re: Recommend a entry level ztr mower

Find a dealer you want to deal with on parts and service and buy from them. Make sure you get an all welded deck, not stamped. Check into warranty length, what's covered and who's gonna do the repairs (see dealer comment). Kawasaki Engine, most will have the Kawasaki FR in that price range. Most will also have Hydrogear EZT tranmissions also in that $3K price range. I have experience with both Hustler and Toro and I'd recommend Hustler Raptor over the Toro Timecutter. Based on overall customer satisfaction and warranty repair rates we see here.