Executive Summary: This was Craftsman’s largest tractor. Unfortunately it has been discontinued and will not be sold in 2013. It has a 30 hp motor and 54 inch side discharge mower. The news media that attended the Detroit Auto Show clamoured all over this new tractor. It has a great cutting deck, great engine, and lots of features you didn’t even know you could get on a riding mower. This is a “luxury” riding lawn mower and one that will give you years of service.
by: Paul Sikkema
Is this the right mower for you?: This is arguably the best two-wheel drive lawn tractor/garden tractor on the market today. Particularly when you compare the price to similar tractors from John Deere and Simplicity. If you are looking for the best out there because everything else is built “too cheap” seriously look at this mower. This is Craftsman’s best mower. It has a heavy-duty frame, deck and drive-train. This tractor will easily mow 2 acres per hour.
This lawn tractor has many great features including power steering, automotive style starting, ground following deck, automatic traction control, differential lock and a transmission capable of pulling anything Sears sells. If you want to mow your lawn in style and comfort, pick this one. If you want to till the garden and pull firewood out of the timber pick this one. There is no other mower out there for the price if you want the best.
(Last year this tractor was market tested as the Craftsman Professional PTG9500, 28985) I’m glad to see Sears is continuing with this great tractor in a Premium package.
Brand/Manufacture: Craftsman / Briggs & Stratton
Model/Series: CTX9500 / Premium
Item Number: Craftsman 54 In. 26hp Kohler Turn Tight Hydrostatic Garden Tractor Non CA 23 x 10.5 x 8 in.
Buy Here: Craftsman 54 In. 26hp Kohler Turn Tight Hydrostatic Garden Tractor Non CA 23 x 10.5 x 8 in.
Store Pickup: Delivery: Ship: You can order online, pick it up at your local Sears or have it delivered right to your home.
Street Price: $6500
Basic Quality: (Cheap, Good, Best, Premium, Don’t Buy) This is Craftsman’s Premium quality. The GT & YT series are less quality. Craftsman does not have a better series.
Type: (Riding Mower, Lawn Tractor, Yard Tractor, Garden Tractor, Estate Tractor, Sub-Compact, Zero Turn, Stand-On) This is an Estate Tractor Handles at least 25 attachments including heavy-duty snowblower.
Compare it to: John Deere X530 24hp/54 in, Simplicity Prestige 27 hp/54 in., MTD Cub Cadet GTX 2154LE 23hp/54 in, Kubota T2380 23hp/48 in.
Craftsman CTX9500 54 in 30 hp Premium Yard Tractor
Pros:
Power Steering, Tilt Wheel
Hydraulic Lift, Electric Mowing Height
Differential Lock, Traction Control
Quick Change Deck
Cons:
About 20 inches longer than competition
Attachments while premium grade are expensive
Large 18 inch turning radius
Street Price: $6499.99 Check The Best Sale Price Here: Craftsman 54 In. 26hp Kohler Turn Tight Hydrostatic Garden Tractor Non CA 23 x 10.5 x 8 in.
My Review:
There’s an old saying, “You get what you pay for.” The Craftsman Premium series are a good example of that. You are going to pay more for this tractor than for a YT or GT Series Craftsman, but what you get is well worth the extra money.
Although not heavy enough for commercial use (40 to 50 hours a week) this tractor is heavier than many of the “commercial” units out on the market today. A heavy welded steel deck, differential lock, traction control, hydraulic lift. It has a better lift than the 2000 series Cub Cadet and a better turning radius than the X540 Deere. These new premium tractors are designed to mow well, drive well, and last much longer than the tractors you find at Home Depot or Lowes. This is the heaviest tractor in the “Estate” class and the best Craftsman offers.
I call this class of tractor an “estate tractor” This class of tractor is quieter, easy to use and will last longer than the “lawn tractor” and “garden tractor” class from Craftsman, John Deere, and Cub Cadet.
This article was first published at TodaysMower.com
I’m not going to go into a lot of detail on this review. If you have specific questions leave a comment below and myself or the readers will be glad to answer them. This is a great tractor and if you want one to last this should be at the top of your list.
Comfort – Ease of Use: This is a “real” lawn tractor not a “price point” riding mower. It drives like your car. Great seat, easy to use operator controls, power steering, good field of view, quiet motor. If you spend 5 hours on this mower, you will never go back to the 100 Series Deere, the 1000 series Cub Cadet, or the YT series Craftsman. This is a lot more tractor than the previous Craftsman Professionals (except the 28985.)
Power For Mowing: The Craftsman CTX9500 (Craftsman 54 In. 26hp Kohler Turn Tight Hydrostatic Garden Tractor Non CA 23 x 10.5 x 8 in.) has more power for mowing than any other lawn, garden or estate tractor on the market. There is a mulch kit available and it is a true baffle kit. This motor will be able to handle it. Oh, It is proven winner for snow blowing. Go Here to see it in action PTG9500, 28985.
Reliability – New to 3 yrs: This tractor is serviced by Sears. Since this is the same tractor as the 28985 I am going to include owner reviews here. Of the reviews I read only one owner had problems getting his new tractor delivered. The delivery team broke the electric deck height getting it off a lift gate truck. Remember to always use fresh fuel and it will give you no problems.
Handling – Traction/Steering: This tractor has the best traction you can get. The Tuff Torq K71 hydrostatic transmission and it 1000 lb weight gives the CTX9500 the best traction you can get with a two-wheel tractor for your suburban yard. You can use a mower like this on wet or drought-dry slopes. It can handle all ground breaking equipment including the DR Power Grader and the Acrease Till-Ease Model 543. If you need more traction than this, plan on spending over $10,000 for a 4-wheel drive tractor.
And tilt-wheel, power steering. By the way, an 18 inch turning radius on this long of tractor is very, very good. (This tractor is 20 inches longer and 300 lbs heavier than the competitors)
Mow – Mulch- Bag: This tractor get high marks by owners for cutting, bagging, and mulching. But, be aware this is a large 54 inch deck so it will not mow quite as even as a 42 inch deck. This deck was made for big lawns. This deck will mow faster than your old lawn tractor. It mows perfectly at 5 MPH but don’t expect it to mow as fast as the tractor will go (7.2MPH) and give you the same results. With this tractor/deck you set the height using an electric switch on the tractor. You can raise the deck for transport and when you go to mow the next time, it goes right back to where you set it. This is great if you have teenagers or other operators who don’t pay attention to the height of cut. The bagging system is larger than yard tractors and uses a blower so everything you mow goes into the bagger. There is a mulcher available for this deck but it is a semi-permanent set-up.
Deck Height Screw
Specifications, Features, Benefits
The rest of this article is taken from the retailers website.
Type: Premium Garden Tractor
Maximum mowing area per hour (acres): 2.5 acres at 5 MPH
Recommended for moderate slopes? Yes
Excels in mowing around obstacles? Yes
Manufacturer: Briggs & Stratton
Brand: Craftsman Premium
Engine Power: 30 hp*
Displacement: 810 cc.
Manufacturer: Briggs & Stratton
Cylinders: V-twin, cast-iron liners, Dynamically Balanced Crankshaft
Type: OHV, oil filter, Automotive type oil system for cooler operation and longer life
Charging System: ? amp regulated
Battery: 500 cold-crank amps
Choke/Speed Control: Magnetron® Electronic Ignition, No choke, automotive style starting
Fuel Tank Capacity: 3.6 U.S. gal.
Transmission: Tuff Torq K71 hydrostatic transmission
Transmission Control: Twin Foot pedals
Cruise Control: Standard
Forward Speed: 0-7.5 mph
Reverse Speed: 0-4.0 mph
Chassis: Frame Welded heavy-duty/Primer/Paint E-coat/powder
Front Tires: 16×5-8
Rear Tires: 24×12-12
Front Axle: Cast iron
Hood Material: Steel
Hourmeter: Yes
Tool Tray: On fender
Cupholder: Yes
Headlights: Yes
Translucent fuel tank or Fuel gauge: Yes
Deck washout port: No
12-volt outlet: No
Steering: Power steering with tilt
Turning Radius: 18 in.
Uncut Circle Radius: 18 in.
Spindle Bushings: Metal, replaceable
Seat Back Height: 18 in. open back
Fore-aft Adjustment: 7 in. while seated
Seat Suspension: Two coil springs
Deck Lift System: Hydraulic
Mower Cut Height: 1 in. to 4 in.,
Cut Height Increments: infinite position with deck gauge
Preset Cut Height: Yes
PTO clutch: Electric
Mower Deck
Type: Side discharge
Mower Cutting Width: 54 in.
Mower Deck Material: 10 gauge reinforced
Mower Wheel Adjustment: 4-position, tool required
Mower Level Adjustment: Exact
Mower Drive System: In-line belt, electric PTO
Mower Attachment: Quick attach EZ-Off
Mower Drive: Belt Tension Spring
Mower Wheels Rotate For Deck Removal: No
Dimensions
Wheelbase: 53-in.
Overall Length: 90-in.
Width without mower: 42?-in.
Width with mower: 62-in.
Width with mower: (deflector raised for storage) 44-in.
Height: 52-in.
Weight: 1173 lb with mower, no fuel
U.S. Warranty: 3 year/unlimited hours
Optional Attachments
Bob MacDonald
Hi Randy, Sorry to hear of your unfortunate experience and $ loss. Maybe a lemon? I purchased the same mower/tractor in February 2013. It was a brand new floor model from the previous season at a small Sears hardware store. Since the model was discontinued I ended up getting it for $2,850 including the 5 year premium warranty. It was a steal and I have nothing to say but good things about my experience to date. The tractor is a beast! I cut my mow time in half from 3 hours to actually less than 1 1/2 hours. It flies and gives a perfect, professional cut. I’ve done nothing but change the oil and add fuel. I did change the air filter this spring and just received a set of new blades I’ll install. I purchased the bagger unit that works great the the clear plastic tube could be more sturdy and it discolored quickly from web grass/dirt and can’t see thru it anymore. Also since the turning radius so much tighter and the mower is faster than my previous 17 year old green Craftsman mower all of the trees and beds I drive around have worn the grass away completely so there is a dirt ring/track around them all. Just need to slow down I guess.
Randy
I am so glad I sold my Craftsman CTX9500. It was by far the worst mistake of my life. The worst tractor I have ever owned. I sold it for $2000.00……a $4500.00 loss. Belts kept on breaking, spun 2 pulleys, after just 2 wash’s all the stickers came off. I am now the proud owner of a John Deere X320 and VERY happy.
David
From….
David, Tyler, TX
Hi Paul…..and fellow garden tractor owners. I was fortunate enough to find a nearly new Craftsman CTX 9500, 54 inch, 30hp about two years ago. I was rather new at living in the country and taking care of 5 acres of mini ranch property. Totally destroyed an off the shelf Troy Built mower in my first year here.
I have a hilly, sandy, rough, pasture with Bahia mostly that grows rather sparsly. The house is on about an acre and has a couple of very small San Augustine grass lawns usually done with a small walk behind.
Ok….the tractor review. First of all…WOW! After unsung and abusing for 3seasons of drought I am amazed at how tough this thing is and how easy to maintain. It is exactly what I needed for this 5acre mower torture test. Since we are getting regular rain patterns this spring….the grass is taller and thicker….the mowing is a breeze. I have only had to replace one belt idler pulley so far and it took about 5 minutes. I have lots of pine and oak trees and the tight turn works well…..not quite as nifty as a ZTR, but I can’t handle those anyhow. Love the power steering….I’m 66 years old and partially disabled due to polio….I have no issues using this fine machine. Cuts the acreage in much less time and is maneuverable enough for even the small lawns near the house I used to use a walk behind to do.
Due to the sandy soil I do have to replace blades at a rate of twice per season. If anyone can tell me if heavy duty or commercial rated blades are available it would be very helpful. In fact
the blades are my biggest maintenance issue…the deck is a Snapper ZTR deck I understand and has one 16 inch center blade and two 20 1/2 inch blades. These are very odd sizes and can only be found in the ” available blade set”…..PN1687398.
Paul Sikkema
@David, I’m glad you like the mower. It’s really to bad the normal Sears buyer was not willing to buy that quality of mower.
Try raising your deck up 1/2 inch and I’ll bet your blades will last a lot longer. The best prices I could find was Snapper Part # 1687398YP blade kit-54″ mower
at Amazon for $90.25 plus shipping and Sears Parts Save 10% off parts for snow equipment and more! Offer code: 90055
For $71.68 plus shipping Search 1687398YP. Remember to use the code 90055 to get 10% off your order. (spend $90 and get free shipping)
S Chrystone
Hi. Read all the blogs but I’m concerned that I’d be purchasing a tractor that I won’t be able to service or get parts for. There are a number of these available but a lot of people are saying that Sears really doesn’t step up to the plate on servicing their existing line, even with the purchase of a 5 yr. in home service plan. Other than having a beast of a tractor at a really low price, this just doesn’t make sense to me. If someone has more info about support on these, please let me know.
Paul Sikkema
@S. The two biggest issues with Sears service that I see are: 1. People are upset that they can’t go to their local guy working out of the garage down the street and get their tractor fixed for free or $20. Sears does their own service (just like the deere dealer does their own service) and has their own parts network (just like deere). ALL the parts are available through searspartsdirect.com. (use code 90055 for a 10% parts discount) Sears keeps parts for at least 10 years and I know they still have most parts for tractors 20 years old. The key though to ordering parts is you need the model number of your tractor. If you just walk into a sears store and say I need parts for my tractor and you don’t have the model number you will not be able to get the part (it under the seat of most tractors). I hear a lot of people getting upset because they expect every sears store to carry all the parts for their 10, 15 or 20 year old tractor IN THE STORE.
2. Sears comes to you and services your tractor. You call 1-800-4MY-HOME and the tech comes out, troubleshoots the tractor, orders the parts right while he is at your home. In a few days the parts show up at your door and he comes back out and fixes the tractor. This usually takes less than 5 to 7 days. What people don’t like is that they can’t go to their local dealer and scream until the dealer puts all the other work he has in his shop aside and he works on their equipment.
Read between the lines when you read the other blogs. If you know the simple procedure for getting you item repaired, it’s gets done just as quick as if you take it to a dealer or the mechanic down the street.
Keep in mind though, Sears did not sell many of these tractors compared to their other models. So they will not keep every repair part in stock forever. If you want the best of Sears buy the 28861 garden tractor. That is a very popular unit and it will have parts available for many, many, many years.
Bob Mac
Hi S. Chrystone,
I can’t comment on Sears service as I’ve never had their home service plan. I have ordered parts for my 15yr old 22hp/48″ Garden Tractor on several occasions w/out issue. It wasn’t until the last couple of years I considered replacing my tractor/mower because I’m starting to see some items in the parts list noted “obsolete”.
Around the holidays the CTX “Beast” caught my eye on display at my local Mall Sears, but the price $5,499 blew me away. I started some serious research and came across this blog which eventually lead me to my purchase a few weeks ago of a new CTX 26hp/52″ Beast. I happened to stop into a local smaller Sears hardware/parts store and inquired if they had any CTS floor models on clearance which they did. After many weeks of persistent contact with the store manager (calls, text msgs, etc.) I purchased it 3 weeks ago for $2,892.64 ! Plus they sold me the 5-year service plan for $567.00! At that price I had to purchase it. I was at the Mall Sears on Friday and they still have their CTS floor model “Close Out $5,399”. The manager told me he got an email from Sears corporate that all remaining CTX models have been distributed to stores across the U.S. to move on clearance and new retail orders are no longer available.
I stole my tractor but if you keep your eye out most stores still have their floor models and will slashing the prices aggressively as spring approaches in order to make room for their new and continued model line up.
One last note to keep in mind. The 5-year warranty plan cost it 100% refundable within the first 2 years regardless of how many times you have your tractor service.
Good Luck, Bob Mac
Greg
@Paul. Do you happen to know if Sears will be selling the ctx9500 54 in 2013. My local Sears store can’t seem to find any info on it. If so, do you konw if there are any changes coming in 2013. Thanks for any info you can provide.
Paul Sikkema
@Greg, Here are the facts I know:
Briggs & Stratton stated last year they will be pulling out of the retail market and concentrating selling L&G products at dealer stores. We assumed this meant the Snapper and Simplicity lines will become dealer only. What this means for tractors like the CTX and names like Brute are unclear.
All the CTX series tractors are currently on clearance. This means there will be a change. Craftsman is not telling anyone yet, but it could be as small as an engine change or as large as another manufacture making the Premium line.
Sears usually puts out their official info around March 1st. Sears usually keeps this info pretty tight so the store personnel won’t know anything until it’s announced.
RichardHH
OK Paul, I have this CTX, 30 HP with Electronic Fuel Management (EFM). Usually, for winter storage, with small engines I drain the Fuel Tank and run the engine until it die and the Carburetor is empty.
With EFM, I’m thinking Fuel Injection and running it dry would be a bad thing.
Please, let me know the procedure, if anything different, I should use on this CTX.
Thanks
Rich
Paul Sikkema
@Richard, Briggs is suggesting running the engine dry on all their engines, but I also have the same concerns as you. I would mix about 1 to 2 oz per gallon of SeaFoam with unleaded, non-ethanol fuel and fill the tank. I would run the tractor for 5 minutes or so to get this mix all the way into the carb.
I would finish off with removing the air cleaner and using Sea Foam Spray to fog the engine. (Run the engine and spray a steady stream into the carb. Turn off the engine as you are spraying)
Remember you did this next spring because the engine will blow light blue smoke for a minute or so when you start it then.
Richard HH
I bought a Craftsman Model # 24611, Single Tube Bumper, for my new CTX9500.
The Sears site says that it is made for the CTX, but only 2 of the Bolt Holes matched-up.
What other Craftsman Front Bumpers are “supposed” to fit the CTX 107.25007?
Paul Sikkema
@Richard HH, As far as I know there is no extra or optional bumper available for the CTX through Sears. The black piece under the gray part of your grill is the bumper.
Your local Snapper dealer can get you a double bumper with side protection for their YT 400 tractor that will fit. Here is the Snapper page
http://www.snapper.com/riding-mowers/YT400/to locate your nearest Snapper dealer.Note: Most Simplicity Prestige and Snapper YT 400 attachments will fit.
Richard HH
I’ve been using and maintaining a Kubota T1670 w/40″ Deck for the last 11 years. It’s a good, reliable machine.
I really started hunting for a Garden Tractor two months ago to cut grass faster and take care of the 1/4 mile gravel road and fix a few ruts the Septic People left me with.
After buying 2 tractors and getting buyer’s remorse I cancelled them because of delivery or price problems.
I saw a few Tractors on the Sears Outlet site and I was looking at the CTX 9500 model 2506 for $1500 less, but it had been used and had a few things wrong with it that bothered me.
Then I went over to this one, a 2507 with the 30hp B/S engine and looked it over very closely.
No scratches, nipples were on the Tires that hadn’t seen dirt and blades the never touched a blade of grass.
After about 20 minutes going over and under it, I sat on it.
I turned the key to look at the Hour Meter which showed only 2 hours.
Somehow, instead of turning the key off, I turned the key and it started, THAT FAST.
I was embarrassed and looked around expecting people to be giving me the evil eye.
But the engine was so quiet that nobody even noticed it was running.
Of course I turned it off right then. But I was really surprised that it didn’t crank and turn over, it just Started running immediately.
Anyway I bought the 2507 for $4327 and picked it up this morning.
I needed to figure a way to adjust the Weight Sensor that is built into the Seat.
I’m 5′ 6″ and only weigh 145 lbs, if I moved at all, the engine quit running.
I adjusted the Seat to fit me and I like the support of the High Back and I reduced the sensitivity of the Seat Switch.
I figured out how to get the Deck Higher for transport and Lowered the Scalp Wheels so they do their job.
I broke the Pot Metal wings off one of the Front Scalp Wheel adjusters but I can deal with that. I’ll replace all of them with steel nuts.
When I was recording all of the numbers to my manual, I was pleasantly surprised to see that it has the optional Oil Drain Hose, which will make that job less messy.
I cut two weeks of Grass growth in half the time it usually takes.
The 54″ Deck vs the Kubota’s 40″ and having 8 mph when I wanted it helped.
The CTX is faster in reverse than the Kubota is in Forward.
When I was done, I felt guilty that my beautiful new Baby was so dirty. So I cleaned like do my sports car.
After only one day, I’m glad I bought this Unit over everything else I’ve looked at.
I’m 64 and don’t want to spend my time working on an old machine and the 3 year warranty gives me security on that point and too I can add a warranty before this one runs out.
Thanks to everyone that commented you helped me if my final decision.
I believe I have a great machine and look forward to using it more than just as a Lawn Mower.
Richard
Randy
I do have a question about the power steering. When the tractor is running the steering feels perfect, but when the tractor is off the steering wheel turns multiple times to the right before the wheels start to turn right but as soon as I turn the steering wheel left the wheels move to the left right away. No matter what position the steering wheel is in it always the same….turn the wheel left and the tires move left, turn the wheel right and it takes multiple turns of the wheel before the tires move right, unless I stop turning right then continue it fine, but as soons as I go left it back to muliple turns for right.
Paul Sikkema
@Randy, The 25007 uses “hydrostatic” power steering. This type of steering is common with all farm tractors and most steering wheel maneuvered construction equipment. It is the most reliable and easiest method to provide power steering for non-highway use equipment.
There is no direct mechanical connection from the steering wheel to the front wheels like there is on a car or pickup.
So, with the engine running a hydraulic pump on the transmission sends pressurized oil to the steering wheel. The steering wheel is essentially a rotary valve. When you turn the wheel it allows oil through to a hydraulic cylinder attached to the tie rod connecting the front wheels. The more you turn the wheel the more oil flows through to the cylinder and the front wheels turn.
Now, When the engine is not running the rotary valve at the steering wheel will work like a poor pump. So when you turn it enough (or fast enough) it will charge the system a little and move the front wheels. From your description it sounds like when you turn left you are charging the steering cylinder directly but when you turn it to the right you have to charge the cylinder through the transmission pump.
Like farm tractors the 25007 the steering is not designed to work with the engine off.
Paul Sikkema
@Randy, Here is what I got from Craftsman:
After further investigation into your question, here is what I found out.
The only real grease fittings on the tractor will be the front spindles, the axle center pivot, and the wear plate at the back of the front axle. As an FYI, the front wheels are ball bearings & there are no fittings there (sometimes we get that question). The idler pivot arm for the transmission belt also has a grease fitting.
We are working with our supplier to change the manual to show a grease zerk location page.
Thanks,
Gary Lalla
Manager – Craftsman Brand; Lawn & Garden
Randy
So I get my tractor today and the electric deck lift is somehow broken. I can see that it want to turn the screw on the deck but it doesn’t!!!
Paul Sikkema
@Randy, Take a close look and see if there is a loose screw or nut on the lift screw. If it all looks good call 1-800-4MY-HOME and get a tech out right away to fix it.
I posted a picture of the deck height screw in the article above to show you what a good one looks like. It will be in the middle of the article.
Randy
That’s exactly what mine looks like. The problem is that the screw doesn’t turn. It wants too because I can see the stress it is putting on the mechinism but something is stoppin it!!!!
Paul Sikkema
@Randy, Try disconnecting the screw from the bracket it is trying to move. Raise the deck up place it on a block of wood. Then try to move the whole bracket and rod. If you can find the binding part and loosen it or mabe all it needs is some grease.
Randy
It appears that the snow blower attachment has a manual adjustment for the up and down motion of the discharge shute, at least in some pictures. Does anyone know if this is true?
Paul Sikkema
@Randy, I’m pretty sure it’s a cable system with a lever up by the dash.
Randy
I noticed that the 2 stage snow blower has a shute adjustment for left and right when hooked up but what about an adjustment for up and down??
Paul Sikkema
@Randy, Yes the CTX 95000 Model 25007 has a hydraulic lift. No heavy lifting on this tractor! Cool!
Randy
Nope….not what I’m talking about. I’m talking about the Chute itself, I don’t want to have to get off the tractor to adjust the up and down of the chute so as not to blow snow 30 feet in the air, I want to be able to shoot snow at a level adjustment or 30 feet in the air!!!
Paul Sikkema
@Randy, Got it! Bercomac makes a “Berco Electric Chute and Deflector kit for Berco snow blowers” but Sears is not carrying it at this time. Any Lawn and Garden dealer that sells Simplicity, John Deere or Husqvarana is usually a Bercomac dealer so they can get the kit for you. Berco themselves does not show the accessories on their site.
Here is a guy who “upgraded” his Berco Chute controls Youtube
Randy
I will probably just get the kit from Sears that is made for this tractor #64428 – Will I have to remove the snow blower frame to use the mower deck or can I leave it attached? I will look into an electric deflector as a seperate item.
Paul Sikkema
@Randy, Yes, you will need to remove the quik-attach mower deck to install the snow blower. The snow blower is a very heavy duty unit and uses a full length sub-frame under the tractor.
Randy
Thanks Paul but that’s not the question I asked. I want to know once the snow blower frame is attached can I put the mower deck on or do I have to remove the snow blower frame to use the mower deck?
Paul Sikkema
@Randy, Yes you will have to remove the snow blower frame, dozer frame, or the tiller frame to reattach the deck. I am not sure about the slip bucket or the Johnny Bucket.
Randy
Best price and getting better. Started out at $6499.99. Paid with Sears credit card and got 5% off plus some $25.00 online garden discount. $6500.00 – $350.00 = $6150.00. Then the tractor went on sale 3 days later for $6175.00 I called and told them that I wanted the same $350.00 off the $6175.00 price but they offered $300.00 so I took it. $6150.00 – $300.00 = $5850.00. Then I noticed that they charged me $70.00 for delivery and it was supposed to be free. So I went to the store and they gave me the $70.00. Now we are at $5780.00. So what happens next??? Well they couldn’t deliver on time because they said they had a problem with the delivery and had to order a new tractor, I told them that was very inconvienent and aske for a discount. She offered a $100.00 gift card….$5680.00!!!! and I still don’t have a tractor but I’m saving money every day!!!!!
Randy
Another question on deck height:
1. The hydrolic button raises and lowers the entire deck, couldn’t that in a sense be used to determain deck height off the ground for cutting purposes?
2. Electric cut height….does that acutually control how high or low the blades are INSIDE the deck???? Or does in move the deck up and down as well?? The manual is not very clear.
3. Anti Scalping wheels??? I can see that these wheels will prevent the deck from actually hitting the ground but it seems that I could use these wheels to control cut height as well.
So many ways to adjust deck height but what is the correct method to make them all work together???
Thanks for any replies!!!
Paul Sikkema
@Randy,
1. Yes, but the deck is not intended to be a floating deck. You will get a very uneven cut if you set your cutting height this way.
2. The blades don’t move up and down inside decks. The decks are designed for optimum airflow and lift above the blades so this would not work. The electric height raise and lowers the entire deck. When cutting the deck rides on the rear deck wheels.
3. The anti scalping wheels keep the deck from digging into the ground on very uneven lawns (like the bottom of a ditch) They are not intended to run on the ground all the time like the old 110 deere decks. If you could lower them enough they would wear out quickly. Decks that use these wheels for cutting height (like the New Holland 60 and 72 inch decks) have long shafts with holes to set the height. It is a semi-permanent setup and doesn’t allow you to change the height for different parts of your lawn. (My wife mows the dog yard shorter than I mow the rest of the yard.)
The correct way to set the cutting height is to use the switch on the dash. As you move the switch look at the height indicator on the right side of the deck. That indicator will tell you the cutting height in inches. When you want to go haul firewood or drive over a curb or tree root use the hydraulic lift to get the deck up out of the way.
Randy
Is there a manual anywhere for the CXT9500 that can be seen online? Also what about a manual for the snow blower attachment?
Paul Sikkema
@ Randy, Go to managemylife.com. Click on the manuals tab. Type in 107.25007. You can view, download and print the manual there.
Randy
I hope I’m doing the right thing, I have a lot of people telling me that I should have bought a Deere or a Kabota or even a Cub. They say that Craftsman/Simplicity are low end budget models with high prices. It’s not too late for me to cancel my order but for some reason I feel compelled to get this tractor over all the others!!!
Paul Sikkema
@Randy, Plain and simple, it’s a Ford/Chevy thing. If you buy a Chevy all your friends will tell you “You should have bought a Ford.”
The CTX series are not low-end budget models. Cub Cadet does not have a mower that compares to this one. (The Cub GTX2100 compares to the Craftsman 25005 and Deere X320)
The X530 John Deere and the Kubota GR2010G the closest match to the CTX-9500. I marked the better features in bold
Weight: Deere 801 lbs. Kubota 871 lbs. Craftsman 1173 lbs.
Engine: Deere 24 hp (iTorque), Kubota 20 hp Craftsman 30 hp. The Briggs Professional in the Craftsman has automotive style starting (just turn the key)
Transmission: Deere Differential lock, Kubota HST Hydrostatic, Craftsman Differential Lock and Automatic Traction Control
Cruise: Deere Yes, Kubota Doesn’t say, Craftsman Yes
Truning Radius: Deere 22 in, Kubota Doesn’t say, Craftsman 18 in
Speed: Deere 7.2 mph, Kubota 6.2, Craftsman 8 mph
Seat: Deere 14 in, Kubota 14 in Craftsman 18 in
Deck: Deere Belt Drive, Kubota Shaft Drive, Craftsman Belt Drive
Frame: Deere Welded, Kubota 5/16 U-Frame Craftsman 10 ga Welded
Rear Wheels: Deere 24×12-12, Kubota 23×10.5-12, Craftsman 24×12-12
Hood: Deere Xenoy, Kubota Xenoy, Craftsman Steel
Steering: Deere Power, Kubota Power, Craftsman Power with Tilt
Lift: Deere Hydraulic, Kubota Hydraulic, Craftsman Hydraulic
Cut Height Increments: Deere .25 in, Kubota .25 in, Craftsman infinite
Mower Deck Material: Deere 0.135 in, Kubota .120 in Craftsman 0.135 in
Deck Size: Deere 54, Kubota 48, Craftsman 54
Price: Deere $6899, Kubota Don’t know, Craftsman $6499
Randy
Thanks Paul,
Very nice. I was wondering if you would be interested in making a chart that would compare models of similar type so we could see at a glance which models have the better features? The better features would be highlighted in bold like you did for your reply to me.
Paul Sikkema
@Randy, There are hundreds of comparison sites out there and this site is different… My goal is not to tell you which tractor is best… but to help you find the best tractor for you.
Each lawn, each person’s needs are different. I can mow my 1 acre lawn with 50 trees in 22 minutes with a certain 42 inch mower but I doubt if 1/2 of my customers could drive it. It’s the best mower on the market. But if you can’t drive it without years of practice, why should I recommend it. But there is another mower that can do it in less than an hour and 95% of my customers can drive it. It’s not the best mower but it’s the best mower for them.
Nathan
I had the same peer pressure…everyone for acres around me has JDs. Over the course of the last few days quite a few of them have arrived at my place, 6-pack in tow, for a gander. All have left impressed after their seat time and considering you can get the unit for just under $6k during recent sales and discounts.
For the record, I was having a bit of buyer’s remorse during the long wait to receive my unit. Now that I’ve used it for the last five days (12.3 total hours of use on the clock) I couldn’t be more satisfied. There’s good bang for the buck here.
Randy
Ok seems easy enough to take the mover deck off but what about putting it back on?
Paul Sikkema
@Randy, Here is a video on removing and installing the deck of a Simplicity (it’s the same as the Craftsman CTX)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4EHu99WXdKo Copy and paste that link into your browser.
Randy
Thanks for the replies to my first post. Now I have another question.
I want to get the snow blower attachment but I don’t know how hard it is to install, and does the whole thing have to be removed to put the mower deck back on?
Paul Sikkema
@Randy, Yes, you have to remove the deck and attach a sub-frame under the tractor for the snow blower or blade.
The deck on the CTX 9500 is one of the easiest to remove. The sub-frame is also relatively easy to install.
Don’t forget, the snow blower is built a lot heavier than what you are used to. It needs a tractor of this caliber just to handle the weight of it.
Randy
I have the 2012 CTX9500 30HP tractor being delivered on Wednesday 5/2/2012.
After watching all the vids on the snow Blower and other vids, I am wondering what the difference between the electronic deck adjustment and the hydrolic adjustment is. Do I have both?
Paul Sikkema
@Randy, The electronic deck adjustment sets the cutting height.
The hydraulic lift raises the deck for transport and is used to raise and lower the snowblower, dozer blade, tiller and other attachments
Nathan
I just received my unit three days ago and Mr. Sikkema is correct, but know that the hydraulic lift is rather limited in it’s range. I expected it to raise the deck much higher than it actually does. A bit disappointing, but not a deal breaker in the least. I can measure the exact range this evening and post back.
The electric deck height does give ample range. It’s only downfall is that the deck height gauge pointer sets a good amount above the actual gauge so accuracy is effected when viewed from the seating position. Again, it’s a somewhat minor issue and shouldn’t be too concerning.
Paul Sikkema
@Nathan, There are 2 bolts that hold the indicator on the deck but I didn’t look to see if you can loosen them and adjust the indicator to give you an accurate reading. You may want to try loosening the bolts and see if there is some play in the holes. Be sure to measure your cutting height by lifting the discharge chute and measuring from the blade edge to a flat surface like your driveway.
I agree with the amount of lift. I would like to see the whole industry develop a line of tractors that mow at 4 1/2 to 5 inches and still lift the deck up out of the way but, there is a fine line between getting the deck up out of the way and still keeping a low center of gravity on the mower. Some manufactures like are getting this done by putting the engine in the rear.
The lift does raise and lower the snow blower, blade and other accessories well.
rick
could be a nice tractor, but must see before buying. How can one but anything without seeing. Sears never has the newer models on display. whould like to see all ctx models at sears to compare like cub cadet or john deere does……rick
Paul Sikkema
@Rick, I agree that I would like to see the tractor before I buy. That said, Sears has 1500 full-line stores and another 1500 or so Hometown stores so it’s hard for even a company that big to have all four tractors displayed at all the stores.
The Cub Cadet and John Deere dealers are independent dealers. They decide what models they will have on display. Your Lowes and HD won’t have all of the tractors they sell either. Only a sample.
Most mall stores will have the 50 inch model on display. It is a good representative model. The large full-line/hi-volume sears stores will have all 4 displayed. My local store has the 50 inch but I have travel 125 miles to Minneapolis to see them all (I am going April 17)
If you want it, buy it. You have a 30 day money back guarantee if you don’t like it. The only money you would be out would be the delivery charge if you had it delivered.
Bob MacDonald
Hi Folks,
I’ve been cutting 55k irrigated sq.feet for 15 years with a Craftsman (dark green) 42″ 22hp Kohler. Depending on cut direction its takes me 2-3 hours to cut using the 3x bagger attachment. I’m in the market for a new mower because parts list items for my 15 year old tractor primarily because the list of obsolete parts on my tractors parts list it growing. The tractor runs fine but its time for a new toy and I would like to cut down on the 2-3 hours weekly mowing chore.
I’ve been casually shopping and researching for over a year and was thinking a zero radius type rider would cut down on time and improve on the cut looks. However there are so many on the market and the bagger attachments are costly. To get a decent unit I’d have to spend approx. $5-$6K plus another >$1k for the bagger.
Long story short I’ve had my eye on Craftsman CTX 9500 25006 (52″, 26hp) floor model on clearance (discontinued). The price this weekend was $5400 and I called today and it was just reduced to $5062 today. I’ve called a few stores and they all have the same floor model on clearance so I figured I’d wait until its reduced a bit more. There are 2 online at Sears Outlet Centers that are refurb’s for $3500.
$5k is double what I paid for my old unit but from what I read online the CTX is twice the machine.
I would appreciate any comments or suggestions you may have to offer.
Regards, Bob
Paul Sikkema
@Bob, the nice thing about the CTX is you can do a lot more than just mow lawn compared to a zero-turn. With a CTX you will cut your time down to around 1 hour 15 minutes.
Yes, is is more than twice your old tractor. It has real steering, traction control, huge seat, heavy, heavy frame and ground hugging deck.
A note about attachments for the CTX. Most of the attachments are F.O.B. from the factory so you will have to pay shipping through Sears to get them (you may be able to get the bagger though without paying shipping)
But the good news is they are the same as the attachments for a Simplicity tractor so if you have a local Simplicity dealer you can get the attachments there too.
Be sure to include the cost of shipping from an outlet store when you determine if it a good price.
bob.macdonald@analog.com
Hi Guys,
Just posting an update on the CTX 52”/26hp floor model clearance units I’ve been eyeing at a few local stores.
I had a long talk w/salesman and lawn/garden manager at my local Sears this weekend. Their unit is now marked down to $5,399. The manager said he would sell it to me for $5,218 INCL the $699 5-year protection warranty that cover anything for 5 years. The $700 plan is 100% refundable during the first 2 years regardless of how much service you may have had. So that brings it down to $,4,518 if I cash in the 5-year policy. Another nicety with the plan is if the tractor can’t be repaired due to obsolete parts they will replace it with a NEW comparable tractor. (What may be comparable down the road I wonder?). The salesman I talked with said the floor model doesn’t come with the standard 2-year because it’s a clearance item sold “as-is” because its missing the deck shoot shield, other store salesman are say it’s covered with the standards 2-year regardless, so not sure on that. They also told me Sears stores in the North East sold ZERO CTX tractors which was the case pretty much across the country except for one store in the mid-west that happened to be in the same region as the Simplicity factory.
The salesman said he knows there are already issues with obtaining the snow thrower attachment because they line was discontinued after less than one season. But he also said it’s the Sears 54”/30HP is equivalent to th Simplicity Prestige but he doesn’t think Simplicity has a 52”/26hp unit, so not sure if the Simplicity Prestige attachments and parts going forward would work.
I see online today there are 3 floor models at Sears outlet stores in the South are on clearance for $4,069. I called the salesman and mentioned the $4,069 price and he said the South is a couple weeks ahead of markdowns and he’ll check with the big boss tomorrow to see if they can let it go for $4,069. If so my next move will be to push the envelope and tell them I’ll take it off their floor for $4,069 if they throw in the $700 5-year warranty!!!!!
Comments welcome ! I’ll let you know guys !
Bob
Randy
I live inthe northeast (Manchester NH) and I have this tractor. So the zero in the northeast is a lie. Not sure where you live but I’ll sell you mine. I have less than 10 hours on the motor and it’s in MINT condition. This thing is a beast!!!! It’s just too much for what I need. Make an offer and you can have mine!!!
Bob Mac
Hi Randy, We’re practically neighboors, I’m in Kingston ! Are you selling it simply becuase its more than you need? I’m cutting 55K sq ft weekly which takes me 3 hours with my Craftsman 42″/22hp Kohlor 14 year old Garden Tractor and need to replace it but I don’t live on a farm ! Email me and we can chat more. Regards, Bob.macdonald@analog.com
Paul Sikkema
@bob,
Here is bunch of facts as I know them.
Briggs & Stratton was making the CTX line. But, The line that the CTX was based on has been discontinued by B&S. Briggs & Stratton has introduced a completely new tractor for 2013. Simplicity introduced its 2013 tractor lineup — Broadmoor, Conquest and Prestige — which will pair a high-speed transmission with a patent-pending suspension system to absorb vibration and uneven terrain, so mowing speeds won’t compromise comfort.
Briggs & Stratton stated last year they will be pulling out of the retail market and concentrating selling L&G products at dealer stores. We assumed this meant the Snapper and Simplicity lines will become dealer only. What this means for tractors like the CTX and names like Brute are unclear.
All the CTX series tractors are currently on clearance. This means there will be a change. Craftsman is not telling anyone yet, but it could be as small as an engine change or as large as another manufacture making the Premium line.
Sears usually puts out their official info around March 1st. Sears usually keeps this info pretty tight so the store personnel won’t know anything until it’s announced. I was officially told today that Craftsman will let the world know the new product line March 1st.
I don’t know where the store personnel are getting their info. I have no idea how many CTX’s were sold, but I do know more than “one” store sold them, The ones I sold through todaysmower went all over the U.S. including Utah, Texas, Michigan, Illinois and WI. None of them went to the OshKosh, WI store.
So whatever the store people are telling you, they really don’t know.
Attachments: Because the tractor was new attachments were not stocked in the stores or at the normal Sears warehouses. Instead they were stored at B&S and shipped from there when requested. Most stores did not understand that all they had to do was request one and it was set up for them to order it. That’s why you heard from you store that the attachments were hard to get. They didn’t read the email………..
The tractor you want to buy DOES come with the standard 2 year warranty. Clearance tractors come with the standard 2 year warranty from the date you purchase it. The store want’s to sell you it “as-is” so they don’t have to find that discharge chute.
Finally, just be aware: The store can’t “include” the 5 year warranty. There will be two line items on your receipt. One for the $700 warranty and the other line for the tractor itself. They will also want to sell you oil, a sweeper or some other accessory they have in stock. The store will have to drop the tractor to $3300 for you to get the deal you want. These clearance prices are normally done through the corporate office and the store can’t move the price more than 10%.
OH, Remember last year was a very bad year for all Lawn & Garden manufactures and retailers. The drought in the Midwest really slowed sales. I have a feeling there is a lot of existing stock sitting around the country so don’t expect too many new toys this year.
bob.macdonald@analog.com
Hi Paul, Thanks for your feedback. When I say include the 5-year warranty I’d want them to sell it for $3,000 plus the $700 waranty. I’m sure they would be more motivated to include the warranty as they likely get additonal brownie points regardless if I cash it in or not.
From your posts here and other info online I assume the unit is a good deal at what they offered me last weekend, $4,500 +$700 = $5200. There are at lease 3 stores within 50 miles of each other in my area that sill have a floor model to move. The salesman I talked with yesterday said he would be calling me back, we’ll see. Probably after he catches up on this blog, lol.
I know they have the bagger that I need. But going forward do you think the B & S attachments will be hard to find or obsolete?
How about repair parts going forward?
Do you suggest I keep the 5-year warranty in case parts become unavailabe and they would have to provide me a new replacement?
Thanks, Bob
Paul Sikkema
@bob, in this case I feel the 5 year protection plan is a great idea. Why? I recently saw a replacement tractor come through my local store. The owner had a professional series and had purchased the 5 year protection plan. (now obsolete) The seat was ripped and Sears could not get him a new one in the same color (yellow) They gave him a new tractor!
You may have to wait 2-3 weeks before the tractor makes another price drop (they usually drop 10% each time)
I don’t think parts will be too hard to find. The model you want has the same frame as a Simplicity Prestige so those attachments will work. Plus companies like Agri-Fab and Berco usually can sell you a bagger, snow blower, blade or tiller that has the needed mounts for a Simplicity Prestige.
Sears is pretty good at keeping parts around for 10 years or longer. The only real issue you may run into 10 years from now is you may not be able to get a black hood, or other parts in Craftsman Black. You can get it in Simplicity orange and have to have it painted…..
Bob Mac
Hi Paul,
I’m thinking the 5-year protection plan is worth it and if I change my mind I have 2 years to cash it in.
I thought the Prestige was more like the top of the line CTX 54″/30hp? The floor models Sears has are all the CTX 52″/26hp.
Paul Sikkema
@Bob, Sorry, These comments are on the 54/30 hp article. The 25006 is on the same frame as the Conquest
Bob Mac
Hi Paul, FYI the CTX 26HP, 52″ went on clearance this week at Sears locations 55% off retail, $3,044.88 for any remaining floor models. Their system finally shows they can no longer be ordered. Picking mine up in the morning for $3,460 including the 5 year in-home warranty plan. Thanks for you advise along the way!