Which Lawn Tractor is the best to buy?

[canlis]

In talking with a landscaper who has been in the mowing business for over 30 years, it is his opinion that a Zero-Turn Riding Mower would offer more durability/reliability than the current generation of lawn tractors. He said I should look for a Zero-Turn that is for homeowner use and not the commercial version because that would be too expensive. I know that both Snapper and Simplicity offer entry-level models in the $2500-$2700 range and other brands must have something as well in this range. Please offer your feedback regarding these Zero-Turns. Thanks for your help!

 

[DennisFolsom]

In talking with a landscaper who has been in the mowing business for over 30 years, it is his opinion that a Zero-Turn Riding Mower would offer more durability/reliability than the current generation of lawn tractors. He said I should look for a Zero-Turn that is for homeowner use and not the commercial version because that would be too expensive. I know that both Snapper and Simplicity offer entry-level models in the $2500-$2700 range and other brands must have something as well in this range. Please offer your feedback regarding these Zero-Turns. Thanks for your help!

I have heard somewhere that Zero-Turns are not so good on slopes. Since you say that your lawn is basically flat, that's probably not an issue.

I have never operated one, but I understand that Zero-Turns are a bit different to operate, and that some folks love them and some don't. I suggest that you get yourself to a dealer that will let you try one out a bit. Even if you try a model that is more expensive than you are really shopping for, that should give you a better feel for whether you would like one.

For maneuverability and productivity, they should be great.

 

[canlis]

My price range for a new lawn tractor is $1500-$2000. So far I have looked at the John Deere D130(22hp), Husqvarna YTH23v48(23hp), Snapper LT2342(23 hp),Snapper LT2446(24hp),Snapper SPX2042(20hp), Snapper SPX2246(22hp), Snapper RER12.5hp/28"cut, Toro LX423(20hp),Toro LX427(20hp) and Toro LX468(22hp). Has anyone had any experience with either of these brands/models? Based on some research for the sake of convenience, I believe I should concentrate on a tractor with a hydrostatic transmission. However,in terms of engine choices, which is better( Briggs&Stratton Professional Series preferably with V-twin cylinders or a KOHLER Courage)? I was told by a technician that the D100 series John Deeres were designed to last only 4-5 years and if I wanted to get the durability of my old 8hp Snapper RER, I would have to step up to the X300 series which start at $3000. I found that hard to believe and will not pay $3000 for a tractor. In looking at reviews of the other brands, there have been major concerns by consumers with all of them such as transmission/engine, electrical,poor customer support from the manufacturer/retailer to name a few. Therefore, I am confused in which brand/model I should buy given their current costs.My current 8hp Snapper RER which I've had for 28 years just went bad on me. I would like to get something with that type of reliability and durability obviously. Has anyone ever heard of the brand Columbia and if so what is their reliabilty/durability history? I need a lawn tractor to mow 3/4 acres which is basically flat. Please, if anyone has suggestions, I would truly appreciate your help.

Out of all of the research that I have done based on the good feedback that I have received from all of you, I believe I will purchase a lawn tractor from either Snapper or Simplicity. The Snapper models that I am considering are: Snapper LT2342(23 hp),Snapper LT2446(24hp),Snapper SPX2042(20hp), Snapper SPX2246(22hp). The Simplicity model is the Regent or Regent Ex.It appears the other brands especially if they are sold at both the Big Box/dealer stores and made by MTD, seem to have many reliability/durability problems whereas Snapper/Simplicity tractors seem to hold up better over the long run. Can anyone provide feedback on this based on your experience? Thanks