Husqvarna Z242F Review
The Z242F combines a 21.5 hp Kawasaki V-twin, a 42-in. ClearCut deck and 6.5 mph speed in a zero-turn that fits tight gates.
- Deck size
- 42 in
- Horsepower
- 21.5 HP
- Drive
- Zero-turn, dual hydrostatic
- Fuel type
- Gasoline
Rating breakdown
Key specifications
| Power type | Gasoline |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 21.5 HP |
| Engine | Kawasaki FR Series V-twin, air-cooled |
| Displacement | 44.3 cu in, 2 cylinders |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Transmission | Hydro-Gear hydrostatic, twin lever control |
| Drive | Zero-turn, dual hydrostatic |
| Deck size | 42 in |
| Deck construction | ClearCut fabricated, 10-gauge steel, 2 blades, nose roller |
| Cutting height | About 1.5 to 4 in, 6 positions |
| Blades | 2 blades |
| Discharge | Side discharge; mulching and bagging with optional kits |
| Top speed | 6.5 mph forward |
| Turning radius | Zero |
| Front tires | Not listed in Husqvarna's spec table |
| Rear tires | Not listed in Husqvarna's spec table |
| Weight | 582 lb |
| Dimensions | 75 in L x 40 in H; 56 in W chute down, 48 in W chute up |
| Fuel capacity | 3.5 US gal (13.25 L) |
| Recommended property size | Up to about 1.5 acres of open lawn |
| Weight | 582 lb |
| Seat | 15 in high back, vinyl, hinged armrests |
| Nose roller | Yes |
| Anti-scalp wheels | 1 |
| Deck wash port | Yes |
| Width | 56 in chute down, 48 in chute up |
Pros and cons
What we like
- 21.5 hp Kawasaki V-twin
- Narrow 48-in. chute-up width
- 10-gauge fabricated deck with wash port
- Cast-iron blade housings
- Automatic park brake
What could be better
- Only 2 blades on the 42-in. deck
- Costs only $100 less than the Z248F
- No roll bar
- 3.5 gal fuel tank
- Only 1 anti-scalp wheel
Z242F review
Our take on the Husqvarna Z242F
The Husqvarna Z242F is the 42-inch zero-turn in the Z200 Series. It has a 21.5 hp Kawasaki FR Series V-twin and a ClearCut fabricated 10-gauge deck. Most people searching for a Husqvarna Z242F review want a zero-turn for a smaller yard with gates and tight spots. A chute-up width of 48 inches helps with both storage and access.
Engine and drive
The Kawasaki engine displaces 44.3 cubic inches. It has two cylinders, air cooling and full-pressure lubrication with an oil filter. Drive is a Hydro-Gear hydrostatic transmission. Top speed is 6.5 mph forward. An automatic park brake sets as you move the steering levers.
Deck
The 42-inch deck has two blades, a nose roller and one anti-scalp wheel. It also has cast-iron blade housings and a wash port. Cutting height has six steps from 1.5 to 4 inches. A spring-assisted hand lift raises the deck. Husqvarna lists a 42-inch mulch kit for this deck, and a bagging system is available.
Comfort and limits
The seat is a 15-inch high-back vinyl design with hinged armrests. LED headlights help at dusk. The mower weighs 582 lb, and the fuel tank holds 3.5 gallons. There is no roll bar. Husqvarna also sells a Z242F Special Edition, so check the spec sheet for the version you buy.
Who should buy it
Buy the Z242F if you have a smaller yard and want a Kawasaki-powered zero-turn that fits through tight gates. Choose the Z248F for 6 more inches of deck and 1.6 more horsepower. It costs only $100 more.
Buying information
Ownership
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Husqvarna Z242F have?
21.5 hp from a Kawasaki FR Series V-twin engine.
How wide is the Husqvarna Z242F?
The cutting deck is 42 inches. The chute-up width is 48 inches and the chute-down width is 56 inches.
How fast is the Z242F?
Up to 6.5 mph forward.
What is the difference between the Z242F and Z248F?
The Z248F has a 48-inch deck, 23.1 hp and three blades. The Z242F has a 42-inch deck, 21.5 hp and two blades. The Z248F costs $100 more.
How much does the Husqvarna Z242F weigh?
582 lb.
Owner reviews
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