Just about the lowest priced zero-turn radius riding mower in the marketplace is the Troy-Bilt RZT 42. It's competitively priced against conventional rear-engine riders that aren't as nimble and take 12 to 28 inches to make a full turn. And it has a wider cut than many conventional riders. So there are many good reasons to consider the Troy-Bilt RZT 42 -- as long as you realize that you often get what you pay for.

The RZT 42 is powered by a 19-hp Briggs & Stratton I/C single-cylinder overhead valve engine. Among the good-better-best categories it's a good engine. The transmission is dual hydrostatic (automatic) comparable to other moderately priced riders. It has no problem turning around in its own path to reduce mowing time. The RZT 42 cuts a 42-inch path through the grass covering 1-1/2 to 2 acres in an hour depending on shape, terrain and obstacles. The deck has two anti-scalping wheels to help keep the cutting blades level to the ground.

Controls are easy to reach and use. The steering bars are located on either side of the driver and easily control the two rear wheels during turns. On the right side are the ignition/starting switch and the PTO engage/disengage switch. On the left is the throttle control, hour-meter and indicating lights to show when the power is on, etc. Below the seat are controls for changing the blade cutting height and setting the parking brake. Basic stuff.

However, like some of the lower-priced Cub Cadet riders (also made by MTD Products) we found that it's really hard to know how much fuel you have left on this model. The 3-gallon tank is filled at the left fender and fuel goes into a black plastic tank located below the driver's seat. Most riders have a clear-plastic tank that you can visually check, but this one doesn't. Our dealer couldn't find the fuel level either. It may not be a problem for you, but be aware of this limitation.

Rear wheel fenders are plastic as they are on most low-end riders. However, the Troy-Bilt logo and model information are stickers rather than screened paint and were beginning to curl on some of the machines we saw. But maybe that's good; you can remove the logos and make it your own.

The bottom line is that the Troy-Bilt RZT 42 is a bottom-line zero-turn-radius riding mower built and priced to appeal to homeowners coming up from push-type mowers. It's a big step up. Troy-Bilt keeps the costs down on this model, which is okay. However, we think the guess-how-much fuel tank is a limitation that could easily be solved.


Pros: Good basic mower for 1-2 acres, controls are well placed
Cons: Can't read the fuel level, not as well constructed as others

Warranty
2 years, limited (residential use)