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New Zero Turn? Need help!
#1
C
cruzenmike
C
cruzenmike
Hello all. I am in the market for a new zero turn mower. I bought a 2009 Cub Cadet LTX1050VT last year after purchasing a house on 3 acres (~1.5 of which is grass). At the time I could only afford something used, hence the "dated" cub cadet. Between a major deck failure during my first mow and seeing how long it was taking to get around the many obstacles in my yard, I have decided to get something new and better suited for my situation. I recently owned a Toro SS4225 with recycler, armrests and rubber mat which performed well on my 1/3 acre lot but unfortunately I had to give it up before I moved. I had considered the same model, but 42" seems quite small for my yard. Here are my choices for the new mower:
Ariens iKon X-52 (Kawasaki) -$2999
-52" fabricated deck
-padded seat with arm rests
-hour meter
-deck lift assist
-Hydrogear EZTs
-17,000 fpm blade tip speed
Hustler Raptor Limited (Kawasaki) - $3299
-52" fabricated deck
-armrests
-upgraded tires (wider)
-Hydrogear EZTs
-16,600 fpm blade tip speed
Cub Cadet RZT L 46H (Honda) - $3299
-46" fabricated deck
-Honda engine
-hour meter with Bluetooth connectivity
-larger front tires
-17,500 pfm blade tip speed
Another Toro SS4225 (Kohler) - $2700 as equipped
-42" stamped deck
-recycler kit
-hour meter
-arm rests
-rubber mat
-17,800 fpm blade tip speed
I am trying to keep to around $3,000 but am willing to spend slightly more if the mower has significant improvements over these such as serviceable hydrostatics or a better engine. At the least I was hoping someone here at some experience with the two 52" models I have listed and can chime in on engine noise, cut performance, smoothness of drivetrain and overall durability. Thank you in advance for your help or suggestions.
Mike
Ariens iKon X-52 (Kawasaki) -$2999
-52" fabricated deck
-padded seat with arm rests
-hour meter
-deck lift assist
-Hydrogear EZTs
-17,000 fpm blade tip speed
Hustler Raptor Limited (Kawasaki) - $3299
-52" fabricated deck
-armrests
-upgraded tires (wider)
-Hydrogear EZTs
-16,600 fpm blade tip speed
Cub Cadet RZT L 46H (Honda) - $3299
-46" fabricated deck
-Honda engine
-hour meter with Bluetooth connectivity
-larger front tires
-17,500 pfm blade tip speed
Another Toro SS4225 (Kohler) - $2700 as equipped
-42" stamped deck
-recycler kit
-hour meter
-arm rests
-rubber mat
-17,800 fpm blade tip speed
I am trying to keep to around $3,000 but am willing to spend slightly more if the mower has significant improvements over these such as serviceable hydrostatics or a better engine. At the least I was hoping someone here at some experience with the two 52" models I have listed and can chime in on engine noise, cut performance, smoothness of drivetrain and overall durability. Thank you in advance for your help or suggestions.
Mike
#2
M
mowerman05
M
mowerman05
Love the Kawasaki on my John Deere, has not let me down yet. Good luck with whatever mower you decide on.
#3
7394
7394
Love my Kawasaki on my Toro 4260 too.
Might check with your Toro Dealer & see if they have any left over ZX4800 models, these are a discontinued 2016 model, but the price was $3500, for a $5400 machine. :thumbsup: All servicable w/3100 EZ Hydros.
I think they also had ZX5400 models as well, for big discount. Nothing wrong with them, just making room for newer models.
Might check with your Toro Dealer & see if they have any left over ZX4800 models, these are a discontinued 2016 model, but the price was $3500, for a $5400 machine. :thumbsup: All servicable w/3100 EZ Hydros.
I think they also had ZX5400 models as well, for big discount. Nothing wrong with them, just making room for newer models.
#4
C
cruzenmike
To be honest, I have never considered the Kawasaki until recently. I was using an HRX217 push mower and HS720 snow blower, both Honda units and thrilled with their performance and ease of use. The Cub Cadet has a Briggs ELS which seems to be somewhat quiet but I have already experienced the power surge/governor issue with the carb seals (which I plan to rebuild this summer). As for Kohler, my grandfather always swore by them and never had an issue over 20+ years of using them; I will admit he was meticulous with his maintenance, which will help with any motor for that matter. I won't say that whatever I buy has to be a Kawasaki, but seeing as they have proven themselves in the commercial units and very few reports of issues, I am leaning more towards them. Thanks for the advice.
Mike
C
cruzenmike
Love the Kawasaki on my John Deere, has not let me down yet. Good luck with whatever mower you decide on.
To be honest, I have never considered the Kawasaki until recently. I was using an HRX217 push mower and HS720 snow blower, both Honda units and thrilled with their performance and ease of use. The Cub Cadet has a Briggs ELS which seems to be somewhat quiet but I have already experienced the power surge/governor issue with the carb seals (which I plan to rebuild this summer). As for Kohler, my grandfather always swore by them and never had an issue over 20+ years of using them; I will admit he was meticulous with his maintenance, which will help with any motor for that matter. I won't say that whatever I buy has to be a Kawasaki, but seeing as they have proven themselves in the commercial units and very few reports of issues, I am leaning more towards them. Thanks for the advice.
Mike
#5
C
cruzenmike
Unfortunately Toro has gotten away from Kawasaki engines in most of their lineup. Instead they went to LCT single and v-twin engines that I have not seen a lot of information on. As for the rest of their lineup, with the exception of the new MX5025, you can get either the SS4225 or the MX5050 with the Kohler 7000. I haven't considered the Titan or "commercial" mowers much simply because of price, but I will at least call my closest 20 dealers this morning and see if I can find a ZX4800 (74851) model left over from last year. If their pricing is as you stated, that would be the money shot. If not available, I am kind of in the same boat as I was when I posted yesterday..... Thank you for your advice.
Mike
C
cruzenmike
Love my Kawasaki on my Toro 4260 too.
Might check with your Toro Dealer & see if they have any left over ZX4800 models, these are a discontinued 2016 model, but the price was $3500, for a $5400 machine. :thumbsup: All servicable w/3100 EZ Hydros.
I think they also had ZX5400 models as well, for big discount. Nothing wrong with them, just making room for newer models.
Unfortunately Toro has gotten away from Kawasaki engines in most of their lineup. Instead they went to LCT single and v-twin engines that I have not seen a lot of information on. As for the rest of their lineup, with the exception of the new MX5025, you can get either the SS4225 or the MX5050 with the Kohler 7000. I haven't considered the Titan or "commercial" mowers much simply because of price, but I will at least call my closest 20 dealers this morning and see if I can find a ZX4800 (74851) model left over from last year. If their pricing is as you stated, that would be the money shot. If not available, I am kind of in the same boat as I was when I posted yesterday..... Thank you for your advice.
Mike
#6
7394
7394
Good luck with that, hope you score. That is an awesome deal.
My 2014 Toro 4260 was last year for Kaw in a Timecutter. Toro has their own brand engine, I don't know much about that one tho. Kohler is an awesome engine as well.
My 2014 Toro 4260 was last year for Kaw in a Timecutter. Toro has their own brand engine, I don't know much about that one tho. Kohler is an awesome engine as well.
#7
C
cruzenmike
When I had the 4225 I really didn't have any gripes with it, just thought it was a bit loud. I know that Kohler talks about their "consistent cut technology" that I assume has a lot to do with how it keeps or hold the torque at peak level when under a load. Regardless it may just be splitting hairs when trying to compare two engine that are on the lower end of the price/quality whereas the FX or Confidant may be noticeably better than their subordinates.
My biggest struggle is that I tend to over-analyze things and often fixate on certain things. First it was trying to determine the best setup for real recycling (baffles/blocked chute vs. gator or x blades), and then it was blade tip speed which it appears as if the number is far less important that some may make it seem. Now it is the engine manufacturer; of which I would love to see a Honda GX690 in a mower other than the Cub Cadet. I think at the end of the day I may end up spending a bit more than I originally wanted to.
Oh, and as a last comment, I did call all of the local dealers and I cannot get the last years Titan with the Kawasaki engine. BUT..... I can get a new model with the 21HP Kohler Confidant for about $4299 which is $1100 off of the MSRP. I think at that point I would be looking into other commercial mowers that have similar features and specs.
Mike
C
cruzenmike
Good luck with that, hope you score. That is an awesome deal.
My 2014 Toro 4260 was last year for Kaw in a Timecutter. Toro has their own brand engine, I don't know much about that one tho. Kohler is an awesome engine as well.
When I had the 4225 I really didn't have any gripes with it, just thought it was a bit loud. I know that Kohler talks about their "consistent cut technology" that I assume has a lot to do with how it keeps or hold the torque at peak level when under a load. Regardless it may just be splitting hairs when trying to compare two engine that are on the lower end of the price/quality whereas the FX or Confidant may be noticeably better than their subordinates.
My biggest struggle is that I tend to over-analyze things and often fixate on certain things. First it was trying to determine the best setup for real recycling (baffles/blocked chute vs. gator or x blades), and then it was blade tip speed which it appears as if the number is far less important that some may make it seem. Now it is the engine manufacturer; of which I would love to see a Honda GX690 in a mower other than the Cub Cadet. I think at the end of the day I may end up spending a bit more than I originally wanted to.
Oh, and as a last comment, I did call all of the local dealers and I cannot get the last years Titan with the Kawasaki engine. BUT..... I can get a new model with the 21HP Kohler Confidant for about $4299 which is $1100 off of the MSRP. I think at that point I would be looking into other commercial mowers that have similar features and specs.
Mike
#8
7394
7394
Mike- Not sure I would categorize the Confidant as superior. It's a recently new engine for Kohler, & unless it is Kohler's top Commercial Engines, which the Confidant is not, it is likely made in china. Go to Kohlers site, & see it is NOT listed as Commercial. Kohler had that one whipped out to try & keep up with demand, since the Kaws are now only on upper level mowers. And have a back order for them.
As to the new model Titan (MX) with only a 21hp Confidant, I'd suggest you test ride one at your Dealers. They weigh about 750lbs (approx) & have slightly less power than my 495 lbs Timecutter 4260.
That's why I did NOT buy a ZX4800, overweight imo for the power. Price was great, but it needs a bit more hp. Least that was my conclusion after I tested one thoroughly.
As to the new model Titan (MX) with only a 21hp Confidant, I'd suggest you test ride one at your Dealers. They weigh about 750lbs (approx) & have slightly less power than my 495 lbs Timecutter 4260.
That's why I did NOT buy a ZX4800, overweight imo for the power. Price was great, but it needs a bit more hp. Least that was my conclusion after I tested one thoroughly.
#9
C
cruzenmike
I get what you are saying about the zx4800 having a lack of power in a significantly heavier machine. As for the engines, If I implied one being superior, I just meant it in regards to Kohler making two engines and one having a better air cleaner system than the other. Toro does list the Confidant as being "commercial" on their site, but it may just marketing at play. Since I cannot really afford anything with a truly commercial engine I will just have to stick to those available in my price range; Kohler 7000, Kawasaki FS691V, Briggs ELS or Honda GX690. To be honest, I have only considered the Cub Cadet just because of the Honda engine, but more and more I read, the unit itself isn't that great. At the time (2015), I chose my SS4225 just because of the Kohler engine and the luck my grandfather had with Kohlers in the past. Now, I can see that engine choice is a much debated topic. I do appreciate your advice as these decisions are far from easy. There is a Hustler dealer nearby and they have a Raptor Limited in stock so I would like to go drive it. Unfortunately, there are no Ariens dealerships around for me to test drive the iKon X. I could maybe try to test drive the Gravely ZT X which is almost identical. I hope to have this figured out sometime soon before the weather changes.
Mike
C
cruzenmike
Mike- Not sure I would categorize the Confidant as superior. It's a recently new engine for Kohler, & unless it is Kohler's top Commercial Engines, which the Confidant is not, it is likely made in china. Go to Kohlers site, & see it is NOT listed as Commercial. Kohler had that one whipped out to try & keep up with demand, since the Kaws are now only on upper level mowers. And have a back order for them.
As to the new model Titan (MX) with only a 21hp Confidant, I'd suggest you test ride one at your Dealers. They weigh about 750lbs (approx) & have slightly less power than my 495 lbs Timecutter 4260.
That's why I did NOT buy a ZX4800, overweight imo for the power. Price was great, but it needs a bit more hp. Least that was my conclusion after I tested one thoroughly.
I get what you are saying about the zx4800 having a lack of power in a significantly heavier machine. As for the engines, If I implied one being superior, I just meant it in regards to Kohler making two engines and one having a better air cleaner system than the other. Toro does list the Confidant as being "commercial" on their site, but it may just marketing at play. Since I cannot really afford anything with a truly commercial engine I will just have to stick to those available in my price range; Kohler 7000, Kawasaki FS691V, Briggs ELS or Honda GX690. To be honest, I have only considered the Cub Cadet just because of the Honda engine, but more and more I read, the unit itself isn't that great. At the time (2015), I chose my SS4225 just because of the Kohler engine and the luck my grandfather had with Kohlers in the past. Now, I can see that engine choice is a much debated topic. I do appreciate your advice as these decisions are far from easy. There is a Hustler dealer nearby and they have a Raptor Limited in stock so I would like to go drive it. Unfortunately, there are no Ariens dealerships around for me to test drive the iKon X. I could maybe try to test drive the Gravely ZT X which is almost identical. I hope to have this figured out sometime soon before the weather changes.
Mike
#10
7394
7394
The ZX4800 has power, just comparing it to my lightweight 4260, it's a very noticable diff. I wanted to up-grade to a ZX for the price, till I test drove it, but when my Toro Dealer wanted my 4260 for his personal mower, I thought, WHoa !! Pump the brakes, what I have is plenty for my use, & if my Dealer wants mine, I think I'll just keep it. He knows I'm very anal about the upkeep of my stuff. Plus I wax my mower each year end after I service it.
I'm very obsessive about details as well. So I research till my brain hurts :laughing:.
Perhaps I took your comment the wrong way. (my bad). Yes Toro does have the Confidant listed as Commercial, but my Toro Dealer says that is just hype.The Kohler site confirmed that. It does have a good air filter design.
Here in TN I have a friend that works at my Toro Dealership, he tells me that a couple Confidants came back in blown up, he said that the RPM's were set too high, according to Kohler.
I'm glad I took my time to get my Z, Hope you find exactly what you are wanting.
I'm very obsessive about details as well. So I research till my brain hurts :laughing:.
Perhaps I took your comment the wrong way. (my bad). Yes Toro does have the Confidant listed as Commercial, but my Toro Dealer says that is just hype.The Kohler site confirmed that. It does have a good air filter design.
Here in TN I have a friend that works at my Toro Dealership, he tells me that a couple Confidants came back in blown up, he said that the RPM's were set too high, according to Kohler.
I'm glad I took my time to get my Z, Hope you find exactly what you are wanting.
#11
C
cruzenmike
C
cruzenmike
So, I have decided on going with the Ariens iKon X-52, simply because it offers far more features and what appears to be a sturdier deck than the Toro. I would spend nearly all of the $400 cost difference to get the Toro to have some of the basic features like arm rests, hour meter, rubber floor mat and still be cutting 10" less per pass and not have the rather nice deck lift assist for quickly clearing debris and obstacles beneath. Now comes the fun part, which engine? The Kawasaki (FR691V) is what I have priced out at $2999 but for $100 less I can go with the Kohler (KT735). Now while I know that the auto choke on the Kohler is something that has given few a problem, it cannot be all that bad. And with HP and TQ ratings within 1 unit of measure apart, does it really matter. I guess I am just looking for proof, evidence, testimony or what not to support spending the extra $100 for an engine with slightly less power. Please help! Thank you.
#12
primerbulb120
primerbulb120
It's sort of a toss up from what I've heard. I would probably go for the Kawasaki, but I'm a commercial user so my mowers see more use than yours will. :wink:
The FX600V on my ZTR has about 400 hours on it. Cold or hot, it takes less than a second of cranking to start it. Starts faster than my truck does. :laughing:
I'm not a fan of autochokes. More stuff to break.
If I were you, I would pick the Kawasaki but the Kohler should work just as well for your needs. Not much help, am I :laughing:
The FX600V on my ZTR has about 400 hours on it. Cold or hot, it takes less than a second of cranking to start it. Starts faster than my truck does. :laughing:
I'm not a fan of autochokes. More stuff to break.
If I were you, I would pick the Kawasaki but the Kohler should work just as well for your needs. Not much help, am I :laughing:
#13
C
cruzenmike
I think that the auto choke is not necessarily the weakest point in that engine out any others. My Honda mower has auto choke and it is going on it's 8 year without any issues. I would bet that I have at least 300 hours on it. But, that's a Honda and I am completely biased to them. Regardless, a mechanical choke should work every time and when it doesn't, it should be an easy fix. I am heading out today to test drive a few mowers, one being the Gravely ZT X which is is the closest one to what I want. I figured I would take the Hustler for a spin just for comparison. I will let you know how things go.
C
cruzenmike
It's sort of a toss up from what I've heard. I would probably go for the Kawasaki, but I'm a commercial user so my mowers see more use than yours will. :wink:
The FX600V on my ZTR has about 400 hours on it. Cold or hot, it takes less than a second of cranking to start it. Starts faster than my truck does. :laughing:
I'm not a fan of autochokes. More stuff to break.
If I were you, I would pick the Kawasaki but the Kohler should work just as well for your needs. Not much help, am I :laughing:
I think that the auto choke is not necessarily the weakest point in that engine out any others. My Honda mower has auto choke and it is going on it's 8 year without any issues. I would bet that I have at least 300 hours on it. But, that's a Honda and I am completely biased to them. Regardless, a mechanical choke should work every time and when it doesn't, it should be an easy fix. I am heading out today to test drive a few mowers, one being the Gravely ZT X which is is the closest one to what I want. I figured I would take the Hustler for a spin just for comparison. I will let you know how things go.
#14
primerbulb120
primerbulb120
With an autochoke engine, you have to let the engine warm up before you shut it down. If you run it for a minute, shut it down and try to start it again the choke will still be on and it will flood.
Interesting about your Honda mower. My first one had a faulty autochoke from day one and I had to pull the air filter and poke the choke plate to make it go off. All the rest of my Hondas have had manual choke.
Interesting about your Honda mower. My first one had a faulty autochoke from day one and I had to pull the air filter and poke the choke plate to make it go off. All the rest of my Hondas have had manual choke.
#15
C
cruzenmike
I absolutely love my Honda. I happened to see that Home Depot had one of the plastic deck Honda mowers on clearance marked down from $599 to $486. If I wasn't forced to have a rider based on my yard size, I would buy one just to have a second!
C
cruzenmike
With an autochoke engine, you have to let the engine warm up before you shut it down. If you run it for a minute, shut it down and try to start it again the choke will still be on and it will flood.
Interesting about your Honda mower. My first one had a faulty autochoke from day one and I had to pull the air filter and poke the choke plate to make it go off. All the rest of my Hondas have had manual choke.
I absolutely love my Honda. I happened to see that Home Depot had one of the plastic deck Honda mowers on clearance marked down from $599 to $486. If I wasn't forced to have a rider based on my yard size, I would buy one just to have a second!
#16
C
cruzenmike
C
cruzenmike
I have not been able to get to the dealer to order my mower yet due to a time consuming remodel in my daughter's bedroom. I happened to be at Home Depot tonight ordering her carpet and getting some more paint and as I pulled into the parking lot I saw some crates with orange mowers in them. Sure enough, it was an Ikon X. I knew that they carried the model, but I did not expect to see it in stores. I parked the car, left the wife inside, and went out to pull up the plastic and take a look. I was so geeked. Then we got inside and sure enough there was one sitting there all assembled. I am telling you, for the price, you just cannot beat this machine. Kawasaki engine, welded deck with foot lift assist and very comfortable seat; it's really nice! The closest thing to it was a Toro priced at $3499. I cannot wait to get this mower!!
#17
7394
Yikes, I was freaking when I saw some new push mowers have plastic carbs:thumbdown:, now the deck, Yoy !!!
Cool, sounds like you found your new Hot Rod. :thumbsup:
7394
I absolutely love my Honda. I happened to see that Home Depot had one of the plastic deck Honda mowers on clearance marked down from $599 to $486. If I wasn't forced to have a rider based on my yard size, I would buy one just to have a second!
Yikes, I was freaking when I saw some new push mowers have plastic carbs:thumbdown:, now the deck, Yoy !!!
I have not been able to get to the dealer to order my mower yet due to a time consuming remodel in my daughter's bedroom. I happened to be at Home Depot tonight ordering her carpet and getting some more paint and as I pulled into the parking lot I saw some crates with orange mowers in them. Sure enough, it was an Ikon X. I knew that they carried the model, but I did not expect to see it in stores. I parked the car, left the wife inside, and went out to pull up the plastic and take a look. I was so geeked. Then we got inside and sure enough there was one sitting there all assembled. I am telling you, for the price, you just cannot beat this machine. Kawasaki engine, welded deck with foot lift assist and very comfortable seat; it's really nice! The closest thing to it was a Toro priced at $3499. I cannot wait to get this mower!!
Cool, sounds like you found your new Hot Rod. :thumbsup:
#18
C
cruzenmike
I was concerned at first when I bought the Honda but I remember when the HRX series first came out, Honda had some marketing campaign where ads showed a Honda Pilot driving over the deck and it not breaking. Call me a fool, but I was sold. After 6 hard summers, it has only suffered some scratches. I would surely recommend the HRX series to anyone willing to spend a premium price for an otherwise outstanding mower. If someone cannot stomach the price, there are plenty of other less expensive yet quality mowers out there.
C
cruzenmike
Yikes, I was freaking when I saw some new push mowers have plastic carbs:thumbdown:, now the deck, Yoy !!!
Cool, sounds like you found your new Hot Rod. :thumbsup:
I was concerned at first when I bought the Honda but I remember when the HRX series first came out, Honda had some marketing campaign where ads showed a Honda Pilot driving over the deck and it not breaking. Call me a fool, but I was sold. After 6 hard summers, it has only suffered some scratches. I would surely recommend the HRX series to anyone willing to spend a premium price for an otherwise outstanding mower. If someone cannot stomach the price, there are plenty of other less expensive yet quality mowers out there.
#19
7394
7394
I guess I'm too "old school", seems everything is plastic these days. I would have liked to see that test.
I know today's society is a disposable one, where things are designed to only last so long. Otherwise they don't have to sell you another. Yep, I'm old school.
I know today's society is a disposable one, where things are designed to only last so long. Otherwise they don't have to sell you another. Yep, I'm old school.
#20
C
cruzenmike
C
cruzenmike
Okay, so here we are, ready to make a purchase. I have gone back and forth, and at times feel like I am the most indecisive person in the world, but here we go....
Some of you who have seen my other posts and are aware of the issues that I have had with my current Cub Cadet. I do not blame the brand, rather, I purchased something used and ended up having to sink a bunch of money into it shortly after I got it. Either way, I am ready to move on and need to get something quick here. I had purchased the MTD front snow plow for the Cub Cadet which will work with any new Cub. I also have a trailer (wagon) and ideally would like to have some other attachments like roller, aerator and dethatcher. Now, while I feel that I would either need or like all of the things that fit with a garden tractor, I fully realize that >75% of the time I am using this machine it will be to cut. A zero turn will save loads of time and may give me a better cut. So, I am still quite set on the Ariens Ikon X if I go zero turn, I will just have to give up the attachments and purchase a two stage snow blower in the fall/winter. Should I choose to go with a garden tractor, my two top picks are the Cub Cadet XT1 GT50 and the Husqvarna GT48DXLS. The differences between the two are listed below:
Cub Cadet Husqvarna
$2699 $2999
50" Stamped Deck 48" Fabricated Deck
K58 hydro K66 hydro with electronic diff lock
1-4" cut .5-3.5" cut
25hp Kohler 7000 24hp Kawasaki FR730V
Looking at the specs of these two mowers, and knowing that I am going to maybe use some attachments, and push snow in the winter, is the Husqvarna worth the extra $300? Also, does anyone cut higher than 3.5" on their lawn (not fields)? Lastly, what is the overall quality of the Husqvarna vs the Cub Cadet? I appreciate everyone's input!
FYI - you cannot find any information on the Husqvarna as it is a new 2017 model and dealer specific.
Mike
Some of you who have seen my other posts and are aware of the issues that I have had with my current Cub Cadet. I do not blame the brand, rather, I purchased something used and ended up having to sink a bunch of money into it shortly after I got it. Either way, I am ready to move on and need to get something quick here. I had purchased the MTD front snow plow for the Cub Cadet which will work with any new Cub. I also have a trailer (wagon) and ideally would like to have some other attachments like roller, aerator and dethatcher. Now, while I feel that I would either need or like all of the things that fit with a garden tractor, I fully realize that >75% of the time I am using this machine it will be to cut. A zero turn will save loads of time and may give me a better cut. So, I am still quite set on the Ariens Ikon X if I go zero turn, I will just have to give up the attachments and purchase a two stage snow blower in the fall/winter. Should I choose to go with a garden tractor, my two top picks are the Cub Cadet XT1 GT50 and the Husqvarna GT48DXLS. The differences between the two are listed below:
Cub Cadet Husqvarna
$2699 $2999
50" Stamped Deck 48" Fabricated Deck
K58 hydro K66 hydro with electronic diff lock
1-4" cut .5-3.5" cut
25hp Kohler 7000 24hp Kawasaki FR730V
Looking at the specs of these two mowers, and knowing that I am going to maybe use some attachments, and push snow in the winter, is the Husqvarna worth the extra $300? Also, does anyone cut higher than 3.5" on their lawn (not fields)? Lastly, what is the overall quality of the Husqvarna vs the Cub Cadet? I appreciate everyone's input!
FYI - you cannot find any information on the Husqvarna as it is a new 2017 model and dealer specific.
Mike
#21
BigKingClipper
BigKingClipper
Cruzenmike,
You seem to have been doing your homework, but you are overlooking some very good and simple options. Have you looked into Kgro riding mowers? They are made for Kmart, but are actually built by Craftsman. I've had mine since 1998 and this machine is hands down the fastest and most reliable riding mower ever built. IMO these riding tractors put all the fancy zero-turn mowers to shame. I even used to professionally race mine and believe me, you should be wearing a helmet when you mow with this baby. As far as attachments go... I have pulled rollers, aerators, boats, you name it. I even pulled out a pickup truck that was stuck in the mud. I do have to admit that the glass clipping trajectory is on the lower end, which is quite frustrating, however I do compensate by custom sharpening my blades to 3 degree angled edges. The lateral adjustability of the deck and deck components are much better than the junky exmark or cub cadets you can get today. If you are looking for the answer, then look no further. I've spent years researching and know pretty much everything there is to know about mowers and tractors, even snow blowers. If you need any help don't hesitate to ask. I love to help people who are new and in-experienced in the mowing and landscaping industry
-KC
You seem to have been doing your homework, but you are overlooking some very good and simple options. Have you looked into Kgro riding mowers? They are made for Kmart, but are actually built by Craftsman. I've had mine since 1998 and this machine is hands down the fastest and most reliable riding mower ever built. IMO these riding tractors put all the fancy zero-turn mowers to shame. I even used to professionally race mine and believe me, you should be wearing a helmet when you mow with this baby. As far as attachments go... I have pulled rollers, aerators, boats, you name it. I even pulled out a pickup truck that was stuck in the mud. I do have to admit that the glass clipping trajectory is on the lower end, which is quite frustrating, however I do compensate by custom sharpening my blades to 3 degree angled edges. The lateral adjustability of the deck and deck components are much better than the junky exmark or cub cadets you can get today. If you are looking for the answer, then look no further. I've spent years researching and know pretty much everything there is to know about mowers and tractors, even snow blowers. If you need any help don't hesitate to ask. I love to help people who are new and in-experienced in the mowing and landscaping industry
-KC
#22
C
cruzenmike
C
cruzenmike
I have surely overlooked a lot of models that simply didn't have the power, deck size or consumer reviews that were to my liking. With that being said, I ended up buying the Cub Cadet GT50 because of the price and it being able to work with my existing attachments. Before I could even gas it up for the first time, my step dad gave me his ExMark. This forced me to completely re-think my situation. So, I am going to return the GT50, keep the LTX1050 and fix up the ExMark.
Mike
Mike
#23
L
LittleLebowski
That "brand" is long gone and Sears is nearly bankrupt.
L
LittleLebowski
Cruzenmike,
You seem to have been doing your homework, but you are overlooking some very good and simple options. Have you looked into Kgro riding mowers? They are made for Kmart, but are actually built by Craftsman. I've had mine since 1998 and this machine is hands down the fastest and most reliable riding mower ever built. IMO these riding tractors put all the fancy zero-turn mowers to shame. I even used to professionally race mine and believe me, you should be wearing a helmet when you mow with this baby. As far as attachments go... I have pulled rollers, aerators, boats, you name it. I even pulled out a pickup truck that was stuck in the mud. I do have to admit that the glass clipping trajectory is on the lower end, which is quite frustrating, however I do compensate by custom sharpening my blades to 3 degree angled edges. The lateral adjustability of the deck and deck components are much better than the junky exmark or cub cadets you can get today. If you are looking for the answer, then look no further. I've spent years researching and know pretty much everything there is to know about mowers and tractors, even snow blowers. If you need any help don't hesitate to ask. I love to help people who are new and in-experienced in the mowing and landscaping industry
-KC
That "brand" is long gone and Sears is nearly bankrupt.
#24
BigKingClipper
BigKingClipper
Kgro is no longer made that is correct, however there are plenty of used machines out there that are well maintained and extremely affordable. Cruzenmike, have you ever looked into eBay? There are nice machines on there that might be worth your hard-earned dollars. Exmark replacement parts and labor on those mowers are VERY expensive! You'd probably be better off selling that and buying another brand off eBay. You will save so much money that you can have custom blades forged and even get other attachments such as a plow and a nice light bar. Have you ever mowed at night? It is extremely efficient seeing as grass blades are dormant and relaxed when photosynthesis is not in its active phase. Just don't cut too long after dusk or the moisture and biodegradation from the clippings sitting overnight will negatively impact the ph levels in your soil. A good Light bar is a must have for anyone looking to maximize the output of their machines and quality of their cut.