Cub Cadet Ultima ZT3 Review
The Ultima ZT3 offers a 24 hp Kawasaki, ZT-3100 transmissions and a 24-in. armrest seat. It is the premium Ultima ZT for large properties.
- Deck size
- 50, 54 or 60 in
- Horsepower
- 24 HP
- Drive
- Zero-turn, dual hydrostatic
- Fuel type
- Gasoline
Rating breakdown
Key specifications
| Power type | Gasoline |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 24 HP |
| Engine | Kawasaki FR/FS730V V-twin OHV, air-cooled |
| Displacement | 726 cc, 2 cylinders |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Transmission | Dual Hydro-Gear ZT-3100, lap bar control |
| Drive | Zero-turn, dual hydrostatic |
| Deck size | 50, 54 or 60 in |
| Deck construction | Fabricated AeroForce, 11-gauge steel, reinforced leading edges |
| Cutting height | 1 to 4.5 in, 15 positions |
| Blades | Three blades |
| Discharge | Side discharge; mulching and bagging with optional kits |
| Top speed | 7.5 mph forward, 3.5 mph reverse |
| Turning radius | Zero |
| Front tires | 11x6-5 casters |
| Rear tires | 20x12-10 |
| Weight | Not published by Cub Cadet |
| Dimensions | See Cub Cadet spec sheet for deck-specific size |
| Fuel capacity | 3.5 US gal (13.25 L) |
| Recommended property size | About 3 acres or more |
| Seat | 24 in high-back, armrests, ball-bearing slide |
| Frame | 2 x 2 in. tubular steel, e-coated |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.1 qt |
Pros and cons
What we like
- Largest seat in the Ultima ZT line
- Commercial-grade ZT-3100 drive
- 24 hp Kawasaki V-twin
- 7.5 mph top speed
- Big 20x12-10 drive tires
What could be better
- Much higher price than the ZT1 and ZT2
- Lap bars only
- Wide deck needs wide access
- Residential warranty only
- Price varies by deck size
Ultima ZT3 (series) review
Our take on the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT3 series
The Cub Cadet Ultima ZT3 is the top of the Ultima ZT line. It has a 24 hp Kawasaki twin and commercial-grade Hydro-Gear ZT-3100 transmissions. Top speed is 7.5 mph. The big change is the seat. It is a 24-inch high-back with armrests and polymer isolators.
Engine and drive
The engine is a 24 hp Kawasaki V-twin of about 726 cc. Dual Hydro-Gear ZT-3100 transmissions drive the rear wheels. Speed is 7.5 mph forward and 3.5 mph in reverse. The fuel tank holds 3.5 gallons.
Deck
The ZT3 60 has a 60-inch fabricated AeroForce deck. It is made from 11-gauge steel and has reinforced leading edges. It has three blades and 15 cutting positions from 1 to 4.5 inches. A foot pedal with a dial sets the height.
Seat and ride
The 24-inch seat is the largest in the Ultima ZT line. It has cushioned armrests and a ball-bearing slide. Polymer isolators damp vibration. Rear tires are 20×12-10, larger than on the ZT1. These make the ride smoother on rough ground.
Warranty
The warranty is 3 years with no hour limit. It is for residential use. Cub Cadet does not offer commercial coverage on this model.
Limits to know about
The ZT3 uses lap bars. It costs far more than the ZT1 and ZT2. A 60-inch deck is wide, so check your gates and your trailer. Prices vary by deck size and dealer.
Who should buy it
Buy a ZT3 if you have three acres or more and spend hours in the seat. Choose the ZT2 if you want a wide deck without the premium seat. See our ZT2 review for that comparison.
Buying information
Ownership
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT3 have?
24 hp from a Kawasaki FR/FS730 V-twin.
How fast is the ZT3?
Up to 7.5 mph forward and 3.5 mph in reverse.
What seat does the ZT3 have?
A 24-inch high-back seat with cushioned armrests and polymer isolators.
What transmission does the ZT3 use?
Dual Hydro-Gear ZT-3100 hydrostatic transmissions.
How is the ZT3 different from the ZT2?
It has a bigger seat, a commercial-grade drive and more power. See our Ultima ZT2 review for the mid-range line.
Owner reviews
No owner reviews yet. Own one? Be the first to share what it is like to live with.
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