Buying a Cub Cadet LT1050 (1046/1050 vs. 2544)

[mikeslavis]

All,

I think I'm pretty set that this is the mower that I want to get, so I just wanted to run down my thoughts and comparisons that brought me here in case they might help someone else who's looking. Here we go:

The 1046 and 1050 are the same tractor with a few differences, outlined below:

1046=23 hp Kohler V-Twin, 1050=26 hp Kohler V-Twin
1046=13 ga. steel mower deck, 1050=12 ga. steel mower deck
1046=46" cut, 1050=50" cut
1046=4 wheels on mower deck, 1050=4 wheels on mower deck plus front roller
1046=$1,799, 1050=$1,999

Here are the differences between the 1046/1050 and the 2544:

PRO 1046/1050
18" Turning radius vs. 28" on 2544 (that's a big one for maneuverability)
Higher horsepower engines vs 20 hp. on 2544 (all three are Kohler Command
V-Twins)
Lighter weight-better floatation than 2544
Rear tires 10" wide vs. 9.5" on 2544 (they're shorter but wider)
Lower cost vs. 2544's $2,999 price tag

CON 1046/1050
Frame is 12 ga. steel vs. 11 ga. on 2544
Engine to Transmission is belt vs. shaft driven on 2544
Hood is plastic vs. steel on 2544
Axles/Spindles not as heavy duty as 2544
Non-adjustable seat vs. 6-position adjustable on 2544
Not as many attachments vs. 2544 - Tiller, snow thrower, triple bagger
Mower decks are thinner vs. 2544's 11 ga. steel deck

There you go. I just wanted to potentially save somebody the time it took me to figure this out, assuming their requirements are the same as mine. For me, this will be a trim mower, with my New Holland TN75S tractor and Woods RM-990 90" mower doing most of the "heavy lifting".

I really think the 1046/1050 tractors are a great deal for what you get, especially since they include a V-Twin Kohler Command engine.

Thanks for listening!

mike@slavis.com

 

[JTKub]

Yep. For a trim mower that will give you 5-10yrs of reliable service, the Cub 1000 series is all you'll ever need. They are they best in the <$2000 range. One "pro" you didn't mention of the 2000 series is the fully serviceable transaxle (spin-on filter, dipstick, etc.) The 1000 series is listed as a serviceable trans, but all it has is a fill plug. 2000+ also have the fully welded frame, weigh a couple hundred pounds more than the 1000's, Have heavy, serviceable steering components, etc... Is all of this needed for a trim mower? nope!
G/luck!
Joel

 

[ccbob]

Hi Mike;

The LT1046 / 1050 comes with a six position adjustable seat. I have the LT 1046 and I am very happy with the machine. Good Luck on your decision. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif