Cub Cadet Z42 lawn tractor

Cub Cadet Z42

Power

15 hp

Production

1997-2000

Engine

Gasoline, 1-cylinder

Transmission

Hydro-Gear BDR

Weight

706 lbs [320 kg]

Drive

2WD

From the same series:

Z48

Introduction

Cub Cadet Z42 Zero-Turn Mower

The Cub Cadet Z42 is a zero-turn mower produced between 1997 and 2000. It belongs to the Z48 series and was designed for residential lawn maintenance, emphasizing maneuverability and ease of operation.

Engine and Performance

The Z42 is powered by a 15 hp (11.2 kW) Kohler single-cylinder gasoline engine. It features an air-cooled, vertical-shaft configuration and utilizes an electric starter system powered by a 12-volt battery with 380 CCA. This engine provides the necessary power to drive the 42-inch mowing deck effectively.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The machine is equipped with a Hydro-Gear BDR hydrostatic transmission. This system provides infinite forward and reverse speed control, allowing for precise adjustments during operation. The tractor utilizes a two-wheel-drive system and includes power steering to assist with the high-maneuverability requirements of a zero-turn platform.

PTO and Hydraulics

The tractor features an independent mid-mounted PTO. Engagement of the PTO is managed via an electric clutch, which allows the operator to control the mower deck engagement conveniently from the operator station.

Dimensions and Chassis

The unit features an open operator station design. With a total weight of 706 lbs (320 kg), the mower is balanced for stability. The tire configuration includes lawn and turf tires, with front sizes varying between 9x3.5 and 11x4 depending on the production period, and 20x7-8 rear tires.

Conclusion

The Cub Cadet Z42 is a dedicated zero-turn mower suited for property owners requiring efficiency in open-area mowing. Its combination of a hydrostatic transmission, power steering, and a 42-inch deck makes it a functional tool for residential lawn care tasks.

Production Information of Cub Cadet, Z42

  • Zero-turn mower
ManufacturerCub Cadet (a part of MTD)
Manufacturer(optional)$3,800 (1998 )
Original price$3,699 (1997 )

Dimension and Tires Information of Cub Cadet, Z42

Weight706 lbs [320 kg]
Lawn/turf front9x3.5 (early)
Lawn/turf front(optional)11x4 (late)
Lawn/turf rear20x7-8

Engine Specifications of Cub Cadet, Z42

  • Kohler
  • Air-cooled vertical-shaft
  • Gasoline
  • 1-cylinder
Starter volts12
Power (gross)15 hp [11.2 kW]
StarterElectric

Transmission Information of Cub Cadet, Z42

Transmission variants 1

TransmissionHydro-Gear BDR
Oil capacity6 qts [5.7 L]
TypeHydrostatic
GearsInfinite forward and reverse

Transmission variants 2

Mechanical Specs of Cub Cadet, Z42

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

Power Information of Cub Cadet, Z42

Mid PTOIndependent
ClutchElectric

Electrical System of Cub Cadet, Z42

GroundNegative
Battery CCA380
Battery volts12

Where it sits

With 15 HP, the Cub Cadet Z42 sits just below Z48 (18 HP) in Cub Cadet's range. Its power puts it in the 51th percentile of 1990s models in our database (1093 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Cub Cadet Z42 have?

The Cub Cadet Z42 delivers 15 HP.

What years was the Cub Cadet Z42 produced?

The Cub Cadet Z42 was produced in 1997-2000.

What engine does the Cub Cadet Z42 have?

The Cub Cadet Z42 is powered by a Gasoline, 1-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the Cub Cadet Z42 use?

The Cub Cadet Z42 uses a Hydro-Gear BDR transmission.

How much does the Cub Cadet Z42 weigh?

The Cub Cadet Z42 weighs 706 lbs [320 kg].

Is the Cub Cadet Z42 4WD?

The Cub Cadet Z42 is available in 2WD.

Compare the Cub Cadet Z42 with another model