Cub Cadet’s LTX series of riding mowers is widely regarded as one of the most powerful and desirable for home landscapers and even those who run their own landscaping business. The company’s LTX lineup features some of the most powerful engines on the market, and it combines durable construction with a long-term commitment to OEM parts, nationwide service and support through a network of authorized retailers, and the kind of accessories that can make the riding mower suitable for work in all seasons. Two of the best models offered by the company are its LTX 1046 M and the slightly different LTX 1046 KW.
While both models feature the same deck, blades, and other features, Cub Cadet has made sure that each model uses a unique engine works slightly differently and meets different operator tastes. By understanding each of these engines, and the features that unite both models, residential and business customers can easily pick the Cub Cadet LTX model that works best for their unique needs.
The Lineup: The Specs that Unite the LTX 1046 M and 1046 KW Riding Mowers
Cub Cadet has never been known for sacrificing power behind the wheel with its riding mowers, and the LTX series is evidence of that commitment to horsepower. Both the LTX 1046 M and KW models come with industry-leading OHV engines, and each of those engines is backed by an automatic, hydrostatic transmission that reduces friction, quiets vibrations, and makes the Cub Cadet mower far more enjoyable to operator for even long periods of time.
Both mowers are designed to make quick work of many mowing jobs, with dual, 46-inch blades that are among the largest in this particular class of mower. Those blades can be adjusted to cut grass as short as just 1.5 inches, though their adjustable nature means that grass can be cut to lengths as long as 4 inches if the operator desires. Because blades are operated using a heavy-duty Kevlar belt, the system is designed to last and will likely require only minimal maintenance over the long-term.
In addition to a large mowing deck that can handle even the largest lawns with ease, both Cub Cadet LTX 1046 models offer a 5.2 mph forward speed that is easily among the fastest in this segment. The reverse speed of 2.4 miles per hour is also a high-speed amenity offered by the combination of the mower’s powerful engine and its high-end transmission. With a rustproof, 3.3-gallon fuel tank, these higher speeds won’t come with the need to refuel the mower more often. That will delight homeowners who generally dislike disruptions of their routine mowing tasks.
Sizing Up the Engines: Where the M and KW Models Differ
While the vast majority of mower features are the same between each of the company’s LTX 1046 models, there is a pretty big difference under the hood that will matter a great deal to buyers. Because Cub Cadet often treads the line between residential convenience and professional-grade power, the company has built two models that each use a different brand of engine with a slightly different amount of power.
The company’s LTX 1046 KW engine is so named because it employs a Kawasaki engine. The engine is easily the best one available from Kawasaki for this type of work, with a V-Twin OHV architecture that produces 12.5 horsepower during everyday mowing. This will work for the vast majority of homeowners and even for the large majority of commercial buyers. Some, though, may prefer a different engine manufacturer or a slightly different amount of horsepower. That’s where the LTX 1046 M comes into play.
Cub Cadet’s LTX 1046 M model is designed to be virtually identical to its KW counterpart, but it employs a Kohler V-Twin OHV engine instead of the aforementioned Kawasaki model. The Kawasaki engine produces slightly more horsepower, a 22 total, which is a slight difference that can lead to a slightly better and easier mowing experience overall. Mostly, however, the Kawasaki engine’s inclusion is simply done for those who prefer the Kawasaki model over its Kohler counterpart.
Two Great Models with Real Promise for Buyers
Both the LTX 1046 M and the LTX 1046 KW are great riding mowers for the average homeowner, and they’re a great buy for the commercial landscaper who typically handles residential mowing. With excellent power, plenty of creature comforts, and the durable commitment offered by Cub Cadet across the board, each mower will provide years of easy and hassle-free mowing wherever it’s used.
For LTX 1046 Mowers and Parts, Use CubParts.com
Consumers looking to buy a new LTX 1046 mower, or those who simply need a few replacement parts when conducting seasonal maintenance, should choose CubParts.com for all of their needs. With an innovative parts lookup tool and years of industry experience, equipment owners will find everything they need to keep mowing with power, simplicity, and peace of mind.