I intend to keep my air filter well serviced. Not because of serviceability but most of the other brands mow a lot better. The name is an old, well-respected name in the industry. Dump Carts There are cheap, good carts and expensive, bad carts. It cuts better and will last longer without any minor or major repairs. Are you familiar with or have you had experience with this Toro model? Mow high, mow in the afternoon and side discharge until the spring growth has subsided. I need something more maneuverable than my tractor. It could be sent here to pick up, but this location isnt open on Saturdays at all which means Id have to take time off from a new job to pick it up. I am considering a Kubota z231 BR-48 and a John Deere Z530M-48. Other than this one hill the yard is primarily flat. I was set on Scag, but now I think if I go with Scag, it should be the Patroit. Its maintenance free but expect to have to change the batteries every 5 years or so (about $200 times 4). Please wish me and my wallet luck! Hi Charles, No, They did not have any problems with the steering and transmissions. Is there a significant difference between the Toro TimeCutter and the HD models? The Briggs is the base Intek and the Kohler will have a longer life. It mows very well and is the right size for one acre. It had been great mower but I am frustrated. Its not on my Top 5 list but it probably should be. The rep who comes out will go over the mower with you, show you how to drive it, and let you use it on your yard to see if it is a good fit., Hi Paul, The Boulevard is one of the best-built residential mowers on the market. The easiest way to explain the cost difference is: If the Cub Cadet Ultima lasts 5 years without any major issues mowing 10 acres the Toro will go 7 years and the Ariens 10 years. I am more confident with the purchase now. Hi Dan, Yes, the Bad Boy Maverick is their best residential mower. I also am looking at the 46 inch cub cadet. Hi Art, Good comment! I would prefer one with mulching capacity that doesnt bog down, create mohawks, or leave grass clumps on my lawn or, worse, my sidewalk and driveway. Worldlawn 52 diamondback I was able to cut some grass at an ariens dealer with the Ikon x 52. But was is really important to me is finding a mower that will last as long as my JD LX280 has, one that is as safe as possible on my slopes, and one that has an awesome cut. Which One Is This? The Toro engine is not as well-known as the Kawasaki FR but has better reliability. I was leaning toward the Gravely/Ariens just trying to suss this as thoroughly as I can. Appreciate all the help! I enjoy mowing the yard and do so often. Youll find a tag with the model and serial number. $4399 $3499 = $900. I wish they didnt have so many mowers to choose from because it makes deciding that much harder. 2. I would be interested in buying one of these used, but dont want to buy a basket full of problems if thats the case with these two. Thanks for all your informative responses. What do you think about the Craftsman 42 inch Steering wheel zero turn. I noticed right away the Deere appears to have a lighter frame, which I liked, so it weighs less. Check out my article here on the Toro Titan. Not sure I can wait that long, though. And which engine should I choose if I go with the edge? The mower will be used for residential 5 plus acres. 2. Some commercial operators keep their mowers maintained and run them thousands of hours, junk them and then buy new. Below that list, I discuss the more popular brands and why buying a certain brand may be the best choice for you. It cuts very well and will last you a long, long time. Any advise would be great. They both have the best cut. house/pond/etc) the cost for them vs. DIY justifies a new machine for the garage. He started making mowers in the early 90s and always had the idea of keeping the mowers priced so anyone could afford them even if it meant selling fewer than anyone else. These start around $2500 and the good Cub Cadet and Husqvarna models are around $3200. 1. Whats odd, the closest dealer that stocks the mower I want is 50 miles away. 2. Both are rated for a lawn up to .9 acres and max cutting height of 2.8 inches. Now, if you have no one around when you are mowing and have strict instructions with all the kids and adults in your neighborhood not to come on your yard when you are mowing you may try lifting the side discharge chute high enough so the grass clippings spread evenly. The ONLY difference between the ZT2100 and ZT2200 is the 2100 has 3/4 inch axles (900 lb capacity) and the 2200 has 1-inch axles (1000) capacity. The Walker also rides great because you sit directly over the large drive tires. Im looking at the Ariens Apex, Gravely ZT HD and Toro Titan all in 60 inch. For example, my Dodge Caravan can pull 5000 lbs but I should not have more than 150 lbs on the hitch (tongue weight) Any more weight than that and the weight would push the rear of the van down too much making the van hard to steer or even understeer on a corner causing an accident. Hydraulic belt tensioners so your drive belt lasts 10 times longer than the other brands. recommendedNo-Spill 1450 5-Gallon Poly Gas Can (CARB Compliant)This one has a second handle in the back so it is very easy to use and hang onto when pouring into your fuel tank. Ill give you links at Amazon for two sizes. I have an ExMark 42 inch. What is your preference between the Kohler 7000 and the Kawasaki FR engines? $10.78. I also use the mulcher in the fall for leaves. If you have a problem holding a gas can the SureCan is a great can. Cub Cadet has no plans to discontinue their Z-Force or Pro steering wheel models. But Ariens, Husqvarna (254) are coming into view. This 54-inch zero-turn has a 26-horsepower Kohler engine with the Pro Air Cleaner and uses HG-2800 with charge pumps. 3. Hi Frank, there is only one the Ryobi 38 inch rider. The 50-inch size will get the lawn mowed quickly. Like Walker, Country Clipper has been around for over 30 years and they specialize in rural or farm properties. We do have wet grass often in the spring. This is how I make money to keep this website up and running. They make small batches and keep the price very affordable. Scag Liberty Z with the Kawasaki engine 48 Is it just a matter of finding which dealer is right for me? ), since Im hoping to do a bunch of that myself. What are your suggestions for my yard .35 acres, flat land, no trees in the back but I do have 3 in the front and on the side. The Walker Model R actually comes with the Kohler KT620 engine. Need some advice. Based on your article, I am considering the Toro MX5075 MyRide and the Arins IKON XL 52. The 52 and larger sizes cut as well as any other brand. The Ferris bars seemed OK, but I remember trying a ZTR in a dealer parking lot about 20 years ago, and I couldnt keep it in straight line after 15 minutes of practice. Finally, check out my youtube channel. Hydro-Gear ZT 3100 transmission. Thanks. If its not cutting well the most likely cause is the deck is not level. What can you tell me about these two, is it worth paying the extra $? Hi Ryan, Id stay with the Deere. My main concern is will the EZT hydros and B&S engine be OK? 42 (107 cm) TimeCutter Zero Turn Mower (75740) All the features of the step-through design including Smart Speed, 10 ga steel frame, ZT 2100 transmissions, hydraulic steering dampeners, and handcrafted seat. All three mowers ride well, cut well and will last. Paul, this almost seems like destiny. Arent the Toro engines made in China? It uses the same commercial deck they use on all the other models. This is how I make money to keep this website up and running. My ground is uneven in places, due to settling. Hi Brian, Thats a tough choice. A friend says I should get a Kubota that will last the rest of my life. Hi Jonathan, Both are great machines and you wont mind the 50-52 inch decks once you get used to them. Your site has given me a good quick education. Thank you for your input! If he balks at that try for a tune-up kit, blades or air cleaner etc. Its a nice mower but I have been having issues with cut quality. 22.5 HP Toro TimeCutter. Since Cub Cadet is the newest and they tried to hit all the consumer pain points which includes noise, Ill have to guess the Cub Cadet is quieter. Ventracs can handle 30-degree slopes ($25,000) Its not the ZTR you are using the wrong equipment for the mowing you have to do. I feel like I cant afford to buy the wrong mower, especially at these prices. Paul, we have a rough 1.2 acre yard with some trees, beds, stumps, etc. Kawasaki FR and FX engines. I recommend only looking at the Husqvarna AUTOMOWER 430XH or the just introduced Worx Landroid L. These are the only robitic mowers that will mow the grass high enough (3-3.5 inches) so that you dont get soil erosion on that slope. There are more parts to wear out on the Ferris and that bouncing can give you an uneven cut after a few years. You provide really good information and I feel like you put alot of thought and energy into responding to those who seek your advice. Whats your take for a small zero turn for my under 1/2 acre yard? Titan IronForged Deck 24.5 HP Commercial V-Twin Gas Dual Hydrostatic Zero-Turn Riding Mower with MyRIDE, Cub Cadet Ultima ZT3 60 in. The angle of the belt from the engine to mower is less when the deck is higher and that seems to help. But the real market is Europe so not everyone is selling here yet. So inclined to think the Cub might be better overall for towing. Always use the John Deere or Briggs & Stratton Yellow Oil Filter and change the oil at the recommended intervals. Yes, the commercial operators insist on having them but they quickly realize their only advantage is getting into small residential properties. Thank you very much, I appreciate your input. 2. All of these machines seem to be comparable to each other but of course theyre a lot of money and I definitely want to make the right choice. They both have heavy-duty trannys, thick, fabricated decks, and very strong frames. Im obviously wanting good cut quality and longevity out of the machine. Was looking at Toro with myRide setup.. Hi Dave, the only choice is the MyRide. Should I be considering someone/something else? I have looked at both in person and there is no comparison the ultra heavy duty Apex (same as the Gravely ZT HD that sells for about $5200) makes the ZT2 look very basic and average. In your case I suggest the Gravely. Unfortunately, he dropped me as a customer after the second year, saying that the hillside was tearing up the transmission on his (relatively old) mower. The other hidden gem is County Clipper. I was also able to drive a zt1 50 at a cub dealer but he told me I could not engage the pto as then it would be considered used. I can spilt and mow separate days if need be. https://www.russopower.com/bob-cat-quickcat-48-stand-on-mower-20-5hp-kawasaki, https://www.walmart.com/ip/Bradley-Mowers-48SC-BS24V-48-Hydro-Drive-Stand-On-Compact-Zero-Turn-Mower-Briggs-Vanguard-24HP-Electric-Start/857626337?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0&adid=22222222227101833639&wmlspartner=wmtlabs&wl0=&wl1=s&wl2=c&wl3=217425214023&wl4=pla-351178471162&wl5=9007349&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=online&wl12=857626337&wl13=&veh=sem&gclid=CjwKCAjw8LTmBRBCEiwAbhh-6DkrXIHh6wBIoiq3Nq8irCQhs-bWBoJAYhEHyGtOPxcEuDgjojV9gxoCVFQQAvD_BwE. The long wheelbase also makes it a pain to move around on trailers because you can fit three-four ZTRs in the same space as two Grasshoppers. Cub Cadet Ultima ZTX Zero-Turn Mowers Better, Bigger, Badder! The lap bars are very adjustable to fit your driving style. Here's the perfect residential mower or commercial mower for mowing 5 acres - or more. Yes, the operators manual says you can go on a slope up to 15 degrees but as you found out even 15 degrees can be dangerous with the tall/narrow ZTRs. The 52 Vanguard is $4800 at SLE, but it only gives you 4 more deck.. I would like your thoughts on my situation if you will, I live in rural eastern NC where the soil tends to have a lot of clay and its necessary to have drainage ditches for storm runoff. Thank you for your diligence. This was my original choice before researching because well it was the only brand I knew. Ill be as frank as possible. Yes, It rides well and mows OK but for commercial users, the shaft drive doesnt hold up as well as belts. Could you narrow it down to 2 I know the Ariens/Gravely has zt-3100 hydros. Thanks again for all your suggestions. And maybe I wouldnt really be able to tell the difference. Hi Adam, The Apex is comparable to the Cub Cadet Z-Force in price and features. The joystick does seem nice, but I have no idea which one might be better for ride comfort, durability, etc. Ive owned them myself and my neighbor has had one for almost 20 years. John deere Z540M with the Kawasaki engine 48 Could I get 200 hours out of the Z335E? John Deere probably had the most mixed reviews of all, either people loved them or hated them. Warren, RI, Hi Mike, I knew you would like it! Many smaller commercial owners are using the Patriot and it holds up to 10 acres a day every day use. The Exmarks are geared towards commercial use. I dont know how steep of slopes it covers. The new governor system on it is a lot quicker to pick up under a heavy load and the engine does not bog down. I live in the upstate of SC, have a mixture of cool season and warm season grasses, and I try to control the crabgrass, dandelions, and other weeds. Lots to still contemplate. Hi Kurt, Im always a little partial to the Exmark. I suggest mulching your leaves in the fall. The smaller ones are top-heavy, wobble around on rough ground, can be very tippy and dont have good traction on rough ground or slopes. option as I could buy two of those for the price of the Walker or Clipper, Decisions, decisions.. Hi Wilson, Yes, Bradley is a hard sell to many people because he has never set up a larger dealer network. The Z-force SX 48 has the 24 HP professional-grade Kawasaki FR Series V-Twin OHV engine. Pretty set on a Kaw engine. As always, if you have any questions please ask them in the comment section at the end of this article. Troy-Bilt Zero-Turn Mower Review Inexpensive Quality ZTRs. Then decide the best mower for you based on the features you like and how well you like the dealer. But, you would notice that because one blade would cut higher than the other. My second choice is the Ariens IKON XL. Thanks. I like having my weekends free for fun time. In addition, ANY ZTR under 48 inches will have traction issues like sliding even on dry ground. My Deere dealer, on the other hand, is a large ag dealer and every time I go visit it feels like since I dont own a million dollars of farm equipment they arent that interested in developing the trust I expect. Email. I like the Ariens IKON X 42, the Troy Bilt Mustang Z42 670 cc V-TWIN as it seems like it has been built to last and supposedly has a smooth ride. Never had a ZTR, but I was initially leaning ZTR (looking at Spartan and Hustler SDX) UNTIL I stumbled on the Bradley Stand on in the same price range! All the other lap bar ZTRS will struggle if they can mow it at all. The Toros height adjuster is easy to use. Hi,Paul. The HD models have a significantly heavier frame and transmissions. I put my leaf clippings in a mulch pile but if you did your property this way I would guess you would have less than 10 bags. You helped me 5 years ago buying a Big Dog Alpha and have followed and supported you since. Hi Travis, I have a list of the mowers I like best at the beginning of the article. Have a wonderful day! The Toro, Kohler 7000 and Briggs ELS are just as good. Finally, learn to use your knees to cushion the ride and it is the second-best riding mower on this list. The Ariens Apex and Zenith both have good, soft seats and large wheels so they will ride smooth. I want to try a ZTR mainly because I feel like Im wrestling the steering wheel constantly and I have to back up and pull forward too much at the corners of the yard. With todays ethanol-blended fuel you need a gas can that seals tight. Hi Tommy, I like both the Toro and the Ariens/Gravely a lot. Remove the deck belt (you may want to remove the deck) spin each blade. Your site is the best, by far. Hi Paul. I bought a Hustler FasTrack thinking it was going to be my last mower. The Walkers best feature is its agility when trimming. It has accessories for power deck lift and a mower jack for easy blade changes. There doesnt appear to be much difference between the two The Pro has slightly bigger transmission, 1 bigger rear tires and Kohler Confidant EFI Closed Loop EZT-740 engine with 12cc Hydro-Gear ZT 3400 transmission with charge pumps. Was more of a general question. If you replace the bracket replace the spring at the same time. Ill make a small commission from the sale. Thats very helpful. Now I just have to find one!! Hi Laurrelle, The Walker is one of the best for hills. When you increase the rpms to mowing speed the vibration goes away. That said, I dont recommend it for rough bumpy lawns and especially not areas like your 1 1/2 acres that you dont mow every week. The orange AUTOMOWER Model 535 AWD 967 85 34-66 is their commercial version. But I do know the mother of one of the Cub Cadet higher up personnel that could probably run interference for me on warranty repairs if need be. Only thing I have to go around is the back patio. Consumer Reports agrees with me on this. It has the same trannys as the Cub Cadet XT2 but like the ZT-HD/APEX it has the optional powered bagger. 2022 The Best Residential Zero Turn Mowers, 2022 The Thirteen Best 42-46 Inch Zero Turn Mowers, 2022 The Sixteen Best 48-52 Inch Zero Turn Mowers, 2021 The Sixteen Best 54-72 Inch Residential Zero Turn Mowers. I have been using a Troybuilt TB30 but it slips and the drive wheel spins a lot as well the cut tends to be uneven. Because of that brand recognition today the dealer can charge more (and make more profit.) Toro and Cub Cadet both offer really good parts availability and local service. Never use one on a slope greater than 10 degrees. Keep it in a shed, out of the weather and you wont have to buy another mower, ever! Strength To Go Anywhere You Need. Always turn uphill. 2020 The Thirteen Best 42-46 Inch Zero Turn Mowers, I dont have a problem buying through the Home Depot. Let me know if Im completely out to lunch on this. 4. Later, if it gets harder to get on and off you can always add the step and hand bar. and 2. Better suspension. It has baffles under the deck for mulching so it will take about 30 minutes to switch from mulch to bag. Thanks. My local Exmark dealer has hundreds of them out mowing lawns every day and the owners love the engine. It has a great engine, heavy-duty transmissions, and a great cutting deck. Everyone really likes this mower. Which would you recommend? Youll never wear out the ZT 3400s on your lawn. Most components are identical but the decks are slightly different. If you try to pull too much the transmissions can overheat and if you do it often enough they will fail. Zero-Turn Lap Bar. Hey Paul, Very informative article! Check Price. Hi Paul, The last option Ive thought about is to use a robotic mower for the back hill, and go with a lower priced mower for the flat part. Cub Cadet vs. Kubota The mower has a 10cc hydraulic pump and an incorporated motor unit. I managed to ride it up and down the hillside a couple of times before it died on me. The main difference among the engines is the horsepower range. I like my Husqvarna tractor, and the Z254F is on lots of recommended lists, but the user reviews concern me. Paul, great article. Hi Paul. The Gravely ZT XL is also the same mower with the next larger transmissions and a 4-year warranty instead of 3 years. The Deere probably looks a little better to me too, but my mower doesnt need to be pretty, as long as its not ugly and it mows well and has adequate service support if needed. I want to go the mulching route so that I can avoid so many grass clippings. Its a very tough mower and with the suspension seat you can mow up to 10 acres a lot faster than the three you mentioned. Hi Mark, look under the seat. Look forward to your suggestions. If you do not mind spending a considerable amount of money, the Bad Boy BZS60KT745 ZT Elite Zero Turn Lawn Mower is a near-perfect option in the market. I am considering moving on from my 30 Dixon ZTR w/ the B/S 16.5 Intek engine. On the perimeter of our yard there is about a total of a half acre of wooded area which we do not cut. Budget is around 3K or less. There are a several dealers not too far from my location near AA so I will go and see what they are like. Cub Cadet ZTS (steering wheel ZTR) 50 inch and larger can handle 20-degree slopes because the front steering wheels help to hold the mower on the slope. If you dont want to go through the Home Depot your local Gravely dealer sells the same mower under the Gravely brand. The Bad Boy MZ Magnum zero-turn mower runs on a 725cc Kohler Pro 7000 HD series engine for a powerful mowing operation. Thank you so much Paul. I just think the Deere is a more refined machine, and it looks it. I have an Exmark Quest with the same fab deck as the 42 inch Toro. I guess I am just asking if you have any knowledge of this mower that you can share. Trying to decide between the Toro 42in Vtwin or Ariens Ikon XD 42. I will not be towing with it. Im thinking a 50 to 54-inch cut would be good, with a quality engine and transmission. The ZT 3400 with charge pumps has no o-ring issues. Im looking at the Ariens IKON XD 52 vs John Deer z375r. I cant tell if this mower is any less stable on the hillside. My question is are the Ferris mowers worth it compared to some of these on your list? Several years ago you helped me purchase my Craftsman Pro Series 42 riding mower. Hi Steve, I would never pay extra for a Kawasaki FR engine over the Kohler 7000. But when you are comparing the Ariens models the new IKON XD compares closer to the Bad Boy Magnum. Its the best choice in your price range. It has a built-in oil filtration system and a changeable air filter to keep the dust, debris, and other pollutants away from oil and engine. John Deere Commercial Z645 Zero Turn Mower 27HP 48 Inch Deck 398 H Serviced . My yard is just over an acre, 95% flat with a small ditch in the front. Exmark radius E series 48 Which would you recommend? Its built heavier than the Timecutters but does not have the heavy-duty transmissions of the HD line. A lot of deck designs have a harmonic vibration at certain speeds. Im now looking to replace that mower with another last mower. Toro TimeCutter SS Mulch Kit. The company has a commercial implement office here in Ft Worth, but they dont stock any mowers at all. Hi I was wondering what you thought about the new Riding ego zero turn 360 mower battery one Im looking at getting that maybe at the end of the year or next year Right now its a low too expensive for my taste. Should i go kubota, scag, or exmark (if the latter are even available in that price range) and is it ok to cut maybe 2 foot tall weeded area. (Home Depot Link) this mower mows well and will handle the ditch. Looking for my first zero turn. That Craftsman Pro is made by MTD. Our turn-tight craftsman mower has been OK, but I really think that a zero turn would improve our efficiency cutting this yard. Some day, we may find a good reason to switch over. Please Subscribe to my YouTube Channel Please Note:If you click on most of the links in this article and buy any product I will make a small commission from that sale. Calculator tells me (for my peace of mind) that I ought to be looking in the 50-60 range if I dont want to spend much more than a few hours doing my lawn every other weekend. Personally, I use Mobil One in all my engines and Ive never had an engine failure on any of my gas powered equipment, cars or trucks. Messages. You dont need the armrests because of the way you drive the Walker. Now, The commercial Kawasaki FS and FX are great engines. Husqvarna has the largest selection including the articulated made specifically for steep slopes. The best cut/mulching and the best ride is the Toro TimeCutter with MyRide suspension. This particular Bad Boy ZTR has a 725 cc Kohler engine with an integrated drive system. Im not sure if Havener/Bradley would be buying decks and frames from Schiller/Bob Cat but Ill check next time I talk to them. Mowing about 1.2 acres. Toro TimeCutter HD with MyRIDE with the Kawasaki 48. Bush Hog has had zero-turns for many years and the current models are heavy-duty well-built units. With the Radius X you can easily cut over 5 acres an hour with it and have a perfectly level cut. I mow 2 1/2 acres with some inclines and trees. For that money is there a better brand i should consider that has serviceable parts like John Dear, Toro, or Husk? Im leaning towards the Toro and more of the 50 inch model with the Kawasaki engine. All three 24 HP models are comparatively expensive, starting from $6,699 to $6,949. This deck is the best cutting 42-inch deck in the industry and its very rugged a lot more rugged than a stamped deck. As an old fart who has been using ZTRs since they were introduced in the early 90s Im going to tell you a secret no one else will tell you today. Hi Ryan, I have no preference between the Kawasaki FR or the Kohler 7000. It just would not move. One con. He suggested to me a few brands that he thought would fit the bill: kubota, scag, exmark. I really, really like the Bradley Standers. Both have heavy-duty fabricated decks and Kohler/Kawasaki engines. (About $400 to replace) Im very nervous about recommending the Hustler Dash. Im not sure which is more important for stability when turning on the hill. Also mowing the higher grass takes a lot more power and the batteries may not be able to mow that 1.5 acres all at one time. And Im perfectly happy to buy the ZT HD instead; I just hadnt really had Gravely on my radar before I talked with them. The 48 48SC-BS24 is on sale for $4207 at sleequipment.com which seems to make it the best value of the 4 Bradley Stand on options. So let me go quickly through some of the options youve mentioned. That stuff is not covered by Costcos guarantee. 10 gauge decks. Im trying to find the balance between good quality and yet not go too overboard. TayMac MM410C Single Horizontal/Vertical Mount 1-Gang Weatherproof In-Use Electrical Outlet Cover for Home Improvement, 2.75 in, Clear. I think you made my decision much easier! Charlie Victor. Which one is quieter? Paul Toro Premium Fuel Treatment helps ensure clean, reliable engine performance and protection. The MX5075 is a good choice because of the suspension seat butIn this case, they add the suspension but to keep the cost down they use a normal ZT2200 residential transmission. A little more practice needed but all of the point you made Paul are what made me decide. This product has been designed for maximum performance and best-in-class comfort. If you have ever pulled a boat or camper the specs always include total gross weight and the tongue weight. 2. Street price: Quality of cut is secondary, because it is a rough country yard. My neighbor let me try his Ferris IS600 to test the ride without actually mowing. Hi Dan, I may ramble on a bit because buying a mower from Costco for a commercial application is a bad idea. Thats good to know. Additionally, I dont have to do the mowing which is hard to quantify. I would never pay more for a Kawasaki FR than I would for a Kohler 7000. SKU. When you are looking at the price of the Deere just remember the hitch is $150 additional! The Joystick is one lever just point the lever in the direction you want to go Its really nice because you only use one hand and you can rest your arm on the armrest when you are driving. Conclusion We have one here and my wife has been trying to break it for over two years. The Courier is one of the lowest-rated mowers by Consumer Reports for every category they test. If you go any less than this price range and they ZTR will only last you a couple of years. Do you think ZTRs would handle this? Seems as though your recommended ZTRs come from Big Box stores, which I prefer to purchase from a dealer. In terms of riding stability and safety (making turns) on a 15 degree slope, would a 46 zero turn with a steering wheel be more stable than a lawn tractor with a 46 deck? Hi Dick, The Toro TimeCutter and Cub Cadet XT1 will give you about the same life expectancy as your old Toro. Take care. Youve done an excellent job of researching and then going through all the features that you like and dislike.