Troy-Bilt Bronco Review

Bronco 42 / Bronco 46 review

Our take on the Troy-Bilt Bronco

The Troy-Bilt Bronco is the step-up riding mower from the Pony. The big difference is the AutoDrive transmission. It is a foot-pedal automatic that drives like a car. You push a pedal to go and release to slow. Speed tops out at 5.5 mph. The Bronco comes with a 547 cc Troy-Bilt engine and a 42 or 46-inch side-discharge deck. It also has a Step-Thru frame and an adjustable seat.

This review covers the Bronco 42 and 46. We cover the drive, deck, comfort, owner feedback and who should buy it. We also compare it with the hand-lever Pony.

AutoDrive transmission

AutoDrive is a continuously variable transmission, often called a CVT. It has no gears to shift. You use a foot pedal for forward and reverse. This is easier to learn than a gear drive. It is also smoother around trees and beds, where you speed up and slow down often. Top speed is 5.5 mph.

Engine

The current Bronco uses a 547 cc Troy-Bilt engine. Troy-Bilt calls it designed for smooth, responsive performance. It does not publish horsepower. A separate Bronco 46 listing shows a 17.5 hp, 500 cc Briggs & Stratton engine. That version also has a high-back seat and a soft-touch steering wheel. Check the model number to confirm which engine you are getting.

Deck choices

The Bronco 42 has a 42-inch deck. The Bronco 46 has a 46-inch deck. Both are side-discharge, twin-blade steel decks with two anti-scalp wheels. Troy-Bilt says the deck suits lawns up to 1.5 acres. The 46-inch version cuts four extra inches per pass. That saves time on open lawns. A mulch kit is sold separately.

Comfort and access

The Step-Thru frame lets you climb on and off easily. The seat is adjustable. It is more comfortable than the low-back seat on the Pony. The Bronco 46 version with the Briggs engine adds a high-back seat. Soft-touch steering reduces vibration on that version.

Warranty and build

Troy-Bilt lists a three-year limited warranty on the Bronco. It covers the frame, front axle, deck shell and engine. The mowers are built in Valley City, Ohio and other U.S. sites with global parts.

What owners say

Owners like the pedal drive. They call it easy and familiar. Some mention assembly and small parts issues. Others note that the engine is smaller than a V-twin on higher-priced tractors. Keep up with oil and blade service.

Limits to know about

The Bronco is a single-cylinder tractor. The deck is stamped steel rather than fabricated. It does not have cruise control. It is not built for steep hills. It costs more than the Pony.

How it compares

The Pony costs less but uses a hand-lever 7-speed transmission and a low-back seat. The Bronco costs more and gives you pedal drive and a better seat. If you mow around many obstacles, the Bronco is worth the extra money.

Quick specs at a glance

The engine is 547 cc. Drive is AutoDrive foot-pedal CVT at up to 5.5 mph. Decks are 42 or 46 inches. Troy-Bilt rates it for up to 1.5 acres. The frame is Step-Thru. The warranty is three years.

Tips to get the most from it

Ease onto the pedal at the start of each pass. Slow down before turns. Check the oil each mow. Keep both blades sharp. Mow when the grass is dry. Add the mulch kit if you want to mulch.

Seasonal maintenance checklist

At the start of the season, change the oil and filter. Replace the air filter if it is dirty. Sharpen or replace both blades and check the deck belt. Check tire pressure and the battery. Inspect the AutoDrive belt for wear as the manual directs. At the end of the season, add fuel stabilizer, clean the deck and store the mower dry. Good upkeep keeps the pedal drive smooth and protects your warranty.

Who should buy it

Buy the Bronco if you have up to 1.5 acres with trees, beds and corners. It suits anyone who wants easy pedal drive. Skip it if you want the lowest price. The Pony fits that.

Price and warranty

Walmart lists the Bronco 42 at about $2,199.99. It lists the Bronco 46 at about $2,248. Prices vary by retailer. The warranty is three years.

Verdict

The Bronco is an easy-driving, affordable rider. AutoDrive and the adjustable seat make it a better daily mower than the Pony. It is a strong choice for small to medium yards.