Zero Turn Lawn Mower

[Montanalo]

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?

 

[jsb357]

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.

 

[Runwildboys]

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.

 

[Montanalo]

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.

Can you say more about the Cub Cadet. The recent reviews are generally good.

 

[DMOB]

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

 

[rags747]

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?

 

[jsb357]

Can you say more about the Cub Cadet.

Cub Cadet and craftsman ZTR's are MTD products.

5 acres is a lot even for a commercial ZTR
you don't want to have issues and get behind
this time of year.

 

[Montanalo]

Update:

First, I appreciate the feedback and recommendations. In the end, I purchased a Stihl 52" RZ 152 zero turn. In a few words... love it.

It was a bit more expensive than the competitors, but I was sold on the rugged construction, Briggs & Stratten 25 hp engine and my previous experience with Stihl.

Conjure up the image of Forrest Gump mowing the Greenbo football field... that's me with a stupid guy grin on my face.

 

[TheKey]

I have the Kubota 54” for 3 acres. Glad you found one you like

 

[HungryLion]

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?

I used to use one doing landscaping work on the side. Honestly it made mowing fun. They are a blast to drive.

Go for it!

 

[HungryLion]

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.

That’s part of the fun man.

Doing some draft racing with it while mowing.