Simplicity Regent - Things I don't like

[@lambi66]

I am mostly a Deere guy, but I found your video, and another about this deck very informative. I have a question for you. If this is used on hilly terrain, how does the deck rotate on transitions from say flat to an angled hill of 10ish degrees? The Deere suspension just floats over it as it rides the front and rear anti-scalp wheels. This deck does not even have anti-scalp wheels. Thanks in advance.

[@TheLawnEngineer]

The front of the deck moves up/down with the front axle of the tractor just as the Deere does. The back of the deck rides up/down with the rollers at the back of the deck. The only time the anti scalp wheel would help is if a bump is small enough that it passes the front axle of the tractor and ends before it reaches the rear rollers. The rear rollers are the best place to prevent scalping the crest of a hill. The deck isn’t allowed to float down until after the crest because the rollers keep the deck up until it’s completely passed.

[@TheLawnEngineer]

I am also a fan of Deere, there parts availability and network of dealers is second to none. They also make great equipment if you pay for the better units.

[@newenglandsnowmobile]

Installed a bagger baffle and the hi lift blade. Mower is throwing a dust storm out in front of machine. Had to switch back to the original blade also think I am going to take the baffle off. What was your experience?

[@TheLawnEngineer]

I did have a decent amount of blowout in the front of the deck as well. I assumed that is what the baffle is trying to prevent but let me know if you try it without the baffle.

[@baylordude9225]

I have a 2020 model with a 48” fab deck and 25hp Briggs. It likes it gas, for sure, but doesn’t bog down a bit. One thing I don’t like about it is the amount of time it takes to get the engine to start; it has to turn over for a while before catching a spark. I also kinda wished I’d bought the heavier unit, such as the Conquest, as they can handle a loader attachment.

[@TheLawnEngineer]

If you price out the mower decks for some of the smaller loader tractors, you can buy a Regent for the added cost.

[@jermsman18]

I have the same mower and had the same issue with the long start times. Figured out that the throttle cable had stretched from the factory and needed to be tightened up. Very simple fix to tighten the slack out of it. Now it starts almost instantly when I use the choke.

[@WilliamLeonard-f9o]

I bought a Regent 3 yrs ago. I can say i love it. 42 inch great mower Most in my neighborhood have john deer there is a difference in the way my lawn looks and thiers do. Looks like a baseball field. I.just having a litte problem with the roller for the stripes. Yhe one side is higervthat the other. Im not sure if the roller has gotten bent. The lever d9sent lift or lower the roller like it use to.

[@TheLawnEngineer]

The striping is awesome but the deck and roller does take some abuse because it’s riding on the ground. If it isn’t bent too badly, this video may help you out:Simplicity Mower Deck Leveling kzbin.info/www/bejne/nojWgHuAndqdY5o

[@WilliamLeonard-f9o]

@TheLawnEngineer yeah I seen where Briggs and Stratton are going to be sunsetting Simplicity and Snapper.

[@timpmuldoon736]

Good Video very informative almost bought 3yrs ago Simplicity Regency instead was sold on Husqvarna with Kawasaki 18hp engine Briggs Stratton isn’t what it use to be.. But I do love Simplicity Cutting Deck ..! FYI : New neighbors our from Poland they mow the lawn in dark with their Craftsman Tractor I think they love led lights.. Only downfall their pissing off lot of neighbors.. Lol

[@TheLawnEngineer]

Thanks for checking in Tim, I agree that the Kawasaki engines are generally better. It was/is all about the mower deck for me because I have challenging terrain that a conventional mower and zero turn tend to scalp on the high spots. That's pretty funny about your Polish neighbors...maybe the neighborhood will crowd fund an electric mower so they can sleep.

[@buildingalegacypa]

Good video. Another issue we have with the electric height of cut is remembering to disconnect the connector when removing the deck, I have had to replace the connector on both our Simplicity's. As far as fuel consumption, our Legacy XL with a Kohler drinks fuel like a muscle car. As with all brands, there are pluses and minuses. But in my opinion, the minuses of a Simplicity are small compared to the pluses!! Thanks for the video!

[@TheLawnEngineer]

I agree, the pluses of the Simplicity line-up overcome the negatives and its not as if the other manufacturers don't have more or at least the same negs. Great point on the height of cut connector. I ripped mine apart the first time I took the deck off. I suppose they could beef up the wires and use a connector that would pull apart easier.

[@mfisher520]

Have you used yours for towing a dump trailer yet? Wonder how it does pulling a load.

[@TheLawnEngineer]

I have not. I’ve pulled a drag around and it did well with that but not a trailer. It seems like it would have plenty of power but traction may be an issue on slopes.

[@destinhook3826]

Why does such an expensive mower not have anti-scalping wheels on the deck? Does it burn the grass in the raised sections?

[@TheLawnEngineer]

The Simplicity mowers have a set or roller at the back of the deck that ride on the lawn and set the height of cut. Most all other mowers suspend the deck from the frame of the machine. The Simplicity setup allows the deck to follow the terrain much better and significantly reduces scalping. In my opinion, the anti-scalp rollers on most decks are gimmick and don't do much of anything, as soon as the object/terrain passes over the front mounted rollers the deck is allowed to drop down and scalp or hit the object. I detail this effect in my review/test mow video of the Simplicity Regent. kzbin.info/www/bejne/lYSYfXh3ec90mdk

[@bobhunter3050]

Got rid of my John Deere and now have Simplicity. Very happy with mower deck, it rides the ground , John Deere doesn’t . Also, no PLASTIC bumper or hood !!!!

[@TheLawnEngineer]

You said it all 👍

[@SuperShawn2020]

Loved the video. I took my bagger apart and discovered the bagger mechanism was indeed sitting on the transmission rod. You said yours had clearance. Any thoughts?

[@TheLawnEngineer]

Thanks! I see the cross support on the bagger support frame does come close to that rod. If I remember correctly that piece was pre-installed, you should just have to loosen and reposition that piece.

[@TheLawnEngineer]

At 8:35 in my bagger install video I talk about this.

[@SuperShawn2020]

@@TheLawnEngineer - works great now! Thanks so much! I’m about to give the bagger it’s maiden voyage. 😎

[@TheLawnEngineer]

@@SuperShawn2020 awesome! Im interested to hear how it works for you.

[@112428]

That toggle switch thing certainly isn't new. The 1976 Simplicity garden tractor I used to have had the same thing.

[@TheLawnEngineer]

I didn't know that, thanks for stopping by and dropping some knowledge. I'm familiar with the manual crank they used.

[@112428]

@TheLawnEngineer On the Simplicity Sovereign's in the 70s, the toggle switch controlled the electric lifter for both the deck and the PTO attachments. So it would lift the mower deck, front mounted snowblower, or the rear mounted rototiller depending on what was attached. The manual lift lever was standard, but electric lift was an option.

[@TheLawnEngineer]

@@112428 very interesting. I knew a few brands used hydraulic lifts on their garden tractors but not electric.

[@CodyCanon-l1n]

I bought a 2010 model when I go to start it won’t start because the leveler by the side of the seat is down why is that what size deck is it

[@TheLawnEngineer]

Mine is a 38" deck. There are a few safety switches that will prevent running but I don't think that includes the deck position. It should be only a the deck PTO and weight sensor on the seat.

[@CodyCanon-l1n]

Ok thanks

[@CodyCanon-l1n]

Are they good mowers

[@CodyCanon-l1n]

I paid $750 is that to much

[@TheLawnEngineer]

They are good mowers, sought after for their cut quality.

[@tomm9860]

I have the 48 inch 2021 Regent i don't like the slowness splash back when i refuel , And i have the bigger tires on the rear, 25 HP twin Briggs that I do like. Don't like the rear roller system at all. Yes it mow's nice but i can;t see were iv'e mowed to line up for the next cut. Don't like the electric height adjustment. Also when i let off the sedel to slow down or stop the tractor keeps going so i have to use the brake, unlike all the other automatic drives i've owned. It's very good on gas same as my 24 HP B/S Craftsmen 2009 4000 YTS and the drive belt is very noisy all ways has been , I bought it use from a guy with 61 hours on it i now have 68 hours on it , And i mower 2 1/2 acres. Wouldn't buy another Simplicity the guy a bought off told i wouldn't like it and he was right. For Sale $2k you can come get it. I'mm really let down by SIMPLICITY

[@TheLawnEngineer]

Thanks for checking in Tom. I have experienced the slow refueling; you have to make sure the mower is level (left to right) or fill side is higher. If the fill side of the tank is lower it can't vent properly and will fill slowly. You don't have to mow with the rear roller, but you are limited on cutting height kzbin.info/www/bejne/hKCYf4pmfb-srZY I still like my mower, but if I had a flat 2 1/2 acres to mow I would likely go in a different direction.

[@kelmm568]

Fuel consumption is a good one. My 25 horse eats the gas. One thing I did notice when I had to pull my steering wheel assembly apart because it was lose and Rattling. A single zip tie kept the steering nut secured which was ridiculous. I probably should have made a video about it and send it to simplicity.

[@TheLawnEngineer]

Crazy, if I ever have to pull the steering apart, I will definitely have to look for that zip tie.

[@kelmm568]

@@TheLawnEngineer Yeah its pretty crazy. I did a quick fix with a 3D printed cylinder to keep the steering nut from back up. Worked like a charm but I have to call them and see if there is something messed up.

[@josephlahood4647]

Youd use the lights during daylight savings time up my way doing leaves etc. I have a 2004 Broadmoore now but I'm going with the smaller Regent ID get the smaller engine if its and option but definatley VTwin. Mines been great but have spent good money on repairs spindles engine electrical etc but still cheaper over the long run than buying 2 cheap ones or hiring landscapers.

[@TheLawnEngineer]

Thanks for checking in. You do have a point about leaf cleanup, it does get dark quite early mid-November!

[@josephlahood4647]

@@TheLawnEngineer you're right about engine sizes my BM had a 16 HP Briggs Vanguard plenty of power but I think leaves and snow if equipped really loads up the engine. Yours could be wished for if youre 23 under powered. I think for snow you should be going Garden Tractor. Quality of cut bar none Simplicity. They use the Conquest for the In Field at Fenway Park. Granz up in Salem NH I worked there. Big Account. Fenway Park

[@TheLawnEngineer]

@@josephlahood4647 I agree, 16hp would be plenty and I do think you would want a bigger chassis for a snow blower attachment.

[@peterkochis1092]

I liked your video very much but disagree with your comment on the lighting. I have a 20+ year old Landlord and I actually added off road lights because I also plow a 300 foot driveway in the winter and it is not unusual that I would plow in the evening getting ready for the next day. When I bought mine I also bought the repair manual. To keep one of these running for 20+ years takes frequent maintenance and frequent repair.Thanks for the video

[@TheLawnEngineer]

I agree, for your use lighting matters. Thanks for checking in 👍.

[@morte2195]

I wish I had the Simplicity on my radar before I bought a Cub Cadet. That 38 inch floating deck would have resolved most of the issues that cause me not to use it anymore to cut my lawn. The quality of cut sucks, it's lousy at bagging, and it's 46 inch deck scalps my slopes like crazy.

[@TheLawnEngineer]

I had to cut very high to avoid scalping with my past mowers. My few complaints are definitely outweighed by the cut quality 👍.

[@DK85]

I have been using this mower for 3 years now and can confirm most of what you said. I have two HUGE issues with this mower that makes me now hate it. It is AWFUL picking up anything. The discharge tube clogs almost immediately at the oval part of the discharge tube. It's as if they put a bottleneck in there and that bottleneck works beautifully! If you have a lot of leaves in your yard and are counting on this mower to pick them up for you, forget it. You will be cleaning the discharge tube at the neck every 3 feet unless you go at an absolute crawl. My other complaint is that the 38" cutting width is stupid. Like really, really, stupid. I bought this mower because the price jump up to the next size (Broadmoor?) was huge so I thought I'd make do with the 38". At 38" the deck is BARELY wider than the mower itself and you have no overhang on that left side. That means in order to cut almost any curved flowerbed you have to put the tires into the flowerbed. I wish I had the foresight to pick up on this before I bought it. That's probably why most riding mowers are 42" and up.

[@TheLawnEngineer]

I definitely plan on testing it out on leaves this fall. Hopefully I have better luck but I’m not hopeful based on your comments. I also have the same issue with the deck width but I chose the small deck because it follows my uneven terrain better. I’ve learned to just leave more for string trimming.

[@nivesknight]

So you get home from work and say you are going to cut your grass. It may be starting to get dark. You live somewhere that gets snow. You use it to clear snow. Normally earlier in the morning where there is no light yet. Plus plants bounce back better when trimming happens at night. So once the sun is up you shock your grass. Which most would look at that as a good thing. Get a couple more days before you need to cut it again. As the sun sets is my favorite time to cut the grass. I like watching the sun rise after I am done plowing snow. So headlights are a good thing to me. Good video.

[@TheLawnEngineer]

I have used in low light conditions, but I've found it actually harder to see with the headlights on. When cutting grass with the lights on I really struggle with staying on the cut line, maybe just my eyes =)

[@nivesknight]

@@TheLawnEngineer it might be the light angle as well. A lot of people put aftermarket lights on to see better.

[@TheLawnEngineer]

@@nivesknight I agree, I think it’s the angle.

[@jameslibby1347]

The tractor is great. Is does what it was designed to do; and does this very well. As a senior (age 83) I find the ride uncomfortable, rear shocks aside, it’s the seat design that causes discomfort. This mainly is due to the two springs attached to the seat. When these springs bottom out it is like two spikes slamming into your buttocks right where your most sensitive nerves are located infuriating your Sciatica. The cushioning in the seat, and the seat itself are not what I’d call “top shelf”, either.

[@TheLawnEngineer]

I agree, the seat isn’t premium. It doesn’t bother me yet, but I’m sure it will someday. Thanks for checking in 👍

[@larrysheppard8433]

If you want a mower that is ornery and a pain in the ass to work on, buy a simplicity. Moronic engineering and just an all around pain in the ass for a mower.

[@TheLawnEngineer]

Overall I’m happy with mine but thanks for checking in 👍

[@MichaelM-gr8nx]

Try changing the drive belt it's ridiculous

[@brianbartulis9709]

I've one also, (2020) and agree of the gas hog. I had a 36"? (or 38") on my old 5212.5 and it did awesome while never really cut normal length grass up at vaca. property...crap grass, saw grass, various weeds 'n saplings. ~ It would have been nice if they matched the drive to the power of the engine on my Regent. My geared 5212.5 pulled a 5 x 8" trailer loaded(wood or people) with no problem. Someone told me don't be doing that with the Regent. Hydro doesn't like it. (400# tow limit when should be well over that) eesh, my '47 Ford 2N has a 23hp in it. (-: At least the seat switch bypassing was easy on the Regent. My new to me 5212.5H (hydro) has a damn seat switch I can't find any info on of how to bypass...but fun old mower with a 42" deck.

[@TheLawnEngineer]

Great to hear from you Brian. I agree, with 24hp you should be able to pull at least 2,000 lbs but probably not safe with the weigh of the machine and poor braking systems the mowers have . Also the hydros are not that robust. If they were to upgrade all of those deficiencies you would have a compact tractor along with the price 😜

[@brianbartulis9709]

@@TheLawnEngineer Mauston, Wi. I went to the hardware store with a separate mower/chainsaw shop backside, for a new tire for my geared 5212.5... and he talked me into an inner tube vs 40+$ for a tire. ~ I asked him how do I know when I'm trying to pull too much. He just said "when the tire spins". (-: ~ The bugger was a li'l tank.

[@357bullfrog9]

I got to thinking. What if you switched positions with the blades ? Or is that possible ?

[@TheLawnEngineer]

@@357bullfrog9 not possible, the deck geometry won’t allow it.

[@357bullfrog9]

@@TheLawnEngineer well shucks. But given the overall quality of the machine I geuss that's a small thing. Just run over it again lol

[@BlueberryStinkFinger62]

Simplicity couldn't touch the craftsman T240 turn tight..

[@TheLawnEngineer]

It would be great if we could take features from several brands/models and make the ultimate version….anyway, tight turn won’t work with the floating deck because the roller bar would be sliding sideways and ripping up the turf. It’s a little secret that simplicitie’s zero turn mowers have regular decks with rollers at the back that dont engage the ground.

[@patrickmcmorrow1605]

Hi

[@357bullfrog9]

That thing will turn on a dime

[@TheLawnEngineer]

It does turn very well, I only wish it cut all the grass when turning =)

[@357bullfrog9]

@@TheLawnEngineer you suppose it's made for striping like the commercial mowers do? Still odd it cuts bad in a turn tho

[@TheLawnEngineer]

@@357bullfrog9 it is definitely made for striping but I also suspect the deck was designed before the tractor could turn so tight.

[@thepatriot4355]

Craftsman T240 has a 5 inch turn

[@TheLawnEngineer]

How is the cut quality on that machine?

[@thepatriot4355]

@@TheLawnEngineer awesome

[@thepatriot4355]

@@TheLawnEngineer has the Kohler KT725 22 horsepower 725cc V Twin Engine 3 year unlimited hours warranty its built like a little tank

[@thepatriot4355]

@@TheLawnEngineer the Kohler 7000 series Engines are designed after the Kohler Command Pro Commercial Engine what you're actually getting is a commercial Engine the T240 is a Lawn/Garden tractor

[@TheLawnEngineer]

@@thepatriot4355 glad to hear you like it. I would love to review one if I could get some seat time on one.

[@josephstewart5201]

Simplicity brand??? Uh, yeah, no! You'd have to be outta yer freakin' mind to buy this brand. Just try to find a local dealer, any dealer !!, in any state !!, or even a phone number for those clowns! Instead, they direct you to Briggs & Stratton. Lovely! Just like Milwaukee brand Toolboxes, Simplicity, Inc. might actually make great products, but their marketing, their customer service, and pretty much anything else to do with the late-great, but deeply ill state of Wisconsin, "simply" blows!!

[@TheLawnEngineer]

Unfortunately, the brand is now dead. It was a continuous downhill ride the minute Briggs bought them.

[@stevehartz4615]

Ames oil is the best

[@TheLawnEngineer]

Oh yeah 👍