New 2024 Cub Cadet Ultima ZTXS5 54

[Runner]

Glad to hear you found a solution. Do you have a video or list of steps you can link to on how to disable it?

I put on the gator blades the other day but haven't had a chance to mow with them yet (probably tomorrow). Man, I had to use a 3' breaker bar to get the spindle nuts loose, and on 2 of the three needed a wrench on the head of the spindle nut to stop from just turning the spindle with it!

Think you'll ever consider adding the extra suspension to the seat?

There are a bunch of videos on YT showing how to do it. Here is the first one that comes up for me (shown on a lawn tractor, but the switch/plug is the same):

There are also instructions on how to bypass the "reverse safety button feature" which I haven't tried yet. On that one, it looks like just unplugging the harness from the button takes care of it, but I can't verify.

So far, the reverse cutoff hasn't really bothered me much because you only have to push the button once when you start mowing. I'm mostly concerned that the button may malfunction, in which case I will perform the defeat mod.

I think the Gator Blades are a good alternative to the CC blades for normal mowing. They definitely seem more durable than the factory ones.

Since I aired the tires down, the ride isn't unbearable, and I really don't mind the bouncing as long as it doesn't shut off the mower every 2 minutes.... I will admit, I have given some thought to going back to mowing the big east yard (which is the roughest part) with the 2520/rear finish mower.

Still meditating on the suspension seat mod. It's looking better all the time

 

[dino9]

Your story for purchasing the ZTXS sounds familiar! Been using a Deere subcompact and an older 185 garden tractor for 13 years now. Same song and dance .. lots of trees, cut in with small (and low), and do the rest with large (and high). But the subcompact has weight in the tires to help with the loader and snowblower use ... and while the 60 inch belly mower works fine, the ride so choppy in the rough fields that I need to go slow. So I just ordered a ZTXS6 to save the tractor from so many mowing hours, and thought I might also speed up my mowing. But your experiences with a choppy ride now have me wondering if I did the right thing. The ZTXS6 has the suspension seat but how much can that really do? Almost looked at the ProZ for the air seat but start getting into some real money for these machines, even the 6 is pushing $10K. The ProZs are small-tractor money -- those with 2 PTOs, heavy frames, power steering and diesel engines. Which makes me think the ZTs are way overpriced. If it works well it'll be worth it .. or maybe that short wheelbase and light front end are gonna make for some buckboard rides.

 

[Runner]

Your story for purchasing the ZTXS sounds familiar! Been using a Deere subcompact and an older 185 garden tractor for 13 years now. Same song and dance .. lots of trees, cut in with small (and low), and do the rest with large (and high). But the subcompact has weight in the tires to help with the loader and snowblower use ... and while the 60 inch belly mower works fine, the ride so choppy in the rough fields that I need to go slow. So I just ordered a ZTXS6 to save the tractor from so many mowing hours, and thought I might also speed up my mowing. But your experiences with a choppy ride now have me wondering if I did the right thing. The ZTXS6 has the suspension seat but how much can that really do? Almost looked at the ProZ for the air seat but start getting into some real money for these machines, even the 6 is pushing $10K. The ProZs are small-tractor money -- those with 2 PTOs, heavy frames, diesel engines. Which makes me think the ZTs are way overpriced. If it works well it'll be worth it .. or maybe that short wheelbase and light front end are gonna make for some buckboard rides.

Welcome to TBN, Dino!

One thing to keep in mind in reading my posts is that I am dealing with some fairly extreme conditions on my property - 25 degree slopes, lots of tall grass to mow, lots of obstacles to mow around and some very rough areas. So, if it sounds like I have a lot of complaints about the machine, it really isn't so.

I knew there would be a trade off in the ride quality going from a medium frame compact tractor to a ZTR of any type. However, I still think that the advantages of using the ZTSX5 outweigh any disadvantages. The machine is nothing short of incredible in its ability to hold onto hills while mowing around trees, etc., and delivers a beautiful cut quality while not tearing up the grass (and saving some mowing time as well).

I am just trying to document my journey with this machine as thoroughly as possible for the benefit of anyone else thinking of buying one. This includes noting the quirks of the machine and any adjustments or modifications I make to it along the way.

I think having a suspension seat on this machine (or on a ZTSX6) would make a world of difference (as would having power steering). However, as you say, those features cost money and therein lies another tradeoff.

I actually don't mind the harder ride so much if it results in me being able to handle the rather unusual conditions of mowing my property with one single machine, while getting a nicer looking result in the process. As long as the PTO isn't cutting out every 2 minutes, I can handle this little bucking bronco.

Still wish I had a ProZ754S though By the way, I notice that CC has added a new machine to their lineup, the ProZ760S. Not sure how that machine would do with a 31 hp engine compared to the 38 hp 960 next up the line. I know that 24 hp is barely adequate on my machine with a 54 inch deck.

Good luck with your decision and please keep us posted.

 

[Runner]

First mowing with the seat switch/PTO cutoff disconnected yesterday. This made a WORLD of difference. SO much nicer to be able to just mow without having to worry about staying stuck to the seat. Just hammer down and go.

Also removed the front 32 lb counterweight that is used in conjunction with the bagger. I left it on due to laziness, but it was making the steering heavy when not using the bagger. Now it steers like a sports car again....

As to the rough ride - being able to "relax" while mowing really helps relieve the overall strain on rough ground. You can sort of ride the machine like a horse if that makes sense. One thing that seems to exacerbate the problem is the angle of the seat back.

If I lean back on the seat while going over bumps, gravity seems to exaggerate the effect of the bumps on my lower back, whereas, if I sit straight up (i.e., with my back not touching the seat back) there is much less back pain.

Therefore, I am going to look into changing the angle of the seat such that I can sit more upright. I don't think the seat back is adjustable, but I might be able to raise the back of the entire seat by adding some blocks under the rear mounting points or maybe under the rubber isolation bumpers.

 

[Runner]

Installed a couple of 5/16 spacers under the rear seat bolts today (2 fender washers and a 1/4" rubber donut). Don't know if this will make a significant difference in the seating position, but it's all that would fit using the original carriage bolts. Will try it out next mowing.

If it's not enough, I might try some rubber shock absorber bushings and longer bolts....

 

[drumminj]

Unclear if this reflects positively on the gator blades or not, but got sent a text from the missus with this photo and the caption "mower carnage"



Overall my impression is the stock cub cadet blades do a better job of mulching and distributing the clippings. They seem to be more noticeable with the gators. I'll have to sharpen the stock blades and swap them back on to confirm.

 

[Carl_NH]

No honey - the mower decided the pot needed to take a leak

 

[Runner]

Unclear if this reflects positively on the gator blades or not, but got sent a text from the missus with this photo and the caption "mower carnage"

View attachment 3373771

Overall my impression is the stock cub cadet blades do a better job of mulching and distributing the clippings. They seem to be more noticeable with the gators. I'll have to sharpen the stock blades and swap them back on to confirm.

Ouch! Better than hitting a window or person at least.

I've been pretty happy with the cut quality of the stock blades, but they don't seem to stay sharp very long.

 

[dino9]

Welcome to TBN, Dino!

One thing to keep in mind in reading my posts is that I am dealing with some fairly extreme conditions on my property - 25 degree slopes, lots of tall grass to mow, lots of obstacles to mow around and some very rough areas. So, if it sounds like I have a lot of complaints about the machine, it really isn't so.

I knew there would be a trade off in the ride quality going from a medium frame compact tractor to a ZTR of any type. However, I still think that the advantages of using the ZTSX5 outweigh any disadvantages. The machine is nothing short of incredible in its ability to hold onto hills while mowing around trees, etc., and delivers a beautiful cut quality while not tearing up the grass (and saving some mowing time as well).

I am just trying to document my journey with this machine as thoroughly as possible for the benefit of anyone else thinking of buying one. This includes noting the quirks of the machine and any adjustments or modifications I make to it along the way.

I think having a suspension seat on this machine (or on a ZTSX6) would make a world of difference (as would having power steering). However, as you say, those features cost money and therein lies another tradeoff.

I actually don't mind the harder ride so much if it results in me being able to handle the rather unusual conditions of mowing my property with one single machine, while getting a nicer looking result in the process. As long as the PTO isn't cutting out every 2 minutes, I can handle this little bucking bronco.

Still wish I had a ProZ754S though By the way, I notice that CC has added a new machine to their lineup, the ProZ760S. Not sure how that machine would do with a 31 hp engine compared to the 38 hp 960 next up the line. I know that 24 hp is barely adequate on my machine with a 54 inch deck.

Good luck with your decision and please keep us posted.

Took delivery of the ZTXS6 this week. Really like the machine, like riding a go cart around the lawn and really speeds things up while reducing the areas that need smaller mower trimming. Only complaint, common to many of these machines I think, is a choppy ride. We have a section of field we've started to mow and wow, bumpy ... small chop but all over the place. But the suspension seat makes it easy enough on the body ... just can't max out the speed without feeling like the machine might shake apart.

I think, without the suspension seat, I'd be bouncing up so much that the interrupt switch would be tripped often, as you noted. But the suspension seat keeps you planted, while adding alot of comfort. How much can it do, I wondered? Turns out, quite a bit !

 

[Runner]

Took delivery of the ZTXS6 this week. Really like the machine, like riding a go cart around the lawn and really speeds things up while reducing the areas that need smaller mower trimming. Only complaint, common to many of these machines I think, is a choppy ride. We have a section of field we've started to mow and wow, bumpy ... small chop but all over the place. But the suspension seat makes it easy enough on the body ... just can't max out the speed without feeling like the machine might shake apart.

I think, without the suspension seat, I'd be bouncing up so much that the interrupt switch would be tripped often, as you noted. But the suspension seat keeps you planted, while adding alot of comfort. How much can it do, I wondered? Turns out, quite a bit !

Congratulations! I hope you will keep us posted on your ownership experience. Maybe give a review on your machine.

 

[Runner]

Cub plowing through 8 to 10 inches of thick, wet fescue in the rain yesterday. Handled it like a boss. Started raining after I began mowing, but it was supposed to rain for the next couple of days, so I decided to forge ahead.

Seat position mod seems to be about right and the ride was pretty comfy (except for the rain...). Machine was quite the mess afterward.

39 hours now and no issues other than the oil drip which seems to have subsided, or maybe the oil is just being shaken off from all the mowing.

 

[bsekf]

We just purchased a ZTX5-54 inch. (Post above). No steering wheel, but must be a similar mower. We only got one key, how do you get an extra? Got to call the dealer because we didn't get a manual for the Kohler motor. Where do you find after market blades? Have you tried an impact wrench when removing blades? Have only mowed 5-6 hours but it is a brute and rides like one. Front wheel suspension is a joke, will try lowering the pressure although the manual says not to. What are your feelings?

 

[drumminj]

We just purchased a ZTX5-54 inch. (Post above). No steering wheel, but must be a similar mower. We only got one key, how do you get an extra? Got to call the dealer because we didn't get a manual for the Kohler motor. Where do you find after market blades? Have you tried an impact wrench when removing blades? Have only mowed 5-6 hours but it is a brute and rides like one. Front wheel suspension is a joke, will try lowering the pressure although the manual says not to. What are your feelings?

I have a ZTXS4 but will give my answers...

1. I believe Tractor Supply sells cub keys (they're all the same I believe -- https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/product/mtd-ignition-key)
2. You should do that, but I suspect you can find the manual online. Definitely get it though -- the maintenance schedule in my Kohler manual is different than in the cub manual (for oil + filter changes at least)
3. I got my gator blades from northerntool. Drop-shipped from Oregon.
4. I didn't use an impact wrench, just a standard socket with a 3' breaker bar. Ended up working.
5. The suspension insert I added to mine made a big difference IMO. Needed some rubber spacers for the seat presence switch to fit, but other than that was just bolt-on. Something to consider if you find you want to soften the ride

 

[Runner]

We just purchased a ZTX5-54 inch. (Post above). No steering wheel, but must be a similar mower. We only got one key, how do you get an extra? Got to call the dealer because we didn't get a manual for the Kohler motor. Where do you find after market blades? Have you tried an impact wrench when removing blades? Have only mowed 5-6 hours but it is a brute and rides like one. Front wheel suspension is a joke, will try lowering the pressure although the manual says not to. What are your feelings?

CC's are shipped with plastic bag under the seat containing two keys, an owner's manual and an engine manual. The dealer I had deliver my machine was horrible. Apparently his common practice was to just put one key in the unit then throw the rest of the contents of the bag into a big box under his sales counter. I had to go back to his place and ask for the manuals and my extra key which he begrudgingly gave me.

CC makes a pretty good product, but REALLY needs to work on their dealer network.

Fortunately, it's easy to order blades from CC either from their web site (or the CC store on Amazon) and you can get aftermarket blades from Oregon store on Amazon. Some CC parts like blades, oil filters, etc., are available from farm stores like TSC that sell CC products. I am running Gator blades by Oregon on mine for the summer and they are working great.

I haven't tried using an impact to remove the blade nuts - very good idea. Might keep me from having to use a wrench on top of the spindle which is a PITA.

I am running lowered pressure on my tires and it helps the ride a lot. Sidewalls say 28 rear and 20 front and I am running 15 front and rear. Have not noticed any negative effects except it lowers your mowing height a little, like maybe 1/4".

 

[drumminj]

Apparently his common practice was to just put one key in the unit then throw the rest of the contents of the bag into a big box under his sales counter.

Must be what my dealer did as well as I only got one key. Will just buy a backup at some point

 

[Cub Cadet TN]

I ordered these little hooded umbrella type keys (fishing plug not included) for about $6 for a pair to hopefully keep dust and dirt out of the key thingie. Brand new owner of a ZTXS4 48. Only mowed twice with it.

 

[Runner]

Did my annual/50 HR oil/filter change and air filter service last week. I was going to remove the drain hose and the adapter fitting so as to apply some thread sealer to stop the oil seeping. However, as of late, I hadn't noticed any more drips so I thought "Cool, fixed itself".

No such luck, just the dust on the underside of the machine is soaking up the oil. Anyway, i decided it was just too much trouble and blew it off. I can live with a little drip of oil once in a while.

Got smart and packed the area around the oil filter with newspaper and a BUNCH of rags to catch the oil while removing the old filter. Did a much neater job this time.

No other issues to report at this time. Unit is running great and the Gator blades are delivering a nice cut.

 

[drumminj]

I still feel like I get more clumping with the gator blades, but haven't sharpened the stock blades and put them back on to verify. Turns out I'm lazy.

I just hit 50hrs on mine and was planning to do an oil+filter change, but the Kohler manual actually doesn't recommend that when using their 'pro' filters. Don't have the manual handy so don't recall if it's 100hrs or something less. Have all the parts so may do it anyway as annual changes seem like a good thing.

 

[Runner]

Learned something today about the ZTXS5 54: Be careful when turning around looking behind you while backing up. When I have to back up for a relatively long distance, I will turn around in the seat (because it hurts my neck to try to turn my head 180 degrees). While turned around, my right knee accidentally hit the parking brake lever and moved it back out of the off "detent".

Even though it was barely out of the notch, it was enough that the forward/back movement of the machine was labored. Took me a while to figure out what was wrong. By the time I figured it out, I was smelling brake lining. Pushed the lever back into the detent and all was fine after that, but had me a little concerned for a second or two.

Lesson learned.

Otherwise, the hour meter is showing 67 now (can't believe I've got that many on it in two years) and all is well. Very happy with this purchase.

 

[tacticalturnip]

No real harm, no foul.