Troy-bilt Mustang 42 XP vs. John Deere Z335E

Inland NW

Forum Newbie
Joined
Mar 23, 2011
Threads
1
Messages
2
I am trying to pick between the Troy-bilt Mustang 42 XP or John Deere Z335E.
There is a rebate at Lowe’s for the John Deere, so the price is the same.
All other attributes are equal except:
Front axle on Troy-bilt is fabricated steel. (Easy to weld for fixes).
Front axle on John Deere is cast iron. (Harder to weld for fixes).
3 year limited warranty for Troy-bilt.
2 year or 120 hours limited warranty for John Deere.
The guy at Lowe’s favored John Deere because “ they have been doing zero turns for so long”.
Talked to an independent mower repair guy who said he would pick the Troy-bilt because parts are easier to get and cost less than John Deere parts.
I sat on both machines and the mowing cut height adjustment seems easier on the Troy-bilt.
I am looking for anybody who might have experience with both machines to share their experiences.
Both machines have good and bad customer reviews.
 

Top98Percent

Member
Joined
Apr 21, 2017
Threads
4
Messages
36
No usage experience with either, But I just sat on them the other night at my local store. Here's my take on them. I'd lean JD between the 2.

I don't believe the axle on the JD is cast iron. I think that's a copy & paste mistake from the lawn/garden tractors

  • I like the deeper deck on the JD and optional mulch control system.
  • Belt guards flip up to clean out grass
  • Tracking adjustment is easier on the JD if needed.
  • Rebate makes final cost less than the TB.
  • Dealer prep is done by local JD dealer, not Lowes
  • Warranty service is done by local JD dealer, not Lowes
  • JD's at my local Lowes have stickers on them from the Local JD dealer.
  • Yes, JD parts cost more, but...
  • It has a B&S engine. Genuine BS parts are readily available with many aftermarket options for filters, etc.
  • Belts are belts. Many options available besides JD. Same with blades. What other parts are you going to need? Drive around obstacles, not into them ;-)
  • If I remember correctly, the oil filter looked easier to reach on the JD.

If you plan on getting a bagger, check the prices of both. Sometimes they can get expensive.

I just PM'd you a 10% off code for Lowe's to help out the wallet a little.

Good luck on the shopping.
 

Inland NW

Forum Newbie
Joined
Mar 23, 2011
Threads
1
Messages
2
Thanks Top98Percent! I decided to go in a different direction after talking to some friends. I just bought a Hustler Raptor at my local tractor dealer(Adams Tractor). The Hustler is more expensive than JD and TB, but it appears to be more solidly built. The other factor was they offered 0% for 48 months. I am finally a zero turn owner! Now I am waiting for delivery:cool:
 

Top98Percent

Member
Joined
Apr 21, 2017
Threads
4
Messages
36
Nice. You'll like it. I have the Raptor SDX and love it.

Enjoy.
 
Top