The right Cub to buy

[wsx7]

Elck, I too mowed for eight years with a 42" 14.5 machine. My yard has a twenty degree or better slope, I weigh 260, and my new 1050 will mow up and down that area all day without any hesitation or slip.

I agree that the shaft drive machines have some benefit over belt drive, but I don't see it in normal mowing. I think sometimes people expect too much of what is basically designed as "a mower."

If I was going to pull water filled rollers, which can be very heavy, and mow steep hills, I would be looking at a lot more substantial machine than a small Cub, even if it does have shaft drive. I think the LT1050 would work good for you. Don't forget, you have already proven you can manage your lawn with a 14.5 hp Briggs, a much less rugged machine than the 1050.

 

[MrWiggles2]

I have last years 2180, identical to the 2042. I used to have a 1500 series Cub, which I kept for two years and sold. My 1515 was good at cutting grass, but was problematic. Always running at full throttle, the hydro belt would slip with my 215lbs on it and going up and down my modest grade. The racket it would make. When the bags were loaded with grass clippings plus my weight, the belt would groan as it slipped on the pulley. I finally realized that for my 1/2 acre, this wasn't the right machine. I sold it and bought the 2180. What a difference. This tractor is so much better built. The steering is so much better, solid and direct. There isn't that sloppy feel. The shaft drive is a world better than that belt. The belts slip under load and groan and whine. The shaft just continuously feeds power to the hydro without nary a sound. The individual pedals for forward and reverse are so much more comfortable. Serviceable components abound on the 2000 series. If you want a machine that will last, hold its value and perform the 2000 series is what you need. Keep in mind, if you only buy for today, you may be disappointed in your purchase. Always build in a little extra in case.