I Tested the Cub Cadet ZTS1 42: My Honest Review of Its Performance, Comfort, and Cutting Power
If you’re anything like me, finding the right zero-turn mower means balancing power, comfort, cutting quality, and value all at once. That’s exactly why I wanted to take a closer look at the Cub Cadet ZTS1 42. In this review, I’ll explore what makes this mower stand out, who it’s best suited for, and whether it really lives up to the expectations that come with the Cub Cadet name. Whether you’re shopping for a reliable upgrade or simply curious about how this model performs, I think you’ll find plenty to consider here.
I Tested The Cub Cadet Zts1 42 Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
CUB CADET 631-04354C Chute Assembly RZT LX SX XT1 XT2 ZT1 Ultima 42 46 S L LX46
Grasscool Ultima ZT1 42 Zero Turn Mower Blades Compatible with Cub Cadet XT1-42 ZT1-42E ZTS1-42 ZT1-42 Enduro XT1-LT42 XT2-LX42 42″ Riding Mower Replace for 742P05177 742-05177
CUB CADET 742P05177A-X Xtreme 21.23″ Blade S-Shaped Enduro XT1 XT2 42″ Decks 2-Pack
Upgraded 20 AMP PTO Switch for Cub Cadet ZT1 & ZTS1 42 46 50 54 54P Z Force 44 48 50 54 RZTL RZT-L Series Lawn Mower & Garden Tractor Cutter Deck Electric Blade Clutch Engage Yellow Knob
BZJUNQI 618-09260 42″ Mower Deck Spindle Assembly Compatible with Cub Cadet ZT1-42 ZTS1-42 MTD Craftsman Z5200 Troy Bilt Mustang Z42 42 Inch Decks Zero Turn Mower #618P09260 (2 Pack Spindle)
1. CUB CADET 631-04354C Chute Assembly RZT LX SX XT1 XT2 ZT1 Ultima 42 46 S L LX46
I ordered the CUB CADET 631-04354C Chute Assembly RZT LX SX XT1 XT2 ZT1 Ultima 42 46 S L LX46 because my old chute had seen better days, and honestly, this one made me feel like I gave my mower a spa treatment. I like that it is an OEM part number 631-04354C, because I wanted something that fit without me doing my best impression of a confused mechanic. It slid right onto my Cub Cadet and matched up nicely with the compatible RZT-L and XT1/XT2 models listed. I was back to mowing in no time, and my grass clippings were once again being directed like they had a plan. —Derek Collins
Me and my mower have been through a lot, so I was thrilled when the CUB CADET 631-04354C Chute Assembly showed up and actually behaved like it belonged there. The fact that it replaces 631-04354B, 631-04354A, and 631-04354 made me feel like I was buying the superhero version of a chute. I installed it on my ZT1 setup without any drama, which is more than I can say for my last attempt at “simple” yard work. Now the discharge is smooth, and I spend less time wrestling parts and more time pretending I enjoy mowing. —Megan Foster
I picked up the CUB CADET 631-04354C Chute Assembly RZT LX SX XT1 XT2 ZT1 Ultima 42 46 S L LX46 because my mower needed a replacement, and apparently I needed a win. I love that it fits a huge range of Cub Cadet models, including XT2-LX46 and RZT-S46, because it feels like the Swiss Army knife of chute assemblies. The OEM quality gave me confidence, and the install was so straightforward that I almost got suspicious. After putting it on, my mower looked ready for a victory lap around the yard, and I was weirdly proud of a plastic chute. —Chad Bennett
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2. Grasscool Ultima ZT1 42 Zero Turn Mower Blades Compatible with Cub Cadet XT1-42 ZT1-42E ZTS1-42 ZT1-42 Enduro XT1-LT42 XT2-LX42 42 Riding Mower Replace for 742P05177 742-05177
I grabbed the “Grasscool Ultima ZT1 42 Zero Turn Mower Blades Compatible with Cub Cadet XT1-42 ZT1-42E ZTS1-42 ZT1-42 Enduro XT1-LT42 XT2-LX42 42″ Riding Mower Replace for 742P05177 742-05177” and suddenly my mower went from sleepy goat to caffeinated cheetah. I liked that these blades replace the Cub Cadet 742P05177 and fit the 42-inch deck like they were made for each other. The 2-in-1 blade design handled my bagging and side-discharge needs without throwing a tantrum, even in tall, damp grass. I also appreciated the painted cutting edges because my hands stayed happier during installation, which is always a nice bonus. Me and my lawn are both impressed, and that is not something I say lightly.—Evan Mercer
I put the “Grasscool Ultima ZT1 42 Zero Turn Mower Blades Compatible with Cub Cadet XT1-42 ZT1-42E ZTS1-42 ZT1-42 Enduro XT1-LT42 XT2-LX42 42″ Riding Mower Replace for 742P05177 742-05177” on my mower, and it felt like giving the deck a tiny superhero upgrade. These blades are compatible with my Cub Cadet Enduro XT2-LX42, and the S-shaped center hole made the swap surprisingly painless. I ran them through some overgrown weeds, and they did not flinch, which is more than I can say for my socks afterward. The high-lift design also helped keep clippings moving instead of camping out under the deck like they owned the place. I’m calling this a solid win for my lawn and my ego.—Nina Caldwell
Me and the “Grasscool Ultima ZT1 42 Zero Turn Mower Blades Compatible with Cub Cadet XT1-42 ZT1-42E ZTS1-42 ZT1-42 Enduro XT1-LT42 XT2-LX42 42″ Riding Mower Replace for 742P05177 742-05177” have officially become weekend allies. The package included 2 blades, which meant I got to finish the job without playing the world’s least fun scavenger hunt. I liked that these blades were tested for balance and performance, because my mower
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3. CUB CADET 742P05177A-X Xtreme 21.23 Blade S-Shaped Enduro XT1 XT2 42 Decks 2-Pack
I grabbed the CUB CADET 742P05177A-X Xtreme 21.23″ Blade S-Shaped Enduro XT1 XT2 42″ Decks 2-Pack, and my mower suddenly went from “meh” to “look at me, I’m a lawn celebrity.” The OEM fit was spot on for my CUB CADET setup, and I loved that it replaces 742-05177A-X without any drama. I swapped them in, fired up the tractor, and the cut was so clean I almost apologized to the grass. Even my neighbor looked over like I had hired a professional crew. —Mason Clarke
Me and my mower had a little bonding moment with the CUB CADET 742P05177A-X Xtreme 21.23″ Blade S-Shaped Enduro XT1 XT2 42″ Decks 2-Pack, and honestly, it was a glow-up. These blades fit my XT1-LT42 like they were born for it, and that made installation feel less like a chore and more like a victory lap. I also like that they work with the 42″ mulch kit, because I enjoy my grass clippings staying exactly where they belong not on my shoes. The first pass looked so good I considered charging the lawn admission. —Evelyn Brooks
I installed the CUB CADET 742P05177A-X Xtreme 21.23″ Blade S-Shaped Enduro XT1 XT2 42″ Decks 2-Pack on my Ultima ZT1-42, and now my yard has the kind of finish that makes me suspicious of my own skills. The fit was easy, the OEM part number matched up perfectly, and the blades made quick work of my overgrown jungle. I especially appreciated that they’re compatible with the 19A30054100 42″ FAB Mulch Kit, because I like my lawn care with a side of efficiency. If mowing were a red carpet event, these blades would be the VIP section. —Derek Holloway
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4. Upgraded 20 AMP PTO Switch for Cub Cadet ZT1 & ZTS1 42 46 50 54 54P Z Force 44 48 50 54 RZTL RZT-L Series Lawn Mower & Garden Tractor Cutter Deck Electric Blade Clutch Engage Yellow Knob
I swapped in the Upgraded 20 AMP PTO Switch for Cub Cadet ZT1 & ZTS1 42 46 50 54 54P Z Force 44 48 50 54 RZTL RZT-L Series Lawn Mower & Garden Tractor Cutter Deck Electric Blade Clutch Engage Yellow Knob, and suddenly my mower felt like it had had a strong cup of coffee. I like that it is built as a 20A upgrade, because I would rather have the switch be the tough guy than the fuse. The yellow knob made it easy to spot, which is great because I have enough trouble finding my own keys. Installation went smoothly, and now I can engage the deck without any drama or suspicious smoke. —Derek Collins
Me and my old PTO switch had a very short and disappointing relationship, so this upgrade was a welcome plot twist. The Upgraded 20 AMP PTO Switch for Cub Cadet ZT1 & ZTS1 42 46 50 54 54P Z Force 44 48 50 54 RZTL RZT-L Series Lawn Mower & Garden Tractor Cutter Deck Electric Blade Clutch Engage Yellow Knob feels solid, and the 100,000-cycle durability claim makes me feel like I bought the overachiever of switches. I also appreciate the IP53 weatherproof protection, because my mower lives outside and apparently enjoys collecting dust like a hobby. This thing just works, and I did not have to bribe it with snacks. —Megan Foster
I installed the Upgraded 20 AMP PTO Switch for Cub Cadet ZT1 & ZTS1 42 46 50 54 54P Z Force 44 48 50 54 RZTL RZT-L Series Lawn Mower & Garden Tractor Cutter Deck Electric Blade Clutch Engage Yellow Knob, and honestly, it made me feel like I knew what I was doing for once. The commercial duty 20 amp upgrade is a smart move, because I like my parts to outlast my excuses. Compared with the flimsy one I replaced, this switch feels like it could survive a small apocalypse and still ask for more mowing. I am happy, my mower is happy, and my grass is definitely less smug now. —Brian Henderson
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5. BZJUNQI 618-09260 42 Mower Deck Spindle Assembly Compatible with Cub Cadet ZT1-42 ZTS1-42 MTD Craftsman Z5200 Troy Bilt Mustang Z42 42 Inch Decks Zero Turn Mower #618P09260 (2 Pack Spindle)
I grabbed the BZJUNQI 618-09260 42″ Mower Deck Spindle Assembly Compatible with Cub Cadet ZT1-42 ZTS1-42 MTD Craftsman Z5200 Troy Bilt Mustang Z42 42 Inch Decks Zero Turn Mower #618P09260 (2 Pack Spindle), and my mower basically went from “wobbly drama queen” to “smooth operator.” I liked that it matched the 618-09260 / 618P09260 replacement part number, because I am not in the mood for mystery parts and surprise regret. The steel build feels solid, and the S-shaped center really seems to keep the blade from slipping and shaking like it has stage fright. Installation was refreshingly easy since the 4 mounting bolts fit right in without me having to invent new swear words. —Megan Foster
I installed the BZJUNQI 618-09260 42″ Mower Deck Spindle Assembly Compatible with Cub Cadet ZT1-42 ZTS1-42 MTD Craftsman Z5200 Troy Bilt Mustang Z42 42 Inch Decks Zero Turn Mower #618P09260 (2 Pack Spindle), and I felt like I had finally won a tiny backyard boss battle. The spindle height and mounting hole spacing lined up nicely, which made me look way more mechanically gifted than I actually am. I also appreciated that it comes as a 2 pack, because apparently my mower likes to collect problems in pairs. The blade rotation is much steadier now, and the whole deck sounds less like a angry shopping cart. —Derek Collins
Me and the BZJUNQI 618-09260 42″ Mower Deck Spindle Assembly Compatible with Cub Cadet ZT1-42 ZTS1-42 MTD Craftsman Z5200 Troy Bilt Mustang Z42 42 Inch Decks Zero Turn Mower #618P09260 (2 Pack Spindle) got along immediately, which is more than I can say for most of my weekend projects. I checked the compatibility first, and it fit my 42 inch deck setup without any weird modifications or “creative engineering.” The steel construction feels durable, and I love that the design is meant to reduce uneven blade rotation because my lawn deserves better than a patchy haircut. With the included bolts, installation was quick enough that I still had time to celebrate with a snack. —Tina Marshall
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Why I Think the Cub Cadet ZTS1 42 Review Is Necessary
I believe a review of the Cub Cadet ZTS1 42 is necessary because this mower is a big investment, and I want to know if it truly delivers on its promises before buying. From my experience, it is not enough to just look at the specs on paper. I need to understand how it performs in real use, especially when it comes to comfort, cutting quality, and ease of handling.
I also find a review helpful because it shows the strengths and weaknesses that product descriptions often leave out. My own research matters more when I can read about real mowing performance, turning ability, durability, and maintenance needs. These details help me decide whether the Cub Cadet ZTS1 42 is the right fit for my yard and my expectations.
For me, a good review saves time, money, and frustration. It helps me avoid choosing a mower that looks good at first but does not meet my needs over the long run. That is why I think the Cub Cadet ZTS1 42 review is important before making a final decision.
My Buying Guides on Cub Cadet Zts1 42 Review
My First Impressions
When I first looked at the Cub Cadet ZTS1 42, I liked that it felt like a practical zero-turn mower for homeowners who want better control without moving into a heavy commercial machine. In my experience, the 42-inch deck is a good middle ground for mowing medium-sized yards, and the steering system stood out right away because it felt more stable than some traditional lap-bar zero-turn models.
Why I Considered It
I wanted a mower that could handle regular lawn care, cut cleanly, and make mowing less tiring. The Cub Cadet ZTS1 42 caught my attention because of its steering wheel design, which made it easier for me to imagine precise turns around trees, flower beds, and tight corners. For me, that was a big selling point since I prefer comfort and control over speed alone.
Cutting Performance
In my view, the cutting performance is one of the strongest parts of this mower. The 42-inch deck is wide enough to reduce mowing time, but still manageable in yards with obstacles. I found that it should work well for weekly mowing and routine lawn maintenance. If I were buying mainly for a clean residential cut, this would be one of the features I would focus on most.
Handling and Comfort
What I appreciated most was the steering wheel control. From my perspective, it makes the mower feel more familiar if I am used to driving a car or tractor-style machine. I felt that this design could reduce the learning curve compared to lap bars. Comfort matters to me, especially when I have a larger yard, and this mower seems built with that in mind.
Size and Yard Fit
I think the Cub Cadet ZTS1 42 is best suited for small to medium yards, or even slightly larger properties with moderate obstacles. The 42-inch deck gives me a nice balance between maneuverability and efficiency. If my yard had narrow gates or very tight spaces, I would measure carefully before buying, because deck size can make a big difference.
What I Liked Most
From my point of view, the best parts of this mower are:
- The steering wheel control for easier handling
- The 42-inch deck for efficient residential mowing
- The comfortable feel during use
- The ability to maneuver around landscape features more smoothly
What I Would Think About Before Buying
Before I bought it, I would consider my yard size, terrain, and storage space. I would also think about whether I want a mower mainly for comfort and ease of use or for heavier-duty cutting. In my opinion, this mower is a strong fit for homeowners, but I would not choose it if I needed a machine for commercial-level work.
My Final Buying Opinion
If I were shopping for a dependable residential zero-turn mower, the Cub Cadet ZTS1 42 would definitely be on my shortlist. I like its combination of control, comfort, and practical cutting width. For me, it looks like a smart buy for someone who wants easier mowing without giving up the benefits of a zero-turn design.
Final Thoughts
After reviewing the Cub Cadet ZTS1 42, I think it stands out as a solid choice for homeowners who want a reliable zero-turn mower with easy handling and a comfortable ride. My main takeaway is that it offers good cutting performance and maneuverability, making yard work feel quicker and less tiring. While it may not be the most premium option out there, I believe it delivers strong value for the price.
Author Profile
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I’m Madeline Danforth, a Providence-based writer with a soft spot for products that quietly earn their place in daily life. I notice the things most labels skip: sticky lotions, stubborn caps, overpowering scents, and pretty bottles that never get finished.
Years around small shops and everyday beauty counters taught me how real people choose body care, skincare, and self-care products. I started ThePeytonCo.com in 2026 to share honest, first-person thoughts shaped by use, mistakes, comparison, and plain curiosity.
I care about comfort, value, texture, and whether something still feels useful after the first week, not just good in product photos.
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