MTD mowers are nearing their golden years of manufacturing gas-powered outdoor equipment. While the company started out with more commercial brands, in the last 35-years, they have taken the residential market by storm. With the Cub Cadet, Troy Built, Yard Man, Bolens, White Outdoor and McCulloch brand names under their sturdy belt, it’s no wonder that many buy their products year after year.
Most residential MTD models use either a Briggs and Stratton engine or an engine designed by Honda. In the States, Briggs carries with its name a reputation for quality, durability and power. The Honda engine model brags about ease of use, low maintenance costs and most importantly, its self-propelled capabilities.
MTD residential machines also claim that their 12-inch back wheels aid in the mowing of large yards, even with rough terrain. While the bigger back tires do help substantially in pushing a mower, the self-propelled models of course make this job easier for bigger yards, usually above ½-acre. So, if you yard is the rough, bumpy or hilly type, these wheels will help substantially.
Different prices will be the deciding factor of which model you’ll buy. Since most MTD yard machines now come standard with either a Honda or Briggs and Stratton engine, you’ll be paying for the quality of the body—something important, as you’ll see from some reviews found from consumers online.
Comments, concerns and reviews voiced over different forums regarding MTD models revealed that many of the lesser-priced units have had problems with the durability of their back-end frame and transaxle. There have also been concerns voiced over the safety of the transaxle due to a lack of braking capability and blade disengagement. Other comments detailed poor customer service from MTD to its residential lawn care customers, along with Lowe’s, who often carries MTD brands. Many others voiced their dedication to MTD products and no real concerns ever arose from engine malfunction, besides normal wear and tear. While at the commercial level, MTD seems to design and make durable frames (and transaxles), it seems on the residential front there is still some work left to be done, even though the engines are as well-designed and durable as ever.