New 2024 Cub Cadet Ultima ZTXS5 54

[Runner]

Are you sure that you are not overloading the trailer ? !

I've only got two choices and the other one is too small. Sure would like to have something like a landscape trailer, but just don't really have the need. The only reason this mower would go on the trailer would be if it breaks, so hopefully won't need it.

 

[Runner]

5th mowing update: FINALLY got through one mowing session without bouncing off the seat and activating the PTO disconnect. I think this is a result of being more "in tune" with the machine, bracing myself for the rough spots and becoming more familiar with where the "problem areas" are in the yard.

Machine is still running great and delivering a beautiful cut. Hour meter now showing 10.3 hours with no issues thus far.

 

[Runner]

Since my dealer refuses to give me the mower chute stop bracket that I paid for, I went ahead and made my own. It just bolts into the existing lug on the mower deck that is normally used for attaching the bagger boot. Still need to paint and give it a shakedown run, but looks like it should do the trick.

 

[Runner]

Final product on mower chute stop bracket. Added paint and rubber/felt pads where it touches the chute surfaces.

 

[Runner]

Just sharpened the blades for the first time. My thoughts:

First, I wonder what gorilla put the blades on? Book says 70 to 90 lbs torque. Had to double check the manual to see if maybe the nuts were left hand threads (they are not). Felt more like 190 lbs. I had to use two 24" breaker bars to get the blade nuts off.

Second, I have to agree with other posters on TBN who noted that the Cub Cadet stock blades seem to be rather soft. I am very careful to avoid sticks, rocks, etc., but still quite a few nicks and the blades overall pretty dull after 18 hours.

Reinstalled with 75 lbs torque so should be a little easier next time. Hoping to find some aftermarket blades to try when replacement time comes.

I was quite surprised at how clean the underside of the deck was after 18 hours without cleaning.

I really like the "quick release" spindle guards, just spin off two plastic handles on each side and they come off (no tools). No spindle guard on the center spindle is good for cleaning and maintenance.

After servicing the blades, I installed a cheater knob on the steering wheel. Plan on mowing tomorrow to try that out.

 

[drumminj]

Interesting you've already sharpened the blades. I haven't even looked into how difficult it is to get to/remove them (I assume that's in the manual somewhere?)

I'd like to get Oregon Gator blades as replacements but they don't seem to list a compatible blade. Did you happen to note/notice the size of the center hole for the blades? I assume one can buy based off that (and obviously blade length based on cutting deck size. 19" for the 54" deck)

 

[Runner]

Interesting you've already sharpened the blades. I haven't even looked into how difficult it is to get to/remove them (I assume that's in the manual somewhere?)

I'd like to get Oregon Gator blades as replacements but they don't seem to list a compatible blade. Did you happen to note/notice the size of the center hole for the blades? I assume one can buy based off that (and obviously blade length based on cutting deck size. 19" for the 54" deck)

The manual says to remove the deck to get to the blades, which is silly. I have one of those ZTR jacks from Harbor Freight that raises the machine from the front wheels. Works fine.

The blade nuts are 15/16" and they ARE regular right handed threads.

My blades measured 18 5/8" long and the center hole is 3/4".

I was looking on Amazon for replacement blades and so far, no luck finding anything that is listed as a replacement for the CC part number. I'm sure there must be something aftermarket out there that will work.

 

[RjCorazza]

That blade should be easy enough to match up. Oregon used to have a pdf of their blades by manufacturer, or blade length / home size. It was several years ago that I looked at it, so sorry no link.

 

[Sonny580]

all cc blades are junk!! Soft as butter! my z-force 48 wont mow the yard one time without having to stop and grind blades again.
Also the b&s intek 22 motor on the z's are junk! Blew the heads on mine and after research this is common thing on MOST new motors no matter what brand! Mine has 550 hours on it. Valve guides come loose and breaks the push rods in them. With all the trouble I have with this one I think its time to dig a hole and bury it!!

 

[Runner]

Sonny, sorry to hear about the Intek on your unit. I am nursing along a 16 hp Intek on an old Sabre lawn tractor myself. The thing is still hanging in there though.....

I think I agree on the blades. After 1 mowing on the freshly-sharpened blades, they are already looking dull again. The thing has such high blade speed (compared to my old rear finish mower) that it still does a decent job, but I would like to find some good aftermarket blades.

Still looking, but no luck yet. Everything I'm finding is either too long or center hole is too small...

Fall is coming and I'm looking forward to seeing how the bagger does on leaf pickup. This is going to be lots faster than picking up 2 acres of leaves with the old JD185 with 38 inch deck.