I'm looking at buying a ZTR, a Cub Cadet RZT 42 specifically, and was
wondering if anyone could answer a couple of questions about ZTRs in
general and the RZT 42 in specific.

How well does a ZTR handle bumpy turf? I have several large trees with
some exposed roots and have a heck of a time mowing around them with my
current mower. I've managed to wreck the deck a few times where I've had
to weld it up and fix the anti scalp wheel in the center.

My front yard is sloped down, nothing I worry about on the old tractor
but I have heard that ZTRs don't like sloping lawns.

What kind of control do ZTRs have? I have a corner lot and 2 sides have
curbs I've had problems with the old mower catching the curb and wanting
to follow it and sometimes it catches me off guard and I have to watch I
don't get pulled over onto the road. I've never actually gone off, I
can't imagine the damage to the blade or spindle, but it does make me
wary to mow close. Biggest problem with the current mower is that the
steering is sloppy so if the ZTR in general is pretty steady that is a
plus.

Can a ZTR pull anything?? All of the ones I looked at did not seem to
have any kind of hitch or place to hook a trailer or attacment to. Now I
don't have any need other than maybe a dethatcher so its not a deal
breaker but if it could pull a small amount it would be nice.

Finally to the specific questions reguarding the RZT 42, does anyone know
the life expectancy of the motor/pumps?? I've heard that the motor and
hydro punmps are one unit and am concerned that if there is problems with
it that it might almost total out the mower and at $2599 I can't afford
that!!

I need to replace my old mower asap since I have feet problems and if I
try to do the entire 1/2 acre using a push mower I'm liable to not be
able to walk the next day. Home Depot has the RXT 42 for 2599 with zero
finance charge and no payments for 12 months. If I open up a charge card
with them I also get 10% off up to 200 dollars so I figured I could get
the whole shebang for 2400 + tax and wait until my bonus check next March
and then pay it off.

The main reason I wanted a ZTR is I have 20 or so trees and other junk I
have to mow around and I thought I might have a better time and less
trimming with ZTR over a regular tractor but the price might just be a
breaker so if anyone can recomend a regular lawn mower or brand I'd
appreciated it.

Sorry to be so long but any answers/suggestions will be appreciated.

Thanks


Bill

Dealers around here will bring them out for demonstrations. That would
answer all your questions.


From Mel & Donnie in Bluebird Valley





http://community.webtv.net/MelKelly/TheKids