Cub Cadet XT3 GS -- Looks Good, but is it?

JDL130 · Jul 3, 2015

I went into the local Cub dealer today since I was off work for a change and checked out the Cub Cadet XT3. They had a GSX in stock, which kind of turned me off -- lots of extra electric junk like deck lift, power steering, and etc. But it also had a lot of really great stuff -- Hydro-Gear cast iron transaxle with filter, etc. Direct shaft drive instead of a belt. Drive wheels bolt on instead of being held on by C-clips. Nice Kohler Command 25HP engine, not a Courage.

I asked about the base model XT3, which is called the GS, and it comes with everything EXCEPT the electric stuff I don't want. This really seems like a nice option in the same price range as the Husqvarna R322T and the other stuff I am considering. It has a 22.5HP Kohler Command engine.

Does anyone have any experience with these? I understand they are owned/made by MTD. Is this a problem? The thing really seemed well-built and heavily built. I didn't like that you have to buy the deck separately, but that's not a big deal I guess.

dieselbob69 · Sep 6, 2015

What did you end up buying? Not a fan of Cubs anymore. The cast iron rear axle? Made in China. Decks that clog non-stop. "Electric" deck lifts and steering that are not cheap repairs when they fail.(My electric steering started to fail when they were loading on truck to deliver to me when new)....go read Cub's Facebook page-some good reviews,more negative ones IMO. If you went w/ a Cub,good luck......

Topcat14 · Sep 8, 2015

Yes the cub cadet these days have had some quality control issues- the XT3 is marketed as a garden tractor, but is really more a yard tractor - still a solid machine

MESSMAKER · Sep 8, 2015

Cub Cadet is yet to prove that they have not taken short cuts on their tractors. I like their zero turns better.

JDL130 · Sep 8, 2015

I ended up getting a 2005 Kubota BX1500 with a 54" mid-mount mower. For $5k it was several classes above the Cub and anything else in that price range with only 520-ish hours.

jenkinsph · Sep 8, 2015

JDL130 said:
I ended up getting a 2005 Kubota BX1500 with a 54" mid-mount mower. For $5k it was several classes above the Cub and anything else in that price range with only 520-ish hours.

The BX 1500 is a better machine, no doubt in my mind about it. You did good.:thumbsup: