Husqvarna TS 248XD Review

TS 248XD review

Our take on the Husqvarna TS 248XD

The Husqvarna TS 248XD is a premium 200-series lawn tractor. It has a 48-inch ClearCut deck and a 23 hp Kawasaki FR691V V-twin. It also has a hydrostatic transmission with an automatic differential lock and a tight 16-inch turning radius. Lowe’s calls it ideal for yards of 2 to 3 acres. The TS 248XD costs about $3,999, which puts it in the upper-middle of lawn tractor pricing.

This review covers the engine, drive, deck, comfort, owner feedback and who should buy it. We also compare it with the older YT46LS.

Engine

The TS 248XD uses a Kawasaki FR691V V-twin. Husqvarna lists 44.3 cubic inches, which is about 726 cc. The engine is rated at 23 hp. It has an automatic choke, so you do not need to prime or set a choke lever. The engine has an oil filter and a 15 amp generator. Kawasaki V-twins have a good reputation for smooth running and long life.

Hydrostatic drive with automatic differential lock

The transmission is a Tuff Torq hydrostatic unit with dual pedal drive. You use one pedal for forward and one for reverse. Speed is up to 5.5 mph forward and 2.5 mph in reverse. The big feature is the automatic differential lock. It sends power to both rear wheels when one starts to slip. That helps on wet grass, slopes and in loose soil. A forum owner pointed out that you need this feature on a hill.

Cruise control is also standard. It holds your speed so you can rest your foot on long passes.

48-inch ClearCut deck

Husqvarna markets the deck as a ClearCut fabricated deck. Dealer listings differ. One lists a 10-gauge fabricated deck. Another lists stamped steel. Confirm the construction on the unit you buy. Everyone agrees on the basics: the deck is 48 inches wide. Cutting height runs from about 1 to 4 inches. Four anti-scalp wheels and a nose roller help reduce scalping. The mandrels are greasable. Blade engagement is electric, so you pull a switch.

A mulching kit is sold separately. A 48-inch triple bagger is also available for the ClearCut deck.

Comfort and features

The 15-inch high-back vinyl seat has extra-thick cushions. Husqvarna calls it the most comfortable in its class. The steering wheel is oversized and ergonomic. A rubber isolator reduces vibration. The easy step-through design helps you get on and off. You also get high-intensity LED lights, a brush guard, an easy-access fuel cap and a deluxe gauge package.

Size, tires and weight

The tractor is about 71 inches long, 60 inches wide and 42 inches tall. It weighs about 475 lb. Front tires are 15×6-6 and rear tires are 20×10-8. The fuel tank holds 4 gallons. A cast-iron front axle adds stability. Husqvarna builds the tractor in the USA.

What owners say

Owners like the comfortable seat, the tight turning and the solid engine. Some forum posters report frame bending or breaking and scalping on uneven ground. Others say a Cub Cadet rider of the same price looked better built. Scalping is common with wide decks on bumpy lawns. Adjust the anti-scalp wheels and avoid sharp humps.

Limits to know about

The TS 248XD is a single-lever lawn tractor, not a garden tractor. It is not meant for heavy towing or tillers. The deck is wide, so measure your gates. The frame feedback is worth reading before you buy. Check the warranty for the frame.

How it compares with the YT46LS

The YT46LS is older, has a 46-inch deck and a Kawasaki V-twin. It has no automatic differential lock on the version we reviewed. The TS 248XD adds a wider deck, a diff lock, cruise control and LED lights. It also costs more because it is sold new.

Quick specs at a glance

The engine is a 23 hp Kawasaki FR691V. The deck is 48 inches. The transmission is a Tuff Torq hydrostatic with automatic differential lock. Speed is 5.5 mph forward. The turning radius is 16 inches. The weight is about 475 lb. The tank holds 4 gallons. The warranty is three years.

Tips to get the most from it

Set the anti-scalp wheels so the deck clears bumps. Grease the mandrels on schedule. Use the diff lock on hills and wet grass. Check the oil before each mow. Keep the blades sharp. Rinse the deck after mowing. Check frame bolts each season.

Who should buy it

Buy the TS 248XD if you have two to three acres with obstacles and want a comfortable seat and a diff lock. It suits owners who value a Kawasaki engine and a tight turn. Skip it if you have very rough ground or want a heavy-duty garden tractor.

Price and warranty

Dealers list the TS 248XD at about $3,999. Walmart lists it at $4,190. A scratch-and-dent unit sold for $3,749. Used 2022 units have been listed from about $2,300 to $2,700. Husqvarna offers a 3-year bumper-to-bumper warranty.

Verdict

The TS 248XD is a comfortable, capable 48-inch tractor with a Kawasaki V-twin and an automatic diff lock. It is a good fit for two- to three-acre yards. Read the frame feedback and check the warranty before you buy.