Zero Turn mower for moderate slopes?

[CH4Ohio]

Does this CC 972 have dual rear wheels? 4 wheel steering? If 4 wheel steering, is this "on" all the time? I am using a Ferris IS2000z, 2007 model, with taller seatback and canopy, which is fine going up a moderate hill but does not like coming down. A spindle pulley just broke, even though all were replaced 2 years ago, and the shop said they are backed up at least a month, probably more.

I can't speak to whether this particular unit has dual rear wheels, but as far as 4-wheel steering . . . All of the S models with steering wheel essentially have 4-wheel steering since the steering wheel points the front wheels and also provides the inputs to the pumps in the rear that drive the rear wheels. It is "on" all the time.

Instead of having casters on front that just get pushed around or tend to drift downhill, the front wheels are linked directly to the steering wheel and stay coordinated and controlled.

I believe all the PRO models above the 100 series have power steering as well. Very nice feature.

 

[2manyrocks]

Does this CC 972 have dual rear wheels? 4 wheel steering? If 4 wheel steering, is this "on" all the time? I am using a Ferris IS2000z, 2007 model, with taller seatback and canopy, which is fine going up a moderate hill but does not like coming down. A spindle pulley just broke, even though all were replaced 2 years ago, and the shop said they are backed up at least a month, probably more.

The OP posted a picture in post 23. Has front wheel steering, rear wheel drive, and single rear wheels.

Cub Cadet makes a Pro Z 972 model with dual rear wheels and front wheel steering. Commercial Zero-Turn Mowers

 

[CoyPatton]

If you look closely at manufacturer slope specs, many ZTR gas engines are only 15 degree rated, some 20 degrees because of oil lubrication.

And most lawn mowers have a low oil level sensor that will shut off the mower when it fails to pickup oil. I have no issue with this, but it can happen in times when you want power to get out of a spot. If steep slopes, my go to has bern 1) to modify the slope to more manageable angle. 2)do a bunch of landscape work to deal with the area, 3) if nota huge area, weed eat it usually every other or 3rd mowing.

 

[gullagej]

I totally agree with Hey Dude! My ZT is horrible on damp and/ or sloped surfaces. I have dragged mine out of my wife’s gardens around the lawn more than I like. It’s always digging up grass when I get onto a side hill, usually from the uphill wheel. I’m now in the market for a new lawn tractor so I can sell my Exmark.
You might be fishing yourself out of your pond if you’re not careful. Good luck!

 

[2manyrocks]

You might try bar tread tires or using tire chains for improved traction, but mowing slopes when they are wet is asking for trouble.

 

[Jaybr]

Does this CC 972 have dual rear wheels? 4 wheel steering? If 4 wheel steering, is this "on" all the time? I am using a Ferris IS2000z, 2007 model, with taller seatback and canopy, which is fine going up a moderate hill but does not like coming down. A spindle pulley just broke, even though all were replaced 2 years ago, and the shop said they are backed up at least a month, probably more.

These folks have already answered your question pretty well, but yes it has 4 wheel steering all the time. The larger S model commercial mowers also have power steering, and the 972 SD model is dual rear wheel. The S is rated for 20* slopes and the SD 25*, I think most standard stick model ZTRs are rated at 15* slopes. If you go with the dual rear wheels. they don't just slap a second set of wheels on, the wheel mowers are beefier to handle the extra leverage the wider stance puts on the wheel bearings.

I would do a compact tractor with a 3 point & pto. run a 6ft sickle bar along with a 60" belly mower at the same time. that would give you a 11 ft cut and the sickle bar is great for slopes by water. get done in a faster time to get to watch more star trek on TV and a cold brew

I already have a Yanmar YT359c with a Woods 90" rear mower. My pastures are very rough and I usually mow at 3-4 mph on the tractor, the ZTR is much faster than that. the biggest benefit of the tractor is the air conditioned cab and the ability to mow very tall stuff.

 

[ruffdog]

The self leveling air ride seat is very cool. Watch it in action.

 

[Jaybr]

My seat doesn't have the leveling, but it is air ride. I assume that is part of the L in SDL. My dealer had an SD and it was $20k.

Also, if you didn't see it in my earlier post, they are offering 20% off commercial mowers in June.

 

[Runner]

The self leveling air ride seat is very cool. Watch it in action.

I want one.

 

[drumminj]

I want one.

I was thinking the same thing