Cub Cadet RZT 42 lawn tractor

Cub Cadet RZT 42

Power

17 hp

Production

2005-2012

Engine

Gasoline, 1-cylinder

Transmission

Hydro-Gear EZT

Drive

2WD

From the same series:

RZT 50

Introduction

Cub Cadet RZT 42 Zero-Turn Mower

The Cub Cadet RZT 42 is a zero-turn mower manufactured by Cub Cadet, a division of MTD, produced between 2005 and 2012. Designed for residential lawn maintenance, this model belongs to the RZT series and offers maneuverability for complex garden layouts.

Engine and Power

The machine is powered by a single-cylinder, air-cooled Briggs & Stratton 31G777 gasoline engine. It features a displacement of 499 cc (30.5 ci) and delivers a gross power output of 12.7 kW (17 hp). The engine is started via a 12-volt electric starter system.

Transmission and Handling

The RZT 42 utilizes a Hydro-Gear EZT hydrostatic transmission, allowing for infinite forward and reverse speed control without the need for traditional gear shifting. The two-wheel-drive system is complemented by power steering with differential power, which enables the zero-turn capability essential for navigating around obstacles.

Mowing and Dimensions

The mower is equipped with a 42-inch cutting deck. The power take-off (PTO) is independent and located at the mid-section, operated by an electric clutch. The chassis rolls on 11x4x5 front tires and 18x6.5x8 rear tires, both designed for turf application to minimize ground pressure.

Conclusion

The Cub Cadet RZT 42 is a robust entry-level zero-turn mower suited for homeowners requiring efficient mowing performance and high maneuverability. Its combination of a hydrostatic drive and a standard 42-inch deck makes it a practical solution for medium-sized residential lawns.

Production Information of Cub Cadet, RZT 42

  • Zero-turn mower
  • Original price was $2,600 in 2005
ManufacturerCub Cadet (a part of MTD)

Dimension and Tires Information of Cub Cadet, RZT 42

Lawn/turf front11x4x5
Lawn/turf rear18x6.5x8

Engine Specifications of Cub Cadet, RZT 42

  • Briggs & Stratton 31G777
  • Air-cooled vertical shaft
  • Gasoline
  • 1-cylinder
Power (gross)17 hp [12.7 kW]
Displacement499 cc [30.5 ci]
StarterElectric
Bore/Stroke3.57x3.06 inches [91 x 78 mm]
Oil capacity1.5 qts [1.4 L]
Starter volts12

Transmission Information of Cub Cadet, RZT 42

Transmission variants 1

TransmissionHydro-Gear EZT
TypeHydrostatic
GearsInfinite forward and reverse

Mechanical Specs of Cub Cadet, RZT 42

  • Two-wheel drive
  • Open operator station.
  • Power steering
SteeringDifferential power

Power Information of Cub Cadet, RZT 42

Mid PTOIndependent
ClutchElectric

Electrical System of Cub Cadet, RZT 42

GroundNegative
Battery volts12

Where it sits

With 17 HP, the Cub Cadet RZT 42 sits just below RZT 50 (23 HP) in Cub Cadet's range. Its power puts it in the 27th percentile of 2000s models in our database (1174 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Cub Cadet RZT 42 have?

The Cub Cadet RZT 42 delivers 17 HP.

What years was the Cub Cadet RZT 42 produced?

The Cub Cadet RZT 42 was produced in 2005-2012.

What engine does the Cub Cadet RZT 42 have?

The Cub Cadet RZT 42 is powered by a Gasoline, 1-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the Cub Cadet RZT 42 use?

The Cub Cadet RZT 42 uses a Hydro-Gear EZT transmission.

Is the Cub Cadet RZT 42 4WD?

The Cub Cadet RZT 42 is available in 2WD.

Compare the Cub Cadet RZT 42 with another model