Husqvarna Z242F Special Edition 21.5 HP 42-Inch Zero-Turn Mower with Kawasaki FR Series V-Twin

The Z242F Special Edition is the upgrade path on Husqvarna’s compact 42-inch zero-turn — the same chassis and ClearCut deck as the standard Z242F, but with a Kawasaki FR Series V-twin replacing the lower-tier engine, an upgraded 15-inch high-back seat with armrests, and all-terrain tires standard. For owners shopping in the residential 42-inch zero-turn category who want the Kawasaki engine ecosystem without stepping up to a 48-inch deck, the SE is the most balanced choice in Husqvarna’s lineup.

Power comes from a Kawasaki FR Series V-twin OHV engine displacing 603cc. The FR series is the residential-grade extension of Kawasaki’s commercial FX engine line, sharing the same overhead valve architecture, full pressure lubrication, and dual-element premium air filtration. Owners running the Z242F SE on a typical weekly residential schedule will see oil and filter changes once a season — essentially the entire engine maintenance routine. Electric key start, automatic choke, and a regulated charging system handle cold mornings without operator intervention.

Twin Hydro-Gear ZT-2200 transaxles power the rear wheels independently, allowing true zero-radius pivoting controlled through a pair of lap bars. Top forward speed is 6.5 mph, calibrated for the half-acre to two-acre properties this mower targets. The Hydro-Gear ZT-2200 is a step up from the EZT transmission found on entry zero-turns, with larger oil capacity and reinforced internals for sustained mowing sessions.

The 42-inch ClearCut fabricated steel deck cuts at six height settings between 1.5 and 4 inches via a foot-lift pedal and pin-locked indicator. Two cutting blades work in side-discharge configuration. Air-induction ducting pulls air through the deck shell to lift grass blades for a cleaner cut and improved discharge dispersal. The deck accepts an optional Husqvarna mulch kit (sold separately).

Operator comfort centers on a Special Edition 15-inch high-back seat with armrests — noticeably more padded than the standard Z242F seat — plus soft-grip lap bars, all-terrain tires for improved traction across uneven ground, and a vibration-dampening foot deck. The dashboard layout is honest and minimal: ignition, throttle, choke, PTO knob, hour meter.

The chassis is welded steel with corrosion-resistant powder-coat throughout. The standard rear hitch accepts most popular tow-behind attachments — dump carts, broadcast spreaders, plug aerators, and dethatchers all mount without modification. Cup holder and fuel gauge are factory standard.

For half-acre to two-acre properties where the homeowner wants Kawasaki engine reliability and the upgraded seat-and-tire package without paying for a wider 48-inch deck, the Z242F Special Edition is the most pragmatic Husqvarna 42-inch zero-turn in the catalog. The Kawasaki FR engine and ZT-2200 transmission together justify the small premium over the standard Z242F.