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Dealing with those pesky lawn tractor issues can be a bit frustrating, but it sounds like you've got some good options in mind for an upgrade.
Considering you have around 2 acres to mow, a ZTR mower could be a great choice. Brands like Toro, Cub Cadet, and Husqvarna are known for their quality. You don't necessarily have to go for the high-end models unless you want all the bells and whistles.
I recently came across machinerydealer.co.uk, where you can find both new and used plant machinery sales. It might be helpful in your search for a reliable lawn tractor without breaking the bank.
My Mom and Dad have been using the same mower for 60 years. It's a Gravely Super Convertible. They've been trying to kill it for the last 20, but it wont die. He even leaves it outside under a tarp all winter. Come spring, they just charge the battery and away it goes.
Last edited by chip-powell; Dec 4, 2023 at 10:59 AM.
I have a Kubota ZD331 diesel zero turn that I use around my house where my tractor and finish mower can’t easily get. Yea Kubota is expensive but the thing is built like a tank. Thickness of the deck, brackets and hardware is a large part of the extra cost and the diesel engine. I keep diesel in drums for filling my tractor so I don’t have to go get gasoline in tanks. I have used it like a bush hog and hit stumps at speed and never bent the deck or brackets. The mower belt grips so well it will stall the diesel before it slips. Super tough machine. If your just using a mower for residential and only cutting clean grass probably do not need this HD of a mower but for me it works perfect and worth the extra cost.
This came out a few months ago so I guess a Simplicity is off the table. Shame. Simplicity and Snapper are two of the best. B&S will continue with Ferris. If I go for a ZTR a Ferris will be high on the list because of their suspension, and we have a competent local dealer (who coincidentally also sold Simplicity). The Craftsman still runs ok but I notice it beats me up more every season.
The Craftsman has performed well since the original post. Had to replace a broken throttle cable, and I bought a pair of blade spindles just in case. Replaced the blade and drive belts while the deck was dropped out to fix the blade clutch.
Last edited by rocketraider; Dec 4, 2023 at 10:29 AM.
Bummer, I love my simplicity citation,2011, gets beat keeps working. that thing is tougher than a boiled owl. 60 in deck, I better start gathering spares, all I've ever changed/broke other than oil and filters is the tires and belt.
Good to hear these good reports. I have worked for a Simplicity dealer and Kubota dealer for almost 30 years. My dad I owned Simplicity units for 20 plus years with very little trouble. I sell Kubotas also, can't go wrong if you want trouble free units. Loved selling the Kubotas, very happy customers! FYI to Simplcity owners parts for once in the life of the unit are likely be on backorder. We now a Ferris dealer, ran down the same line a Simplicity less the stripe roller. Those will be implemented IMHO
My Mom and Dad have been using the same mower for 60 years. It's a Gravely Super Convertible. They've been trying to kill it for the last 20, but it wont die. He even leaves it outside under a tarp all winter. Come spring, they just charge the battery and away it goes.
31 years ago, I purchased a new Cub Cadet model 2135 Shaft Drive tractor. It mows a one-acre lawn and still runs well. I maintain it like it is a classic car, Hah!
Rick
