Try: http://forums2.gardenweb.com/forums/tractor/

I have owned the Z425 for a full season and it is more than fine. OK, it isn't a $5,000.00 mower, get over it. For the price, it is by far the most solid feeling mower over all that I looked at from Husky, Toro, LawnBoy, CubCadet ETC. I selected the 48" model based on storing it in the garage, and maneuverability. The seating position and comfort are markedly better than the competition except maybe the Husky was equal. I also needed the bigger wheels for better traction on slopes. The V-twin is a nice addition for smooth power and longevity over the Z225 one-lunger. The controls are superb, and smooth, with ample adjustments. The cut is fantastic and even. I only use the highest setting to let the grass have a chance to support the root system. Most people cut their grass way too short. But even with a maxed out cut setting, it is smooth and even. Deere uses parker wheel motors that are very good, but uses the standard (or so it seems) Kanzaki hydrolic pump. But this is still on the commercial side of things for long life. The engine? The ELS series engine is about $100.00 more than the Intek series when bought separate. I really don't think that the Intek will be an issue at all based on it's construction (oil filter and high pressure oil system). Throw some synthetic Mobile 1 in there after the first 50 hours to break the rings in and go. Could Deere have used the ELS? Yes, but they didn't. This isn't a deal breaker for me at all. The CubCadet has a Kawasaki, and it is not as nice to use. The controls are too loose and imprecise and the overall build is not as finished as the Z425 Deere. Is the CubCadet a "bad" mower? No, it just isn't as satisfying to use as the Deere, so the engine isn't all there is to it. Not to mention local Deere dealers to properly get parts or fix any nasty issues that might arise (machines do break eventually). Oh, the 3.5 gallon tank? I can mow six acres on a tank (my 2 acre yard three times) before I run out of fuel. If you can stay on it long enough to run it dry, stopping for gas will be a relief. My biggest nit is that the controls do not have a center point adjust and are slightly forward and back from one another in the straight ahead position at less than full speed, maybe an inch or so. I got over it and don't notice it much any more at all. So once you adjust the mower for even full speed tracking with the adjuster bolts, the less than full speed tracking is off some. So, for the 3700.00 bucks, the Deere got my cash and I was glad to part with it.

Thanks everyone. Odyssey...you made me chuckle! I loved reading about chopping off it's arms!! LOL! Olga, I came across the picture of your RT in one of the search threads. Too beautiful for words. I can only dream of such gardening skills. I will put Radio Times in his own spot...a landscape shrub. I'm tired of fighting these DA's in a formal rose bed. Thanks!

My wife and I did a little research on that mower last year for my mother in law. The Toro has some high ratings for a light duty home owner mower. I've seen a few of them mowing while traveling about at work. The Toro seems to do a good job. My mother in law's neighbor is a farm home and garden equipment salesman. He had one at his house for a while mowing his lawn. It always looked good. Heck, that's a $1,000 off sales price. What Ya got to lose? Get an extended warranty with the money saved. Here is a link that might be useful: Reviews