Is the Toro TimeCutter 42 good for a beginner on a zero-turn?

Yes. Smart Speed lets you set a lower top speed while you learn, and the dual levers respond smoothly. Practice in an open area first, since zero-turns steer with the levers, not a wheel.

Does it mulch or bag out of the box?

It side-discharges as shipped. Mulching and bagging both need separate kits, so budget for those if you want either.

How big a lawn can it handle?

Toro rates it for up to about two acres. The 42-inch deck and zero-turn steering make it efficient on lawns with obstacles, though a wider deck would finish open ground faster.

Can it mow on slopes?

It handles gentle slopes but is not a hill machine. Avoid steep inclines, especially when the grass is wet, because traction drops and zero-turns can slide.

What engine and transmission does it use?

A 500cc Briggs & Stratton V-twin rated at 15.5 hp, driving through dual hydrostatic HG-ZT2100 transmissions with electric start.

Top speed depends on the Smart Speed setting you choose; the higher settings are meant for open ground and the lower ones for trimming around obstacles.

Where is the Toro TimeCutter 42-inch Zero Turn Mower cheapest?

At Zimgoody, for $1,090.00, 66% under what the other stores charge, as of our latest check.

Where can I buy the Toro TimeCutter 42-inch Zero Turn Mower?

3 stores we checked sell it, including Zimgoody, Busenbark Lawn Equipment, Zoro.

Toro TimeCutter 42-inch Zero Turn Mower

Best price now

$1,090.00at ZimgoodyChecked 2 h ago

66% under what the other stores charge

Compared across 3 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit Zimgoody

Ask our agent about this product

It checks today's price at every store, compares the alternatives and answers in about a minute.

Price facts

What reviewers say

Owners generally rate the TimeCutter 42 well for cut quality, tight turning and ease of use on residential lawns. Recurring complaints center on attachments sold separately and on traction and power limits in wet or heavy conditions.

What people mention

Cut qualityPraisedOwners report an even, clean cut on regular residential lawns.
ManeuverabilityPraisedReviewers like how tightly it turns around trees, beds and fences.
AttachmentsCriticisedMulching and bagging require kits sold separately, which buyers find annoying.
TractionMixedIt grips well on dry flat ground but can slip on wet or soft turf.
PowerMixedThe V-twin handles normal growth but bogs down in tall, thick grass.
Speed controlPraisedSmart Speed is valued for taming the mower for less experienced drivers.

About the Toro TimeCutter 42-inch Zero Turn Mower

The Toro TimeCutter 42-inch is a gasoline-powered zero-turn riding mower with a 42-inch (107 cm) cutting width. It has an electric start and includes one battery. It is rated to cover up to 2 acres.

It runs on a 15.5 hp, 500 cc Briggs & Stratton V-twin engine with air cooling. A dual hydrostatic HG-ZT2100 transmission drives the rear wheels and gives a zero turn radius. Smart Speed technology provides variable speed, and cruise control is included.

The mower can bag, side discharge or mulch. The mulching kit is sold separately. Cutting height is adjusted with a foot-operated option, from 1.5 in. (3.8 cm) to 4.5 in. (11.4 cm).

Mower type

Zero turn, riding

Cutting width

42 in. (107 cm)

Cutting height

1.5 in. to 4.5 in. (3.8 cm to 11.4 cm)

Engine

Briggs & Stratton 15.5 hp, 500 cc V-twin, air-cooled

Power source

Gasoline, electric start

Transmission

Dual hydrostatic HG-ZT2100