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Just ran the cub for the the first time over 1 acer of hell yard. Foot tall in some places. Weeds not grass. Dug up by big ass dogs. Very tree filled, with lots of high angle parts. It worked so much better than my T-1000, that finally after 9 years of service... died. The Cub handled it very well. My yard beats stuff up, so I plan on putting that warranty to work.
I bought the Cub Cadet LT46 last year and it’s not only a great mower lawn tractor but it also plows both my driveways like a little tank with chains on the rear tires. No regrets at all. I love the twin cylinder 23HP motor and the 12 Ga deck.
I just bought the Craftsman 2400 and i love it. From the twin cylinder Koehler to the 5" turning radius to the ability to mow while going in reverse. My yard is relatively small, with a lot of flower beds and a few fruit trees. The 5" cutting radius makes cutting around obsticals a breeze and it gets as close as the push mower. I can turn on the mow in reverse feature, so im not having to disengage the blades everytime i want to back up. This is the first year ive not really needed my push mower except for the corners of my chain link fence and not used a string trimmer at all. Also Koehler offers a synthetic oil and filter that theoretically reduces oil changes to every 300 hours, but i personally would never go that long. That's just a me thing though. I look forward to a lifetime relationship with my new mower.
I bought the T2200 2 years ago. The battery was bad right at a year and the deck belt went out last week. My yard is only .75 acres. Craftsman makes junk now
I've watched this video 3 or 4 times. Excellent job!! I love the fact that you are not locked in on any particular brand. I had a Cub made in 2005, and it just died. Trying to find something to replace it at this time of year is hard. I think either the Cub or the Craftsman would work just fine for me, if I can find one. Especially since the Craftsman now has the 20HP Kohler twin.
Excellent review! Thanks for posting. You covered all the bases, looks like. I've had JD for years, but would not hesitate to go with the Craftsman in your review. Currently have a JD X-370 (going on 7 years) and it's ECM (yes, folks, it's controlled by an electronic control module) is giving a lot of trouble, currently priced at $340.00 for a new ECM. I'm hoping other mower manufacturers don't go down the path of loading their stuff down with electronic control crap. KEEP IT SIMPLE, and stay with mechanical switches, etc.
I brought a 2015 John Deere D130. The Best mower I ever brought. Mow 2 hilly acre each year with no problems and trouble free. The trouble free is what I want. I used to have to work on each other mower I had and now I am getting too old to craw on the ground every other week like I use too . Just make a mower that keeps working all year. I from Rockwood Tenn and our glass grows fast and is wet most of the time.
I have a 22yr old green craftsmen I bought from Sears burns a little oil has a great Koehler motor great turning radios the only think wrong with it is that it stoped charging the battery when running and one deck brace rotted off I keep all my equipment in my shed out of weather I would by another craftsman but only with Koehler motor
I was thinking about getting the Cub Cadet LT 46 but I'm not sure if I can get it in my building, I will have to measure the deck and guard.If I can't then I'm thinking about the John Deere S-130,I will have to measure the deck and guard on it also.I would like to get one with a V-Twin motor, either the Cub Cadet LT 46 with the V-Twin or the John Deere S-130 with the V-Twin motor.
Bought the Cub 46 in 2019 When my 96 craftsman 42" was tired but still ran like a top. Love everything about the Cub no regrets. The twin Cyl Kohler is a beast once the plug was gapped to spec I thought it was Subject to rough cold start but it was a simple plug gap. I find the deck wash system to be a little gimmicky and don't use it. Love the Cub! Great review and will help folks make a informed decision.
Thank you, sir - My craftsman died today, and it serve me well. I have never driven the cub cadet. Based on your research - the Cab to be my next purchase....
After making this video I got a deal on a clean 2016 Cub Cadet with 100 hrs that wouldn't move. Just a drive belt tensioner spring and idlers fixed the issue. I like it so much I think I'll just keep it.
Though the single cylinders are great on gas, I've never found they had enough power to cut my type of grass good here in Oklahoma so I've always bought twin cylinders since. I just replaced my 2010 Craftsman T3400 54" cut riding mower with a zero turn Bad Boy MZ Magnum 54" cut with a Kohler 725 two months ago when "end of the season" prices kicked in after viewing your "Residential Zero Turn Mowers 2023 Buyers Guide" video. Thanks for another great video.
I've got a 2020 model Craftsman T210 and its been a great unit, I do take care of it, oil changes, spark plugs, filters etc. Close to 100hrs on it and I just had to replace the factory battery. I went with an upgraded AGM battery this time over the stock flooded lead acid.
Purchased a Cub LT46 last year after doing my own comparisons. I am very satisfied with the performance and quality of the mower. I don't need to mow very often but I have a lot of area to mow when I do, and it is not a smooth estate -type lawn. The bumper is a non-issue for me, Cub has an optional bumper available, or I make a point to not run into anything.
This was the very best review of mowers anywhere. He covered so much and most important to me was the deck gauge and turning radius. I current have a 42 inch cub cadet that is 6 years old and the spindle that has a welder support rusted through and the spindle flipped loose. I have to choose new deck with new spindles appox 1,100.00 or new mower. I love the turn raidius on the craftsman but the 13 vs 12 ga deck will keep with cub cadet and all the spare parts I will have from the old one to use on the new one if needed.
Got the LT42 XT1 enduro series. And love it. It cuts so nicely. Seems to cut cleaner and sharper than any I’ve ever had. It’s quick, cool/tough looking especially at night with the headlamps. Rides like a non-thunderous cloud. Easy handling, comfortable seat, had for I believe 1.5 years to 2, I also bought the snow plow attachment and obviously the plow as well, and chains for the tires which I haven’t needed plowing my looooong driveway in a blizzard, the plow is basic, but works awesome. Saved my back from some serious 🚽 damage. Got the brush guard, all from cub cadet, mind you, she’s a beaut.
I have viewed this video a couple times for reference. Lowe’s has the T2200 Craftsman for $2499.00, BUT, for $2599.00 they have T2200K. It is a 42” deck with a TWIN CYLINDER KOELHER 20 hp motor!
Yeah, that's awesome! I had another viewer tell me the same a few weeks ago. I checked the craftsman website then and again just now when I saw your comment. The T2200K is still not on the craftsman website but it is on Lowes' website. I wish they had had one at my Lowes when making this video.
Wow ...what an outstanding Vlog! I am in the market for a new riding mower and was leaning toward John Deer, BUT after your explanations and comparisons I will go out and buy the Club Cadet this weekend!
Your vlog helped me make the decision to go with the Craftsman T3200, 24hp Kohler twin cylinder. That 5" turning radius is incredible. The bumper came in handy recently!
And for another $150 you can get the Cub Cadet XT1 LT50 with the Fabricated Deck and a 24 HP Kohler engine. Worth the extra money in my opinion for the Fab Deck Alone not to mention the better engine.
Thanks for posting this comment. I think this LT50 is the winner. I have had JD for the past 30 years.. so switching is a bit hard...I don't like the small battery in these Cub Cadets though.
So, after more investigation... I think I am going to stick with JD and get an X350. Lots of reasons.. it is bigger than my LA120, has a Kawasaki engine, 10guage fabricated deck, 2 deck height wheels on each side ( 48" )
Well done! Incredible, I preformed the same analysis. With the exception of looking at the Craftsman T2400 (46" deck). I am torn between the Craftsman and the Cub Cadet. Both are "fraternal twins" with a couple of slightly different features, color, and hood appearance. The 5" turning radius is giving the edge to craftsman over the Cub Cadet. But man, the Cub Cadet just looks sharper! I'll need to see them and climb aboard to make the final decision.
Thanks! Yeah the Cub Cadet is the one I'd end up going with after comparing them. Plus they do look the best is just icing on the cake. The craftsman would be my close 2nd choice.
@@Mechanical_Mind I'm still mowing with my 24 year old Murray but I know that it's days are numbered.Been looking at all the reviews I can find on the Internet.First liked the Husqvarna TS 146X but I've been reading a lot on good reviews on the Cub Cadet LT 46.I'm definitely going with a V- Twin motor.Kinda like the John Deere S-130 but don't like the 30 second quick oil change.
Thank you so much for this review. After 12 years of using a D110, I’m in the market for a new machine. I’m going to take a serious look at the 2499 Cub Cadet.
I honestly was surprised how well the Craftsman & Cub Cadet are built for these model years. Both are manufactured by MTD. MTD gets unwarranted hate, in my opinion
Great video, I'm looking to buy my first riding mower thanks for your break down of different models. That makes my decision much easier. I think the Cub Cadet will give me the most for my money. And the Cub Cadet looks better too. 🤣
Thank you for making this video ! I have a John Deere L110 for 21 years and I was considering buying a new one, but I may look into a Craftsman or Cub Cadet!
I just got the cub cadet delivered this morning and did this process of elimination at the home depot and said all the same things basically that you were saying but on the spot and came to the same conclusion, that's funny lol
Bravo, my man, you've done all the homework for me. I am considering getting my first rider as I now have a new property to take care of. Thank you very much, this was a great video *getting ready to head down to Tractor Supply place. LOL
i bought a 54 inch 24 ho husqvarna with my covid unemployment money after being forced out of my job, it had the best warranty 10 years on the mower deck and 3 year everything else
This is a great review. Recently bought a lake house with a lot more property. Being much older now, I'm trying to save some energy for boating and fishing! Craftsman vs Cub Cadet side by side comparison really helped me with my decision. Thanks!
After reviewing everything available in my area, I felt the XT1 LT46 was the best bang for the buck. I ended up catching a sale and getting 1 for $200 off.
My 23 year old S1742 Scott’s is dying. Motor is fine but I’m having Electrical issues. I’ve been looking on line at the choices and came to the same conclusion about the Cub. Was thinking the 42” was good enough but with the Kohler engine and bigger deck I’m convinced the 46” is what I need. Thank you for a clear & concise review. 👍🏼
I’d have to go with the Craftsman. I currently have a 19 year old craftsman still running strong. With such longevity and reliability, I cannot switch brands.
Ended up buying a Husky TS148X, 48" reinforced deck, electric PTO, cruise control, 24 HP Kawasaki twin engine, bumper, hour meter, not much more than the T142S, but you get a lot more.
One thing I don't understand is the move away from the fuel tanks under the seat to in the engine compartment. I have a 2005 Cub Cadet LT 1046 and it has the large under seat tank and the professional grade 23 hp Kohler Command engine. Still going strong after 19 seasons!
Considering all the choices out there, this review was very objective and extremely helpful. I expected I'd be buying a JD for my next rider. But based on the info you provided, I was surprised that the new Craftsman T2200K best suited my needs.
My dad has a JD prob 10-12yrs old, it runs fine I guess and I did have fun doing his hillside but the money better spent goes to Cub Cadet these days. That JD was a lot of work messing/muscling with the deck height on the fly for tall/thick/shrubby patches. I am now looking at the CC
I can say that this Husqvarna with the 21hp Courage Kohler engine on 46" deck and manual PTO has 520hours on it when I got it used for $400, I haven't found anything wrong with it after mowing 1ac yard. Hope to just keep it running and replace what happens along the way, seems cheaper than buying anything new.
I've been researching them, building an excel spreadsheet, comparing Craftsman, Cub Cadet, Husqvarna, John Deere, Murray, Troy-Bilt. I was disappointed in JD's warranty and HP. Murray and Troy-Bilt, like the JD, both had 2-year warranties. Basically narrowing it down to Craftsman, Cub Cadet, and Husqvarna. Before your video I wasn't seriously considering the Craftsman, but you did cause me to take a second look at it, though I still ended up narrowing it down to Husqvarna vs Cub Cadet. Craftsman just isn't the name it used to be 30+ years ago, sadly, whereas I appreciate the reputation of Husqvarna and Cub Cadet. I've never owned a Cub Cadet, but I bought a new Husqvarna self propelled mower with a Honda engine 14 years ago, and it's still going strong. I bought a used JD D105 w/80 hours on it two years ago and the deck cracked, which makes me appreciate the gauge of the Cub Cadet. I repaired the JD, but it has since gone through 3 belts. I suspect the alignment is off. It'll likely become a dedicated wagon hauler. So I'm down to the Husqvarna and the Cub Cadet, leaning heavily towards the Cub Cadet.
I just bought the Cub Cadet LT46. I had a John Deere S110. The Cub is a far superior machine. It doesn’t slow down through stuff that would bog the S110 down.
My JD LA110 is coming 17 years old and still runs and cuts great, We bought a new JD S140 and does the same is cutting and running it will last me another 17 years or the rest of my life so JD for me.
I’m so glad I didn’t purchase a new riding lawnmower the past 3 years. Prices are ridiculous. I picked up a 2009 poulan pro PB145G38 told it didn’t work. It works because I put gas in it and turned the knob to allow gas to flow and it fired up. Lots of issues included rust, rust and rust. I’m thankful the mower was in OK condition. This fall I’m going to wire brush the remaining rust on the rider. I found a 17.5 hp B&S motor with only 250 miles on it. So I plan to change in the fall. There I’ll prep and paint the frame, deck and the hood as needed. I already replaced the 2 belts and an update on the spindles.
The steering gear on Cub Cadets are small and wear out quicker. John Deere uses a larger gear on the steering shaft. Of these mowers the John Deere is the best of the lot.
Great comparison video! Not sure if I'm repeating info in the threads here: They are almost twins. MTD manufactures both, mostly same with intetchamgable parts such as deck,seat, battery, controls, ect just different colors. I've driven three highlighted 42" models to compare before buying. The Cub xt1 lt42 & xt2 lt42 as well as the Craftman T2200k 42". Craftsman added the Kohler 7000 series v-twin engine option to the 42" now known as the midel T200k ... only available at Lowes & Amazon it appears? new to market in 2024? Note: for 42" mowers, for a few bucks over the cadet xt1 and less than the xt2 and mostly the same specs & nicer with the exception of fabricated deck on the xt2 you can get the Craftman T2200k for less $ with tighter steering (seemed super tight like a zero turn) nicer front gaurd, beefier front end cross arm with shock absorbsion.....xt2 does have bearing though, not sure about Craftsmann, but looked more beefed up feom that perspectiv. I'm going to go with the craftsman T2200k unless you guys have some new info that I should know?
I had a Scotts S1642 (made by John Deere for Home Depot) with a 16HP Kohler engine that lasted 24 years. It finally gave out last year and now I'm looking to replace it. Leaning to the John Deere S100 since it is a stronger engine than what I had and JD for its quality. Some of my old parts can be used on the S100. Great video though; very insightful. Giving me more to think about. Thanks.
Although I'm Swedish and live one hour away from the city Husqvarna I have to say my new to me 2015 Cub Cadet is a very nice experience. I have used a Stiga Villa 12 (front deck) for ten years or so, but the Cub Cadet is much nicer. I think however there may be some differences between euro and us Cub Cadets. But it may be just the model names...? Sure looks like a us model from the same year. I know I love the large tank and the 42" deck. In Sweden most people use front deck models or has switched to robots. But I was surprised how likeable the tractor design is. And I'm really looking forward to plow with it.
I agree Cub Cadet is the way to go best value, construction and warranty. Also spend a few more dollars like I did get the LT-50 electric PTO Fabricated heavy duty deck no comparison to the others Cub Cadet wins..
I got myself the CubCadet XT2 SLX50 with 23 HP Kohler and Fab Deck. It is a beast and rides alot better with the bigger tires. Not to mention the front wheel bearings that make the front feel smooth.
ONE THE BIGGEST PROBLEMS IS CHANGE... SOME MOWER MAKERS LOVE TO DO SO CALLED UPDATEDS AND THIS MEANS WE ALL MUST LOOK CLOSELY EACH YEARS. THE TIME THEY TRY TO USE NON METAL TRANSMISSTIONS WAS A TRUE FAIL. POINT IS LOOK CLOSELY AS THE MIX SOME TRASH IN THE GOOD EACH YEAR. EVEN THE SAME MAKER MAY HAVE A DIFFER PART WHICH MAKES THE WHOLE MOWER A PAIN TO FIX OR UPKEEP. THANK YOU SIR FOR YOUR HARD WORK. IT HELPS GREATLY TO HAVE A REAL PRO TELL EVERYONE WHAT TO LOOK FOR. WE FROM TENN. THE ARE I LIVE IN HAS HILLS WHICH SOME MOWERS WILL ROLL OVER AND KILL YOU.
Just wanted to let you know - Craftsman updated the T2200 (now the T2200K). It comes with a 20 hp Kohler twin cylinder engine. Just picked mine up this past Saturday. It’s exactly the same as the T2200 apart from the engine.
I've been looking at all the comparisons I can find on the Internet and seems like The Cub Cadet 46 inch cut with the V- Twin motor is what I've decided on.There's a Cub Cadet Dealer only two miles away.
MTD makes Craftsman, Yard Machine, cub cadet and a few other brands The problem with them is that cheaper parts are used. The transmissions on the Craftsman mowers are non serviceable, so anything happens to that, we'll you know. Husqvarna and John deere build their own machines and use better parts. So personally, i'd stick with one of those two!
I liked your video but for me there's something left out and that would be the availability of attachments. Like snow plows, clipping baggers things like that.
I was a JD fan for 15 years, but after fixing it and working on it, seeing how some of their paint just flaked right which wasn't my fault only after 1-2 years of use, I've concluded my LA115 due for retirement was not worth the $1800 I paid back in 2009 (though I did get the heavier duty dump cart for free). I've also kept a close eye on those JD's every year and have witnessed the price creep up to what it is now while certain parts became cheapened or removed altogether. Fast forward to today, the Cub Cadet Enduro, namely the LT50 seems to be priced just about right in 2024, especially with their discounting of last year's 'fake inflation' (which an instant discount indicates admission of fake inflation pricing). The most comparable JD S160 and S170 is several hundreds of dollars more..and you're just paying for the name...same now as it was back then. For my use-case (which I'm not going to admit), this mower will last me for the rest of my life. Just hoping the dual-switch (key and button) reverse mow bypass is still easy to figure out and doesn't have some logic-box or relay that needs figured out. Probably don't want to tell MTD and Cub Cadet that their lawn tractors are the best value in terms of features and prices...they'll start cheapening them too.
$2.499.00 will get you the 22 hp, add another hundred bucks $2.599.00 and you can get the 23 hp that is the current home depot prices as of this posting. It has been just 3 months since this video was posted and already a hundred bucks more expensive. The craftsman also went up 100 bucks.
@@justinallen4903 all around st louis is the location and they all charge the same. Lowes and home depot do not carry the same models due to contract though.
Someone I know replaced their broken cub cadet 42” with a craftsman 42”. Same exact mower. Same levers, same controls, same everything. Just the trim is different.
It wouldn't surprise me at all. The looked and felt very similar if not identical in many ways. MTD might make both of them. I like how the Cub Cadet offers the twin cylinder engine.
@@Mechanical_Mind that was the only difference I found, different engines. But everything from the parking brake to the ignition controls are identical. It’s good cause I can use it for parts if their craftsman breaks.
Nothing runs like a deer. I bought my 15hp 1 cylinder LT155 in 2002 and have never been to the shop, burn a little oil now and a flat tire is all I've dealt with. You don't want a gas tank under the hood next to the battery and engine, plus it has to be removed to work on engine parts. Plastic light weight hood is great in my book. JD is the least amount sold in the trade magazines that I've seen for a reason. People get rid of the others at a much higher rate or the JD is very old and still kicks butt.
Thank you. Many brands place the had tank under the hood. I've had a few mowers the same way and it was never an issue. I do prefer the filler neck to be to the side like the new craftsman and Cub Cadet have.
Hi, this is a very good video, great production quality also a lot of information. However as a mechanic and someone who gets lots of these as used machines that I sometimes repair, I disagree with many things in this video. I don't know what you backround is on lawn equipment but you are excellent at show features and comparing machines. I plan to do a video like this soon. But my focus will be more towards what are good things, what are bad things and what is just fluff to justify the price. Not trying to say anything bad about you or the video, I just think shoppers could use more insight into hiw these new machines will hold up compared to 30 years ago. Someday I will make cideos as good as yours. Also I did hit subscribe.
We love craftsman riding mowers. I bought my husband one when I was pregnant for Father's Day with our first son in 1994 . It lasted until that son graduated from high school in 2013. It lasted for 19 years. He second one we bought in 2013, and it was still running when my husband passed away last June, 10 years.
Cub Cadet has a thicker deck guage to make up for the design flaw of the deck. The rotor mounting holes are too close to the actual rotor hole itself which causes the decks to break at those mounting holes commonly. They literally have the worst decks in the game.
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Just ran the cub for the the first time over 1 acer of hell yard. Foot tall in some places. Weeds not grass. Dug up by big ass dogs. Very tree filled, with lots of high angle parts. It worked so much better than my T-1000, that finally after 9 years of service... died. The Cub handled it very well. My yard beats stuff up, so I plan on putting that warranty to work.
I feel better, that's the exact one I narrowed it down to. Then found your video. Here goes! 🤞
I bought the Cub Cadet LT46 last year and it’s not only a great mower lawn tractor but it also plows both my driveways like a little tank with chains on the rear tires. No regrets at all. I love the twin cylinder 23HP motor and the 12 Ga deck.
After two Craftsman riders with blown transmissions I purchased my first Cub Cadet . It is a beautiful mower.
I just bought the Craftsman 2400 and i love it. From the twin cylinder Koehler to the 5" turning radius to the ability to mow while going in reverse. My yard is relatively small, with a lot of flower beds and a few fruit trees. The 5" cutting radius makes cutting around obsticals a breeze and it gets as close as the push mower. I can turn on the mow in reverse feature, so im not having to disengage the blades everytime i want to back up.
This is the first year ive not really needed my push mower except for the corners of my chain link fence and not used a string trimmer at all.
Also Koehler offers a synthetic oil and filter that theoretically reduces oil changes to every 300 hours, but i personally would never go that long. That's just a me thing though.
I look forward to a lifetime relationship with my new mower.
I bought the T2200 2 years ago. The battery was bad right at a year and the deck belt went out last week. My yard is only .75 acres. Craftsman makes junk now
I've watched this video 3 or 4 times. Excellent job!! I love the fact that you are not locked in on any particular brand. I had a Cub made in 2005, and it just died. Trying to find something to replace it at this time of year is hard. I think either the Cub or the Craftsman would work just fine for me, if I can find one. Especially since the Craftsman now has the 20HP Kohler twin.
Excellent review! Thanks for posting. You covered all the bases, looks like. I've had JD for years, but would not hesitate to go with the Craftsman in your review. Currently have a JD X-370 (going on 7 years) and it's ECM (yes, folks, it's controlled by an electronic control module) is giving a lot of trouble, currently priced at $340.00 for a new ECM. I'm hoping other mower manufacturers don't go down the path of loading their stuff down with electronic control crap. KEEP IT SIMPLE, and stay with mechanical switches, etc.
I think you just sold me a LT46…thanks for this video
I bought one after much thought and it's absolutely awesome
I brought a 2015 John Deere D130. The Best mower I ever brought. Mow 2 hilly acre each year with no problems and trouble free. The trouble free is what I want. I used to have to work on each other mower I had and now I am getting too old to craw on the ground every other week like I use too . Just make a mower that keeps working all year. I from Rockwood Tenn and our glass grows fast and is wet most of the time.
I have a 22yr old green craftsmen I bought from Sears burns a little oil has a great Koehler motor great turning radios the only think wrong with it is that it stoped charging the battery when running and one deck brace rotted off I keep all my equipment in my shed out of weather I would by another craftsman but only with Koehler motor
@@raymondkurtyka754 Check the negative ground cable & or replace voltage regulator , should solve the problem !!
I was thinking about getting the Cub Cadet LT 46 but I'm not sure if I can get it in my building, I will have to measure the deck and guard.If I can't then I'm thinking about the John Deere S-130,I will have to measure the deck and guard on it also.I would like to get one with a V-Twin motor, either the Cub Cadet LT 46 with the V-Twin or the John Deere S-130 with the V-Twin motor.
Bought the Cub 46 in 2019
When my 96 craftsman 42" was tired but still ran like a top.
Love everything about the Cub no regrets.
The twin Cyl Kohler is a beast once the plug was gapped to spec I thought it was Subject to rough cold start but it was a simple plug gap.
I find the deck wash system to be a little gimmicky and don't use it. Love the Cub!
Great review and will help folks make a informed decision.
Thank you, sir - My craftsman died today, and it serve me well. I have never driven the cub cadet. Based on your research - the Cab to be my next purchase....
You did all the research I was going to do . Cub Cadet it is!
You may be sorry
Why?@@sondrasmith2691
After seeing this video, I am buying the Cub Cadet 46 in. However, I will buy the XT2 model w/fabricated deck. Thanks for this excellent review.😊
Thank you for this video. Made it a lot easier for me to make a decision in my riding mower purchase.
Exactly what I needed to see! Excellent vid. Been wanting the cub for a while but this validated it
After making this video I got a deal on a clean 2016 Cub Cadet with 100 hrs that wouldn't move. Just a drive belt tensioner spring and idlers fixed the issue. I like it so much I think I'll just keep it.
Though the single cylinders are great on gas, I've never found they had enough power to cut my type of grass good here in Oklahoma so I've always bought twin cylinders since. I just replaced my 2010 Craftsman T3400 54" cut riding mower with a zero turn Bad Boy MZ Magnum 54" cut with a Kohler 725 two months ago when "end of the season" prices kicked in after viewing your "Residential Zero Turn Mowers 2023 Buyers Guide" video. Thanks for another great video.
Good deal. I think you'll like the Bad Boy. Thanks for watching!
kubota sero turns are up to 31hp diesel wich is a serious power
I've got a 2020 model Craftsman T210 and its been a great unit, I do take care of it, oil changes, spark plugs, filters etc. Close to 100hrs on it and I just had to replace the factory battery.
I went with an upgraded AGM battery this time over the stock flooded lead acid.
Purchased a Cub LT46 last year after doing my own comparisons. I am very satisfied with the performance and quality of the mower. I don't need to mow very often but I have a lot of area to mow when I do, and it is not a smooth estate -type lawn. The bumper is a non-issue for me, Cub has an optional bumper available, or I make a point to not run into anything.
This was the very best review of mowers anywhere. He covered so much and most important to me was the deck gauge and turning radius. I current have a 42 inch cub cadet that is 6 years old and the spindle that has a welder support rusted through and the spindle flipped loose. I have to choose new deck with new spindles appox 1,100.00 or new mower. I love the turn raidius on the craftsman but the 13 vs 12 ga deck will keep with cub cadet and all the spare parts I will have from the old one to use on the new one if needed.
Got the LT42 XT1 enduro series. And love it. It cuts so nicely. Seems to cut cleaner and sharper than any I’ve ever had. It’s quick, cool/tough looking especially at night with the headlamps. Rides like a non-thunderous cloud. Easy handling, comfortable seat, had for I believe 1.5 years to 2, I also bought the snow plow attachment and obviously the plow as well, and chains for the tires which I haven’t needed plowing my looooong driveway in a blizzard, the plow is basic, but works awesome. Saved my back from some serious 🚽 damage. Got the brush guard, all from cub cadet, mind you, she’s a beaut.
I have viewed this video a couple times for reference. Lowe’s has the T2200 Craftsman for $2499.00, BUT, for $2599.00 they have T2200K. It is a 42” deck with a TWIN CYLINDER KOELHER 20 hp motor!
Yeah, that's awesome! I had another viewer tell me the same a few weeks ago. I checked the craftsman website then and again just now when I saw your comment. The T2200K is still not on the craftsman website but it is on Lowes' website. I wish they had had one at my Lowes when making this video.
Wow ...what an outstanding Vlog! I am in the market for a new riding mower and was leaning toward John Deer, BUT after your explanations and comparisons I will go out and buy the Club Cadet this weekend!
Thanks! The Cub Cadet is the one I'd go with.
Your vlog helped me make the decision to go with the Craftsman T3200, 24hp Kohler twin cylinder. That 5" turning radius is incredible. The bumper came in handy recently!
And for another $150 you can get the Cub Cadet XT1 LT50 with the Fabricated Deck and a 24 HP Kohler engine.
Worth the extra money in my opinion for the Fab Deck Alone not to mention the better engine.
Yes ,just bought one
@@anthonybrincefield2812 Awesome! I did too! Enjoying it so far.
Thanks for posting this comment. I think this LT50 is the winner. I have had JD for the past 30 years.. so switching is a bit hard...I don't like the small battery in these Cub Cadets though.
@@SuperDaveTX1 Always trying to help out fellow UA-cam Family.
So, after more investigation... I think I am going to stick with JD and get an X350. Lots of reasons.. it is bigger than my LA120, has a Kawasaki engine, 10guage fabricated deck, 2 deck height wheels on each side ( 48" )
Phenomenal unbiased comparison! Thank you
Glad you liked it!
Just picked up a cubcadet. It looks like a ferrari, and ran terrific and got the job done on an acre, first run.
Let’s follow up in 2-3 years. As a cub cadet owner 2x I can tell you the quality and engineering are just not there unfortunately
@@blackshirt5530 ditto
You bought junk. Congrats.
Ive been looking at getting a cub cadet and seeing this makes me lean towards a cub even more
Well done! Incredible, I preformed the same analysis. With the exception of looking at the Craftsman T2400 (46" deck). I am torn between the Craftsman and the Cub Cadet. Both are "fraternal twins" with a couple of slightly different features, color, and hood appearance. The 5" turning radius is giving the edge to craftsman over the Cub Cadet. But man, the Cub Cadet just looks sharper! I'll need to see them and climb aboard to make the final decision.
Thanks! Yeah the Cub Cadet is the one I'd end up going with after comparing them. Plus they do look the best is just icing on the cake. The craftsman would be my close 2nd choice.
@@Mechanical_Mind I'm still mowing with my 24 year old Murray but I know that it's days are numbered.Been looking at all the reviews I can find on the Internet.First liked the Husqvarna TS 146X but I've been reading a lot on good reviews on the Cub Cadet LT 46.I'm definitely going with a V- Twin motor.Kinda like the John Deere S-130 but don't like the 30 second quick oil change.
Thank you so much for this review. After 12 years of using a D110, I’m in the market for a new machine. I’m going to take a serious look at the 2499 Cub Cadet.
I honestly was surprised how well the Craftsman & Cub Cadet are built for these model years. Both are manufactured by MTD. MTD gets unwarranted hate, in my opinion
Great video, I'm looking to buy my first riding mower thanks for your break down of different models. That makes my decision much easier. I think the Cub Cadet will give me the most for my money. And the Cub Cadet looks better too. 🤣
Thank you for making this video ! I have a John Deere L110 for 21 years and I was considering buying a new one, but I may look into a Craftsman or Cub Cadet!
I just got the cub cadet delivered this morning and did this process of elimination at the home depot and said all the same things basically that you were saying but on the spot and came to the same conclusion, that's funny lol
Bravo, my man, you've done all the homework for me. I am considering getting my first rider as I now have a new property to take care of. Thank you very much, this was a great video *getting ready to head down to Tractor Supply place. LOL
Selling my Husqvarna this week and buying the Cub Cadet 46. I will pay the extra $65 for the bumper. 0% interest and free delivery from Home Depot.
i bought a 54 inch 24 ho husqvarna with my covid unemployment money after being forced out of my job, it had the best warranty 10 years on the mower deck and 3 year everything else
This is a great review. Recently bought a lake house with a lot more property. Being much older now, I'm trying to save some energy for boating and fishing! Craftsman vs Cub Cadet side by side comparison really helped me with my decision. Thanks!
Hey Pat, thanks for watching and the kind words!
Yay just purchased the 46" cub cadet
After reviewing everything available in my area, I felt the XT1 LT46 was the best bang for the buck. I ended up catching a sale and getting 1 for $200 off.
I got a craftsman 2019 craftsman t210 and I’ve noticed the build quality is definitely better than my 2014 craftsmen mower
My 23 year old S1742 Scott’s is dying. Motor is fine but I’m having Electrical issues. I’ve been looking on line at the choices and came to the same conclusion about the Cub. Was thinking the 42” was good enough but with the Kohler engine and bigger deck I’m convinced the 46” is what I need. Thank you for a clear & concise review. 👍🏼
I just bought an cub cadet lt50 with a fab deck and can't wait to get it
Bought to pick up a cub LT46 and I feel much better about my choice now. Thank you.
My la 125 was 14 years old before I sold it got 600 bucks never replaced any belts nothing just oil plugs thats it upgraded to a e130
I need one this year 2024. I agree with you on the cub cadet 2499. Thanks!
I’d have to go with the Craftsman. I currently have a 19 year old craftsman still running strong. With such longevity and reliability, I cannot switch brands.
I'm the same way, I have 20 years on my craftsman!!! I'm going that route again!!!
Luv the comparison and will buy the club cadet 46. Great job men
Ended up buying a Husky TS148X, 48" reinforced deck, electric PTO, cruise control, 24 HP Kawasaki twin engine, bumper, hour meter, not much more than the T142S, but you get a lot more.
One thing I don't understand is the move away from the fuel tanks under the seat to in the engine compartment. I have a 2005 Cub Cadet LT 1046 and it has the large under seat tank and the professional grade 23 hp Kohler Command engine. Still going strong after 19 seasons!
Considering all the choices out there, this review was very objective and extremely helpful. I expected I'd be buying a JD for my next rider. But based on the info you provided, I was surprised that the new Craftsman T2200K best suited my needs.
My dad has a JD prob 10-12yrs old, it runs fine I guess and I did have fun doing his hillside but the money better spent goes to Cub Cadet these days. That JD was a lot of work messing/muscling with the deck height on the fly for tall/thick/shrubby patches. I am now looking at the CC
Great presentation - never would have been able to find the specs
I can say that this Husqvarna with the 21hp Courage Kohler engine on 46" deck and manual PTO has 520hours on it when I got it used for $400, I haven't found anything wrong with it after mowing 1ac yard.
Hope to just keep it running and replace what happens along the way, seems cheaper than buying anything new.
I've been researching them, building an excel spreadsheet, comparing Craftsman, Cub Cadet, Husqvarna, John Deere, Murray, Troy-Bilt. I was disappointed in JD's warranty and HP. Murray and Troy-Bilt, like the JD, both had 2-year warranties. Basically narrowing it down to Craftsman, Cub Cadet, and Husqvarna. Before your video I wasn't seriously considering the Craftsman, but you did cause me to take a second look at it, though I still ended up narrowing it down to Husqvarna vs Cub Cadet. Craftsman just isn't the name it used to be 30+ years ago, sadly, whereas I appreciate the reputation of Husqvarna and Cub Cadet.
I've never owned a Cub Cadet, but I bought a new Husqvarna self propelled mower with a Honda engine 14 years ago, and it's still going strong. I bought a used JD D105 w/80 hours on it two years ago and the deck cracked, which makes me appreciate the gauge of the Cub Cadet. I repaired the JD, but it has since gone through 3 belts. I suspect the alignment is off. It'll likely become a dedicated wagon hauler.
So I'm down to the Husqvarna and the Cub Cadet, leaning heavily towards the Cub Cadet.
THANKS FOR THE INFORMATION .. I BOUGHT THE 46 inch CLUB CADET.. IS WAS A NO BRAINER.. VERY SATISFIED
I ultimately bought the Cub Cadet XT1 LT46 and I’m very happy with my investment.
I just bought the Cub Cadet LT46. I had a John Deere S110. The Cub is a far superior machine. It doesn’t slow down through stuff that would bog the S110 down.
My JD LA110 is coming 17 years old and still runs and cuts great, We bought a new JD S140 and does the same is cutting and running it will last me another 17 years or the rest of my life so JD for me.
I’m so glad I didn’t purchase a new riding lawnmower the past 3 years. Prices are ridiculous.
I picked up a 2009 poulan pro PB145G38 told it didn’t work. It works because I put gas in it and turned the knob to allow gas to flow and it fired up. Lots of issues included rust, rust and rust. I’m thankful the mower was in OK condition.
This fall I’m going to wire brush the remaining rust on the rider. I found a 17.5 hp B&S motor with only 250 miles on it. So I plan to change in the fall.
There I’ll prep and paint the frame, deck and the hood as needed. I already replaced the 2 belts and an update on the spindles.
Exactly the review I’ve been looking for. Thanks so much
Great comparison! IMO it would come down to where can I get this serviced at. And how far do I have to go…
Just got 2017 Cub Cadet xt2 46 with 230 hours on it. 👍
👏👏👏
Thanks…time for a new rider..this was very helpful…☺️
Cub cadet seems like the best buy for me 😊
Very detailed, relevant and objective. Thanks!
Cub cadet and craftsman are the same exact mower. So whichever one is cheaper
Crafsman is a Cub Cadet in a different color.
Indeed. American yard 😊 products or mtd
True.
Crapsman
MTD
My craftsman was made by Huskavarna. Only problem I had was plastic tranny. No more plastic for me.
The steering gear on Cub Cadets are small and wear out quicker. John Deere uses a larger gear on the steering shaft. Of these mowers the John Deere is the best of the lot.
I have a 2023 XT1 enduro with 14 hours. It’s does a great job in my ruff yard on the lake I pull a wagon too hauling rock an dirt
That battery in the craftsman is an AGM battery. Easly found and replaced for about 90 dollars.
Great comparison video! Not sure if I'm repeating info in the threads here: They are almost twins. MTD manufactures both, mostly same with intetchamgable parts such as deck,seat, battery, controls, ect just different colors. I've driven three highlighted 42" models to compare before buying. The Cub xt1 lt42 & xt2 lt42 as well as the Craftman T2200k 42". Craftsman added the Kohler 7000 series v-twin engine option to the 42" now known as the midel T200k ... only available at Lowes & Amazon it appears? new to market in 2024? Note: for 42" mowers, for a few bucks over the cadet xt1 and less than the xt2 and mostly the same specs & nicer with the exception of fabricated deck on the xt2 you can get the Craftman T2200k for less $ with tighter steering (seemed super tight like a zero turn) nicer front gaurd, beefier front end cross arm with shock absorbsion.....xt2 does have bearing though, not sure about Craftsmann, but looked more beefed up feom that perspectiv. I'm going to go with the craftsman T2200k unless you guys have some new info that I should know?
I had a Scotts S1642 (made by John Deere for Home Depot) with a 16HP Kohler engine that lasted 24 years. It finally gave out last year and now I'm looking to replace it. Leaning to the John Deere S100 since it is a stronger engine than what I had and JD for its quality. Some of my old parts can be used on the S100. Great video though; very insightful. Giving me more to think about. Thanks.
I have the same mower that is also 24 years old and it still runs fine.
Great review. Ive go a cub cadet lt42 18hp single cylinder Kohler,wish id gotten twin cylinder. But has worked decent
Why would the 2 cylinder be better ?
Better engine ,more torque & power
Although I'm Swedish and live one hour away from the city Husqvarna I have to say my new to me 2015 Cub Cadet is a very nice experience. I have used a Stiga Villa 12 (front deck) for ten years or so, but the Cub Cadet is much nicer. I think however there may be some differences between euro and us Cub Cadets. But it may be just the model names...? Sure looks like a us model from the same year. I know I love the large tank and the 42" deck. In Sweden most people use front deck models or has switched to robots. But I was surprised how likeable the tractor design is. And I'm really looking forward to plow with it.
I just looked at the cub cadet xt1 lt46 at a dealer and it only had a 19 hp kohler engine. The one you showed had 23hp.
I saw one of those as well, however it only had a 42" deck. Looked to me like it got the wrong hood decal.
I agree Cub Cadet is the way to go best value, construction and warranty. Also spend a few more dollars like I did get the LT-50 electric PTO Fabricated heavy duty deck no comparison to the others Cub Cadet wins..
I got myself the CubCadet XT2 SLX50 with 23 HP Kohler and Fab Deck. It is a beast and rides alot better with the bigger tires. Not to mention the front wheel bearings that make the front feel smooth.
ONE THE BIGGEST PROBLEMS IS CHANGE... SOME MOWER MAKERS LOVE TO DO SO CALLED UPDATEDS AND THIS MEANS WE ALL MUST LOOK CLOSELY EACH YEARS. THE TIME THEY TRY TO USE NON METAL TRANSMISSTIONS WAS A TRUE FAIL. POINT IS LOOK CLOSELY AS THE MIX SOME TRASH IN THE GOOD EACH YEAR. EVEN THE SAME MAKER MAY HAVE A DIFFER PART WHICH MAKES THE WHOLE MOWER A PAIN TO FIX OR UPKEEP.
THANK YOU SIR FOR YOUR HARD WORK. IT HELPS GREATLY TO HAVE A REAL PRO TELL EVERYONE WHAT TO LOOK FOR. WE FROM TENN. THE ARE I LIVE IN HAS HILLS WHICH SOME MOWERS WILL ROLL OVER AND KILL YOU.
Thanks for this review, i was looking at the Cub cadet and i think i made my choice
Just wanted to let you know - Craftsman updated the T2200 (now the T2200K). It comes with a 20 hp Kohler twin cylinder engine. Just picked mine up this past Saturday. It’s exactly the same as the T2200 apart from the engine.
Good to know info. I was actually surprised how much I liked the Craftsman & Cub Cadet.
I've been looking at all the comparisons I can find on the Internet and seems like The Cub Cadet 46 inch cut with the V- Twin motor is what I've decided on.There's a Cub Cadet Dealer only two miles away.
I have a craftsman weedwacker that is absolute garbage and headache ill never buy a craftsman product again unless it is hand tools
Thank you for this very detailed video. 👍
MTD makes Craftsman, Yard Machine, cub cadet and a few other brands The problem with them is that cheaper parts are used. The transmissions on the Craftsman mowers are non serviceable, so anything happens to that, we'll you know. Husqvarna and John deere build their own machines and use better parts. So personally, i'd stick with one of those two!
I would take any with a kohler engine.
I liked your video but for me there's something left out and that would be the availability of attachments. Like snow plows, clipping baggers things like that.
I was a JD fan for 15 years, but after fixing it and working on it, seeing how some of their paint just flaked right which wasn't my fault only after 1-2 years of use, I've concluded my LA115 due for retirement was not worth the $1800 I paid back in 2009 (though I did get the heavier duty dump cart for free). I've also kept a close eye on those JD's every year and have witnessed the price creep up to what it is now while certain parts became cheapened or removed altogether.
Fast forward to today, the Cub Cadet Enduro, namely the LT50 seems to be priced just about right in 2024, especially with their discounting of last year's 'fake inflation' (which an instant discount indicates admission of fake inflation pricing). The most comparable JD S160 and S170 is several hundreds of dollars more..and you're just paying for the name...same now as it was back then. For my use-case (which I'm not going to admit), this mower will last me for the rest of my life. Just hoping the dual-switch (key and button) reverse mow bypass is still easy to figure out and doesn't have some logic-box or relay that needs figured out.
Probably don't want to tell MTD and Cub Cadet that their lawn tractors are the best value in terms of features and prices...they'll start cheapening them too.
I just bought a cub cadet lt46 and I had a craftsman with that tight turn radius it was garbage cub cadet is the best option husqvarna second place
Great video!! Thank you for all the information 👍
Turning radius makes the Craftsman the winner in my opinion.
$2.499.00 will get you the 22 hp, add another hundred bucks $2.599.00 and you can get the 23 hp that is the current home depot prices as of this posting. It has been just 3 months since this video was posted and already a hundred bucks more expensive. The craftsman also went up 100 bucks.
Must depend on location. I just bought a 23 hp lt46 at home depot today for 2499.
@@justinallen4903 all around st louis is the location and they all charge the same. Lowes and home depot do not carry the same models due to contract though.
All MTD manufactured disposable mowers. If you want a quality tool, buy from the dealer.
John Deere riding mowers are not made by MTD, they are built in a John Deere factory in Tennessee.
Wrong
Someone I know replaced their broken cub cadet 42” with a craftsman 42”. Same exact mower. Same levers, same controls, same everything. Just the trim is different.
It wouldn't surprise me at all. The looked and felt very similar if not identical in many ways. MTD might make both of them. I like how the Cub Cadet offers the twin cylinder engine.
@@Mechanical_Mind that was the only difference I found, different engines. But everything from the parking brake to the ignition controls are identical. It’s good cause I can use it for parts if their craftsman breaks.
@montanawhite5699 what issue did they have with the Cub Cadet?
@@Mechanical_Mind MTD makes both of them. They are the same.
Great review - valuable info. Thank you! 👍
Nothing runs like a deer. I bought my 15hp 1 cylinder LT155 in 2002 and have never been to the shop, burn a little oil now and a flat tire is all I've dealt with. You don't want a gas tank under the hood next to the battery and engine, plus it has to be removed to work on engine parts. Plastic light weight hood is great in my book. JD is the least amount sold in the trade magazines that I've seen for a reason. People get rid of the others at a much higher rate or the JD is very old and still kicks butt.
The John Deere will last longer and getting parts for them will be easier. Resale will also be better.
I have a 2009 Cub Cadet LTX 1046 VT (23 hp B/S 2cyl). It’s been good to me. I think the deck on it is 10g., though it has a plastic hood.
Very useful info and well prestented. Will the under hood petrol tank be affected by engine heat and evaporation
Thank you. Many brands place the had tank under the hood. I've had a few mowers the same way and it was never an issue. I do prefer the filler neck to be to the side like the new craftsman and Cub Cadet have.
Hi, this is a very good video, great production quality also a lot of information. However as a mechanic and someone who gets lots of these as used machines that I sometimes repair, I disagree with many things in this video. I don't know what you backround is on lawn equipment but you are excellent at show features and comparing machines. I plan to do a video like this soon. But my focus will be more towards what are good things, what are bad things and what is just fluff to justify the price. Not trying to say anything bad about you or the video, I just think shoppers could use more insight into hiw these new machines will hold up compared to 30 years ago. Someday I will make cideos as good as yours. Also I did hit subscribe.
We love craftsman riding mowers. I bought my husband one when I was pregnant for Father's Day with our first son in 1994 . It lasted until that son graduated from high school in 2013. It lasted for 19 years. He second one we bought in 2013, and it was still running when my husband passed away last June, 10 years.
Was he vaxed?
@@shangrilaladeda what?
@@marilynumstead6100 for COVID 19
Cub Cadet has a thicker deck guage to make up for the design flaw of the deck. The rotor mounting holes are too close to the actual rotor hole itself which causes the decks to break at those mounting holes commonly. They literally have the worst decks in the game.
All of these are 3 seasons and cost is 1,000 per year 😢😢😢
Would anyone please share the maintenance cost of the cub cadet lt46? Thank you