Zero Turn Lawn Mower

Montanalo

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I am exploring zero turn lawn movers. I have about 5 acres of gently sloping land and was thinking about something in the range of 42" to 50". I have narrowed it down to Cub Cadet, Stihl or Husqvarna. I have eliminated John Deere based on my experience years ago with their tractor products - I am still pi$$Ed at them.

Any zero turn owners out there? What do you suggest?
 
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IMO stay away from Cub Cadet

I have a old TORO 50" that's been used and abused

For 5 acres on a regular basis get as wide a deck as you can afford.
 
I only know one person who has one, and he says it's great until you cross a hill laterally. Then, he says, it slides sideways. I don't know what brand it is, but I doubt that would vary.
 
I have a Hustler Raptor, and now 4-5 others in my neighborhood own one. Highly recommend just make sure you get one with the Kawasaki motor. As far as size I would definitely go larger than a 42". That's recommended up to 1/2 an acre. Just my suggestion of course. LOL
 
I am exploring zero turn lawn movers. I have about 5 acres of gently sloping land and was thinking about something in the range of 42" to 50". I have narrowed it down to Cub Cadet, Stihl or Husqvarna. I have eliminated John Deere based on my experience years ago with their tractor products - I am still pi$$Ed at them.

Any zero turn owners out there? What do you suggest?
Per Grok:

For a 5-acre property, a zero-turn mower is a solid choice due to its speed, maneuverability, and efficiency. You’re right that a larger cutting deck is generally better for bigger areas—it reduces the number of passes you need to make. However, it’s also worth considering engine power, durability, and comfort, especially for a job that size. Based on what’s out there and well-regarded for larger lawns, here are my top 5 suggestions:


  1. John Deere Z530R 60-Inch Zero-Turn Mower
    • Deck Size: 60 inches
    • Engine: 24 HP V-Twin
    • Why It’s Great: This mower’s 60-inch deck is perfect for covering 5 acres quickly, and the 24 HP engine handles thick grass and uneven terrain with ease. It’s got a comfy high-back seat and smooth hydrostatic transmission for long mowing sessions. John Deere’s build quality means it’ll last.
    • Consideration: Fuel capacity is 4.5 gallons, so you can likely finish 5 acres without refueling, depending on conditions.
  2. Cub Cadet Ultima ZTX4 60-Inch Zero-Turn Mower
    • Deck Size: 60 inches
    • Engine: 24 HP Kohler V-Twin
    • Why It’s Great: Another 60-inch option, this one’s built tough with a fabricated deck for durability. The 24 HP engine keeps it powerful, and it’s got a 5.5-gallon fuel tank—plenty for 5 acres. It’s also got a decent top speed (up to 7.5 MPH) and good stability on slopes.
    • Consideration: Slightly pricier, but the extra features like adjustable lap bars make it worth it for comfort.
  3. Toro Titan 60-Inch Zero-Turn Mower with MyRIDE
    • Deck Size: 60 inches
    • Engine: 24.5 HP Toro V-Twin
    • Why It’s Great: The 60-inch fabricated deck cuts wide swaths, and the MyRIDE suspension system smooths out bumps—key for 5 acres of potentially rough ground. The 24.5 HP engine is a beast, and it’s got a 7-gallon fuel tank, overkill for 5 acres but nice for uninterrupted work.
    • Consideration: Toro’s known for clean cuts, so your lawn will look sharp.
  4. Husqvarna MZ61 61-Inch Zero-Turn Mower
    • Deck Size: 61 inches
    • Engine: 24 HP Kawasaki V-Twin
    • Why It’s Great: With a 61-inch deck, this is one of the widest residential options, shaving even more time off your mowing. The 24 HP Kawasaki engine is reliable and strong, and the 5-gallon fuel tank should cover 5 acres easily. It’s got a solid frame and good traction for varied terrain.
    • Consideration: A bit heavier, but that adds stability.
  5. DeWalt Z260 Commercial 60-Inch Zero-Turn Mower
    • Deck Size: 60 inches
    • Engine: 24 HP Kawasaki V-Twin
    • Why It’s Great: Built for near-commercial use, this 60-inch mower flies at up to 8.5 MPH, making it one of the fastest for quick 5-acre jobs. The 24 HP engine and 5-gallon tank keep it going, and the reinforced frame handles tough conditions.
    • Consideration: It’s rugged but might feel overbuilt if your lawn’s mostly flat and simple.

Quick Thoughts: A 60- or 61-inch deck is ideal for 5 acres—big enough to cut time but not so huge it’s unwieldy. Engines around 24 HP strike a balance between power and efficiency. If your land’s flat and open, lean toward speed (DeWalt or Toro). If it’s hilly or obstacle-heavy, prioritize stability and comfort (John Deere or Cub Cadet). Any of these will get the job done; it’s just about what fits your specific yard and budget. Which way are you leaning?
 

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