Cub Newby

kowalski22 · May 10, 2006

Great forum!! I just recently purchased property with 4.2 acres. There are alot of trees but it is pretty flat. I have been researching all of my options and I came to the conclusion that I need a Z-Force 50 for mowing and a 2542 for utility work. My other option was to buy a 3100/3200 with a big deck for the same price. Has anybody else done this? What do you think? Thank you!

Bob_Bainbridge · May 10, 2006

The Z-Force 50 may be a good choice if you never want to pull any implements, like a roller, cart, aerator etc. If you want to pull anything you better go with the 3000 series. You can get a 54 or 60 inch deck with it.

Bob B.

ohmboy · May 10, 2006

You would be very surprised at just how manuverable the 3000 machines are. While not a zero turn, they will 3 point in a heart beat with the power steering taking practically all the effort out of it. The 54 or 60 inch deck will allow you to get close to things and the tractor in general will be of more use than just cutting grass.

JTKub · May 10, 2006

If your needs are to mow only and get it done as quickly as possible, a ZTR is the way to go. If you want versatility and a caddie of a GT, go for a 3K. 4acres+?? You might be better off with a compact tractor!

Joel

bermuda_ken · May 12, 2006

As others mention, if you only need to cut grass get the zero turn. My dad had 4.5 acres he cut with a 3240 (40th anniversary edition) with a 54 inch deck that did a great job fast!!! The 2 stage snowblower handles any sized glacier you can put in front of it too.

CCinCT · May 12, 2006

Kowalski, I would agree with your initial idea. The downside to your plan is that there'll be two engines to maintain. The upside is that the Z-50 should mow the yard quicker than the 3100/54 or /60... once you get used to it. Another upside is that if the Z-50 has mechanical problems, the 2542 could fill in temporarily (albeit slower). And if the 2542 has problems, you'll still be able to manage your lawn.

So in summary, assuming the cost is about the same, I agree that the 2-machine approach is the better option.