Gravely ZTX 52: Reviews, Durability, and Common Issues

Gravely ZTX 52 is a heavy-duty residential mower that Gravely produces. Gravely manufactures its machines in the USA. The Gravely ZTX 52 is a riding mower. It is the lawn mower with the widest cutting deck in Gravely's ZT-X series. There are two versions of this mower, one with a Kawasaki engine and another with a Kohler engine. Aside from the engine, they are both similarly spec'd.

This article assesses the ZTX 52 in three segments. First, we consider reviews for the ZTX 52. Following that, the durability of the machine is discussed. Lastly, common issues known with the ZTX 52 are highlighted.

ZTX 52 - Reviews

The Gravely ZTX 52 has specifications and features that should make it a solid option for homeowners with one to two acres of land.

The ZTX 52 is a gas-powered riding mower. It has a zero-turn feature for improved mower maneuverability. Also, it has a 52-inch deck and cutting width. There are two flavors of the Gravely ZTX 52, one with a 24-horsepower (hp) Kohler engine and another with a 23-hp Kawasaki engine. Besides the engine, most of the specifications of the ZTX 52 Kawasaki and Kohler are similar.

Regardless of the type of engine you choose, the ZTX 52 has more than enough power to do a lot on residential properties. The engine provides sufficient power for efficient mowing. It is better suited for properties under 2.5 acres. Additionally, Reviews show that the Gravely ZTX 52 is quite fuel efficient, and you can work an acre and more without exhausting its 3.5-gallon fuel capacity.

The drive system for the Gravely ZTX 52 is hydro-gear serviceable EZT transaxles. Older versions of the transaxle system in the ZTX 52 do not require servicing or maintenance and should last a long time. However, the 2023 edition has a serviceable transaxle. The transmission type on the Gravely ZTX 52 is hydrostatic.

The deck size of the Gravely ZTX 52 is the largest in the series. The Gravely ZTX 52 can cover a large area with every pass. This is advantageous for people working on fairly sizable properties. Also, we get an integrated parking brake on the ZTX 52.

The deck on the ZTX 52 is fully tubular fabricated. For a residential mower, the deck is sturdy and robust. The deck has a cover that goes all the way around. The latest version of the Gravely ZTX 52 now has an access port for the deck on top of the footrest for easier access.

In terms of maintainability, the Gravely ZTX 52 is not difficult to work with. It is easy to adjust different settings and components. For example, you can remove the fan belt without much ado. However, the front wheels need to be greased every now and then.

The Gravely ZTX 52 provides a comfortable mowing experience. Sitting is okay but not exceptional. The sit-down driver position allows users to get a more pleasant experience. You can adjust the seat from front to back. Also, you get adjustable armrests.

In addition, you get a cupholder and USB charging port within reach to the left of the seat. The throttle, arrow meter, PTO, ignition, and choke are all to the right of the driver's seat, making them easy to reach. Also, the ZTX 52's footrest is large enough for tall people.

The Gravely ZTX 52's zero-turn feature is also appreciated, as you can turn and maneuver around easily. However, there are some complaints about the Gravely ZTX 52's handles. Some consider it too high.

According to some user reviews, the ZTX 52 is a bit slow. It can get up to 7 miles per hour going forward and 3 miles per hour in reverse. However, if you have a fairly small property, you should not have too much of a problem with the ZTX 52's speed.

The ZTX 52 has a 20-inch wheel at the rear and an 11-inch wheel in front. Together with its 695-pound weight, you will get solid traction and stability during operation.

The one thing the Gravely ZTX 52 is expected to do is cut grass. Reviews show that the ZTX 52 is exceptional at cutting. It can deliver a clean and even cut. It has 13 cutting heights. The 52 has been compared favorably to more expensive mowers for its cutting ability. Yet, it may struggle in hilly areas.

The ZTX 52 supports some attachments and accessories. Supported attachments include a mulch kit, bagging system, hitch kit, lawn stripping kit, deck lift spring assist kit, transport lock kit, and more. The latest version at the time of publishing this piece has LED light bulbs if you need to mow your property at night.

The ZTX 52 presents a range of advantageous specs that should help you get far. A lot of reviews suggest that it is an impressive machine. However, it is not faultless and has issues of its own. Some of the ZTX 52s issues are discussed later on. Also, the review here does not mean the 52 will be perfect for everyone. Your specific lawn requirements should decide if it is right for you.

Despite its solid and durable build and look, this is not a mower created with commercial use in mind. Secondly, if your property is small, i.e., beneath an acre, the Gravely ZTX 52 may be overkill. But if you find the Gravely ZTX 52 suits your lawn needs, its price of $4599 ($4699 for the Kohler version) is fair for what it offers. Note that the price will vary with different dealers.

Durability

As we have previously outlined, the Gravely ZTX 52 is a well-built mower with a tubular design that will last. Its heavy-duty frame will not have an issue with working in most residential properties. The 52's use of a welded deck instead of a stamped one further adds to its durability. Welded decks are generally less prone to bending when impacted.

The deck is built from 11-gauge steel. This type of steel is not only tough and durable but resistant to fast wear. Also, the deck spindles are heavy-duty; they are made from forged aluminum. If you hit something coarse or strong with the blade, it is less likely that the spindles on the Gravely ZTX 52 will suffer damage, unlike many other machines in this category.

The engines in the Gravely ZTX 52 are also solid residential-grade engines. Whether you get the model with the Kawasaki or Kohler engine, you don't have much to worry about. With proper maintenance, the Kawasaki FR691V and Kohler KT730 will last long.

Customer support from Gravely is decent. Nevertheless, with Gravely, you will get either a 3-year or 300-hour warranty, depending on which of them comes first.

Common Issues

1) Hydro-Gear Issues

Earlier versions of the hydro-gear transmission in the 52 did not require any recurrent servicing. However, these older models have a major problem. For the most part, these hydro gears cannot be fixed if they suffer damage as they are non-serviceable.

If there is a significant issue with the hydro gear, you will need to replace it entirely. A replacement hydro-gear can be expensive. Buying a new mower may be better in some cases. The refreshed 2023 edition of the Gravely ZTX 52 does have a serviceable hydro-gear.

2) Kawasaki FR691V Engine Surging

The Kawasaki FR691V, which is in one version of Gravely ZTX 52, has received some complaints from owners about surging. Surging is a situation where the engine speed and power fluctuate. You might experience inconsistent RPMs with the blade speed going up and down erratically. Also, the engine sound might also be erratic.

Some of the things that are known to cause engine surging in the FR691V include trash inside the carburetor and intake gasket problems. Also, welch plugs coming out and letting too much air into the carburetor could also cause the engine to surge. The fuel pump, filter, oil, or oil filters could also cause the engine to surge.

3) Belt Wear

With continued usage, the belts can suffer wear or become loose. Belt wear will lead to a reduction in performance and uneven grass cutting. A replacement v-belt for the ZTX 52 is fairly affordable at $82 on Gravely's official site at the time of publishing.

Conclusion

The Gravely ZTX 52 is a rugged residential riding mower that has a look that many mistake for a commercial mower. This article discussed the specs and reviews of the ZTX 52. Also discussed was the durability of this mower. Common issues with the 52 are detailed as well. The ZTX 52 has some excellent features and supports a few add-ons. However, its stand-out feature might be its robust build. In addition, it is easy to operate. The ZTX 52 also excels at cutting lawns.

In terms of durability, the ZTX 52 shines. Its rugged build is a major reason for this. Also, both the Kawasaki and Kohler engines are reliable. You get extensive warranty protection for the 52 as well. In terms of problems, there are not too many. Belt issues are not uncommon for mowers like the ZTX 52. You should know that older models have non-serviceable hydro-gears, and the Kawasaki model may suffer from engine surging.