If you’re looking for a powerful and reliable zero-turn mower for a medium to large lawn, you’ve likely come across the Husqvarna Z248F. This review will give you a clear, honest look at its performance and value. Our Husqvarna Z248F review – comprehensive and unbiased analysis aims to help you decide if this is the right mower for your yard.
We’ll cover everything from its engine power and cutting performance to comfort features and potential drawbacks. By the end, you’ll have a solid understanding of what this popular model offers.
Husqvarna Z248F Review – Comprehensive and Unbiased Analysis
The Husqvarna Z248F is a 24-horsepower zero-turn riding mower built for efficiency. It sits in a competitive price range, offering a blend of residential durability and commercial-grade features. Many users choose it for its strong cutting deck and relatively smooth operation.
Let’s break down the key components that make up this machine.
Key Specifications and Features
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, here are the basic specs you need to know:
- Engine: 24 HP Kawasaki FR691V twin-cylinder engine
- Cutting Width: 48-inch fabricated steel deck
- Transmission: Hydro-gear EZT transaxles (foot-pedal controlled)
- Fuel Capacity: 3 gallons
- Seat: High-back, adjustable
- Warranty: 3-year limited warranty
Engine and Power Performance
The heart of the Z248F is its Kawasaki FR series engine. This 24 HP motor provides plenty of torque for hilly terrain and thick grass. It starts reliably, even in cooler weather, and runs with a consistent power output.
You won’t usually notice a loss of power when engaging the blades or going up a slope. The engine is air-cooled, which keeps the design simpler than liquid-cooled models. For a residential mower, this powerplant is a significant strength and contributes to the mowers overall longevity.
Cutting Deck and Quality of Cut
The 48-inch fabricated steel deck is built to last. It’s heavier and more robust than a typical stamped deck, which helps prevent rust and damage from debris. The cutting height is easily adjusted with a single lever, offering a range from 1.5 to 4.5 inches.
The deck uses three blades to create a clean, even cut. Airflow is designed to stand grass up before cutting, which leads to a more uniform appearance. For most grasses, the result is a very professional-looking striped lawn. However, in extremely wet or overgrown conditions, you might see some minor clumping.
Operation and Handling
Operating the Z248F is straightforward, especially if you’ve used a zero-turn mower before. The twin foot pedals control speed, direction, and turning. Push both forward to go straight ahead, and manipulate them independently to pivot turn.
The learning curve is minimal. Within 15-20 minutes, most users feel confident maneuvering around trees and garden beds. The turning radius is, as expected, essentially zero, allowing you to trim closely without needing a separate trimmer for many areas.
Comfort and Usability
Comfort is crucial for long mowing sessions. The Z248F features a high-back seat with adjustable positioning. While it’s not a premium suspension seat, it provides adequate cushioning. The control panel is simple, with clear markings for the ignition, choke, and headlights.
One note is that the ride can be bumpy on very uneven ground, as is common with many zero-turn mowers. The lack of a steering wheel means you rely on the lap bars, which some users prefer for there sense of direct control.
Pros and Cons: A Balanced View
No mower is perfect. Here’s a straightforward list of the advantages and disadvantages we observed.
Pros:
- Powerful, reliable Kawasaki engine
- Durable fabricated cutting deck
- Precise zero-turn maneuverability
- Consistent, high-quality cut
- Relatively easy to maintain with accessible service points
Cons:
- The ride can be stiff on rough lawns
- Deck wash port is a helpful feature but not as effective as a thorough manual cleaning
- Some users report the tires can be prone to punctures if not careful
- It’s a fairly heavy machine, which is good for durability but can compact soil if the ground is soft
Maintenance and Long-Term Reliability
Regular maintenance is key to keeping any mower running for years. The Z248F is designed with serviceability in mind. The oil filter, air filter, and spark plugs are easy to reach. You should follow the schedule in the manual for oil changes, blade sharpening, and belt inspections.
Common tasks you’ll need to perform include:
- Check the engine oil level before each use.
- Sharpen or replace the mower blades every 25 hours or as needed.
- Clean the deck underside regularly to prevent grass buildup.
- Grease the spindle zerks as recommended.
- Check tire pressure monthly for even cutting.
With proper care, this mower should provide reliable service for a long time. The 3-year warranty offers good peace of mind for the initial ownership period.
Who Is The Husqvarna Z248F Best For?
This mower isn’t for everyone, but it’s an excellent fit for specific users. It’s ideal if you have a flat to moderately sloped lawn between half an acre and 3 acres. If you value a crisp cut and want to reduce mowing time with a wider deck, it’s a strong contender.
It may not be the best choice if your property is very rocky or has severe bumps, where the stiff chassis could make for an uncomfortable ride. Also, if you’re on a very tight budget, there are less expensive residential zero-turns available, though they often have less powerful engines.
Final Verdict and Recommendation
The Husqvarna Z248F is a solid, well-built zero-turn mower that delivers on its core promises. It cuts excellently, maneuvers superbly, and is powered by a top-tier engine. The main trade-offs are a firm ride and a price point that may be higher than entry-level models.
If your priority is a durable machine that will handle a sizable lawn efficiently and give you a great-looking result, the Z248F is easy to recommend. It represents a good investment for a homeowner who wants near-commercial quality without the commercial price tag. Be sure to compare it side-by-side with similar models from other brands at your local dealer to feel the controls for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does the Husqvarna Z248F handle hills?
The Z248F handles moderate slopes well thanks to its powerful engine and stable design. For very steep hills, always mow up and down, not side to side, for safety.
What is the difference between a fabricated and stamped deck?
A fabricated deck is made from welded steel plates and is thicker and more durable. A stamped deck is formed from a single piece of thinner metal. The Z248F’s fabricated deck is a more robust, long-lasting option.
Can I add a bagger or mulching kit to the Z248F?
Yes, Husqvarna offers optional bagging and mulching kits for this model. You can purchase them as accessories to convert the mower based on your seasonal needs.
Is the Husqvarna Z248F worth the money?
For homeowners with 1-3 acres who want a reliable, powerful cut and value time savings, it is generally considered a worthwhile investment. Its build quality justifies it’s price for many buyers.
How fast does the Z248F mow?
The top forward speed is approximately 6.5 miles per hour. Your actual mowing speed will depend on terrain and grass conditions, but it allows you to cover ground quickly.