Buying a ZTR, what should I look for, or avoid?

Dftodd · May 22, 2025

wolc123 said:
God gave the human body an amazing ability to heal itself, but I’d need time, parts and tools to fix that Kawasaki engine or any other mechanical component on that ZTR that I broke by going too fast over the rough stuff.

I don't go too fast on mine. Neither does my wife.

That suspension seat on ours means the difference between my wife mowing or not.

She broke her back years ago and in her case, that seat was a must have.

CH4Ohio · May 22, 2025

Try out one of the Cub Cadets with steering wheel. If your budget allows, test drive one of the PRO models with power steering.

wolc123 · May 22, 2025

CH4Ohio said:
Try out one of the Cub Cadets with steering wheel. If your budget allows, test drive one of the PRO models with power steering.

You could put a spinner on the steering wheel and drink a beverage while you are mowing with your other hand. Definitely a lot easier than with the two handle steering models.

CH4Ohio · May 22, 2025

Actually don't even need the spinner . . .

WVH1977 · May 23, 2025

Whatever you buy, get a suspension seat. It costs more but your back is worth it.

Jaybr · May 23, 2025

I just went through buying a new ZTR this week. Couple things I learned while shopping: The hydro is the most expensive thing on the mower and you should match the size of the hydro to the acreage your mowing. The cheaper homeowner versions have smaller hydro pumps and motors and are rated for an acre or two. Will they mow your 5 acres? Yes, but they will be running hot doing it and won't last long. I don't know which size hydro is rated for what acreage, but a dealer should be able to size appropriately for your needs.

paradox998 · May 23, 2025

I bought a Cub Cadet ZTR1 50 a couple of weeks ago. It lasted for about 90 minutes. The transmisson belt came off and to fix it, the mower has to go to a service center. Needless to say I returned the mower for a refund.

Topzide · May 23, 2025

Don't overlook the Gravely units. Commercial or Pro series would be needed for 5 acres. Yes on the upgraded seat for sure! Who says that you can't drive the lever models with one hand? With practice, I had a gentleman driving one, since he lost one arm in a car accident!

TractorNoob85 · May 23, 2025

The only ZTR I have experience with is a 2011 Scag Turf Tiger 61" 31hp Vanguard. It's definitely a work horse of a ZTR. Maintenance on it is surprisingly easy. May be the only shaft driven deck ZTR of all the models. The fuel tank (13 gallon) is under the seat, so it has a very low center of gravity. Hugs hills very well. Alot of used ones out there for a good price. I would stay away from the Vanguard engine though. They are known for pushrod failure. Easy replacement though.

Sportsman762 · May 23, 2025

Jaybr said:
The hydro is the most expensive thing on the mower and you should match the size of the hydro to the acreage your mowing.

I have never seen a hydro rated for acreage. However the hydros are rated for a max weight. Many companies will skimp on they hydro creating a mower that is to large for the hydro.
Toro Titan 60", 845 lbs.