Troy-Bilt Zero-Turn Mower Review – Inexpensive Quality ZTRs
In this article, I’m going to discuss Troy-Bilt Mustang zero-turn mowers to see if they are the “best inexpensive” mower for you.
Troy-Bilt is one of the few brands that FOCUS on inexpensive, quality zero-turn mowers. That’s all they make, unlike most other brands that FOCUS on commercial ZTRs and just make a homeowner version as an afterthought. Troy-Bilt ZTRs make a great “first” mower for homeowners because they cut well and with a little maintenance will last a long time. Depending on the model they make a riding mower for 1/3 acre, 1 acre, to 3-acre suburban lawns.
Troy-Bilt is very proud of how well they are built. Check out this video showing the testing the Zero-turn mowers go through:
Why is Troy-Bilt a good choice?
Normal maintenance items and repair parts are available through troybilt.com or your local Troy-Bilt authorized repair center. Operator’s manuals and parts diagrams are available for free through troybilt.com. Filters, spark plugs, belts, mower blades and even a new front castor fork or wheel are readily available.
Warranty Service or Normal Maintenance is close by
The industry has changed in the last five years and some of the brands of inexpensive riding mowers no longer have local servicing dealers. With those other brands, if you have a warranty problem you have to drop your mower off at a big box store and they ship your mower off to some faraway repair center. You can wait weeks or months to have it serviced and returned to you. Troy-Bilt is different – no matter where you buy the riding mower – just go to troybilt.com to find a local authorized Troy-Bilt Service Location.
Full line of attachments and accessories
Troy-Bilt has a full range of attachments from mulching kits and baggers. The EZ Stow Hauler yard cart is my favorite cart. You can even turn it into a wheel barrow with the optional EZ Stow Handle Kit. Check out all the accessories and attachments here: Mower Attachments
Troy-Bilt Zero-Turn Mowers are a Good Value.
Troy-Bilt Zero-Turn Mowers: If you have decided that you want a zero-turn mower and don’t want to spend 4000-5000 the Troy-Bilt zero-turns are one of the best choices. They feature an all-new fully welded tube frame with a limited lifetime warranty. Decent stamped decks that will also mulch and bag. Full pressure V-Twin engines that will handle any terrain. Fully adjustable lap-bars fit riders of all sizes. Comfortable high-back seats and easy to use controls. All Troy-Bilt Zero-Turns offer reliable EZT2200 hydrostatic transmissions with one-inch axles. (If you are looking at the 355 Deere ZTR I suggest seriously looking at Troy-Bilt before you buy)
If you want a heavier-duty zero-turn mower, check out the Cub Cadet Ultima ZTRs here: 2020 Cub Cadet Ultima ZTX Zero-Turn Mowers – Better, Bigger, Badder!
Which Troy-Bilt Mower Is Best For You?
Troy-Bilt Mustang Z42 Zero-Turn Rider
New This Season Troy-Bilt 42 in. 679 cc V-Twin OHV Engine Gas Zero Turn Riding Mower with Dual Hydro Transmissions and Lap Bar Control
Best Zero Turn Mower Under 3000 [Qualified Mechanic’s Review 2023]
I’ve reviewed 13 top value mowers and found the best zero turn mower under 3000. There’s no need to spend a lot of money on the best zero turn mower! The mowers in this 2023 review are all great value, but there are definitely some standouts.
Since first publishing this review last year, the for zero turn mowers have gone through the roof. It is, unfortunately, almost impossible to find one under 3000!
Our winner, the Cub Cadet ZT1 54, is now just shy of 3500. That’s still great value, don’t get me wrong, it just doesn’t quite fit the “under 3000” bill.
Husqvarna’s Z254 isn’t available anymore and their newer models, the Z254F (aprox 4200) and the Z248F (aprox 4000), are much more expensive than 3000.
Bad Boy’s MZ42 is now 3299, not bad value – you get a whole lot of mower for that. However, for another 250 or so – I recommend you go for the Cub instead.
Despite the changing prices, I’ve left our winners’ technical details and why I think they’re the best cheap zero turn mowers listed below.
If you don’t want to read right through the tech specs, here’s a summary of my recommendations:
What to Look for in the Best Zero Turn Mower [Buyer’s Guide]
The best zero turn mowers offer excellent maneuvering capabilities and high-quality performance. You don’t have to spend a fortune to buy one, as we’ve seen in the list above, all under 3000.
Size of the Cutting Deck
I’ve listed zero turn mowers here today with cutting widths between 34″ and 54″. You can get bigger ones as well, but you’re looking at spending more money.
Let’s Review Our Top 13 in Detail!
Cub Cadet ZT1 54 Ultima Zero Turn Mower – 2999
This is our best zero turn mower under 3000 for large yards.
Features
Troy-Bilt Mustang Z46 Zero Turn Lawn Tractor
Quickly mow large areas with ease thanks to the Troy-Bilt Mustang Z46 zero-turn riding lawn mower. The Mustang Z46 provides elite durability and dependable performance in rugged conditions thanks to its heavy-duty, fully welded frame. A 46 In. rugged steel deck features with anti-scalp wheels to prevent turf damage. Dual hydrostatic transmissions provide a true zero-turn performance with quicker mow times and effortless mobility. A powerful 725cc twin-cylinder KOHLER engine delivers reliable power and a quieter, more balanced performance with less vibration. A high back seat and padded lap bars allow you to ride in comfort and enjoy your cut. With a 3-year limited warranty and limited lifetime frame warranty, you can count on Troy-Bilt to help make yard work easier.
Sorry, but this item does not qualify for free shipping through typical means due to materials, size, weight, or other factors. However, professional delivery and free in-store pickup are available for this and similar items.
| 259405 | |
| 746526 | |
| 17ARFACTA66 | |
| 00043033596928 | |
| USA | |
| 46 In. | |
| 22 HP | |
| 725cc | |
| Kohler | |
| Twin | |
| Electric | |
| Steel | |
| 11 In. x 6.5 In. | |
| 20 In. x 8.8 In. | |
| Zero | |
| High-Back | |
| 1 |
Description
Kohler 7000 724cc 24-Horsepower Zero-Turn Mower, Model #17ARFACWA66 Premium power, performance and reliable starting every time with a Kohler 7000 engine. The large 54-in deck on the Mustang Z54 mows large area faster and moves easily across the yard with the support of two deck wheels and a front roller to smooth over bumps.
| 230 CCA |
| 724 |
| Red/Black |
| 4.5 in |
| 1 in |
| Foot Pedal |
| 12-gauge steel |
| 8 |
| Yes |
| 54 in |
| 7 mph forward, 2.5 mph reverse |
| Hydrostatic |
| Kohler |
| 7000 |
| 11×6-5 |
| 3.5 gal |
| Gasoline |
| 8 |
| 24 |
| 17AKFACW066 |
| Lap Bar Integrated |
| 20×10-8 |
| 18 in High-back |
| Electric |
| Hydro-Gear EZT 2200 |
| Zero-Turn Mower |
Manufacturing Details The following information is subject to change without notice
| 3-year limited residential |
| Yes |