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Zero Turn Lawn Mower Suggestions

Posted on 7/24/25 at 12:10 pm
Posted by Tiger328
Member since Mar 2017
897 posts
Posted on 7/24/25 at 12:10 pm
I’m in the process of buying a zero turn mower for my new house that’ll be about 2 acres of grass in south Louisiana. Of course everyone has their opinions. It seems the general consensus is to NOT get a box store one with a stamped deck, and to try to get a Kohler/Kawasaki engine.

That puts me looking at the Hustler XD 54”, Graveley ZT XL 52”, and the Bad Boy ZT Elite 54”.

Any feedback or recommendations on that?
Posted by RichJ
The Land of the CoonAss
Member since Nov 2016
4922 posts
Posted on 7/24/25 at 12:12 pm to
quote:

NOT get a box store one with a stamped deck, and to try to get a Kohler/Kawasaki engine.


John Deere dealerships have zero-turn mowers, would be my suggestion
Posted by slidingstop
Member since Jan 2025
1622 posts
Posted on 7/24/25 at 12:14 pm to
Kubota Z724XKW.

Hustler is lighter but the cut isn't near as good. Decent machine though, just requires more upkeep. Bumpy ride too. Just depends on your budget as 2 acres isn't that much for any of the models you listed. Enjoy your new mower.
Posted by RadRob
Acadiana
Member since Oct 2021
216 posts
Posted on 7/24/25 at 12:30 pm to
I've had a Hustler Raptor SD 54" since 2016 and haven't done anything but oil, filters, blades and belts. I mow 3 acres with over 20 trees and I can usually get it done in 3 hours. I wouldn't hesitate to buy a new one when the time comes.

I did have a recall problem with the bracket that holds the hydro motors but the dealer picked it up and returned it free of charge.
Posted by jimjackandjose
Member since Jun 2011
6664 posts
Posted on 7/24/25 at 12:35 pm to
Try exmark also

I have two with Kawasaki and one is 25yrs old. Still runs good deck intact.

Posted by Deerhunter62
Member since Mar 2014
348 posts
Posted on 7/24/25 at 12:59 pm to
Scag with Kawaski motor and don't look back.
Posted by Koolazzkat
Behind the Tupelo gum tree
Member since May 2021
2930 posts
Posted on 7/24/25 at 1:14 pm to
Hustler, outta the 3 you’re looking at.
Posted by double d
Amarillo by morning
Member since Jun 2004
17041 posts
Posted on 7/24/25 at 2:09 pm to
I've had my Bad Boy for a little over 4 years and love it. I cut a little over 2 acres with it and have no complaints.
Posted by ElDawgHawg
L.A. (lower Arkansas)
Member since Nov 2012
3411 posts
Posted on 7/24/25 at 2:21 pm to
Bad Boy. I've got a Maverick 60" so it's a little bigger and bulkier than the ZT elite but I love it. Have had 2 dixie choppers in the past and used Xmarks and Gravelys for work. Bad Boy has been the best ride of the bunch so far IMO.
Posted by ElDawgHawg
L.A. (lower Arkansas)
Member since Nov 2012
3411 posts
Posted on 7/24/25 at 2:26 pm to
like has been said, get the Kawasaki motor.
Posted by Purple Spoon
Hoth
Member since Feb 2005
20095 posts
Posted on 7/24/25 at 2:35 pm to
I know its been said 1000 times but ill say it again,

you are splitting hairs with the major brands just make sure you buy from a dealer even if its a couple hundred dollars more. It will be worth it.
Posted by iwyLSUiwy
I'm your huckleberry
Member since Apr 2008
40410 posts
Posted on 7/24/25 at 3:14 pm to
quote:

Any feedback or recommendations on that?


Of those, I'd go Gravely.

If you're still open to other options, I'd highly suggest going to look at the Grasshoppers. Bad arse mowers that are built like a tank.
Posted by FightnTiger
Louisiana
Member since Jul 2007
1075 posts
Posted on 7/24/25 at 4:01 pm to
Recently sold my Hustler 60" and bought Ferris ISX 800 60" with 26 Kawasaki.
Posted by mfiredog
Stonewall
Member since Oct 2016
716 posts
Posted on 7/24/25 at 4:02 pm to
I just purchased a Bob Cat Z2000 with a Kawasaki 23 hp. I love it.
Posted by jake wade
North LA
Member since Oct 2007
2298 posts
Posted on 7/24/25 at 6:42 pm to
Scag Patriot, Kawasaki engine, 52” cut.
Mine has been flawless. Tough machine.
Posted by HeadSlash
TEAM LIVE BADASS - St. GEORGE
Member since Aug 2006
54578 posts
Posted on 7/24/25 at 7:34 pm to
Get the professional model from a dealership that services what they sell
Posted by Tyga Woods
South Central Jupiter Island, FL
Member since Sep 2016
41191 posts
Posted on 7/24/25 at 7:35 pm to
How level is the ground you’ll be cutting? If it’s bumpy, I’d go commercial grade for sure.

I have an exmark with a Kawasaki and a Hustler with a Honda. No engine or deck trouble out of either. The hustler is nearly 20 years old. I cut about 6 acres every week or so and half of that is pretty rough terrain
This post was edited on 7/24/25 at 7:38 pm
Posted by Churchill
Member since Apr 2009
622 posts
Posted on 7/25/25 at 8:55 am to
I still run a 2007 Ferris. Tough little bugger.
Posted by Bigfishchoupique
Member since Jul 2017
9429 posts
Posted on 7/25/25 at 9:05 am to
Go with the one who has 0% financing.
Posted by Prodigal Son
Member since May 2023
1590 posts
Posted on 7/26/25 at 3:32 pm to
My hustler (given to me, two years old) has the Kawasaki engine. It’s a decent mower. I honestly prefer my old John Deere. Same size blade deck, but much more comfortable and spacious seating. I’m not sure about new ones though.
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