Picked Up My New Cub Cadet ZT1 Mower Today.

 Well, I'm all ready now for both winter and next summer with a new snow blower and a new mower! I'm thinking I might have to mow the grass one more times yet which will give me a chance to try out the mower. Why didn't I wait till spring to buy a new mower? Because it seems every year companies make things "cheaper" and I didn't want to get something made a little cheaper, like thinner metal, cheaper plastic, etc., etc. 

One thing I don't understand as well as a lot of other people, is why they didn't put an hour meter on it, even my old Cub Cadet lawn tractor has an hour meter on it. You can buy one as for it for about $52.00 which I eventually do. But like I said, irt seems every year they do things differently to cut down on costs, so why put an hour meter on it when you can charge extra for one?

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You might be thinking, why don't I have a YouTube channel? Well I do but haven't posted anything there for 2-3 years probably, if not longer. I really don't have a good voice for talking. It's kind of low and it's kind of hard to understand what I say at times unless I speak loudly, then people think I'm yelling at them! lol!

A lot of people on YouTube I wonder what they are even doing on there? I guess to make some extra money? Money isn't a big thing with me, I either have it or I don't. I sure as hell ain't posting video's and looking like an idiot just to make a few $$. Who knows, maybe I will sometime.... post something on YouTube that is.

Plowing Snow Or Using A Snow Blower?

 That's the big question, plowing snow or using a snow blower? Both probably have there advantages and disadvantages. I see a plow moving a lot more snow faster, but.... you can only push snow so far or so much snow before you can't push it any further.

On the other hand a snow blower can throw snow up to around 40 feet in any direction and get into places a snow plow can't, but it does take longer.

My original plan was to get an ATV to plow snow, but though I changed my mind and get a snow blower and a lawn mower, that doesn't mean I still can't plow snow if I decided to do so. They do make a snow/grader blade for the lawnmower I bought, which seem so work pretty good in the video's I watched.

Snow/Grader Blade for Cub Cadet ZT1  

You have to admit, it does look a little strange with the control's sticking so far out and so high in the air, but that's so you can adjust the blade from the seat without having to get off the mower.

Cub Cadet With Snow/Grader Blade Attached.  

Chances of me buying  this blade is pretty slim unless I'd buy it someday to push and spread gravel around in our lane, but it's nice to know I have the option of getting one if I thought I needed it to do some work.

Got the Snow Blower, Waiting On The Lawn Mower.

 Got the snow blower the day I went after it but had to wait until the shipped the lawn mower which should be here on Tuesday of this coming week.

About the snow blower.... I kind of messed up filling it with oil. On most engines there is a small plug at the base of the engine where you put oil in to fill it. Before I did anything I pulled out the dip stick and looked at it to see if any oil was in it, well I couldn't tell. It felt a little oily but I couldn't see the oil on the dip stick (to clear).

So I unscrew that plastic plug an put the amount of oil in the engine  it calls for. When done there was a big puddle of oil on the floor! What the hell! 

As it turns out, you are not to use this port for adding oil, you put it in where the dip stick goes. At this point I had no idea how much oil was in the motor so I ended up draining it all out catching it in a container.

After al the oil was drained out I measured the correct amount and add the oil again, but this time down the dip stick tube. So the snow blower is all ready to go but for adding gas which I'll probably do over the week end and fire it up. Guess that was a lesson learned the hard way.....

The only thing I want to get is a pack of shear pins. The snow blower came with three extra shear pins, one being a different color, don't now why that is, will have to read up on that. But I want to have extra shear pins just in case being my lane isn't a paved lane.

That Didn't Take Long.... Told You Things Might Change!

 Ok.... at this point the ATV is pretty much out. What I decided was getting the ATV would be pretty expensive and the plow to fit it would be pretty expensive also. Seems like a lot of money just to plow snow! I had this thought we might go riding somewhere, but where? Yes we live right at the bottom of a mountain and lots of ridges but most of that land it privately owned, not public. So besides plowing snow, most of the time it would just sit around probably. I really can't see use loading on a trailer and driving for miles and miles to go on some ATV trails.

So after giving it some thought, I figured I my as well just get a snow blower. A snow blower will probably move a lot of snow further then you can push it with a plow anyways. Then there was the fact with the plow, I'd still have to shovel snow from the porch out to where we turn around because there would be no place to really push it. With a snow blower I can go right up to the steps.

This id the snow blower I'll be getting

Cub Cadet 3X 28 in. 3-Stage snow blower.

Introducing the Cub Cadet 3X 28 in. 3-Stage snow blower. These industry exclusive 3-Stage models cut through tough packed snow and ice like no other machine available today. The 3X's unique high-speed Induction Accelerator draws snow through the system, creating an effortless forward motion. No backups. No ride ups. No spill over. This 3X technology easily cuts through deep snowfall up to 50% faster than 2-Stage snow blowers. There's no stopping the next generation of Cub Cadet Snow blowers. The ultimate snow throwing control with OHV Crank (2.5 turn chute rotation), 200 chute controller with remote pitch control.

357cc OHV Engine with IntelliPower technology offers up to 12% more available power, resulting in less bogging down when clearing heavy, wet and deep snow.*

IntelliPower engine technology provides Up to 12% more power for 357cc EGOV with a digital throttle control that consistently optimizes engine output.

Push button electric start makes it incredibly easy to start in winter weather, just attach an extension cord.

Trigger-controlled power steering and self-propelled drive for unmatched control, effortless maneuverability and single-hand operation.

Features heavy-duty augers and impeller with 12-inch serrated steel construction and a steel shave plate for added durability.

Patented three-stage technology includes an induction accelerator that quickly pulls ice, snow and slush through the system

Self-propelled, clear at your pace with 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds

Work before dawn or after sundown with dual LED headlights

No rust, non-marking, reversible skid shoes glide along surfaces for better maneuverability

Engineered for durability with a heavy-duty cast aluminum auger gearbox and steel chute

Specification Description

Brand: Cub Cadet

Country of Origin: Made in USA

Amperage: 0na Gas Powered

Auger Diameter: 12 in.

Auger Material: Steel

Chute Material: Steel

Chute Radius: 200 deg.

Clearing Width: 28 in.

Drive Type: Trigger-Controlled Power Steering

Engine Brand: Cub Cadet

Engine Displacement: 357cc

Features: Electronic Governor

Frame Material: Steel

Fuel Tank Capacity: 5 quarts 4.7 L

Gear Box Material: Cast aluminum

Horsepower: 357cc

Ideal Snow Depth: 21 in.

Impeller Diameter: 12 in.

Intake Height: 21 in.

Maximum Horizontal Throw: 0na

Number Of Forward Speeds: 6

Number Of Reverse Speeds: 2

Power Type: Gas

Product Depth: 48.75 in.

Product Height: 35 in.

Product Weight: 285 lb.

Product Width: 28 in.

Run Time: 0na

Clearing Surface Type: Paved and Unpaved

Stage Type: Three-Stage

Start Type: Electric or manual

Torque: 0na

Voltage: 0na

Warranty: 3-Year Limited Warranty

Wattage: 0na

Wheel Size: 16 in. x 6.5 in.

The other thing that came to mind was my lawn tractor. It's now about 20+ years old and I was going to replace it next year anyways so why not now? Although my old lawn tractor runs good (Cub Cadet LT1500) it is getting old. This spring I just had a new drive belt put on and three pullies on the drive part. Also changed the oil, new oil filter, and I think a new battery (maybe that was last year). But for running wise I never had any troubles with it, but like I said, it's getting old.

The new lawn more I'm going to get is the one shown below:

Cub Cadet 54 in. 24 HP Gas-Powered 725cc Ultima ZT1-54 Zero-Turn Mower  

Although I didn't know it until later on reading about it, they do make a snow/gravel plow for this thing. This will be my first zero turn lawn mower. It does have the same size cutting width as my lawn tractor, 54-inches.

Cub Cadet 54 in. 24 HP Gas-Powered 725cc Ultima ZT1-54 Zero-Turn Mower

Introducing the ULTIMA ZT1 SERIES. Step up to the ultimate all-around mowing experience. The Cub Cadet ULTIMA Series ZT1 54 features a 24HP/725cc Kohler 7000 Series V-Twin OHV 4-Cycle Engine, 2 in. x 2 in. tubular steel frame, comfortable high back seat and much more. The Ultima Zero-Turn Riding Mower was built to raise the bar for enhanced strength, durability, redefined comfort and uncompromised performance.

Equipped with an 11-Gauge 54 in. fabricated (Welded) triple-blade high lift deck with reinforced leading edges that results in finer clippings, fewer clumps, reduced stragglers and increased evenness, protected by the Cub Cadet triple guard corrosion defense system with e-coat and a lifetime warranty

24HP/725cc Kohler 7000 Series V-Twin OHV 4-Cycle Engine, V-twin cylinders reduce vibration for a smoother ride, Designed to run cooler and cleaner for longer, Delivers more power while decreasing fuel consumption

Dual Hydro-Gear 2200 (EZT) Hydrostatic Drive System, Fan cooled 10cc pumps and wheel motors on each drive wheel, Provides optimal torque and speeds up to 7 MPH

Tough and tubular frame the high-strength, continuous square 2 in. x 2 in. tubular steel frame with fully e-coat lower frame and triple guard corrosion defense system, a multi-step process electronically applies automotive-grade corrosion resistance with meticulous care to protect against wear and tear

Dial in your perfect cut with a foot operated deck lift and a dial control knob offering 15 qt. in. deck height adjustments from 1 in. to 4. 5 in. leading to a precise and even cut

High comfort, high performance an automotive-inspired, ergonomic, fully adjustable premium 18 in. H-back seat and a durable, advanced polymer seat suspension system, adjustable lap bars and industry-exclusive ergonomic hand grips optimized for comfort providing you the confidence to maximize your speed and reduce operator fatigue

Turf damage prevention 11 in. x 6 in. to 5 in. smooth tread front wheels pivot 180 without turf damage, 20 in. x 10 in. to 8 in. turf master premium rear tires offer excellent traction, minimize turfing and provide a better ride on uneven ground at higher speeds

Ease of maintenance an open frame design and hinged/removable floor pan allow easy access to the deck and engine for quick and simple maintenance

Command center conveniently located control panel enhances operator productivity and vibration-dampening soft rubber floor mat provides sure footing, comfort and ample leg room

Precision trimming offset front casters align with blade edge for trimming precision while maintaining line-of-sight and stable balance

Illuminating dual-LED headlights provide ultimate vision for mowing in low light conditions and tow hitch come standard

Mow for an extended period of time: 3.5 gal. fuel tank capacity to keep you mowing and minimize time loss for refueling needs

Electronic fingertip blade engagement PTO allows for smooth operation of the deck

3-way adjustable ergonomic lap bar design with integrated parking brake and mow-in-reverse, provides comfort with a simple operation

Ideal for mowing slight rolling hills and several obstacles up to 4 acres

Expand your mowers capabilities: full lineup of premium attachments and accessories include baggers, mulch kits, carts and many other attachments (sold separately)

Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1-54 comes fully crated and requires some assembly upon arrival

Specification Description

Brand: Cub Cadet

Country of Origin: Made in USA

Blade Engagement: Electric

Blade Length: 18 in.

Blade Material: Steel

Blade Speed: Not Measured

Blade Type: High-Lift

Cutting Width: 54 in.

Deck Material: Steel

Deck Size: 54 in.

Deck Thickness: 11 gauge

Deck Type: Fabricated

Discharge Location: Side

DisclaimerARS-CARBCompliant: No

DisclaimerARS-GasPower: Yes

Engine Cycles: 4

Engine Displacement: 725cc

Frame Material: Steel

Front Tire Type: Smooth tread front wheels

Front Wheel or Tire Size: 11 x 6 in.

Fuel Capacity: 3.5 gal.

Height Adjustment Type: Foot operated deck lift and a dial control knob

Horsepower: 24 HP

Intended Use Grade: Residential

Lift Adjustment Type: Foot operated deck lift and a dial control knob

Maximum Forward Speed: 7 MPH

Maximum Reverse Speed: 3.5 MPH

Minimum Cutting Height: 1 in.

Mower Cutting Width Range: 50 - 60 Inches

Mower Drive Type: Rear Wheel Drive

Engine Brand: Kohler

Mower Features: Headlights, Power Steering, Mulching Capability, Keyed Start, Cup Holders

Mower Horsepower Range: 21 - 25 HP

Mower Maximum Cutting Height: 4.5 in

Mower Rear Wheel Size: 20in

Mower Turning Radius: 0in

Mower Yard Size Range: 4 to 5 acres

Number Of Blades: 3

Number Of Cylinders: 2

Number Of Deck Positions: 15

Number Of Deck Wheels: 5

Number of Speeds: Variable

Oil Capacity: 64 oz.

Power Type: Gas

Product Height: 47 in.

Product Length: 80 in.

Product Weight: 600 lb.

Product Width: 65 in.

Rear Tire Type: Turf master premium rear tires

Recommended Fuel Type: Gas

Recommended Oil Type: 10W-30

Run Time: 4 acres

Seat Back Height: 18 in.

Start Type: Electric

Steering Type: 3-way adjustable ergonomic lap bars

Terrain Type: Sloped

Torque: Not Measured

Transmission Type: Dual Hydro-Gear 2200 (EZT) Hydrostatic Drive System

Voltage: N/A

Warranty: 3-year / unlimited-hour warranty. Plus, limited lifetime warranty on frame and fabricated deck shell.

Yard Size: 4 acres

Anyways..... this is the new plan, will see how it goes.

A Change of Plans...

 Well.... I was going to get the ATV shown in my last post but because of the $$$ situation I won't be getting the 760 model but will have to go with the 550 model shown below.

Although this is a little smaller then the 760, it will still be more then enough that I want it for. It will mostly be used for plowing our lane out from the snow, and maybe go on some trails now and then and used around the property for pulling or hauling stuff. I could get the 760 but I'd have to wait for about six month to come up with the price difference which by that time the snow season will be over..

Massimo MSA550 ATV Camo

493cc 32 HP EFI 4 stroke engine

Reaches speeds up to 49 MPH

On demand 4WD with 25 in. AT tires

Electronic Power Steering, 3,000 lb. Winch

Passenger Backrest

LED Lights

Front Bumper and Hand Guards

Specification Description

Brand: Massimo

Country of Origin: Imported

ATV Type: Sport

Braking Mechanism: Hydraulic

DisclaimerARS-CARBCompliant: No

DisclaimerARS-GasPower: Yes

Engine Displacement: 493cc

Front Tire Size: 25 x 8-12

Ground Clearance: 10.5 in.

Horsepower: 33 HP

Maximum Speed: 49 MPH

Maximum Weight Capacity: 374 lb.

Occupant Capacity: 2

Payload Capacity: 374 lb.

Power Type: Gas

Primary Color: Multicolor

Product Height: 52 in.

Product Length: 91 in.

Product Weight: 782 lb.

Product Width: 46 in.

Rear Tire Size: 25 x 10-12

Towing Capacity: 1,200 lb.

Warranty: 1 Year Limited

Wheel Base: 57.5 in.

Besides the ATV I also need to get a plow for the front of it which I'm planning on getting the Kolpin ATV Switchblade Snow Plow System which got a lot of good reviews and isn't to expensive.

Kolpin ATV Switchblade Snow Plow System

 

The Kolpin ATV Switchblade Snow Plow System is a complete plow-in-a-box, minus a winch. The ATV snow plow is constructed of a robust square tube steel chassis with strategically placed reinforcements. The box fits in the back of your vehicle for easy transport and the plow assembles in less than an hour. The kit includes mounting hardware and is designed to fit most vehicles.

Complete Plow-in-a-Box, minus winch

Robust square tube steel chassis with strategically placed reinforcements 5-position blade angle

Easy to assemble ATV snow plow and install under-body mount Requires winch (sold separately)

Assembles in under 1 hour

Box fits in the back of your vehicle for easy transport

At maximum blade angle position, the snow cutting widths are 43.5 in. and 54.3 in. for the 48 in. and 60 in. blade widths respectively

Includes ATV mount weldment, mount LH bracket, mount RH bracket, (2) square U-bolts, zinc plated, M8-1.25 x 50 x 110, (4) round U-bolts, zinc plated, M8-1.25 x 40 x 96, (16) flange locknuts, zinc plated, M8-1.25, (4) flat washer, zinc plated, M8, (4) spacer, steel 1 in. diameter x 0.5 in. H, (2) hex flange bolts, zinc plated, M8-1.25 x 65 mm LG, plate, and steel strap

Switchblade Snow Plow System is designed to fit most vehicles, however Kolpin does not guarantee vehicle fitment for all vehicles

Stamped steel blade technology adjusts to either 48 in. or 60 in. W

Specification Description

Brand: Kolpin

Country of Origin: Imported

Brand Compatibility: Universal

Features: ATV Kolpin Switchblade Snow Plow System is a complete Plow-in-a-Box, minus a Winch. Robust square tube steel chassis with strategically placed reinforcements.

Frame Material: Metal

Model Compatibility: For use with Most ATV's

Blade Material: Metal

Plow Type: Straight Plows

Primary Color: Multicolor

Product Height: 15.5 in.

Product Length: 32.5 in.

Product Weight: 114 lb.

Product Width: 48 in. or 60 in.

Warranty: 1 Year Manufacturer

Working Width: 48 in. or 60 in. width

Of course there is no guarantee I'll get anything before it's all said and done. The 550 ATV I was going to buy last year but it never panned out, so who know's what might happen this year....?

Thinking About Getting This ATV.

 Well, this isn't the first time I thought about getting an ATV, thought about it last year but got the wood chipper instead.

The big question is will I end up getting it or not? That's a lot of money to plow snow with. Could just get a snow blower, thousands of dollars less. But on the other hand, you only use a snow blower during the winter months, this you can use all year round. The other thing I keep thinking about if I do get one, should I get an ATV or UTV? I'm not 100% sure which I should get if I do end up getting one.

Massimo MSA760 ATV Camo

The powerful and versatile ATV, perfect for those that love to explore the great outdoors. With its 45 horsepower engine and shaft-driven 4 wheel drive, the MSA 760 can tackle the toughest terrain. Flexing over 10.5 inches of ground clearance and a 3000 pound front winch, worry less about where the trail ends. The MSA 760 is also packed with features that make it a great choice for both beginners and experienced riders. It has a comfortable seat with passenger backrest, easy-to-use controls, and a wide stance that makes it stable even in rough terrain. It also comes standard with a front bumper, front flat-rack, and a rear cargo rack. A standard 2 inch tow receiver is included, so you can easily haul gear or tow a trailer.

585cc 45 HP EFI 4 stroke engine

On demand 4WD with 25 in. AT tires

Electric Power Steering

3,000 lb Winch

Passenger Backrest

LED Lights

Front Bumper

Hand Guards

Specifications

Brand: Massimo

Country of Origin: Imported

ATV Type: Sport

Braking Mechanism: Disc

DisclaimerARS-CARBCompliant: No

DisclaimerARS-GasPower: Yes

Drivetrain: 2WD, On-Demand 4WD

Engine Displacement: 585 cc

Engine Make: Massimo

Features: EPS, LED Lights, Front Bumper

Frame Material: Metal

Front Suspension: Double A-arm + Coilover

Front Tire Size: 25 x 8-12

Ground Clearance: 10.6 in.

Horsepower: 45 Hp

Maximum Speed: 49 mph

Maximum Weight Capacity: 375 lb.

Occupant Capacity: 2

Power Type: Gas

Primary Color: Camo

Product Height: 57 in.

Product Length: 95 in.

Product Weight: 870 lb.

Product Width: 47 in.

Rear Suspension: Trailing Arm + Coilover

Rear Tire Size: 25 x 10-12

Recommended Age Range: 16 years minimum

Seat Height: 34.6 in.

Start Type: Electric

Warranty: 1-year limited

Wheel Base: 58 in.

Anyone have any thoughts on this matter?

Halloween... Still Working On It.

 Messing with the Halloween stuff yet, didn't like the lighting. You could see it but I wanted it a little brighter so you could see it better from the road being the road is a pretty good distance from it. There are people that do slow down and even stop to take a look at what's going on up on that hill. I don't think most people even realize there is a big hill back there. It's not really a hill but an old road that lead up to "The Old High Bridge"

Anyways.... here's picture and a short clip of the new lighting. You'll see a chair or two in the video along with the firepit. We go up there in the evenings and watch the skies, the traffic, and have a few beers.

VIDEO: