Imagine a perfectly manicured lawn, the kind that makes your neighbors jealous, without you breaking a sweat. Sounds like a dream, right? But turning that dream into reality can feel like a chore, especially when you’re faced with the overwhelming task of picking the perfect 42-inch riding lawn mower.
Choosing a riding mower is a big decision. You want something that cuts well, is easy to handle, and won’t break the bank. But with so many brands and features out there, it’s easy to get lost. Are you worried about buying the wrong one and wasting your hard-earned money? Do you wonder which mower will actually make mowing your lawn feel less like work and more like a breeze?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about 42-inch riding lawn mowers. We’ll explore the best options, what makes them great, and how to pick the one that’s just right for your yard and your budget. Get ready to say goodbye to lawn-mowing stress!
Our Top 5 42 Riding Lawn Mower Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 42 Riding Lawn Mower Detailed Reviews
1. Craftsman 42″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower with 17.5 HP* Briggs and Stratton Single-Cylinder Engine
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of spending hours pushing a heavy mower? The Craftsman 42″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower is here to make yard work a breeze. This red and black tractor packs a punch with its powerful Briggs and Stratton engine, letting you tackle even large yards with ease. It’s designed to save you time and effort, transforming your lawn maintenance from a chore into a smooth operation.
What We Like:
- Powerful Engine: The 17.5 HP* Briggs and Stratton engine starts easily and gives you the power you need for a great cut.
- Wide Cutting Deck: The 42-inch deck cuts more grass in one pass, helping you finish your lawn faster. It’s built tough with stamped steel.
- Great Maneuverability: With an 18-inch turning radius, it’s simple to steer around flower beds, trees, and other obstacles.
- Comfortable Ride: The 7-speed transmission lets you pick the right pace, and the contoured seat makes mowing more comfortable.
- Versatile Cutting: You can bag clippings or use the optional mulching kit to return nutrients to your lawn.
What Could Be Improved:
- Manual Transmission: While the 7-speed transmission offers control, some users might prefer a simpler automatic or hydrostatic transmission.
- Mulching Kit Sold Separately: To get that professional mulched finish, you’ll need to buy the mulching kit as an extra purchase.
This Craftsman riding mower offers a significant upgrade for anyone looking to simplify their lawn care. It’s a practical choice for maintaining a beautiful yard with less sweat.
2. EGO Power+ Electric Riding Lawn Mower
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready to transform your lawn care routine with the EGO Power+ Electric Riding Lawn Mower. This mower offers the power of gas without the fumes or hassle. Its 42-inch deck and zero-turn radius let you maneuver around obstacles with ease. You can cut up to 2 acres on a single charge, and if you need more, just add more batteries! It’s designed for power, performance, and a customizable mowing experience.
What We Like:
- It has the power of gas mowers, delivering up to 22 horsepower.
- You can mow up to 2 acres on one charge, and easily extend that by adding more batteries.
- Customize your ride with three different driving modes: Standard, Control, and Sport.
- Easily adjust the cutting height from 1.5 to 4.5 inches with 10 different positions.
- It offers 3-in-1 functionality: mulch, bag, or side discharge your clippings.
- The four included batteries recharge in about two hours.
What Could Be Improved:
- The initial investment might be higher than a gas mower.
- While powerful, the top speed of 8 MPH might feel slow for some users wanting to cover large areas quickly.
This EGO mower is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a powerful, efficient, and eco-friendly way to maintain their lawn. It brings cutting-edge technology to your backyard.
3. Husqvarna TS 142 (42″) 22HP Briggs Lawn Tractor 960430345
Rating: 9.3/10
Tackling your lawn just got a whole lot easier with the Husqvarna TS 142 (42″) 22HP Briggs Lawn Tractor. This powerful machine is built to handle most yards, making mowing less of a chore and more of a breeze. Its sturdy design and user-friendly features mean you can spend less time working and more time enjoying your perfectly manicured lawn.
What We Like:
- The 22HP Briggs EXi series engine packs plenty of power to cut through thick grass.
- The 42-inch stamped, two-blade mower deck covers a good amount of ground with each pass.
- The Tuff Torq hydrostatic transmission offers smooth speed control for easy maneuvering around obstacles.
- With a 3-gallon fuel tank, you can mow for longer without frequent stops to refuel.
- Its forward ground speed of 5 mph helps you get the job done faster.
What Could Be Improved:
- The reverse speed of 2 mph can feel a bit slow when you need to make quick adjustments.
- While powerful, some users might prefer a wider deck for very large properties.
The Husqvarna TS 142 is a solid choice for homeowners seeking a reliable and capable lawn tractor. It offers a great balance of power and ease of use for everyday lawn care.
4. Grasscool 942-04308 Mower Blades for Troy Bilt Bronco Pony Mustang 42 inch Lawn Mower Cub Cadet 42” Deck Riding Mower RZT42 Replace 942-04308A 942-04308-X 942-04312 742-04312 High Lift (2 Pack)
Rating: 8.7/10
Revitalize your lawn care routine with the Grasscool 942-04308 High Lift Mower Blades. This 2-pack set is designed to give your 42-inch Cub Cadet and Troy-Bilt mowers a powerful upgrade, tackling everything from tall weeds to tough terrain with ease. Get ready for a cleaner cut and a more efficient mowing experience.
What We Like:
- Versatile Compatibility: These blades replace a wide range of OEM numbers for Cub Cadet and Troy-Bilt 42-inch mowers, fitting models like XT1 LT42 C, TB42 Hydro, and Mustang XP 42.
- High Lift Design: The 1-1/8 inch lift creates strong airflow, perfect for bagging clippings and cutting tall or wet grass efficiently.
- Durable Construction: Built for tough jobs, these blades can handle overgrown weeds and rugged areas.
- Rust Protection: Cutting edges are painted to prevent rust and protect your hands during installation.
- Reduced Clogging: The strong airflow helps prevent grass clippings from building up under your mower deck.
- Rigorous Testing: Blades undergo multiple tests to ensure superior performance and durability.
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific Spindle Fit: These blades are designed for a 6-point star (5/8″) spindle only. It’s crucial to verify your mower’s center hole pattern before purchase to avoid compatibility issues.
- Paint Wear: The protective paint on the cutting edges will wear off as you mow, which is normal but might be a minor cosmetic concern for some.
With their robust design and efficient performance, these Grasscool blades are a solid choice for maintaining a beautiful lawn. Just be sure to check your mower’s spindle type before you buy to ensure a perfect fit.
5. Ariens IKON Select (42″) 21.5HP Kawasaki Zero Turn Mower
Rating: 9.0/10
The Ariens IKON Select (42″) 21.5HP Kawasaki Zero Turn Mower is a powerful tool for keeping your lawn looking its best. It’s designed to make mowing faster and easier, even for large yards. This mower helps you tackle your lawn care tasks with confidence.
What We Like:
- It’s very easy to maneuver and cut grass precisely.
- The engine is strong and reliable for tough jobs.
- It makes mowing a large lawn much quicker.
- The seat is comfortable for longer mowing sessions.
What Could Be Improved:
- The deck might get clogged with wet grass.
- Some users found the steering a bit sensitive at first.
- It can be a bit noisy when running at full power.
The Ariens IKON Select (42″) 21.5HP Kawasaki Zero Turn Mower is a solid choice for homeowners who want efficiency and power. It delivers a great cut and makes lawn maintenance less of a chore.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best 42-Inch Riding Lawn Mower
Picking the right riding lawn mower makes yard work much easier. A 42-inch deck is a great size for many yards. It’s big enough to cut grass fast but small enough to handle well. This guide helps you find the perfect mower for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a 42-inch riding mower, keep these important features in mind:
- Engine Power: Look for an engine with at least 15 horsepower. More power means it can handle tall grass and slopes better.
- Transmission Type:
- Manual (Gear Drive): You shift gears like a car. It’s usually cheaper.
- Automatic (Hydrostatic Drive): You control speed with a lever. It’s smoother and easier to use.
- Cutting Deck: A stamped steel deck is strong. Look for adjustable cutting heights so you can choose how tall your grass stays.
- Turning Radius: A tight turning radius lets you maneuver around trees and garden beds easily.
- Comfort Features: A comfortable seat and easy-to-reach controls make mowing less tiring.
Important Materials
The materials used in a mower affect how long it lasts and how well it works.
- Deck Material: Stamped steel is common and durable. Some higher-end mowers might use heavier gauge steel for extra strength.
- Frame Material: A sturdy steel frame supports the engine and other parts. It needs to be strong to handle bumps and uneven ground.
- Tire Material: Rubber tires are standard. Look for tires with good treads for traction, especially if you have hills.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a mower better, while others can make it less good.
What Improves Quality:
- Reputable Brands: Well-known brands often use better parts and have better quality control.
- Engine Brand: Engines from trusted manufacturers like Briggs & Stratton or Kohler are usually more reliable.
- Warranty: A longer warranty shows the manufacturer stands behind their product.
- Ease of Maintenance: Mowers with easy access to the engine and blades are simpler to care for.
What Reduces Quality:
- Plastic Parts: Too many plastic components can break easily.
- Weak Welds: Poorly made welds on the frame or deck can lead to problems.
- Overheating Issues: Some mowers can overheat, especially with less powerful engines.
- Difficult Controls: Stiff steering or hard-to-reach levers make mowing a chore.
User Experience and Use Cases
How a mower feels to use and what you can do with it matters a lot.
A 42-inch riding mower is perfect for medium to large yards, typically between half an acre and two acres. It cuts grass much faster than a push mower. Homeowners with obstacles like trees, flower beds, or play structures will appreciate a mower with a good turning radius. It makes getting around these areas much simpler.
For people who want to save time and effort, a riding mower is a smart choice. The hydrostatic transmission makes it very easy to drive. You just push a pedal to go faster or slower. This makes mowing feel less like work and more like a relaxing drive. If you have a lot of grass to cut, a riding mower will significantly cut down your mowing time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best engine size for a 42-inch riding mower?
A: For a 42-inch deck, an engine with at least 15 horsepower (HP) is recommended. More HP helps it cut through thicker grass and tackle slopes.
Q: What is the difference between hydrostatic and manual transmission?
A: Hydrostatic transmission is like an automatic car. You use a pedal to control speed. Manual transmission requires you to shift gears, similar to a manual car.
Q: How often should I change the oil in my riding mower?
A: Most manufacturers recommend changing the oil after every 50 hours of use or once a year, whichever comes first. Always check your owner’s manual.
Q: Can a 42-inch mower handle hilly terrain?
A: Yes, a 42-inch mower can handle hills, especially if it has a powerful engine and good traction. However, always be cautious on steep slopes.
Q: What maintenance do I need to do on a riding mower?
A: Basic maintenance includes changing the oil, checking tire pressure, cleaning the mower deck, and sharpening or replacing the blades.
Q: Are 42-inch riding mowers good for small yards?
A: While a 42-inch mower can work in smaller yards, it might be a bit large. A smaller mower might be easier to store and maneuver in very tight spaces.
Q: How do I adjust the cutting height?
A: Most mowers have a lever near the steering wheel or on the fender. You move this lever to different notches to set the desired grass height.
Q: What should I do if my mower is vibrating a lot?
A: Excessive vibration can mean the blades are bent, unbalanced, or loose. It could also be an issue with the engine or deck.
Q: How do I store my riding mower for the winter?
A: Clean the mower, fill the fuel tank with a stabilizer, change the oil, and store it in a dry place. Disconnect the battery if possible.
Q: What is a good turning radius for a riding mower?
A: A tighter turning radius, often called “zero-turn,” allows for very quick turns. For a standard riding mower, a smaller turning radius is generally better for maneuverability.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.