Troy-Bilt Pony Review

Pony 42 review

Our take on the Troy-Bilt Pony

The Troy-Bilt Pony 42 is Troy-Bilt’s entry riding mower. It has a 42-inch side-discharge deck, a 547 cc Troy-Bilt engine and a 7-speed Shift-on-the-Go transmission. It uses a hand lever on the dash to change speed, not a foot pedal. It also has a Step-Thru frame, automatic headlights and an 18-inch turn radius. Troy-Bilt says it suits lawns up to 1.5 acres.

This review covers the engine, transmission, deck, comfort and who should buy it. We also explain how the Pony differs from the pedal-driven Bronco.

Engine

The current Pony 42 uses a 547 cc Troy-Bilt engine. Troy-Bilt describes it as built for reliable starting and plenty of power. It does not publish a horsepower figure for this engine. Older Pony models used a 500 cc Briggs & Stratton rated at 15.5 hp. Check the engine label on any used or clearance unit.

Shift-on-the-Go transmission

The Pony has a 7-speed transmission with a hand lever. You can change speed while moving, which Troy-Bilt calls Shift-on-the-Go. It is simple and costs less than a pedal-driven automatic. It also means you set speed with your hand and use the pedals for stop and go. Some owners like the control. Others prefer the pedal drive on the Bronco.

Deck and cutting

The deck is 42 inches wide, steel and twin-blade. It discharges to the side. Cutting height runs from 1.5 to 4 inches. The blades are engaged with a manual lever. A 13-gauge stamped design was listed on the older Briggs version. The 42-inch width fits through most gates, which helps in tight yards.

Steering, tires and weight

The turn radius is 18 inches. Front tires are 15×6-6 and rear tires are 20×8-8. The mower weighs about 520 lb. It has a built-in hitch for small carts and a translucent fuel tank so you can see the fuel level.

Seat and comfort

The seat is low-back with knob adjustment. It is basic. The Step-Thru frame makes it easy to get on and off. Automatic headlights add visibility in low light. For long mowing sessions, a high-back seat would be more comfortable.

What owners say

The Pony is a best seller at several retailers, with hundreds of reviews. Owners like the price and the easy access. Some report problems with assembly and small parts. Others mention that the low-back seat is hard on the back. These are typical for entry riders.

Limits to know about

The Pony has no pedal-driven automatic drive. It has a low-back seat. The deck is only 42 inches. It is rated for up to 1.5 acres, so larger yards need a bigger machine. A mulch kit is sold separately.

How it compares

The Bronco costs more and adds an AutoDrive foot-pedal transmission and an adjustable seat. If you want the lowest price, buy the Pony. If you value easy driving, look at our Bronco review.

Quick specs at a glance

The deck is 42 inches. The engine is 547 cc. The transmission is a 7-speed hand lever. The turn radius is 18 inches. Weight is about 520 lb. Tires are 15×6-6 and 20×8-8. The warranty is three years on current listings.

Tips to get the most from it

Learn the shift lever on open ground. Use a lower speed in thick grass. Check the oil before each mow. Keep two blades sharp. Check tire pressure to keep the cut level. Disengage the blades before you reverse. Buy the mulch kit if you plan 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. Grease the points listed in the manual. At the end of the season, add fuel stabilizer, clean the deck and store the mower dry. Following this list helps an entry-level rider run reliably and keeps your warranty in good standing.

Who should buy it

Buy the Pony if you have up to 1.5 acres of mostly flat ground and want a low price. It suits owners who do not mind a hand-lever transmission. Skip it if you want pedal drive or a high-back seat.

Price and warranty

Walmart lists the Pony 42 at about $1,996. Prices vary by retailer and version. Troy-Bilt now lists a three-year limited warranty. Some pages still show two years.

Verdict

The Pony is a simple, affordable riding mower with an easy-access frame. It is a good starter rider for small to medium yards. Step up to the Bronco for pedal-driven ease.