Most people won’t mind spending money when buying a riding lawn mower, but you can’t expect every machine to deliver the same professional-level results. Some will perform well in the beginning, only to vibrate excessively or be difficult to start eventually.
So in this Husqvarna YTH18542 review, I examined a top riding mower in the market to see if it can ease your daily mowing experience.
What I Like
- Its Briggs and Stratton engine is potent, boasting 18.5 HP.
- It has a decent speed, reaching up to 2.5 miles per hour.
- It has forward and reverse mowing capabilities.
- t's more compact than other riding mowers I've come across with similar specs.
- Has a perfect cutting deck size of 42 inches
- It's ideally suited for medium to small lawns.
- You can adjust its height settings based on lawn needs
What I Don't Like
- There is no cruise control included in its system
- It comes with such a modest tank
Design, Size, and Build Quality
One design feature that sets the Husqvarna YTH18542 apart from other lawnmower options is its compact size. Being only 70 inches in length and about 50 inches in width, I can maneuver through tight and narrow spaces much better than with massive lawn tractors.
At first glance, the feature that caught my attention the most was its adjustable sliding seat. Although it’s typical for Husqvarna lawnmower options to provide maximum comfort, the seat’s vinyl material prevents potential damage from regular wear and tear.
While it’s true that the Husqvarna YTH18542 riding lawn mower occupies less space than some models from the same brand, you still need bigger-than-average storage for this machine.
Nevertheless, the star of this riding lawn mower review is the machine’s mowing deck, made from durable reinforced steel. You’ll also spot its heavy cast-iron front axle, which allows it to withstand high impact and pressure from regular usage.
I also particularly liked that the mower deck is powder-coated. You may not know, but it enhances durability and extends machine life.
Its commendable versatility boils down to the fact that it has anti-scalp wheels. These components give the operators more control as they mow grass clippings in reverse.
Husqvarna YTH18542 Features
- Overview of Specifications
- Engine Type: Briggs & Stratton (Intek Power Output)
- Cutting Capacity: 107 centimeters
- Power: Gasoline/Fuel
- Power Output: 18.5 Horsepower
- Cylinders: One (1)
- Generator: 5&3 A
- Oil filter: Included
- Transmission Type: Hydrostatic Transmission
- Drive method: Pedal-operated Lawn Mowers
- Speed: Up to 2.5 miles per hour
Engine Power
Some lawns requires mowing machines that won’t break down amidst cutting grass, so buying a unit with a powerful engine can be crucial. Fortunately, that’s what Husqvarna YTH18542 has!
Unlike regular push mowers, this model includes a 1-cylinder Briggs & Stratton gas engine. Since it runs with an 18.5 Horsepower [1] rating, you can expect this mower to fulfill specific lawn maintenance needs.
This mower engine gets power from its fuel tank, which can carry around 3 gallons per use. Some may think this capacity isn’t enough, but it deserves due respect because it utilizes an electric starting system.
For those who don’t know, this function improves fuel usage and minimizes the energy used in any lawn mower application.
Maneuverability and Ease of Use
Though it’s not a zero-turn model, the Husqvarna YTH18542 riding lawn mower boasts a surprisingly tight turning diameter. From my experience, this allows for smooth maneuvering around any lawn obstacles.
What’s also great about the Husqvarna YTH18542, compared to other lawn tractors I’ve used, is the ease with which you can adjust its cutting height. Fine-tuning this ensures optimal mowing results every time.
Speed and Comfort
Having proper control over the deck while driving necessitates a lawn tractor with excellent stability to ensure a smooth and safe mowing experience.
Fortunately, you don’t need to worry about this because Husqvarna YTH18542 riding lawn mower has auto adjustments for acceleration.
Although its cutting width isn’t as extensive as other lawn tractor options, like John Deere S100, its speed consistency of 2.5 miles per hour can cover as much grass-cutting action as you need.
I particularly appreciate the sliding operator seat on this unit. Based on personal comfort and legroom needs, I’ve found it convenient to adjust its proximity to the steering wheel.
It’s not an enormous lawn tractor, but some users may find it hard to climb over. Because of this, I don’t doubt that you’ll find the step-through design on Husqvarna YTH18542 extremely useful.
Toward the machine’s rear end, you’ll spot the accessible fuel cap. Its visible location makes the refueling process less complicated and more comfortable for the users.
Cutting Quality and Performance
Husqvarna YTH18542’s cost-effectiveness mainly attributes to its clean and sharp cutting results, and it’s all courtesy of its air-induction technology. This system regulates the airflow inside the mower, arranging the grass before engaging with the blades.
The mower also maintains premium cutting quality because of its advanced vibration system technology. It reduces unnecessary shaking as you drive, affecting the deck’s operation and potentially damaging the engine in the long run.
Safety Features
Admit it or not, Husqvarna YTH18542 is still a piece of equipment that operates with a sharp blade. Because of this, it’s only natural that the manufacturers integrate a safety switch into the mower’s system.
This feature can control when to stop the motor and blades from running during operational emergencies. It reduces the accident risks caused by mistakes and miscalculations as you mow the lawn.
Accessories
In addition to the customary side discharging and bagging system prevalent in most Husqvarna models, I’ve discovered that this unit is also compatible with an optional mulching attachment, which can be quite handy.
Besides that, you can utilize this lawnmower in seasonal applications by adding accessories like snow blowers and brushes.
Storage and Maintenance
Another function that’s worth mentioning in this Husqvarna YTH18542 riding lawn mower review is the unit’s electric hour meter. This feature relays a reminder to the dashboard at pre-programmed intervals to indicate the next stage of maintenance.
Given that it has a deck wash port, you only need to hook up the garden hose to remove dirt, grass clippings, and grime building up on its surface. Don’t forget to turn the unit off before cleaning to avoid accidents.
I highly recommend cleaning and emptying the fuel tank before placing YTH18542 inside the storage or shed. Never leave it out in the rain or extreme heat, as it could shorten the mower’s life and damage its durability.
Price and Warranty
Having worked with various brands, I can say that this Husqvarna lawnmower sits comfortably within the standard price range for riding mowers. It might not be the cheapest option out there, but given its durability and features, I believe it offers good value for its price.
You can receive a three-year warranty or more if you buy this product from authorized merchants. Read the terms and conditions to determine which parts cover this policy range.
Which Should I Buy, Riding or Zero-Turn Mowers?
While both options can be excellent lawn care machines, riding mowers are cheaper than zero-turn models. On the other hand, the latter offers faster operational speed than the other because it has no minimal turning radius.
Ultimately, your choice should depend on your mowing needs. If the land you’re working on does not exceed two acres, using riding mowers is still the more economical option.
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Review Conclusion: Husqvarna YTH18542
My experience with the Husqvarna YTH18542 has shown me that lawnmowers don’t have to be enormous to be effective. While it’s certainly an investment, its balanced power, speed, and impressive durability have enhanced my mowing sessions, enabling me to tackle a variety of tasks with ease.
The YTH18542 has consistently delivered a superior mowing experience, allowing me to handle diverse tasks with a level of precision and efficiency that few other models can match.
You've probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
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