Husqvarna YT46LS Review

YT46LS review

Our take on the Husqvarna YT46LS

The Husqvarna YT46LS is a 46-inch lawn tractor with a Kawasaki V-twin engine and a Tuff Torq hydrostatic transmission. It uses a single foot pedal for drive, an electric PTO to engage the blades and a high-back seat. Consumer Reports lists it as a 46-inch tractor with a two-cylinder Kawasaki engine and an automatic drive system. It was a popular mid-priced Husqvarna rider. Today it may have limited distribution, so many buyers will see it on the used market.

This review covers the engine versions, drive, deck, comfort, owner feedback and who should consider one. We also explain how it differs from the newer TS 248XD.

Engine versions to know about

Not every YT46LS has the same engine. Early 2013-era units use a Kawasaki FR651V. TractorData lists it at 726 cc and 21.5 hp gross. Husqvarna’s US support page for one SKU also shows a 44.3 cubic inch Kawasaki FR series twin. A later 2017 SKU shows 36.8 cubic inches, which points to a smaller Kawasaki FR600V of about 18 hp. A forum buyer also reports an option with a 24 hp Kohler 7000 Series engine. Check the engine label and the SKU before you buy.

All versions are V-twins. A V-twin runs smoother than a single and holds speed better in thick grass.

Hydrostatic pedal drive

The YT46LS uses a Tuff Torq hydrostatic transmission. A foot pedal controls speed and direction. There is no shifting. Maximum reverse speed is 2.4 mph. This drive is easy to learn and smooth around trees, beds and corners. It is a clear step up from the gear-drive tractors at the low end of the market.

46-inch deck

The deck is 46 inches wide. It has four anti-scalp wheels. A washout port connects to a garden hose so you can rinse the underside. Consumer Reports notes quick-change cutting blades that require no tools. The blades engage with an electric PTO. You pull a switch instead of a lever. That is more convenient and less tiring than a manual lever.

Comfort and features

The seat is a vinyl high-back design. The steering wheel is a deluxe overmolded type for a better grip. A brush-guard style bumper protects the front. An hour meter tracks service intervals. The generator output is 12 to 15 amps, depending on the SKU. These are better extras than you find on many entry tractors.

Size, tires and weight

TractorData lists a 48-inch wheelbase and a 455 lb weight for the 2013 version. Tires are 15×6-6 in front and 20×8-8 in back. The fuel tank holds about 3 gallons. The battery is a U1R unit rated at 230 cold-cranking amps.

What owners say

Buyers on forums debate engine choice more than anything else. Some prefer the Kawasaki for reliability. Others want the higher horsepower of the Kohler. Experienced owners point out that deck width and engine quality matter more than horsepower. They also remind buyers that a wide deck can lengthen mowing time if it means more trimming by hand.

Limits to know about

The YT46LS is an older model. Parts and dealer support are still available, but new stock may be scarce. It has no cruise control listed. It has a 3-gallon tank. It does not have a locking differential on the version we reviewed. Check the SKU for options.

How it compares with the TS 248XD

The TS 248XD is Husqvarna’s current 200-series tractor. It has a 48-inch deck, a 23 hp Kawasaki FR691V, an automatic differential lock and a 16-inch turning radius. It costs more. If you find a clean YT46LS at a fair used price, it can still be a good value.

Quick specs at a glance

The deck is 46 inches. The engine is a Kawasaki FR-series V-twin. The transmission is a Tuff Torq hydrostatic. Reverse speed is 2.4 mph. The seat is high-back vinyl. The tractor has an electric PTO, an hour meter and four anti-scalp wheels. The original price was $2,200 in 2013.

Tips if you buy one used

Ask for the SKU and look up the engine. Check the hour meter. Look at the deck for cracks and the spindles for play. Test the electric PTO and the foot pedal. Check the battery date. Ask for service records. Used units have sold near $1,650 with about 300 hours.

Who should buy it

Buy a YT46LS if you want a Kawasaki V-twin and hydrostatic pedal drive at a used-market price. It suits one to two acres of mostly flat ground. Skip it if you want a new warranty or the newest features.

Price and warranty

The original price was $2,200 in 2013. A used 2014 unit with 310 hours was listed at $1,650. Husqvarna now lists the model under limited distribution. Warranty coverage on a used unit depends on the original purchase date, so ask the seller.

Verdict

The YT46LS is a solid older Husqvarna tractor with a Kawasaki V-twin and a smooth hydrostatic drive. Confirm the engine version and condition before you buy.