Best Mower For Hills

[Nompson]

I bought a 42 John D z-turn this season to start mowing, but now I'm realizing why I should have went with something commercial, bigger and probably a walk behind. I'm thinking about trading in or selling my mower, taking a hit, and buying something that is much better on hills. If my budget is $4000 should I be looking to used? Suggestions

 

[bkeller500]

If your hills are steep and you also need to navigate around trees, rocks or whatever....you probably need to look for a tractor that has the ability to engage both rear wheels for traction. Normally 1 wheel drives but some models have a foot lever that also engages the opposite rear wheel when additional traction is required. example Simplicity Conquest or John Deere x500 series can gain traction with both rear wheels receiving power by pressing the additional foot pedal. There are probably others but these come to mind and there are lots of used ones on the market. A tractor will also give you steering control on the trip down those hills and the ability to stop when needed. The only ZT that might work for you is made by CUB. They have a few models of ZT's that have a steering wheel that give you control back.

 

[bertsmobile1]

Standers handle hills a lot better than other ztr's
Great Dane Surfers were very popular and are good mowers but you might need to shoot the owners so you can buy it from the deceased estate.
That is the only way my customers will part with theirs

 

[MParr]

Lawn tractor or garden tractor.

 

[Prada]

It depends on how steep it is. Either way, I'd prefer an older model. In the newer models, the transmission is crap, which is exacerbated by hills.
These are the top models and choices for anyone looking for an amazing mower for a hilly backyard.

 

[SHB]

It depends on what you are calling a “hill”. I use an eXmark radius 60” on some pretty hilly terrain, it does well. Mowing up / down slope seems to have better stability, won’t mow when the ground is damp (loose traction, things get scary). ZTR is much better under / around trees than a tractor plus it has a lower center of gravity.