New Rider Advice Needed - Cub Cadet, Husqvarna, or Other?

[whelch1]

Where are you located?

 

[Certek]

Where are you located?

I am from Harrisburg, PA

 

[Certek]

I can see the pictures now.
Really nice looking lawn, and you are right that grass look nice an thick.
I know you are trying to maintain a certain lawn mower budget, but for future reference
the R322T AWD could handle your steep slope.

good luck in your search

Thanks and I appreciate your input. I will update this thread on my ongoing findings.

 

[Certek]

Well had the CC dealer over today and he brought the RZT S42 tractor with him. He looked at the big hill and was a little concerned. He took it out and was able to run up and down and around the slope without a problem. I drove it a couple of times as well and while I felt comfortable on it I could tell it would be difficult to maneuver the unit and 42 inch deck with all my beds and yard undulations. I could see the deck always trying to settle out with all the slopes involved. Most times it would be OK but on tight and demanding ares (slope) you could see the deck go through a lot of elevations. I am concerned with uneven cuts. At the same time, I am sure I would be able to determine the best way to mow the lawn and minimize problem cut areas, scalping, etc., with time behind the wheel. Never had a rider so maybe this would not be the case. I am just concerned with it being too big for the space and having to do a lot of cleanup with a WB. Am I over complicating things? Really do not want to spend that kind of money and not be able to use it on the hills as it must do a good job.

Seriously considering another WB. Either Honda with its superior much capability or a used commercial or high end residential. Anybody have any working knowledge of a Simplicity Pacer 1534? Saw one on craigslist. I believe it has a single hydro static wheel drive which may be a problem with the hill.

 

[Ric]

Well had the CC dealer over today and he brought the RZT S42 tractor with him. He looked at the big hill and was a little concerned. He took it out and was able to run up and down and around the slope without a problem. I drove it a couple of times as well and while I felt comfortable on it I could tell it would be difficult to maneuver the unit and 42 inch deck with all my beds and yard undulations. I could see the deck always trying to settle out with all the slopes involved. Most times it would be OK but on tight and demanding ares (slope) you could see the deck go through a lot of elevations. I am concerned with uneven cuts. At the same time, I am sure I would be able to determine the best way to mow the lawn and minimize problem cut areas, scalping, etc., with time behind the wheel. Never had a rider so maybe this would not be the case. I am just concerned with it being too big for the space and having to do a lot of cleanup with a WB. Am I over complicating things?

Yeah your complicating things. With time and getting to know the machine and how to use it or any ztr for that matter you'll be better than you can imagine. I'm not telling you there wont be any trimming to do when you get done but there wont be as much as you think. I would guess it probably doesn't maneuver as well as a Ztr with lap bars but the 42" deck should do well around beds as well as increase your productivity. If your comfortable with the machine I'd say go for it.

 

[HokieEtown]

I have visited dealers and narrowed down my choices to two mowers. First is the Husqvarna YT42DXLS (42") tractor. It has the locked differential in order to handle the hills. Second is a totally different style, Cub Cadet RZT S42. It is a zero turn but has a steering wheel that controls the front wheels for better performance on hills. Lots of reviews state is does very well with them. Pricing for the two are pretty similar. The Hus tractor has a better deck and seems built a bit better in total. The same engine is used in both, Kohler 22HP/725cc Kohler 7000. I like the zero turn and lower center of gravity of the CC. On the other hand, I like to heavier deck and build of the Hus. I do mulch beds on hills and around the house and plan on getting a cart to help with this activity. Can the CC handle this load? Dealer said it should not be a problem but I am a bit concerned. I am really struggling to make a decision. If it is your $2,500 which would you choose or is there another I should be reviewing? Fire away if you have any questions.

While searching, I found your discussion trying to decide between the Husqvarna YT42DXLS and the Cub Cadet RZT S42. I also have slopes similar to yours, occasionally tow a leaf sweeper and cart, and have been torn between these two. Did you wind up purchasing one of the two and, if so, have you been satisfied with your choice?
Thanks