers around for the price. Wright has always “overbuilt” their machines. They may not look great compared to the new John Deere but they are tough and will last you just as long as the old F735. It has big tires, heavy-duty transmissions, and commercial grade engines. You’ll have a hard time breaking it 🙂
Mark Graybeal
Paul. I live in Delaware with 2.2 acres level yard. My12 year old cub cadet 1050 broke it’s steering rod. I have borrowed my neighbor’s zero turn several times. I am looking to replace the cc with a zero turn. I have looked at exmark radius e series, hustler raptor sd, and J-D z540 in the 4 to 5 k price range. What are your thoughts about the characteristics of each. 48 inch versus 52inch decks? The dealers each said their units would outperform the others.
Paul
Hi Mark, no one tests these mowers side by side but if you look around your neighborhood ExMark is the mower of choice for the lawn service companies. They have the best cutting decks and the best service in most cases.
Tom
Hi Brian, Fellow Wisconsinite here. I have 1.5 acres that is mostly flat. However, it is pretty bumpy. I also have a mound system and one side of a ditch (that I could leave if I really wanted to). I have about 10 trees and normal flower beds around the house. I currently have a simplicity 42″ rider that is on it’s last legs. Take me 1.5 hrs to mow. My kids also mow with my 12 year old weighing just enough to keep it running when on the seat. (But if I can get it done quicker I might just do it all the time)
I’m looking at a ZTR to try to get my mowing time down. I have friends that have the Gravely HD and really like it. I also see that you recommend the Toro. I’m thinking something in the 48″-50″ range. Looks like the Time Cutter with MyRide might be the way to go? Am I missing another brand? I’m not set on one brand over another. Do you prefer a certain engine? I see Briggs, Kawasaki and others? Lastly, is there a disadvantage with buying from a Home Depot or Lowes? I know when HD started carrying John Deere riders, it was not a “real” JD, just a re-badged model of another producer. Great site and I’ll try to purchase off of a link of yours if I can to help support.
Paul
Hi Tom, You have Home Depot and Lowes and you live in Wisconsin? You are lucky! Living around Eau Claire I don’t have either one within 100 miles. But then again Menards Home Offices does have over 3000 employees and pretty much keeps our airport in operation….. can you tell I’m jealous?
Yes, I really like the Gravely HD/Ariens XL and the Toro TimeCutter MX5075/ExMark RADIUS S-SERIES. Both are good dependable mowers that will last a long time. Right now I’d pick the Toro MyRide or ExMark Radius S just for the suspension. The build quality makes it a good mower but the operator suspension makes it the best riding ZTR on the market.
Engine quality in this price range is the same for Kohler, Kawasaki, or Toro’s own engine. Mowing 1.5 to 3 acres all the engines will last you the life of the mower.
There is no real difference buying from The Home Depot over a local dealer. When you order a mower it’s shipped to a local dealer, setup and then delivered to you. Service, parts, warranty is all handled by that local dealer.
Don’t be afraid to buy local though. Check out your local Toro or ExMark dealer and see if they will give you the same deal as Home Depot. The dealer price is the same but Home Depot includes free delivery and setup. (Probably by the same local dealer you’ll go visit.)
Living in Wisconsin it can get confusing about who makes John Deere. The John Deere Horicon Works makes the X300, X500 and X700 tractors and is still called the lawn tractor plant by a lot of people because at one time in the distant past the original lawn tractors were made there. But, the D100 series and the new E100 series have always been made by the Greeneville, Tennessee plant. Greenville also makes all of the EX Trak ZTRs. In fact, Greenville makes more units than any other Deere plant in the world. Finally, the tractors you buy at Home Depot or Lowes are the same as the 100 series at a dealer.
I do make a small commission if you buy the Toro through this link: Toro TimeCutter MX5075 with MyRIDE
Tom
Thank you. I have a sis-in-law that used to live in Mondovi so I know your area well.
Looking at the Toro, what is the smart speed control and is it worth it?
Paul
Hi Tom, Smart Speed is exclusive to Toro and is a great feature if you think you may want to let your 12 yr old drive it.
When you push on the handles of a normal ZTR you go from 0 MPH to the top speed of the mower in about 8 inches of lever travel. That small band of handle travel can be very hard to control for inexperienced operators.
With the Smart Speed, you can shift it down a gear so it only goes slow in towing mode, a little faster in trimming mode and full speed in regular. Towing mode keeps the rear transmissions from overheating when pulling heavy loads. Trimming allows you to go slower so you don’t destroy your landscaping. Trimming speed is also a good speed for inexperienced drivers because the ZTR won’t go fast enough to tip over or knock the operator off the mower if they hit something like a tree or the side of your garage.
S. Linkous
Hello Paul, We have a very similar yard as Tom, but in the Mid Atlantic region. How do the Gravely HD/Ariens XL and the Toro TimeCutter MX5075/ExMark RADIUS S-SERIES compare to the John Deere Z525E and Z540M?
Paul
Hi S. No one tests these mowers side by side but all three will cut your lawn evenly. All three brands are good with John Deere being the most expensive. At this price point, I suggest focusing on the dealer more than the equipment. Pick the dealer you trust.
Brian Kannady
Thanks for this article, it is extremely helpful. Do you have any thoughts on the Scag or Bob Cat homeowner models? Also, mowing 3 acres a week, will I get better value over the long term from stepping up to a commercial model, or should I stick with a heavy duty homeowner model?
Paul
Ho Brain, For 3 acres I do not recommend the entry level ZTR for either brand that use the ZT-2200 transmissions. As soon as you step up to the next level or go to the heavy duty residential model these brands both have great machines. You want a model with ZT-2800 or ZT-3200 transmissions.
Rick Andrews
Hi Paul I have a 2 acre area to mow 85-90% flat with some slopes for the rest and I was wondering which would be the better mower A Husqvarna R322T or the Ariens Ikon X42 i know the Husqvarna I am looking at is the 48 ” deck and the Ariens is the 42″ deck both have 3 blades the Ariens is a true zero turn and the Husqvarna is a close second I like the Ariens for the cut it should give and Husqvarna for the AWD so in your opinion which would be your pick Thanks for the great site and knowledge you have in the mower field
Paul
Hi Rick, The Ariens XL compares to the Husqvarna for quality. The Ariens XL will cut faster but the Husqvarna will give you a more even cut over uneven parts of your lawn.
The Husqvarna will trim around obstacles better. The Husqvarna with a 48-inch deck will also allow you to make a 180-degree turn without leaving anything in the center of the circle. If you are not experienced with ZTR’s the Husqvarna is a better choice because it won’t tear up your lawn.
Rick Andrews
are there any issues with Tuff Torq running gear under the Husqvarna and how do they compare to the EZT on the Ariens Ikon X 42
Mark
Rick,
I’ll offer this in the event you haven’t made a purchase yet. Your yard sounds similar to mine, I have 1.5 acres with some short 10 – 20 degree slopes. I purchased the R322T last August. It’s worked well for me and has eliminated any push mowing I used to do. As for the hydros, my rear hydro is in the serial number group that could exhibit drifting after the pedal is let up. I’m beyond the hrs when that should start happening and I’ve not seen any drift yet. I have pulled a yard cart with at least 400 lb of dirt in it, more than a few times, and also a yard roller weighing at least that much. There is a massive thread on the my tractor forum site that pretty much lays bare anything you would want to know about this unit. I have not experienced any of the reported issues in this thread. My machine was mfd’d in 2016. The flip up deck and AWD are excellent features on this unit. My deck is cleaned to the metal each time I mow and I expect it to last longer than a tractor style mower that I would not normally clean each time due to the difficulty of removal. I should say I’m 58 and the flip up is much easier to handle!! One of the bigger plagues on the R322T, in my opinion, is dealer la k of knowledge on the unit. This mower is built in Sweden, and I’m told, very common on estates in Europe.
Paul
Hi Mark, Yes, the European market is very different than the U.S. market. Europeans cut their lawns shorter and expect their mowers to give an even cut over gently rolling terrain. Just about all the riding mowers sold there are articulated and won’t tear up a lawn. Husqvarna makes front deck commercial mowers that cost over $16,000!
Here everyone wants speed, speed, speed. We don’t care if it rides like a tank, tears up the lawn and wears out in five years. As long as we can fit 4 on a trailer, mow 10-15 mph and leave the entire lawn looking like a Marine Sargent’s haircut we are happy.
Mark
Paul,
I know. When I show it to people it kinda sets them back. It doesn’t have all that sheet metal and plastic forming a giant engine hood. A huge departure from the American look style mowers. It has just enough parts to mow the lawn, precisely. When I walked up to it on the dealer lot I even thought “gee it’s small”. The looks are deceiving. I bought it anyway and have never regretted it.
Rick
Hey Mark thanks for the info the model I am looking at is a 2015 model with 130 hours and was serviced this spring the asking price is $3500 Canadian My concern is the problems some owners seem to be having Even the Husqvarnsa website gives a 38% recommended due to issues with the belts and trans-axles Dont want a mower that is laid up more than is being used
Brian
Hi Paul,
Do you know much about the Encore Edge 48? I have the option to buy one on CR basically new for 3600
Paul
Hi Brian, The problem with the Encore is not the mower – it’s a good machine. The problem is they don’t have a good service network so it can be hard to get service and parts. I believe the mowers are still manufactured in Beatrice, NB but if it matters to you Encore is owned by WorldLawn – a Chinese company.
Brian
Hi Paul, I’m up against a 3 acre lawn, mostly flat with only a few obstacles. Would like to be able to mow as fast as possible. Looking at the Toro MX 5075 as well as the Kubota z122e. Would like to stay below $4000ish. Any hesitations about these models? Have also looked at the Ariens IkonX, but thinking that may be too light for my needs. Any advice would be appreciated!
Paul
Hi Brian, Of the three I would recommend the Toro. It has the strongest deck and the best ride. It also has a feature where you can shift from mowing to tow and pull a lawn cart, etc., without damaging the transmissions.
AJ Levesque
Paul, thank you for this article. My John Deer D110 just blew on me yesterday. So I am looking to switch to a ZTR. I have little over an acre with some slope and few trees. There is a dealer for Big Dog mowers around corner from me. I am look at the Alpha model 42″ $2,999 plus 15% off. It has a kholer 7,000 series had/22hp. I do not want to go to big box stores I used to work at Home Depot and I know most of that stuff is not great. Any direction would be appreciated.
Paul
Hi AJ, Big Dog Alpha is a Hustler Raptor painted red. The 15% off gets you below the $2799 price Lowes is asking for the Raptor. I do like the Kohler 7000 on the Big Dog. I also like the automatic parking brake.
Yes, it’s a good choice for your one-acre yard and a local dealer will take care of you well.
Neil
Great article I am glad I ran into this on my search. I have a question and would like your advice. I have about 4 acres of previously farmed land that I leveled myself with my JD 1026 and have been mowing with that tractor for the last 3 years. I am ready to move to a zero turn to help speed up the process. I have steep slope near the house where I created a walkout and the rest is flat. I have a 1 acre pond to mow around and a tree line and about 12 trees. I want to get something that will handle the semi rough lawn well and not get beat up. It can get rough on the tractor mowing some of the spots. I have tried leveling but I think some areas I may need to till over and flatten again. Look forward to hearing what you have to say. Also I was looking at John Deere or a Boscat as I have support for both of these near by but I am open to other suggestions.
Paul
Hi Neil, Two safety items with zero-turns. 1. You may have to mow your walkout with a push mower. ZTR’s and almost all riding mowers are designed for 15% slopes or less. (If there is nothing at the bottom you may be able to mow down the slope. NEVER mow across or up the slope) 2. Ponds are deadly. Erosion, critter dens and the pond seeping into the bank can cause you to fall into the pond – and drown. If the slope is not very steep stay at least 2 mower widths away from the edge of the water. If the slope is over 10 degrees don’t mow it EVER with the ZTR. You can slide down the slope, fall into a muskrat den or tip over from a rut. That said,
The best riding ZTR on the market right now is the Toro MyRide or ExMark with the Suspension Platform. You are completely isolated from the mower and it’s the best ride you can get. I suggest the Toro Timecutter HD, Titan HD, Radius Suspension or Lazer Suspension.
I don’t feel the John Deere 300 or 500 series will be heavy-duty enough for you. You’ll need to move up to the commercial series if you lawn is a rough as you suggest.
The same goes for the BobCat. I like them a lot and the mid-priced models will last you a long time, but don’t buy the CRZ models.
Ed R.
Ferris are very big here in upstate NY. It’s about all you see commercial operators using. Of course they are also made here.
I don’t think the deck bonces like you think. It dose follow the contour of the ground but it is independent of the frame. Here’s a video I found showing how it works.
Paul
Hi Ed R, Yes a few of the most expensive commercial models still use that front suspension but it most of the models are now using a solid or oscillating front axle. And you are correct, there are so many commercial mowers out there and local contractors tend to buy from good local dealers – not so much a particular brand. So, if Ferris has a great dealer in your area you will see more of them out mowing lawns than other brands.
That said, todaysmower’s primary purpose is to help the residential homeowner to find the best mower for them. The residential models used an oscillating front axle. Unfortunately, it also looks like they have dropped the residential mowers. (the ones with the little carrier on the back)
Bill
Paul, I enjoyed your article and, like others, I’m struggling with the right ZTR to buy. I have about 4+ acres to mow, mostly flat, but with a berm bordering our road (I could just mow with push mower or weed wack) and a slight drop off toward the back of the property (not steep). There are a number of trees, a fence, gardens, house and driveway. I have a few dealerships in the area: Exmark, John Deere, Gravely, Kubota, Toro and BobCat. I’m thinking that a 60″ deck and to reduce cutting time; I have a compact tractor with a 62″ deck that takes me ~3.5 hours. I usually mow every 10-14 days, but might mow more often if it goes quicker. I want to reduce the time, have a good cut without clumping, a comfortable ride and I’d like the machine to last. I’d like to be in the $5000 to $8000 range. I don’t want to overspend, but I want the right machine for the size job. Your suggestions would be appreciated.
Paul
Hi Bill, In that price range I’d start by looking at the Exmark Radius. It’s aimed at the high-end residential – small commercial owner. It mows great and mows fast. It will mow well 3-4 mph faster than your tractor.
They have a model with the myride suspension that makes the ZTR smoother to ride than your compact tractor. I wouldn’t be surprised if you can mow your lawn in less than 2 hours.
Warren
Hi Paul, I’m currently using a 20yr old John Deere lawn tractor with a 48″ deck. It takes about 6hours to do our property in Alberta. We have wide open areas and also lots of pie shaped areas and obstacles where I’m hoping a zero turn can really save some time. There is a bit of ditch to mow but 90% is flat or gentle hills. Other than the 1/2 acre by the house I’m just trying to quickly keep the grass generally neat.
I have dealerships nearby that sell John Deere, cub cadet, gravely, and husqvarna. There is also a Home Depot with JD’s, Toro timecutter, and Swishers (not sure how easy it is to get parts if repairs are needed).
I’m considering:
Cub Cadet rzt sx 54″ – $4250, 23hp Kawasaki engine. Steering wheel is a plus (but not necessary). Farbricated deck. I’m not sure on the brands reliability.
John Deere z355e 48″ – $3800, solid brand. 22hp Briggs engine.
John Deere z375r 54″ -$4600, 25hp Briggs engine
Gravely x52 $4600, I’m not familiar with these.
Toro 50″ Timecutter $4000, 24.5hp v-twin with smart speed.
Husqvarna z254, 54″ $4000, 26hp kohler engine. I’ve heard Husq have reliability problems.
Any insight would be appreciated. Moving up to a more commercial level would bump the price a fair amount but suggestions within these brands would be great if none of these models seem reasonable.
Thanks.
Paul
Hi Warren, I’d rate the mowers in this order for you.
1. Cub Cadet RZT SX 54″ – $4250, 23hp Kawasaki engine. The steering wheel is a big plus for this mower because you have a ditch to mow. Because the front wheels steer it will stay on that slope a lot better than a lap bar ZTR. The wheelbase is a little wider than you old mower so it will hold on that slope very well. The fabricated deck is a plus also. It’s tougher than the stamped decks os it will take more of a beating than the stamped decks on the John Deere, Toro, and Husqvarna mowers. It also one of the best cutting decks in the 48-54 inch size. Cub Cadet has really improved the brand’s reliability in the last 5 years and it’s now one of the best. I have no problems recommending this ZTR over the rest.
Lap Bar ZTR’s – especially the residential models you list here – are not very good about mowing side slopes. They are very hard to keep on the slope. Even if they mow it under normal conditions they may slide down the slope and get stuck in the ditch if the grass is wet or very dry. If the slope is more than 10 degrees or so I strongly suggest that you see if the dealer will let you try it out first.
2. Toro 50″ Timecutter $4000, 24.5hp v-twin with smart speed. I like this mower and you can use the smart speed to slow it down so it should handle the ditch better than the rest of the list. Toro also makes this in a steering wheel model (about $400 more)
3. Gravely x52 $4600. Gravely is Ariens dealer only brand. You know Ariens from the great snow blowers they produce. I do suggest that you move up to the Gravely HD model because of the large area you have to mow.
4. John Deere z355e 48″ – $3800, solid brand. 22hp Briggs engine. Like the Gravely, I suggest you move up to the 500 Series Deere because of the large area you have to mow.
5. John Deere z375r 54″ -$4600, 25hp Briggs engine
I just can’t recommend the Husqvarna z254, 54″ $4000, 26hp Kohler engine. Of the mowers on your list, it is the most repair-prone and it does not mow as well as the others.
Warren
Thanks for the quick reply, Paul. Concern over the cub cadets repair rate was my main issue with them. If that’s not an issue I’m more inclined to go that way.
Do you think I’d notice a major gain by going with the z-force S 48″ (+$600) or z-force S 54″ (+$1100)? They have the improved transmissions/different engines but I’m not sure how that would translate into ground covered.
Paul
Hi Warren, Yes, they are completely different machines than the ones you first looked at. They are heavier built and will mow about 2 MPH faster. They will also last much longer than the basic residential models. They also have these in both the steering wheel and lapbar models:
Cub Cadet Z-Force S 54 in. 25 HP Fabricated Deck KOHLER Pro V-Twin Dual-Hydro Zero-Turn Mower with Steering Wheel ControlCub Cadet Z-Force S 48 in. 24 HP Fabricated Deck KOHLER Pro V-Twin Dual-Hydro Zero-Turn Mower with Steering Wheel ControlCub Cadet Z-Force L 54 in. 25 HP Fabricated Deck KOHLER Pro V-Twin Dual-Hydro Zero-Turn Mower with Lap Bar ControlCub Cadet Z-Force L 48 in. 24 HP Fabricated Deck KOHLER Pro V-Twin Dual-Hydro Zero-Turn Mower with Lap Bar Control
Frank Marinelli
Hello Paul. I used your advice 4 years ago when I purchased my first zero turn. I live close to Philadelphia and I have approximately 2.5 acres to mow. Roughly 1.5 acres are slightly sloped and there are a few significant slopes in there to accommodate a walk out basement and my sewage sand mound. I would not categorize my lawn as super smooth but I would not call it rough either, there are definitely some spots where I bounce pretty good in the seat, but overall it is an average lawn. My current ZT is a 2014 Husqvarna MZ52 which I bought because I got a good discount through my work and you gave your stamp of approval. The mower has been good to me for the most part, but stupidly I want a new shiny toy that will potentially get the job done faster and provide a better cut. What I really want to get out of my new mower is first and foremost a quality cut that will make my lawn look real sharp, secondly I want minimal clumping even if I let the grass grow for a full week, quality cutting at high speeds to ensure I can get the job done in around an hour and fifteen, and a reliable machine that is going to last me years and years. I would prefer to spend between 6K and 8K. Thanks in advance Paul and I look forward to your response. Also, it should be noted that there is a Toro dealer about 10 minutes from my house whereas the Husqvarna dealer is about 30 minutes.
Paul
Hi Frank, Yes, I understand about wanting something new. The MZ52 was a good mower 4 years ago but since then most of the major brands have really improved their decks, cut quality and even ride. In particular, the Toro/Exmark MyRide system makes driving a ZTR almost as smooth as going for a ride in your car.
The Toro MyRide Timecutter HD is right at the bottom end of your budget. It has the suspension platform, up to 8.5 mph mowing speed and one of the toughest mowing decks that also cuts great. It comes in 48, 54 and 60-inch decks.
If you don’t need the MyRide suspension Toro also sells the Timecutter HD without it.
Your Toro dealer may also carry the Exmark version of these mowers. The Exmark brand is more popular with the commercial mowing crews. The Toro is more popular with homeowners and golf course equipment. (the only real difference is the deck’s front lip is flat on the ExMark and angled on the Toro)
Beth Cobleigh
Thank you for an excellent article on Zero Turn Mowers. We have ~1-1.5 acres to mow and are considering the Gravely ZT HD 48 with 25hp and a Bob-Cat CRZ 48 with 20hp. Are front yard is flat and our back yard has a very slight slope on one side of our pool (do not know degree). I’ve been told the Gravelys have problems on slopes- true?
In your article, you did not talk about HP and it’s importance which I’m curious about- please explain pros & cons to higher HP.
Thank you, Beth
Paul
Hi Beth, ALL zero-turns have problems on slopes over 15 degrees or so. If you have a slight slope the Gravely ZT HD or the Bob-Cat CRZ will both handle it just fine. (It was the old Gravely/Ariens Zoom mowers that had problems on slopes)
In 2018 all “name brand” zero-turns have the correct HP for the mowers size. What is confusing for you is Kawasaki uses a different government measuring standard than the rest to list their HP. So a 22-26 HP Kohler or Briggs & Stratton engine has about the same “mowing power” as a 20-24 HP Kawasaki.
Warren
Hi Paul,
Thanks for a whole bunch of information. I live in Canada and in the market for a new zero turn. we have approx 2 acres to cut with some obstacles (trees, landscaping etc). I think i have narrowed down the choices to either a Kubota or Toro.
Kubota, one of 4 models,
Z125SKH-54 (25 hp kohler engine, ZT3100 trans, 22 inch rear tires, 54″ fabricated deck $7300)
Z121SKH-48 (21 hp kohler engine, ZT3100 trans, 22 inch rear tires, 48″ fabricated deck $6300)
Z421KW-54 (25 hp kawasaki engine GH7301V, ZT3600 trans, 24 inch rear tires, fabricated deck $8500)
Z411KW-48 (22 hp kawasaki engine GH7302V, ZT3600 trans, 24 inch rear tires, fabricated deck $7800)
Toro Timecutter HD 48 (75211 22.5HP toro engine ZT3100 trans, 22 inch rear tires, 48″ fabricated deck $7500)
Toro Timecutter HD 54 (75212 24.5HP toro engine ZT3100 trans, 22 inch rear tires, 54″ fabricated deck $8200) .
They make too many machines and i dont think i would go wrong with any of them.
Your recommendation is most welcome and appreciated.
Thanks in advance.
Paul
Hi Warren, They are all nice ZTRs but unless you are very, very, very rough on equipment the Z121SKH-48 (21 hp Kohler engine, ZT3100 trans, 22 inch rear tires, 48″ fabricated deck $6300) is a good choice. It cuts great and has a good reputation
Charlie
Hello Paul. I am looking for a mower and would like your help. I currently have an older Husqvarna articulating rider that is nearing retirement. It is a fun rider but cannot handle my ditch. I have 1.2 acres with 15 trees, flower beds and a playset. The ground is flat but not perfectly flat. I also have a 200′ long ditch at roughly 30 degrees. I am an hour south of Chicago and have dealers for Exmark, Toro, Husqvarna, Cub Cadet and Bradley near me. I would like to stay under $4k.
Thanks Charlie
Paul
Hi Charlie, Now that I’m living up in Northern Wisconsin I can’t call your area “home” anymore but I did live in the Coal City/Mazon/Morris areas for over 30 years. The strip mines and the Kankakee are some of the best fishing in the Midwest!
I understand how much fun the Husqvarna riders are. I just retired my 1999 model last year. I ended up with a 42-inch Exmark Quest steering wheel model.
Because you have the ditch a lap-bar zero-turn is not the best choice. Any of the models in the $4000 and less range don’t have any more traction on slopes than the Husqvarna rider. So I’m going to show you three other zero-turns that will work.
1. Since you are familiar with Bradley mowers let’s discuss the BRADLEY 48″ STAND-ON COMPACT MOWER first. I really, really like this mower and think it is one of the hidden gems of the industry. It is a true commercial mower with a commercial engine, commercial transmissions, commercial frame and commercial deck. In fact, you can’t get this quality in the more recognized brands until you get up in the $7000-9000 price range. Their standon is fast and you will be able to mow your lawn is about a third of the time it took you with the Rider. Stability is the best of all riding mowers and you can mow a 30-degree ditch comfortably. You just shift your weight on the standon so it stays on the slope. I think they are less tiring to use than a lap-bar ZTR. Just bend your knees a little and all the bumps are absorbed through your legs instead of your back. It’s on sale right now and that makes it one of the best deals around.
Bradley/Havener has been around a long time and you won’t have any problems getting parts or service on it.
If you are not familiar with the benefits of a standon mower here is a video that you can watch. The Bradley handles just like the Toro’s in the video (and they are $8000 plus)
.
Regular lap-bar ZTRs tend to lose traction on slopes and want to slide down them. Most ditches are wet at the bottom this time of year and there is a high likelihood a lap-bar model will get stuck in the bottom of the ditch a lot. If a dealer insists a lap-bar is a better choice have him demo the mower on your ditch before you buy it.
2. Toro or Exmark 42 or 50-inch steering wheel ZTR. The 42 is the right size for your 1.2 acres but the 50 has wider tires so it will handle your ditch a lot better. Steering wheel ZTRs steer by using the front wheels instead of the rear transmissions so they will stay on slopes a lot better than the lap-bar models. Here is a link to the Toro model: 50″ (127 cm) TimeCutter® SW5000 (74790)
3. Cub Cadet Z-Force S 48 in. 24 HP Fabricated Deck. Another good steering wheel ZTR.
Khan
Hello Paul; I have 0.6 acre lot to mow. I was thinking of buying ZTR. This is my first lawn mower and first lawn mowing experience. I tried my neighbor’s ZTR and it was ok to ride but I need more practice. With so many brands; not sure which one to buy. Should I buy ZTR? Which one? I have some trees and rocks on the property.
Paul
Hi Khan, A 42-46 inch lawn mower is the right size for .6 acres. A quality ZTR is about $3000. I’m sure you can learn to drive a ZTR but I have a feeling it may not be the best choice.
Instead, I suggest a good lawn tractor. The 46 inch Craftsman Pro model 27042 turns as well as a ZTR and cuts better than most of the smaller ZTR’s. It’s very easy to use and will last just as long. Plus it’s less than $2000. Check it out here: Craftsman ProSeries 27042 46″ 725cc Kohler Riding Mower with TurnTight Extreme® & Smart Lawn Technology
Cleve M
Paul…I have 2 acres in Central Washington State, 60% of it is a 15 to 21% grade. The
grass is a fescue and rye I believe and very hard cutting. I have 7 fruit trees and some
rock outcroppings at one end of the property that are on a 12% slope. Everything else
is mostly smooth going. As far as brands, I can get just about anything as this is farm/
orchard country.
I have gone thru two Sears mowers and one small army tank! I was looking at the
Troy-Bilt Mustang Pivot 46″ with the steering wheel. Sounds like that setup would be
better suited for this property. Also maybe the Toro SWX-5050 but big price difference,
although if it worked I would look at it. Sure could use your opinion….
Thanks…..Cleve
Paul
Hi Cleve, The Mustang Pivot is a good mower but I don’t think it will last any longer than the Craftsman mowers. It’s really designed for flat land.
The SWX-5050 has a stronger frame, stronger deck, and heavy-duty transmissions. That alone makes it worth the extra money. But it also has one big secret that no one talks about… The steering wheel is tied to the rear transmissions so it changes the speed on the individual trannys when you turn. But what makes it so great for your property is the front wheels also hold the mower on the slopes. This means less overheating and fading of the rear transmissions. The way it’s designed, it’s like having an automatic locking differential – both rear wheels are powered all the time.
One small issue with the Toro Steering wheel units. Make sure you have the dealer show you where the front grease zerks are for the steering. And then grease them twice a year. A lot of people complain the steering gets stiff but they don’t know that you need to regularly grease the front end. I also keep my front tires at 20 psi or so. That also helps to make it steer easier.
Cleve M
Thank You….In my search thru Toro I found a new 2016 SWX5000 Model #74790. Might this work
for my property?
Paul
Hi Cleve, Yes, It’s a better choice than the Troy-Bilt. It has a stamped deck but the Toro deck is stronger than most and it cuts well. It’s a lot stronger deck than your old Craftsman. It has the same style transmissions as the 5050 but not quite as strong. But, I would be concerned about that if it was a lap-bar steering ZTR but with the steering front wheels, it’s not an issue at all. It will last you a long time.
Remember, Make sure you have the dealer show you where the front grease zerks are for the steering. And then grease them twice a year. A lot of people complain the steering gets stiff but they don’t know that you need to regularly grease the front end. I also keep my front tires at 20 psi or so. That also helps to make it steer easier.
mungomaxwell
Paul – Thanks for all this great information. I have about 1.5 acres, flat but many trees and other obstructions. Thought a 46″ would do it. Ones most available around here are the Poulans and Husqvarna. Any difference between them and would you recommend either or should I keep looking? I understand that they are both the same company. Finally, my shed has a 48″ door way. Will these fit, or do I need to drop to a 42″?
Thanks
Mungo
Paul
Hi, mingomaxwell, Actually measure the doorway with the doors open. Some doors won’t open 180 degrees so your actual opening may be 44-45 inches.
The 46-inch decks will easily fit in the back of a pickup between the wheel wells. That is 48 1/2 inches.
On the Poulan/HUsqvarna the only issue I’ve noticed is a single cylinder Briggs engine on the 46-inch deck has more vibration than with a V-Twin or Kohler motor. Many people complain their hands go numb. So, If you go with a 46 – get a v-twin.
Bob G
OMG, you’ve helped so many people with their choices. Hopefully you can help one more who is suffering from analysis paralysis. Here is what I’m up against. I have a shed that I store my mower in that will allow a 42″ cutting deck mower (the shed has a 47″ doorway). I’d also like something that accommodates a bagger.
I want the ZRT b/c I live on 2 acres (mostly level) with lots of trees/obstacles. From what I’ve read, I think I’d like to get something w/o the Briggs & Stratton (which, unfortunately is what the JD Z345R has). The Toro that’s competing against the JD is the 42″ TimeCutter® SS4225 which has a better warranty than JD.
Soooo many factors to consider. Am I missing the easy choice of a non-name brand that has just as good quality at a lower price?
Your advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Bob
Paul
Hi Bob, Actually, I like the Toro SS4225 a lot. I like it a lot better than the 300 series Deere. It’s a good ZTR with a good cutting deck. Just so you know. On all ZTR’s the side discharge tube for the bagger will make the mower too wide to fit into your shed. The discharge tube on the Toro is easy to take on and off but you will have to spend a minute or two taking the tube on and off.
Bob G
Thanks Paul, do you think the MX4200 is worth the extra $300 over the SS4225? I see the same engine hp on both engines. The MX4200 specifies the type of dual hydrostatic transmission while the SS4225 just says dual. Thanks, Bob
Paul
Hi Bob, the biggest feature the MX gives you is the 10 ga fabricated deck. The SS has a 13 ga stamped deck so the MX deck is over 50% stronger. If you are a little hard on your equipment the heavier deck can really take a beating.
I have the fabricated deck myself and it cuts and mulches really well.
The transmissions, engine, and frame are the same.
SgtScar51
I live just outside of San Antonio, TX and have a small miniature horse farm (@13 acres). I have a Massey Ferguson Tractor with a 6 foot bush hog to take care of the pasture with. I have about eight small enclosures and about an acre of lawn around the main house to mow a total of about 2 acres between them. I have had 4 regular lawn tractors in 15 years and all have not lasted well so I thought I’d give a zero turn tractor a try since I can get them with a lot higher horse power engine. I really like the Dixie Choppers and Hustlers the best as far as specifications go. Lowe’s carries the Hustlers here locally but I haven’t found the Dixie Chopper dealer here in San Antonio yet. Of the two I would prefer the Dixie Chopper don’t know why I just do. What do you recommend about size of engine and deck for either?
Paul
Hi SGTSCAR51,
Yes, a lot of owners like their Dixie Chopper. It looks great and it has a decent reputation.
If you want a “buy one and done” I’d recommend the 48 inch BlackHawk HP. It’s a commercial machine. We use a different rating for commercial HP so a 22 hp Kawasaki or 25 hp Kohler is plenty of power.
I used the dealer locator at the Dixie Chopper website and it said:
Hill Country Outdoor Store (33.6)
6150 St Hwy 16 South
Pipe Creek, TX 78063
Phone: (830) 796-7456
Brett
I could use some help with picking out a mower for sure! There are so many options! I live in Arkansas and grow rocks like weeds, lol. We are surrounded by the National forest and have about 4 acres we mow with numerous trees and other things to go around. It’s mostly flat except around the tree bases. We have been using a plain JD 38″ lawn tractor that takes us a good solid day to get the mowing done. I’m looking to cut that mowing time down and do it with a mower that I’m not constantly replacing parts on (because it wasn’t built for a yard like mine). We have numerous different dealers in the area, but each touts their product as the best and the rest rubbish. What would you suggest for a tough machine that can handle Sweetgum trees and few acres of Arkansas lawn of rock/grass that needs constant mowing?
Paul
Hi Brett, I suggest a mower with a fabricated deck. For lawn tractors, the best economical choice is the Cub Cadet XT2 SLX54″. If you want a better tractor that will last you at least 10 years then I suggest the Cub Cadet XT3 with a 48, 54 or 60-inch fabricated deck.
If you want a zero-turn let me know and I can give you a few choices in the $4500-$6000 range that will last.
Mow High!
Brett
I am looking for a ZTM because we do have to go around a bunch of trees.
Paul
Hi Brett, There are 2 dozen ZTRs that will work for you in the $4000-6000 range. To save you from becoming frustrated would you please tell me what brands/dealers are offered in your area? The fast way is to do a Google search for zero turn mowers.
Brett
There is also a Gravely and Exmark dealer nearby. Just so many options!
Paul
Hi Brett, Go look at the Ariens APEX and use that as your base point for comparing the other mowers. It’s a very heavy-duty residential unit and is priced to be a great value. From there you can decide if you need to spend more money on something like the Exmark Lazer or less on something like the Hustler Raptor.
Paul
Hi Badri, Yes, the 50-inch model is also a good mower. In fact, I currently own a 42 inch but if I had to do it over – I’d buy the 50 inch version. I really like the 3 speeds. You can slow it down to learn the machine, slow it down for pulling stuff, slow it down so it’s not so jerky when trimming.
TimeCutter 50 in. 24.5 HP V-Twin Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Smart Speed
Badri
Paul – sorry meant to ask you about this one – http://www.homedepot.com/Toro-TimeCutter-50-in-24-5-HP-V-Twin-Zero-Turn-Riding-Mower-with-Smart-Speed-74731/205818770. Would you recommend this one vs SS4225?
Badri
Paul,
Thanks for a very informative & comprehensive article. I recently moved to Doylestown, PA & bought a property which is 1.06 acres. The land is flat with no inclines but have ~ 15 trees in the front & back. I also have a fence running around my back yard. I had a honda push mower previously & have never used a ZTR before.
After some research online I have narrowed it down that I need a 42 ” ZTR. I have a dealer nearby offering Toro Timecutter SS4200 or a Cub Cadet ( with a steering wheel). I also have a John Deere dealer in close proximity who has shown me Z series 335 E/M, 345 R/M & 355 R/E models. I am unable to decide between these three models. Can you please give some counsel on which one to pick? I am getting a great deal on Toro ~ 500$ cheaper than JD models. I have a colleague who swears by JD. I did not see a mention of John Deere models in your article.
I am looking to buy by next week & in the price range of 2000$ – 2800$. Please help.
Paul
Hi Badri, 1. Toro: I like the Toro ZTR’s They are built well and will last. But I suggest buying the 42″ TimeCutter® SS4225 (74726) instead of the SS4200. The SS4225 uses a v-Twin engine. The engine runs smoother and will last longer than the single cylinder engine on the SS4200.
I also like the steering wheel models. Toro gets about $3300 for the 42″ TimeCutter® SW4200 (74788) steering wheel version. It is a solid, well-built mower and will last.
2. Cub Cadet: I don’t recommend the 42 inch Cub Cadet. Why? because the tractor is wider than the mower deck so you are limited to how you can mow. But I do like the 46-inch steering wheel version. The Cub Cadet RZT-S 46 in is about $3200.
3. John Deere: I recommend the 500 series John Deere Zero-Turns quite a bit ($4500) but I almost never recommend the 300 series. Personally, I look at it and see “cheap.” Organizations who test zero-turn mowers say it does not mow as well as the Toro SS4225 or SW4200 or the Cub Cadet RZT-S 46. It’s also lighter than the others and rides rougher. Yes, there are many rabid fans of John Deere but I’ll bet your colleague owns one that costs well over $3000.
Paul
Hi Deb, If you would like the mower setup and delivered John Deere, Toro, and Ariens all offer a white glove delivery service. The mower is set up and delivered by a local dealer – ready to mow and they will even show you how to use it. So. All of these mowers are at Home Depot and I’ll make a small commission if you buy through the links.
Lawn Tractor: John Deere E160 48 in. 24 HP V-Twin ELS Gas Hydrostatic Lawn Tractor
Zero-Turn. All of these will be a good choice and I’m listing them in my order of preference. John Deere does not make a zero-turn that is right for you in this price range:
Toro TimeCutter MX5000 50 in. Fab 24.5 HP V-Twin Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Smart Speed
Ariens IKON X 52 in. 23 HP Kawasaki Gas Hydrostatic Zero-Turn Riding Mower
Ariens IKON X 52 in. 24 HP KOHLER 7000 Series Twin Gas Hydrostatic Zero-Turn Riding Mower
Toro TimeCutter 50 in. 24.5 HP V-Twin Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Smart Speed
Bob
Paul, thanks for the information you have on your website. I currently have an old Toro Z5000 and want to upgrade. I have about 2 acres that I mow around my house. I’ve pretty much decided on staying with Toro. I hear a lot of good about Exmark but found out they are basically the same machines, just a little different price tag. I am trying to decide between a Timecutter MX series, Timecutter HD series, or Titan HD 1500 series. The Titan HD 1500 series seem to run about 1500 to 1800 more than the MX series. Are they worth it? Any advice for or against any of the series listed? I am also open to other brands if they match up. Thanks in advance.
Paul
Hi Bob, Yes the Exmark mowers are made in the same factory as the Toro. The only real differences is Exmark designs their own decks and they market more toward the landscape contractor. Toro markets more to the residential, commercial and golf course buyers.
Myself, I consider the Titan HD 1500 as an entry-level commercial. If you were mowing about 20 hours a week it’s a good choice. It closely compares to your 5000 series.
I consider the Timecutter HD as a good replacement for your 5000. The MyRide is just the best if your yard is rough or you like to mow as fast as possible.
Compared to the MX the HD gives you a larger fuel tank, bigger transmissions and up to 8.5 mph. (7 MPH on the MX) It also has a higher blade tip speed to handle the higher ground speed. The HD also use a stronger grade 50 steel for the deck. And of course larger 22-inch tires.
Bob
Thanks Paul. I just checked with my local dealer and saw the MX5075 with MyRide is about $4000. The Timecutter HD’s with My Ride are $1400 more (54″) or $1600 more (60″). Is the HD worth the extra cost?
Paul
Hi Bob, are they worth the extra cost? Yes, Are they worth the extra cost for your yard? That’s up to you. Here are a few reasons why you may want the HD
If you are hard on your equipment. All around it’s heavier built.
It has stronger transmissions. If you have slopes or hills they won’t overheat and fade.
The deck is a commercial deck. On paper the decks are similar but the HD deck is about 50% stronger.
If you want to get done quickly the HD mows well at about 8 mph.
The 22 inch tires help the ride.
Deb
Paul – We have 2.5 acres, mostly flat, but some small hills around our culvert. We have trees spread out throughout our 2.5 acres. Looking at our local Home Depot to purchase and deliver. I’m thinking somewhere between 48-54″. Also looking to spend $2000-$3000. Suggestions?
Paul
Hi Jeff, If you like John Deere and you want a zero-turn so you can get your job done faster the John Deere Z525E 54 in. 24 HP Gas Dual Hydrostatic Zero-Turn Riding Mower at Home Depot is a very good choice.
This particular Deere has the better Accel deep deck and will cut your lawn as well or better than a comparable Hustler or Scag. Even though this deck is stamped – it’s rugged and will last. If you want to mulch or bag it is very good. (the only reason you would really need a welded deck is if you are very hard on your equipment or you had employees using it.) The stamped deck on the Deere actually gives you a better cut and I’ve seen them last for many years.
I also like the large rear tires on it. The tires help to make for a better ride and they give you better traction and turning if you are new to using ZTR’s.
It will cut your mowing time to less than and hour.
Jeff Theall
Thanks Paul! I just bought a new house w/roughly 2.5 acres to mow. Most of it is flat, but there are a few small mole hills in the front. I currently have a 2010 JD LA 105, w/42″ deck and new bagging blades. I only have 50 hrs. on it, so selling it should be easy. I used it last week to get the last remaining crab grass, henbit and other weeds off before I treat the lawn. It took me well over 3 hours to get almost all of it done. I’m torn between buying a new eXmark, or Hustler, or Scag, with a nice welded deck, but is that over board. I’m only cutting my lawn maybe every 5 days or so. I’m worried about getting a cheap JD that won’t be big enough. I think 50″-54″ is ideal for my yard as I do have a few trees and some landscaping to maneuver around. Thanks for the great article!
Your thoughts!
Rick Bean
Paul, Great web site …I appreciate your insight…There are so many ztr mowers out there. I have 1 acre with about a half dozen trees and some landscaping obstacles to deal with. I am leaning towards a 42 inch to provide maneuverability. I have it narrowed down to the Ariens IKON and the Hustler RAPTOR. I have noticed that the Ariens IKON has Kawasaki engine at 18.5 HP while the Raptor has a Kawasaki engine at 23 HP. I like the way the Ariens rides and some of its other amenities however I am worried about the different size HP for the same size mower. Should this be a concern? Also how do you compare Honda versus Kawasaki versus Kohler engines. It seems like most of the dealers I talked to like the Kawasaki much better and it costs about 2 to 3 hundred dollars more. Any advice would help. Thanks.
Rick
Paul
Hi Rick, 18.5 HP is plenty for a 42-inch ZTR. You don’t need 23 HP. The 18.5 will have plenty of power and be more fuel efficient.
Dealers like the Kawasaki better because they can charge $200-300 more… That said, Kawasaki has a great reputation in the mid-priced commercial engine for ZTR’s. Their Residential line (FR) has been around and has very few problems.
The Kohler 7000 series engines are the latest engine design for residential ZTR’s. They are more fuel efficient than the others and the torque curve was designed specifically for mowing lawns. They just don’t have any issues.
Is the Kawasaki FR better than the Kohler 7000 series? No. If I had a choice of a Kohler 7000 and Kawasaki FR I would Never pay extra for the Kaw.
Oh, that’s right, Honda does make one or two vertical shaft engines and they have a rabid bunch of fans. Yes, any dealer would be glad to sell you a Honda because they can get up to $800 more. Are they better? Are they better than all the rest? Very, very few people are willing to pay the premium price for anyone to find out.
Ken S
Paul, I just moved to a place that has about 5 acres to mow. Live on a hillside so will be going up and down a hill constantly (not too steep for a ZTR but a hill nonetheless). I’ve been looking at the 2018 Gravely ZT-XL 60 and the ZT-HD 60. We will be living here for long long time and I want the mower I pick to last. The HD is about $1000 more than the XL, is it worth the price to get the HD? I’ve also looked into a Husqvarna MZ 61.
Paul
Hi Ken, The Gravely ZT-HD/Ariens Apex is one of the best deals for ZTR’s right now. It will last on your 5 acres easily 30% longer than XL and 50% longer than the X.
It has commercial grade transmissions so it will handle your hills.
Mr. M
Paul, i’m curious as to what your thoughts are on the Bad Boy 42″ MZ and 48″ MZ Magnum. Went to a dealer and he really pushed the 48″ model. Probably a little too big but was actually cheaper since they would have to order a 42 plus shipping. Consumer Reports doesn’t rate them so not sure if that is a red flag or not? Thanks!
Paul
Hi Mr. M, There are well over 125 different consumer/residential zero-turn mowers on the market. No one tests all of them. Consumer Reports only rates about 25 and limits their reviews to only the models readily available through retail stores and Amazon. This is the first year in my memory that they rated a ZTR that cost over $3500. So until Consumer Reports considers Tractor Supply Company as a major retail store…. you won’t see them reviewing the Bad Boy.
As a company, they are still a small brand. They get a lot of media attention and are growing well but they still lack the thousands of dealers and sale channels that brands like Toro, Cub Cadet and Husqvarna have.
Are they any good? They use thicker steel than most brands at that price point. They use all the most popular advertising lingo. Do they cut better and last longer than other brands? I don’t know and no one is actually keeping track or testing the residential models. I’ve driven them but have never had the chance to compare the cut against other brands. To really give you an opinion I should know more about your yard. The MZ and MZ Magnum use the EZT hydros. They work very well for normal, flat or gently sloping yards. These model Bad Boys work well for fairly smooth, nice lawns. The smaller front wheels tend to give you a rougher ride than some other brands if your lawn is very rough.
I have a 42-inch ZTR for my one-acre lawn. A 48-50 inch would get the job done faster but I have two areas of my landscaping where they would not fit. So I stick with the 42.
Much of the lawn & garden dealers are set up like the farm equipment dealers. They order what they need once or twice a year to get the best discounts and shipping charges. They have to pay extra for special orders and single delivery items. So, he will always want to sell what’s in stock. Is it the right mower for you? Is that dealer the best choice for you? You’ll have to decide.
Mike Cummings
Hi Paul, I have narrowed my ZT search and I’m about to buy a Gravely ZTHD 52. I cut a little over 2 acres per week. Some grass is rough pasture type and some fine. Any thoughts on this model? I’ve seen many good reviews and a few not so good. This model appears close to a commercial machine and costs about $5100. Thanks for any input you may have. I do know Ariens bought Gravely, and they have been around for 100 years so that should count for something. Thanks, -Mike in RI
Paul
Hi Mike, This is Gravely’s high-end residential mower and also goes by Ariens APEX. It was completely redesigned two years ago so any negative reviews you read about – like frame cracking don’t apply.
I like this mower a lot. The HD is a good, solid mower and is actually built a lot better than the commercial mowers I used to own back in the 90’s. I like the heavy frame and thick deck. I really like the large tires on the front and rear. It’s heavy but with the large tires will float through soft spots and not tear up poor turf. I would not have a problem recommending this to a “two guys and a truck” mowing outfit.
Mike Cummings
Thanks Paul. I appreciate the info.
Mike Cummings
Paul, I am seeing the Ariens Apex 52 priced for less than the Gravely ZTHD 52. Is there any difference at all between these 2 machines…other than the color?
Paul
HI Mike, There is no difference except for an engine option on the Gravely.
The Ariens comes with the Kohler 7000 Pro
The Gravely comes with the Kohler 7000 Pro or the Kawasaki FR. Because Kawasaki has a decent commercial engine (the FZ) they think they can charge more for the residential version (the FR)
That’s why the prices may be different. Most dealers will offer the Kawasaki because they feel it sells better. Personally, I would never pay extra for a Kawasaki FR – especially since the Kohler 7000 has such a good reliability record.
Alan
What are your thoughts on the Simplicity Courier in either the 42 or 44″ deck. I think some of the Curiers have a Briggs engine and others a Kawasaki? What other models would these be comparable to? Thanks!
Paul
Hi Alan, The Simplicity Courier is overpriced for what you get. A few facts: 1. It’s the same as the Snapper 360 Z. 2. Simplicity is owned by Briggs & Stratton so you do get an upgraded Briggs engine on it. I would NOT pay extra for a Kawasaki engine. 3. Consumer Reports has not specifically rated the Courier but they have rated it’s twin, the Snapper 360 Z. It came in dead last in their tests for cut quality, reliability and all the factors they rate Zero-turn mowers on.
I’m also not too sure what plans Briggs has for residential ZTRs. They keep telling us their best performing areas of the company are commercial engines, pressure washers, generators, etc., and that is where the company needs to spend its resources. A lot of dealers are leaving them for more popular brands.
Paul
Hi Casey, Yes, it would be worth getting the 46. Why? Because the 42 inch is a “pain in the butt” mower. Why? becasue the mower frame is wider than the deck. That means you can only trim with one side of the mower!
The 46 inch does not have that problem:
Cub Cadet: RZT-L 46 in. 688cc Fabricated Deck HONDA V-Twin Dual-Hydro Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Bluetooth
Paul
Hi Adm, I really don’t have any problems with those three ZTR’s. In fact, I really don’t have a preference but I’d pick the Ariens first just because I like the deck and the dealer support you get. Toro also has great dealer support but the Cub Cadet’s dealer network can be a little spotty around the country.
Ariens: IKON X 52 in. 23 HP Kawasaki Gas Hydrostatic Zero-Turn Riding Mower
Toro: TimeCutter MX4200 42 in. Fab 22.5 HP V-Twin Gas Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Smart Speed
Cub Cadet: RZT-L 46 in. 688cc Fabricated Deck HONDA V-Twin Dual-Hydro Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Bluetooth
Paul
Hi Adam, No, I don’t think the Kaw is better. In fact, if you have the option of the Kohler 7000 or the Kawasaki FR I would always choose the Kohler. And…..I would NEVER pay extra for the Kawasaki. Why?
The Kawasaki has a good reputation but it is an older design than the current Kohler 7000 series. The Kohler will give you better fuel economy, has a better governor so it handles tough/tall grass better. The Kohler has been out for 3 years now and it has no problems at all. (the older Kohler Courage always had oil seals issues.)
The XLT is a really nice mower. You will never have issues with the ZT3100 drives on your slopes or pulling your yard tools.
Casey
Hi Paul, What a great website, this has been a huge help. I think I’ve narrowed down my search to the cub cadet RZT SX 42. Yard is around an acre with about a 15 degree slope in the back. It looks like they offer a Kohler 7000 twin or a cub 679cc efi engine. What engine would you suggest I know the efi has advatanges but haven’t been used in mowers for that long. Would it be worth getting the 46” for the fabricated deck?
Thanks again.
Adam
Hey Paul,
I’m looking for a zero turn mower for residential use, about 1 acre. Yard is smooth and I would also possibly like to bag. I was looking at the CUB RZT-L 46H FAB, TORO TimeCutter MX4200, or ARIENS IKON X 52 in. 23 HP Kawasaki. Do you prefer one of these over the others, or should I be looking at something else? If I should look at others, what do you suggest in the $2-3,000 range from HD/Lowes?
Thanks for your help!
Paul
Hi Garret, Mowing in the rain is very challenging. There are a few mowers that will mow in the rain but none that will mulch. Why? When you mulch a dry lawn (not raining and the dew has dried off) the blades cut the grass and throw them up. When the clippings fall down in the deck the blades recut them and this continues until they are reduced to a fine “mulch” that get driven back into the grass. (You should be cutting at 2.5 inches minimum – preferably 4 inches for wetter/green grass)
If you try to mulch when the grass is wet those clippings get reduced to a slurry and that slop can’t be forced back into the lawn. Instead, it just lays on the top like green slime. It’s a lot like putting iceberg lettuce and a 1/2 cup of water in the blender……
In other words, no mower will mulch in the rain. But there are a few things you can do
The ExMark Radius and Lazer Z are actually my first choice and will mow in the rain. A 48-inch deck will be about the right size for 1 1/2 acre. ExMark makes an accessory discharge plate for mulching. This plate is easily adjustable so if the grass is dry you can mulch. If the grass is wet and you are leaving clumps you can open the mulch plate a little or a lot until you get a good cut without sliming your lawn. It’s what the pro’s use for customers who want mulching but can’t always mulch because of the rain or morning dew.
The other alternative is to bag all the time. Walker mowers will mow and bag in the rain – all the time. Contact Walker Mowers for a dealer near you. walkermowers.com
Garret
Thanks for the help and the great articles Paul. I actually prefer to bag but ruled it out due to increased time of unclogging the Shute and deck due to the wet grass. I found a Walker dealer about an hour away. They’re sending me a brochure with price quotes
Paul
Hi Garret, There really is nothing better than a Walker for bagging and having the most beautiful lawn in the county.
I prefer the Model C or larger for weight, traction and features you can add over time.
Garret
My instincts after reading your articles were also leaning toward the C after checking out Walker’s line up. Unfortunately the C19 with a 48” deck will cost $14k out the door. They offer one model under $10k. The S14i (EFI) with a max size 42” deck but costs $9k out the door. (Similar to the current cost of a Lazer Z E series). In your opinion would I be disappointed in the performance of the S14i? If I can’t afford the C would you say I would be happier with the more robust Lazer Z as we discussed earlier? I’d really appreciate your thoughts.
Paul
Hi Garret, It appears Walker has raised their prices $4000 since I last checked. They’ve pretty much priced themselves out fo the residential market…..
Yes, I’d go with the Lazar Z. If you had the room to maneuver you can install the power bagger on it and have a unit that will bag in the rain. A 48-inch deck will need about 60 inches width with the blower attached.
Garret
Thanks for all the info and helping me choose my mower. You have a great site. Very informative
Garret
Hi Paul.
I’m in Bremerton Washington and mow from March through November. I have a flat 1 and 1/2 acre of smooth thick lawn to mow with no trees or obstacles other than the house centered on the lawn. Due to overcast and rain here in the Pacific Northwest we can’t wait for the grass to be dry before mowing which is robbing too much time from my family with my 21hp Troybuilt tractor. In the “Commercial/Pro section of your article you mentioned “all weather conditions”. Do I need to step up to a full on Pro-grade mower to mow in the rain? Is there a mower class powerful enough to disperse wet grass back into the lawn without clumping or do I have to bag it reguardless? Exmark is the closest dealer. Scag, Badboy and Gravely are the next closest. I’m willing to spend up to $10k to get my evenings back with the family and keep our lawn beautiful (but of coarse would prefer to spend less). Is this possible? If so can you recommend a spacific mower from one of these dealers?
Paul
Hi Chase, Of the three you mentioned the Cub Cadet and Toro will give you the best cut. I prefer a v-twin engine becasue it’s smoother and has less vibration than most single cylinder engines. Here are two at Home Depot I like.
Toro: TimeCutter SS4225 42 in. 22.5 HP V-Twin Gas Dual Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower with Smart Speed
Cub Cadet: RZT-L 46 in. 688cc Fabricated Deck HONDA V-Twin Dual-Hydro Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Bluetooth
Paul
Hi Adam, one thing nice about plastic fenders—they are pretty much teenager proof. And if anyone is like my wife on a zero-turn…..
It is my second pick of all the ZTRs because it cuts well, mulches well, bags well, drives well, is easy to work on, is smooth riding, is handicap accessible, has great service, has great reliability, and I like the red color…..
I’ll compare the cut side-by-side to any other residential ZTR and it will be as good or better than anything else on the market.
Yes, I spent some time with Country Clipper at GIE EXPO and there are no changes that will change my viewpoint.
Adam
Thanks for all the info you have given me about the country clipper. I was looking at the xlt with the Kawasaki in it. Are you like everyone else and thanks that it is a better engine then the Kohler? I know that zero turn mowers are not made to pull items but do you see any problems mowing a couple small drainage ditches and pulling a lawn cart and maybe a roller? The last thing I want to do is have problems the the zt3100 hydros, right after the warranty is up. Again thanks for the great info that you have given, as I am now sold on that clipper over the low/mid spec exmark radius. Thanks
Adam
What do you think of the Country Clipper Mowers. I had a chance to look at a couple the other day and really liked it. The problem is I can’t find seem to find much info on them. What are your thoughts about them? Are the pivoting front axle worth the money or is it kind of gimmicky? I thought the axel would work better in the couple small drainage ditches that I half to mow.
Thanks.
Paul
Hi Adam, I only write articles on this website about mowers you can buy online but when you ask I’ll be glad to give my opinion of the dealer only machines.
My simple answer is: Of the over 400 zero-turn mowers on the market the Country Clipper Boulevard is my Number Two choice for the best residential mowers. (The $8000 Walker Model C is my first choice)
The build quality is the best. They are one of the most durable residential brands on the market. In other words their mowers are built well, don’t break down and are easy to repair if they do.
I love the flip up deck. It’s included in the price. I like the pivoting front axle and it gives you a smoother ride than the rigid frame machines without sacrificing cut quality.
I love the joystick control. I’ve actually owned a few Country Clippers and they are the most fun to drive. The control is quick and very precise. Country Clipper has a patent on it but I have a feeling if the patent ever runs out many of the other brands will quickly grab the technology. The joystick takes a couple of hours to learn to use correctly but once you get it down you can mower circles around the lap bar machines.
Country Clipper also has options for handicapped and us old folks. The single joystick of course – you don’t need your legs to run it. Front steps to help you get on and off. A hand jack for maintenance. And a handrail to help you get on and off the machine.
Country Clipper is a small company and stays small so that they can give you the best product and the best service. If you ever have a problem with the machine it’s dealt with quickly and fairly. Did I say I really like County Clipper Mowers?
Adam
Thanks for sharing your thoughts about the country clipper mowers. Do you know of any big changes for 2018 outside the plastic fenders they are using now for the resedental line, that might make you change your mind on them? It upsets me that they switched to the plastic fenders, but I guess most other companies use them to. How is the cut quality on the mowers, and do they mulch well?
Mark
Hey Paul, Very informative site. I was looking at a Country Clipper Boulevard for my new place. We have 3.38 acres, mostly flat, but with lots of obstacles. I talked to a local Country Clipper dealer and he said he considered the Boulevard to be suitable for a one acre yard. For a three plus acre property, he recommended the XLT. He admitted that a Boulevard could do the job, but said that the XLT has a beefier transmission that would last better. I see you’re a fan of the Boulevard, what do you think? The XLT is about a thousand dollars more.
Mark
Paul
Hi Mark, yes, the XLT is all-around a better ZTR. But like you said – $1000 more. It uses next size up transmissions, larger tires and weighs about 100 lbs more. It also has a pivoting front axle which makes it ride better than the stiff frame models like the Boulevard.
Do you need the XLT? No, the Boulevard will easily last over 10 years on 3 flat acres. Do the recommended maintenance and it will last a lot longer. My neighbor has a Boulevard that’s over 15 years old and he does NOTHING to it until it breaks. It’s only been in the shop twice. Once for a battery and another time for an ignition switch.
Do you want the XLT? Maybe. It’s heavier, with larger tires, and has the pivoting front axle so it will ride better. Is that worth $1000 to you? You’ll have to decide.
I like the Boulevard for most people because it a good value compared to the entry level Avenue.
chase
I just moved into a house this past month that is just smaller than an acre, mostly flat but has close to 40 trees and is mostly fescue which looks beautiful but yikes!! I know you have mentioned smaller deck mowers tend to tear up the yard easier so I was looking at 46”. I am looking at Club Cadet, Husqvarna and Toro as my top three choices. Do you have a preference of the 3 or any other brands I’m not considering. Between the trees, the fescue and the size of the yard I have a lot to consider. Thanks
Deborah
Hi Paul –
From your comments below you are not a fan of the Raptor thru Lowes-What about the Ariens Ikon X 52″ thru Lowes- are there also assembly/small issues as you mention re: Hustler Raptor? I currently have a 2004 Hustler Fastrak 52″ – I’m looking to replace as the maintenance issues are starting to add up-
Paul
Hi Kevin, I have three in mind. All three have big tires on the front and back, have very rugged decks and strong transmissions. I’ll give you links to Home Depot but you can also buy them at your local Toro, Ariens, Gravely dealers.
Toro TimeCutter HD with MyRIDE 54 in. Fab 24.5 HP V-Twin. This model features the new MyRide suspension. It is the best riding ZTR on the market right now.
Ariens Apex 60 in. 25 HP Kohler 7000 Series Twin. This is a great heavy duty residential mower and is not getting the publicity it deserves. I think it fits your application perfectly. If you want to buy locally the Gravely ZT HD is the same machine.
Toro TimeCutter HD 54 in. Fab 24.5 HP V-Twin. Same as the Toro above without the MyRide suspension.
p.s. I have a section of chain link fence I drag around behind my mower to smooth out gopher mounds. That may work well for the crawdads.
Alan
Trying to compare the Craftsman 20411 42 “and the Troy-Bilt Mustang 42” ZTR’s. Curious as to what your thoughts are on these or is there another comparable model to consider? I have just over a 1/2 acre with about 8 obtsacles to mow around.
Thanks
Paul
Hi Alan, I don’t recommend the 42 inch Craftsman, Cub Cadet or Troy-Bilt ZTR. Why? Because the wheelbase of the mower is wider than the deck. You can only trim on the left side of the mower.
Instead, I recommend the 46-inch versions. They actually cut a little better and are rated very well on your size yard.
Mr. Ron
I have about 5 acres of pretty flat terrain. About 2 acres has many trees to go around. Right now, I have a 46″ Husqvarna lawn tractor. It keeps breaking down, often before finishing the job. I think I need a ZTR mower. What would you recommend that will last and not cost too much. My son has an Exmark that works great for him. He bought it used and I’m also leaning in the same direction. There is an Exmark dealer in my area and he has used ZTR’s in on trade. Being retired, mowing speed is not a big issue.
Paul
Hi Ron, Yes, I like ExMark mowers but be very, very careful of buying used machines. A replacement hydro or engine repair can easily cost as much as you paid for the used machine. Most of the used ZTR’s are trade-ins from commercial operators or repo’s so you don’t know how they were treated. See if you can get some type of warranty (even 30 days) on the major components.
Paul
Hi cmunoz, the equivalent Deere ZTR is the John Deere Z525E 54 in. 24 HP Gas Dual Hydrostatic Zero-Turn Riding Mower
greg Dixon
Why am I not seeing as many steering wheel ZTRs at the store these days? Neither my local Home Depot nor Lowes has them in stock as they did in years past and I noticed last year that there were fewer than the year before. They have fewer online to choose from for custom ordering as well.
When I first saw the steering wheel ZTRs I thought for sure that the days of the lap bar were numbered… at least for the lower end models designed for the residential homeowner living on a smaller lot.
cmunoz
Great read Paul. Still trying to comb through everything to make my decision. I have been between the John Deere e170 and equivalent ZTR from JD. I have about an acre that is a very mild slope only so relatively flat. I want something that will get the job done well and will last. It seems like I would get a bigger engine and deck with the e170 than equivalent ZTR and does that relate to longevity. Looking for an unbiased thought. Thank you for your posts!
Josh Church
Hi Paul thanks for giving us your opinion on the information above. I have a quick question I just recently bought 1.57 acres mostly flat at the bottom of the property where I’m going to be building my home. I do have a pretty decent size hill going to the back of my property and I was wondering what your thoughts were on the Scag Liberty Z . I’m leaning towards the 52 in with the 23hp Kawasaki.
Paul
Hi Josh, If you like the dealer – you will like the mower. It’s a little heavier built than most of the basic residential models and it will last.
victor
Hi Paul , I’m looking to buy a new ZRT I mow about 2acre it is a little rough and slight slope. I have been looking at the SCAG patriot mower. I mow it now with 72″ belly mower on my tractor. Is this a mower that I can get many years of use out of?
Paul
Hi Victor, You’ll like the Patriot. With the larger tires, it rides well and you probably cut your mowing time by more than half. The Patriot has a great reputation.
Tim
Great Paul, thanks so much for the info and the quick response!
Tim
Hi Paul,
Thanks for the solid article and info. I have about a 3/4 acre lawn with mild hill and some trees. Looking at a Ariens Ikon X 52″ (as I feel it’s a better value over the 42″ deck) and the Toro Timecutter HD MyRide 48″. I’ve read the comments and have seen you tout the Toro as one of (if not THE) top rides of 2018. Biggest difference for me is budget. The Ariens tens to run 1-2000$ less than the Toro and I know Ariens are pretty well-built mowers, especially if I can spring for the Kawasaki engine. Is the Toro worth that much extra money over the Ariens or will I get a good dependable ride and save myself some $$$ by sticking with the less expensive Ariens Ikon X? Also, any preference between the Ariens Ikon-X and the Gravely ZT-X? I know they’re practically the same mower.
Jerry
Paul, thanks so much for the information. I have a question for you if you would be so kind to help. I just moved to a new residence which is just under 2 acres. Several obstacles to mow around, pool, multiple trees, fence, ditches, slopes, etc. I’ve owned a ZTR before and want another one.
I’m considering the following:
1. Hustler 48 Fastrac- dealer 20 minutes away but kind of out of the way.
2. Bad Boy Maverick-48 and ZT Elite which I would add the ROPS on the Elite. Higher end of my price range.
3. Toro 48 Time Cutter HD with MyRide then adding the ROPS. This is the top of my price range.
4. Encore-48 inch Edge- Dealer very close but hard to find any reviews.
I really like the Encore because it has all of the items I’m really looking for while still being 500.00 less than the others. I also purchased a used Encore in the past but had a hard time finding someone to work on them as well as parts. I really like the shop owner that sells them, now that I’ve met him. He also sells Toro which I would get from him if I go that route. He works on the Bad Boys as well and had a bunch of them on his lot to work on. He kind of steered me away after giving him my choices.
Thanks so much for your time and can’t wait to hear your thoughts on what you would suggest.
Paul
Hi Jerry, Like you I’ve always liked Encore – I thought the value was great – but I hated the “guy-out-of-the-garage” dealer business model they had. Today Encore is owned by a Chinese company that goes by the name of WorldLawn here in the U.S. But – the mowers are still built in Beatrice, NE and I are still a great value. They have been actively building a “real” dealer network since 2011.
Myself, I feel the Toro TimeCutter HD MyRide is the best residential mower on the market right now but if you want to save a little money – or – get a heavier duty ZTR for about the same price then don’t be afraid to buy the Encore.
Jerry
Thanks so much for the quick response and thoughts. I don’t normally post or ask questions but I’m so glad I did!!!
Paul
Hi James. I’m pretty much sold on the Toro MyRide for 2018. I have a whole list of items I like about that particular Toro. It appears to be heavier built than the Z-Force and definitely will ride better. There are more options for it including a lift kit to raise the front of the mower up to work on the deck. The deck is one of the best cutting mid-priced decks around and you will be able to mow at close to top speed all the time. I also like the engine a lot and it is very comparable to the Kohler Pro in the Z-Force.
I’m not going to say anything negative about the Deere Z355 but it’s not comparable to the Z-Force or the Toro MX. The equivalent Deere is the Z535M. The Toro MyRide will ride better but otherwise, the Z535 and Toro 5075 are both very good mowers.
Besides the suspension platform on the Toro, I really like the Smart Speed. You can “shift” the mower into a lower speed range for pulling a cart or trimming. It really helps the life of the transmissions and makes it very easy to trim around obstacles.
Here is a link to the Home Depot sales page: Toro TimeCutter MX5075 with MyRIDE Suspension System 50 in. Fab 24.5 HP V-Twin Gas Dual Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower
James
Hi Paul- I am struggling to choose a mower still after all this great information you have provided, and would appreciate your opinion. I live in northern Virginia, have almost 3 acres with lots of landscaping and trees to go around, no slopes greater than 15 degrees. I have a John Deere dealer, Kubota dealer, and Home Depot/Lowe’s near me to buy from and receive service from. I think I have narrowed my search down to the Cub Cadet Z-Force L 48, JD Z355R, or the Toro TimecutterMX 5075 with MyRide (or other Timecutter I suppose).
I do have a bit of a rough lawn because occasionally I get critter tunnels (and I have a good amount of them right now), but other than that it isn’t too bad.
Thanks!
Paul
Hi Matt, The TimeCutter HD with MyRIDE 60 in. Fab 24.5 HP V-Twin Gas Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Smart Speed is a great choice. It’s an excellent heavy-duty residential zero-turn that will last you many years. I spent some time with that ZTR Thursday and there are a lot of things I really like about it. It’s built well, including large front caster wheels. The deck is heavier than most so it will take a beating if you new ground is rough. I really like the smart-speed. You can put the ZTR in a lower “gear” for heavy work and even pulling a trailer or utility cart.
Yes, If you were only going to mow a 3 acre lawn I could suggest another ZTR in the $4000 range but in the long term, you will be glad you spent the extra money now.
Matt
Hi Paul
I currently have about 3 acres to mow but may be acquiring an additional 6 or so. I saw that you recommended Toro-TimeCutter-HD-with-MyRIDE-60-in-Fab-24-5-HP-V-Twin-Gas-Zero-Turn-Riding-Mower-with-Smart-Speed through Home Depot for others. Would this be a good mower for this size? Or are there any others you’d recommend? Cost is a factor.
Thanks
Joel
Paul,
Looking at a Hustler for doing my 3 acres that I have been doing with my SLT 1554 cub cadet. I talked to the dealer and he wants me told hold off until the first weekend in April, big sale. The 2 i looked at were the Rapter SD and the Rapter flip up. Both in 54″ decks. My yard is an old pasture but I have been cutting it for years. Just not sure on which one or if I should look at something else.
Thanks
Paul
Hi Joel, I’m not a big fan of the Raptor Flip-up. It’s just the base model Raptor with a $1000 flip up deck mechanism. The Raptor SD is the machine you want.
Joel
Paul,
I am making a decision on Friday. Going to test drive the Raptor SD and the Toro MX5075. Just reading on both and they seem similar. I like the bigger rear tires on the raptor as the yard isn’t smooth. What else should I be looking for? Thanks for a great site.
Paul
Hi Joel, Sorry, I’ve been out of town. Looking back at our conversation – you were looking at the Raptor HD. It is similar in specs to the Toro but the Toro will ride so much better. Tire-wise there is only one width difference and depending on the manufacturer there is most likely only 1 one inch difference in width.
the raptor HD does have heavier transmissions and because of that it may last a couple of years longer mowing your hill.
Joel
Paul,
Thought I would give you a little update, I did buy the raptor SD and the next weekend we got 30″ of snow. So first thoughts were not good. When I finally got to use it my first impression was it is a tank, as in heavy feel, and that goes with the ride. Overall I like it. I have no issues with any of the hills and the way I cut them (not up and down) If it lasts I think it will have been a good buy. Again thank you for all the information you have given me and everyone on your site.
Paul
Hi Joel Excellent! The SD is a good choice. Over the years I’ve owned many “conventional suspension” ZTR’s like the SD and I’ve found that about 14-16 psi in the rear tires gives me a little softer ride but doesn’t affect the cut quality.
Paul
Hi Brain, The Maverick looks cool. The Kohler 747cc is rated for 23-25 hp and the Toro 708cc is rated for 24.5 HP. I’ve always found the Kohler engines felt like they had a little more torque so you could lug them down in heavy growth more than the Kawasaki’s but I have no experience comparing them to the Toro engine.
The Home Depot is the only place to buy it online. The ZTR will be assembled and delivered to your home by a local Toro dealer if you buy through them. Toro TimeCutter HD with MyRIDE 60 in. Fab 24.5 HP V-Twin Gas Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Smart Speed at THD
I don’t know who sets up the Maverick when you buy it from Tractor Supply. Bad Boy Maverick 60 in. Zero-Turn Mower at TSC
Paul
Hi Cory, Just to state the obvious – a roll bar won’t do any good if you are not buckled in….. 🙂
Brian B Chrisman
Hey Paul. I read your article very interesting. I just purchased a home with 5 acres. Most of it pasture. I’m trying to find a zero turn to cut it fairly quick. How high can I let the grass in the pasture grow before it has to be mowed? I’m trying not to cut it weekly but I don’t want to burn out a ZTR too quickly. Anyway I had been looking at the Bad Boy mowers Maverick from TSC. But I read a comment where you kinda poo pooed BB mowers. I saw you recommend the Toro TimeCutter HD with MyRIDE 60 in. Fab 24.5 HP V-Twin Gas Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Smart Speed. Is that something I should seriously consider? Anything else you recommend? Thanks
Paul
Hi Brian, There are so many ZTRs on the market and every brand makes really great mowers and a few duds – mowers that don’t fit your property. Bad Boy just like all the rest. It has cheap mowers, good mowers, and great mowers. In Bad Boy’s case, I really don’t recommend the (under $4000) MZ series to most people.
The Maverick series, on the other hand, is a great mower. It’s a great residential mower and even many small commercial operators use it. It will easily mow 5 acres of smooth lawn in an hour. If you have a good TSC near you I can say it will mow your lawn quickly and do a good job.
The main thing to worry about with trying to mow tall grass with a zero-turn is spindle wrap. Longer grass will get knocked over by the deck and then some of it will get cut but the blades. If that grass is too long the blades won’t chop it up and it will wrap around the spindles underneath the mower. That grass can get wound so tightly that it will bind up the spindle which will cause the deck belt to burn out or break. Or it can bind so tightly that it will cut the bearing seal and you’ll lose (burn out) the bearing.
Now the Maverick has a deep, heavy deck so I’d say you could let your pasture get 18 inches or so tall before you need to mow it. If you let your pasture get more than 18 inches pay attention to your mower. If you smell burning rubber, if the deck sounds like it slowing down but the engine stays revved up, stop – turn off the machine – remove the key and then look under the deck to see if the grass is wrapping around the spindles. Cut it off with a utility knife before you mow any more. Also, when you are done mowing the pasture, cut any wrapped grass off of the spindle before you use it again.
Also, If you let your lawn get more than 8 inches or so you may have to mow it twice to get a clean cut. All these residential decks don’t cut down the tall stuff well – like a bush hog or highway mower will.
If you buy through this link I make a little commission off the sale: Bad Boy Maverick 60 in. Zero-Turn Mower
Brian B Chrisman
So Toro vs maverick, what would you go with? for 5 acres not terribly rough and pretty flat.
Paul
Hi Brian, I don’t have a preference. Both the Kohler Confidant and the Toro engine have a great reputation. Wheels, tires, frame, decks on both models are very good. In this case, I’d pick the machine from the dealer I trust the most. Being able to get answers and parts quickly is always one of the biggest factors whether you like these larger mowers or not.
Brian B Chrisman
OK Paul sounds good. Do you have a link where you get a cut for the Toro TimeCutter HD with MyRIDE 60 in. Fab 24.5 HP V-Twin Gas Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Smart Speed? Incase I go with that one. I think I’m leaning toward the maverick, seems to be more powerful.
Paul
Hi Kevin, First question. Do both of you have experience driving a ZTR? If you don’t but still want a ZTR I strongly suggest you look at the Toro TimeCutter SWX5000 50 in. Fab 24.5 HP V-Twin Gas Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Smart Park (Home Depot Link). It handles ditches better than your lawn tractor, zero-turn like the lap bar models, cut well and will last.
Now to answer your questions. The Ariens and Gravely are the same mower. Just a different color. So if you decide to go with them I’d pick the dealer I liked the best. Scag does not make a 42 inch and I’d suggest the Patriot model as a minimum.
I really don’t think a 42 inch is the best choice. Most are lighter than a 48 inch model and they all may have difficulty hanging on the side of your ditch. They will want to slide down it. If you really want a 42 inch ZTR I strongly suggest that you have the dealer demo one in your ditch before you buy.
Unless that ditch is a 1/4 mile long ZT2800 drives on a lap-bar machine will last.
Paul
Hi Cory, For the size of your lawn and the price of what you are looking at I actually want to suggest a completely different mower. It’s the Toro TimeCutter HD with MyRIDE 60 in. Fab 24.5 HP V-Twin Gas Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Smart Speed Model# 75213.
I’m a firm believer that you do not want to suspend the entire mower like they do with the Ferris. While full suspension works well on an automobile it can cause the deck to bounce up and down when the mower starts getting some age on it. Instead, I like the systems where the suspension is only for the operator. The Toro MyRide is the best on the market right now.
Plus the ZTR I listed above is plenty heavy for 3 acres and is over $3000 less than the Titan HD and even cheaper than the Ferris IS700z.
Cory Davidson
Thank you for the feedback, Paul! The time cutter is what I tested the myRIDE suspension on but I like the “heavy duty” of the titan and the roll bar as added protection Incase of a roll over. My local toro dealer is having a spring sale right now and the titan is currently $6900. Thank you for taking the time to help me with my decision. I think I have all but ruled Ferris out due to their suspension issues with scalping and I’ve been reading a lot about deck sway as the mower ages as well.
Cory
Paul
Hi Jim, For flat lawns, the ZT2200 drives will be just fine. They will last. The only time you would notice the difference is if you had a 1/4 miles long ditch that you had to mow along the slope. The ZT2500 would handle that type of side slope better.
Especially for the price, I’d go with the MyRide!
Toro wanted their own engines for various reasons, including a more durable and longer lasting residential engine. This engine is proving to be a solid performer and has had no issues that I am aware of. I would have no problems buying that engine myself and expecting it to last the life of the mower.
I did notice that Home Depot has is priced less than you’ll find at the dealer. A local dealer will still set it up and deliver it to you even when you buy through Home Depot
Here is a link to the Toro sales page: Toro TimeCutter MX5075 with MyRIDE Suspension System 50 in. Fab 24.5 HP V-Twin Gas Dual Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower
Jim
Thank you for the quick response and information!!
Jim
Paul, I have 1.5 acre mostly flat lawn. Shopping Toro ZTR’s. Considering the MX5050, or the Myride MX5075. I see the obvious difference in the myride “comfort feature”, but my concern is with the hydrostatic transmissions. Would I see much difference in the 2200 vs the 2800? Also can you tell my anything about the Toro Brand engine in these machines. Thank you
Cory Davidson
Hey Paul, just bought an almost 3 acre lot and I’m try to decide between a toro titan hd 2500 my ride and the Ferris IS700z. Both are 60” decks. Any input would be greatly appreciated and helpful. Thank you
Kevin
Hi Paul. My neighbor and I share a mower and we are looking to upgrade to a ZTR from our current 48” lawn tractor. We have about 1/2 acre each and are separated by a ditch. I was thinking of going with a 42” to save cost and because the size of our yards. We have been looking at Ariens, Gravely and Scag, what would you recommend? I’m concerned the 2800 series hydros found on the models we are looking at will not last with the ditch.
victor
Dear Paul – I have about 4 acres to mow and I’m looking at getting a Scag patriot mower with a 61″ deck. Is this a good mower? I was going to get a bad boy but I don’t like the reviews on it. My ground has some slight hills and is a little bumpy. I mower it with six foot belly mower on my tractor now.
Paul
Hi Victor, If you see a commercial landscaper out mowing a residential lawn with an orange mower the chances are that mower will be a Scag Patriot. The mower and the Scag dealers have an excellent reputation. Mowing 4 acres it will last you many, many years.
That Scag with the 61-inch deck will easily mow your lawn in half the time of your tractor/belly mower setup.
Spencer
Hi Paul, I’m having trouble deciding on an exact mower for my yard. I live in Northeast Indiana and have almost 2 acres of land. It is mostly flat with only one slight slope and very open (only a couple tres) my backyard is the biggest and is surround by a split rail fence. The yard is pretty bumpy. Right now I have a 54” John Deere tractor and it takes about 2.5 hours to mow. A buddy told me to get a Hustler but after reading your articles I learned more about the Ariens and Gravely. I’m trying to keep my price around $3k but I’m willing to go up if a slight up in price means a big difference in quality. I was thinking a 52” deck unless you think a smaller deck would be more well suited. Right now I am looking at the Hustler Raptor, Ariens Ikon, and the Gravely ZT. I’m not stuck on those mowers I just haven’t looked at too many other brands because there is just so much out there and it is so time consuming. What would you recommend at that price point?
Paul
Hi Spencer, I delivered fifth-wheel campers form Elkhart for a while so I’m pretty familiar with all the backroads in your area. It’s a nice part of the U.S.
On a rough lawn, a 48-52 inch deck is a good choice. You’ll be able to get your lawn mowed faster than the tractor but the decks are not so big that they scalp a lot. To get a better machine than the ones you have picked you really have to jump a $1000. Mowing 2 acres you’ll be fine with the machines you’ve picked.
The Ariens and the Gravely are the same mower – just a different color and dealer. I’d pick the dealer you like the best.
The Raptor can be a good mower if you purchase it from a dealer. In other words, someone who can quickly get you the right information and/or repairs if you need them. Hustle is an excellent brand but the Raptor sold at Lowes is a little more prone to small issues (that make you mad) than the other brands.
I also suggest the Toro TimeCutter 50 in. 24.5 HP V-Twin Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Smart Speed if you have a Toro dealer close by.
Alex
Wow I am in Northwest Indiana too. Just happened to come across your comment
Bruce Zehr
Hi Paul
I want to start by thanking you for laying out all of this information in such great detail. Even though you did such a fantastic job, I am still a little confused on what to purchase. We recently moved from a small piece of land to a large 8 1/2 acre piece of land of which approximately 4 1/2 acres need to be mowed. The land has sporadic trees in some areas and openness in others and is mostly hilly. Some of the hills can be significant, however, I can use a weedeater to cut those areas where it may be a bit too dangerous. I was thinking of purchasing this model “Husqvarna MZ61 27 HP Zero Turn Mower, 61-Inch”. It seems to be a great entry-level zero turn mower and has good ratings. I have never used a zero turn mower however I am pretty handy and a quick study so adjusting to this mower should be pretty easy for me. What are your thoughts?
Paul
Hi Bruce, The MZ61 has been a good zero-turn. In fact, I’ve suggested that model to many people just starting out in the lawn care business – for the price, it’s a good, long lasting machine.
Chris
Hi Paul- need your help!! Just moved and went from a 1/3 acre lot to 3 acres…so needless to say, I’m in the market for a mower. My land is fairly wide open and no areas with major slopes.
I’m trying to decide between 3 different mowers- and maybe I’m at the point of preference.
Two of the mowers are brand new; 48″ Gravely HD or a 48″ Big Dog Blackjack- both are running $5,009
The third mower is 4yrs old, John Deere Z445 54″ deck- 115 hours on it and I can get this for $3,800.
That’s what I’m up against- I’ll be anxiously awaiting your feedback, Thanks!!
Paul
Hi Chris, I’d pick the Gravely. I know the ZTR and it will last you a long time. The Big Dog is the same as a Hustler mower. Hustler uses the Big Dog name in areas that already have a Hustler dealer. It’s also a good machine.
I’m not a big fan of buying used – unless you like to work on your own equipment and you can judge if the machine is in good shape before you buy it. The number of hours is not too relevant because a not-so-honest previous owner can easily disconnect the hour meter. Also, I’ve seen used equipment with that few hours abused and even though it’s “bright and shiny” it still has major issues. Used equipment has no warranty so anything that goes wrong is on your dime.
David
Hi Paul,I looked at a Cub Cadet z-force s 48 inch and really liked it. The deck was really easy to adjust and set. Spring loaded. I also looked at a Timecutter 5050 deck was hard to lift and set. Both looked like good machines. My main concern is bagging. The 48inch should give more push to the grass to prevent any clogging. I realize you have bag when grass is fairly dry. Both have the same transmissions. I will buy from reputable dealers. Thank you David
Hal
Hi Paul,
Excellent site and thank you for sharing your knowledge. I have over an acre lot with a few scattered trees in back, few in front with various flower beds and a arborvitae line along the back and side of the yard. I’ve narrowed my search down to a few “estate/mid/semi commercial” mowers in the order that I’m leaning.
Gravely Pro-Turn 52 991219 (leading candidate but a bit over what I wanted to spend),
Toro TimeCutter HD with MyRIDE 54 Model 75212
The following also look interesting:
Bad Boy Bad Boy Maverick 60
Bad Body ZT Elite 60
Thoughts regarding Bad Boy mowers? Specifically cut, longer term maintenance, etc. They appear interesting but some online reviews seemed to indicate that there are repair issues or cut issues.
Thoughts on the Gravely vs. the Toro? Both are priced within $50 of each other…
Paul
Hi Hal, You get what you pay for and in the mid-priced ZTR arena, $500 can make a big difference in the quality of the machine. The Toro and Gravely you listed are a solid step up in performance and durability over the Maverick and Elite. But – to be frank – all four of them will last a long, long, long time mowing one acre.
Reviews on retail sites (I assume Tractor Supply in this case) are very subjective and most of the time the problem with the mower is the operator, the owner not understanding where to get questions answered, not knowing where to get warranty work performed, etc. Opinions in the lawn and tractor forums are just that…opinions. So, yes, the Bad Boy mowers do have some negative reviews but they either from an owner not getting in touch with a dealer or the owner is using a Mid-priced residential mower for commercial work.
No one is putting these higher priced residential ZTRs side-by-side and comparing the cut. With about 80 different models in the $4000-$8000 range, it’s just too expensive for any one research/review company to take on. This is a highly competitive business and I can assure you that Ariens and Toro are doing everything they can to stay on the top of the competition. Bad Boy s a much smaller company but they are also trying as hard as they can to make the best machines. I strongly suggest buying the ZTR you feel the best about from a local dealer you trust.
Hal
Thank you Paul! I really appreciate the quick reply and input! I will be going through a reputable dealer (highly rated) in SE WI that stocks the two I’m most interested in. Will compare the two and then decide. Best regards and keep up the excellent work with this site!
Ben
Paul hello
Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us.
I am planing to buy a ZTM for 12+ acres with some hills. We have Toro and Kubota dealers in the area, both reputable. From Toro I am thinking MyRide 5000 (75951) with 60”. Priced around $12,000. May I ask you what do you think is a comparable Kubota model and would you choose Toro or Kubota in those models.
Thank you so much.
Paul
Hi Ben, The comparable Kubota is the ZG227LA – 27 HP ZERO TURN GAS MOWER W/60 INCH PRO DECK.
Which one is better? That’s really a tough choice. The Toro definitely has the best ride. If you are going for “mow as fast as possible” the MyRide is the way to go. Everything else is about the same. The commercial grade Kubota’s are just as durable. Both of these mowers have commercial engines and transmissions. Kubota dealers tend to be more hobby farm orientated so if you want other equipment for your acreage they may be the better dealer choice over the years.
Ben
Thank you Paul!
Your advise is greatly appreciated.
Travis
Hi Paul, I live in Lower MI. I have several dealers near me. My yard is 2.5 acres, with a slight hill with a walkout basement and several trees. Just bought the home so it’s tough to say how rough it would be. I’m not sure If I’ll need a ZT or not. I haven’t owned either. I’d like to stay under 3K, closer to 2k if possible. Obviously I’d like it to last and if necessary I can do maintenance on the unit.
Thanks- Travis
Paul
Hi Diane, One thing I really like about the steering wheel ZTR’s is they drive just like a car. In addition, they don’t tear up your lawn and are very stable on slopes. I like the Cub Cadet Z-Force and the Toro SWX versions but each model has a couple of trade-offs.
1. Both of the mowers you’ve chosen will last you a long time so the model is not as important as where you buy it. If you are going to buy from a dealer instead of The Home Depot I strongly suggest going to the Cub Cadet Dealer and the Toro Dealer and listening to them. Pick the dealer that you feel the most “trust” with. I prefer dealers that also sell to the commercial guys because they have the most expertise and are always willing to help if you have questions or problems. The Home Depot has specific dealers that they work with and both Home Depot and their dealer will work with you.
2. There are two Toro models that compare to the Cub Cadet. One is $500 less and one is $500 more than the Cub Cadet. The less expensive 50″ (127 cm) TimeCutter® SWX5000 (74795) is a good choice for your size yard. The more expensive 50″ (127 cm) TimeCutter® SWX5050 (74797) will last longer but with one acre you really don’t need the heavier duty.
3. If you are going to bag all the time the Toro’s bagger will handle green grass better than the Cub Cadet. If you are going to just use the bagger for fall/spring cleanup then the Cub Cadet will also work well.
4. The Cub Cadet owners state the steering is easier than the Toro but I’ve found that most Toro owners don’t have enough air in their front tires. If you buy a Toro and it steers hard put about 18-20 lbs of air in the front tires before you have the dealer inspect it for other problems.
5. Personally, I like the higher seat on the Cub Cadet. In fact, I have to design a way to raise up the seat on my steering wheel model so I could drive it well. (I’m old and stiff)
6. I really like the automatic parking system on the Toro. When you are mowing and need to get off to pick up a stick or something just get off the seat and the deck disengages and the parking brake sets. Get back on the mower and all you have to do is touch the electric blade button and the deck reengages and the brake releases. In addition, you can tilt the steering wheel up out of the way to get on and off the machine easily.
Feel free to ask any other questions.
I made up a product comparison page on Home Depot here. It will give you an idea of what pricing to expect: Toro/Cub Cadet Steering Wheel Comparison
Diane Bogart
Thanks Paul for all the advice. We have both good reputable Cub Cadet and Toro dealers in are area. I will deal with them for sure, warrantys service ect. I always bag all the time, so your advice would be to pick either Toros you recomended. 74797or74795..Thank you. Diane
Diane
Hi Paul, I never had a ZTM before and I can tell by your readers and your advice to your readers that a ZTM with a steering wheel is a good choice for a beginner. I have narrowed my seach between a Cub Cadet Z-Force 48inch with a bagger Vrs a Toro Timecutter 50 inch with a bagger.We have about a acre of lawn, trees poles ect. Looking to cut down my time mowing, And improve the look. Currently using a older craftsman 42inch with bagger. What do think! Thank You Diane
Paul
Hi Stephanie, I’m partial to the Toro TimeCutter SW5000 50 in. 24.5 HP V-Twin Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Smart Park at Home Depot.
The 50 inch gives you a wider wheelbase so it’s very stable on slopes. The steering wheel system also is the best for traction on slopes. I like the cut of the Toro 50 inch deck and it’s a tough deck. I have the 42-inch version and I’m very happy with the build quality and ease of maintenance.
Eric S.
Paul looking to buy a new zero turn 60″ mower. I have 3 1/2 acres with a few slopes and hills. Looking at the Exmark radius X, Exmark Lazer X, and the husqvarna PZ. I can’t really find a website that compares the Exmarks to the husqvarnas. All of these mowers are $8100 to $11,000 and want to make a informed decision. My son is pushing me to get an exmark because of the hydraulic are better he says.
What are your thoughts?
Paul
Hi Eric, I’ll always choose the ExMark Laser over the Husqvarna PZ. Why? it’s been around and constantly updated for many years. It has the very latest transmissions, engine, and deck design. In general, the dealers are very knowledgeable and always willing to get your equipment fixed quickly if it ever does break down. It’s really the “standard” ZTR that all the other brands have been trying to beat for years.
You don’t see comparisons of the commercial equipment because in most case as a contractor you are better off finding a good dealer and then buying through them. The best-rated equipment doesn’t matter when you need parts quickly and the dealer/supplier can’t get them to you.
The Radius was just updated and the new Radius Suspension model is arguably the best riding ZTR on the market. For 3.5 acres that would be a great choice.
Stephanie
Hi Paul – We have a 1 acre yard, half trees, a super highway underneath from ground hogs, a one slope in the front due to drainage ditch, one with steeper grade due to the road, and a 145′ fence. The hubby is a former MX pro, and wrenches on motorcycles…constantly…so maintenance/repairs are not an issue. Looking for our first zero turn with steering wheel – comfy seating for old fractures/broken bones – easy clean out – easy engine/belts/what have you for maintenance. Your thoughts? Thank you!
David
Paul I am trying to decide to chose between a Big Dog Blackjack flip up vrs a 48inch Toro Timecutter #75201. I have about a acre and a half to mow typical obstacles, all flat. Thanks David
Paul
Hi David, The Toro Timecutter HD is a much heavier built ZTR than the BlackJack Flip Up. The Flip-up is actually an entry-level residential Hustler Raptor with an expensive add-on electric flip deck. The Timecutter HD actually compares to the Stout MP.
If you want a heavy-duty, great cutting ZTR the Toro is the better choice. (you can buy a jack/lift kit for the Toro that will let you easily work under the deck. The jack kit is about a quarter the price Big Dag wants to charge for their lift.
David
Hi paul, I would like to up grade to a zero turn. The local dealer has a
54inch Big Dog Blackjack with a grass collection unit on it. I like to pick up my grass. My concern is it is not a powered collection unit. Will it pick up the grass substantialy. Thank You David
Paul
Hi David, Just so you know the Big Dog BlackJack is the same mower as the Hustler Raptor® Flip-Up. Anyway. The 2 bag catcher should work well on that deck. Hustler/Big Dog was smart not to put a three-bin on it (for weight and how far it had to throw to fill the third bag.) Of course, there will be times when the green clippings are too wet and it won’t throw them all the way into the far bag.
It’s a residential mower and that flip-up deck is really easy to use.
You’ll have to move up to the next mower – the Stout – to get a powered bagger.
Wilson
How about comparing Hustler and Cub Cadet
Paul
Hi Wilson, Well – they’re both yellow. Both companies make different sized ZTR’s. What models from each company were you considering? How big is your property? Slopes, etc? Please let me know a little more and I’ll be glad to help.
Brian L
Hey Paul, Thanks for taking the time to put together this great resource. I’ve got just under 2 acres, but maybe 1/3 of that is trees/house/driveway. One long stretch down the length of the front yard has a slope to it, the first part is slight but toward the end it’s maybe 20 degrees (just a guess) but only about 15 feet from base to top. I had been paying a local business to do the mowing, but I think it’s time I buy a mower and do it myself. Depending on what I get, after a few years it’ll pay for itself.
I’m trying to decide if it makes sense to invest in a zero turn, and one feature I would like is the ability to clean up the considerable amount of leaves I get in the yard. The local dealer’s suggesting either an Exmark Radius E or a Scag (Liberty/Freedom/Patriot), in 52″ size. I am reasonably sure the lawn guy I had used a Scag, but I didn’t pay close enough attention to the model or anything. In any case, what makes sense for him as a business might be pure overkill for me. I just want something I can use to get around the various trees and long stretches of grass, without having an issue on the slope.
Do you have any opinion on the mowers and baggers/leaf options that are offered with them? It was suggested that if I wanted the lawn to really look nice, I would want one of these models with a “powered” bagger. I’m hoping you can help separate truth from fiction about that! Thanks in advance.
Paul
Hi Brian, The ExMark Radius E and Scag Patriot are two mowers that will do an excellent job of mowing and bagging your lawn and last for years and years. These ZTR’s are also heavy enough to handle slopes like yours.
Cheaper – lighter weight ZTRs like the Scag Liberty/Freedom, Cub Cadet RZT series and Craftsman ZTR’s are not heavy enough to maneuver the slope well and they won’t last as long.
Your lawn guy’s Scag cost 2-5 thousand dollars more than the Patriot. He’s mowing 30-40 hours a week compared to your 2-3 hours a week so he needs a stronger ZTR to hold up to that work. Scag and Exmark are great brands that have served the commercial mowing contractors well for many years.
Mowing decks on mid-priced ZTRs like the Radius, Patriot and higher cost ZTR’s are designed to mow perfectly and the deck on the Radius E is also designed to mulch as well as possible. Because of that, they are not designed to use a bagger like your old lawn tractor. They need a bagger with a separate “blower” that sucks the clippings out from the deck and throws them into a rear hopper. Yes, the bagger alone is as expensive as a good lawn tractor. But…..If you don’t have that many trees and you mow weekly I suggest looking at the Radius E set up for mulching and side discharge. Have them install mulching blades and the OPERATOR CONTROLLED DISCHARGE (HAND) Part# 135-2532. That will let you mulch leaves and normal weekly mowing but also side discharge if the grass is wet.
Brian L
Thanks for the info Paul, I really appreciate the quick reply and your time!
Paul
Hi Brian, I forgot to mention that if you mulch your leaves it will chew them up into very small pieces. Then you can use a lawn sweeper to quickly pick up the fine clippings. This works very well if you don’t want/need to pick up your clippings every time you mow. Here is a sweeper I like. It’s a high speed sweeper so you can use it behind a ZTR or ATV.
Amazon Link: Agri-Fab Inc 45-0521 Lawn Sweeper, Orange and Black
Brian L
Ok, that’s another good idea. One follow-up to your reply – how sensitive are these (the blades and the bagger/sweeper options) to twigs?
I would obviously pick up the larger ones, but with all the trees in the yard, I frequently see small to medium sticks on the lawn if it’s been windy. I need to make sure I’m not going to drastically shorten the lifespan of the mower if I don’t pick up every stick in advance.
Paul
Hi Brian, I pick up everything larger than my thumb.
Brian L
All right, I guess that’s certainly wise considering the investment. Thanks again for all of your help!
Paul
Hi Bill, that helps a lot. In that price range, you’ll be able to get a 60-inch deck, a good engine, and a decent ride. The Toro MyRide ZTR’s are by far the best riding mowers. It uses a suspension platform – not just a suspension seat – so your ride is as good as a car. It’s a good, heavy duty ZTR and I’ll bet it will last on 5 acres just as long as the Cub. (I have a Super H myself) Plus, if the area is not to rough you can mow it in about an hour and a half.
So, number one for you – Toro Model 75213 TimeCutter HD with MyRIDE 60 in. Fab 24.5 HP V-Twin Gas Zero-Turn Riding Mower with Smart Speed.
Number two, Toro also makes ExMark so depending on your local dealer they may carry the new ExMark RADIUS S-SERIES SUSPENSION PLATFORM instead of the Toro.
Number three. If you have a Country Clipper dealer in your area the Country Clipper Edge XLT is the easiest ZTR to get on and off of and is one of the easiest to work on. Here is the link: Edge XLT. Use the “Find a Dealer” link to find your local dealer.
Number four. From here it gets harder to list them in order. Deere doesn’t have anything in that price range I like but Hustler Fastrak, BigDog Stout MP, Gravely ProTurn, Scag Patriot, Cub Cadet Pro Z steering wheel are all great ZTR’s for performance and reliability. If you like the dealer – you’ll like the mower.
Opinions run deep in ZTR just like who makes the best pickup so people either love the Bad Boy Maverick, Dixie Chopper and Jacobson or absolutely hate them.
I’m not a big fan of Ferris – it has too many moving parts. I’m not completely sold on Spartan mowers – yet. I’m a big fan of Bob-Cat mowers but I don’t think they have what you need.
If there is a particular brand that your friends like let me know and I can compare it to the Toro/ExMark.
Paul
Hi Bill, you are not going to like my answer: My answer is – I can’t. Why? Because there are about 40 manufacturers that make good quality equipment and each one has different levels of quality, durability, ease of maintenance, etc. In addition, there really is no use for me to make up a list and you can’t get any of them in your area.
Zero-turn mowers range in price from $2500 to over $25,000 and you definitely get what you pay for.
For example, The list Consumer Reports puts together is great for a 1/2 to 2-acre suburban property but is worthless for the homeowner who has 5 acres of farm lawn.
So, how much do you want to spend, how much do you want to mow every week? Do you want to do all the repairs yourself? Do you want the smoothest ride or do you have a relatively smooth lawn?
John G
Paul, looking at buying the exmark radius e series with a 60in deck for my startup lawn service. Is this the right mower for me? pros, cons?
Paul
Hi John, Yes, the Radius is a good choice for a startup. It has the larger tires so it won’t leave tracks on residential lawns. It also has ExMark’s good quality deck so it cut’s as well as any other mid-mount. If you are cutting more than 50 lawns you may want to step up to the Lazer Z series.
Barb
Hi Paul, I’m looking for a zero turn. I’ve been using a Bad Boy 60″ on approximately 10 acres. Its about 8 years old and cost me alot of $$ in repair over the last 3 years. I’m looking at Toro, Gravely or whatever zero turn I can find that is dependable. Any suggestions? All dealers are at least 25 to 30 miles away.
Jim
Thank you Paul for all your knowledge, it sure is helpful.
I saw a package deal this weekend and the mower in the package is a
Kabota Z122RKW. I don’t know anything about this mower, any ideas ?