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Cub Cadet XT1 LT46 review

Cub Cadet · Lawn Tractors

Cub Cadet XT1 LT46 Review

The LT46 adds a 22 hp Kohler V-twin and a 46-in. deck to the XT1 formula. It is the value pick for yards up to 1.5 acres.

3.8 Our rating
Deck size
46 in
Horsepower
22 HP
Drive
2WD, hydrostatic
Fuel type
Gasoline

Rating breakdown

  • Performance 4.0
  • Build quality 3.5
  • Reliability 4.0
  • Value for money 4.0
  • Comfort & ergonomics 4.0
  • Features 3.5

Key specifications

Power typeGasoline
Horsepower22 HP
EngineKohler 7000 Series V-twin OHV, air-cooled
Displacement725 cc, 2 cylinders
Fuel typeGasoline
TransmissionFoot-pedal hydrostatic
Drive2WD, hydrostatic
Deck size46 in
Deck constructionStamped, 12-gauge steel, twin-blade, side discharge
Cutting height12 positions
BladesTwin blades
DischargeSide discharge; mulching with optional kit
Top speedNot published by Cub Cadet
Turning radius16 in
Front tires15x6
Rear tires20x8
WeightAbout 420 lb
DimensionsAbout 68 in L x 42.5 in H; wheelbase 47 in
Fuel capacity3 US gal (11.4 L)
Recommended property sizeUp to about 1.5 acres
Battery12V, 230 CCA
Charging12 A flywheel alternator
Seat back height15 in
Wheelbase47 in

Pros and cons

What we like

  • 22 hp Kohler V-twin
  • Wider 46-in. deck
  • Tight 16-in. turn radius
  • 15-in. cut-and-sew high-back seat
  • 3-year no-hour-limit warranty

What could be better

  • Stamped deck is thinner than fabricated decks
  • No fuel gauge
  • No locking differential
  • Best for flat ground
  • Smaller yard rating than the LT50

XT1 LT46 review

Cub Cadet XT1 LT46 at a glance

The Cub Cadet XT1 LT46 is the value pick of the XT1 line. It has a 22 hp Kohler V-twin and a 46-inch stamped deck. It keeps the foot-pedal hydrostatic drive and the 16-inch turn radius. Cub Cadet says it suits up to 1.5 acres of mostly flat ground.

Engine and drive

The engine is a Kohler 7000 Series V-twin of 725 cc. It makes 22 hp. A V-twin runs smoother than the single in the LT42. It also holds speed better in thick grass.

Drive comes from a foot-pedal hydrostatic transmission. You do not shift gears. Tires are 15×6 in front and 20×8 in back. The tractor weighs about 420 lb.

Deck and cutting

The deck is 46 inches wide and stamped from 12-gauge steel. It has twin blades and 12 cutting positions. Four gauge wheels help prevent scalping. A wash-out port keeps the underside clean. Mulching needs an optional kit.

Seat and comfort

The seat is a 15-inch cut-and-sew high-back design. It has an incline and slide adjustment. The tank holds about 3 gallons. There is no fuel gauge. Headlights are LED on this model family.

Limits to know about

The stamped deck is thinner than the fabricated decks on the LT50 and ST54. There is no locking differential. Cub Cadet also sells a single-cylinder EFI version with a fabricated deck. That is a different model.

Who should buy it

Buy the LT46 if you want a V-twin and a wider deck for a small price step over the LT42. Choose the LT50 if you have two acres or more.

Buying information

Price

$2,599

List MSRP, base model. Freight and dealer setup may be extra. Check your dealer for current price.

Where to buy

Warranty

3 years with no hour limit, including the powertrain, and 5-year coverage on the frame and front axle. Check the current Cub Cadet warranty statement for full terms.

Depreciation and resale

No published resale figures. The LT46 is a common model, so check local listings.

Ownership

Common problems

Spec-based limits: no fuel gauge and no locking differential. The stamped deck is lighter than fabricated decks.

Search owner discussions in the forum →

Maintenance

Change the oil and filter on schedule. Clean the air filter, sharpen the blades and check the battery. Rinse the deck after mowing.

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Cub Cadet XT1 LT46 have?

22 hp from a 725 cc Kohler 7000 Series V-twin.

What deck does the LT46 have?

A 46-inch stamped deck made from 12-gauge steel with twin blades.

What size yard suits the LT46?

Cub Cadet says up to 1.5 acres of mostly flat ground.

What is the LT46 turning radius?

16 inches.

Does the LT46 have a fuel gauge?

No. Cub Cadet lists no fuel gauge on this model.

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