LS Tractor MT242H
Compact Tractor · 2025
Overview
The LS Tractor MT242H delivers versatile performance for hobby farms and property maintenance. With 42.5 horsepower, it handles loader work, mowing, and light tillage effectively. The hst transmission delivers reliable power transfer.
Owner Ratings
Best For
- ✓Hobby farms and rural properties (5-25 acres)
- ✓Versatile tasks: mowing, loading, light tillage
- ✓Rotary cutters and brush hogs
Not Ideal For
- ✗Large-scale row crop farming
- ✗Heavy construction equipment
Key Features
Yanmar 4-cylinder diesel — 42.5 HP gross, 34.8 PTO HP
Enables connection to a wide range of implements.
3-range HST — cruise control + linked pedal standard
Smooth, intuitive control for effortless operation.
4WD standard — front wheel mechanical assist
Maximizes grip and stability across varied terrain.
Cat I 3-point hitch — 1,808 lb lift at hitch end
Ready for attachments and heavy lifting tasks.
Front loader LL3301/2 — 2,506 lb lift capacity
Ready for attachments and heavy lifting tasks.
TF-LCD instrument panel + full LED lighting
A standout feature enhancing overall performance.
MT2 Series Compact
The MT2 is LS Tractor's core compact lineup, spanning 23.9–42.5 gross horsepower across multiple model configurations. The standard MT2 covers three primary HP tiers — MT226 (24 HP), MT232 (31.7 HP), and MT242 (42.5 HP) — while the MT2E economy sub-line adds the MT230E (30 HP), MT235HE (35 HP), MT240E (40 HP), and MT240HE (40 HP) at value-oriented price points. All variants share the same 4WD platform with ROPS or cab configurations, and HST or Synchro Shuttle transmission choices. Buyers stepping up from a sub-compact or replacing an aging compact will find the MT2 punches above its price point in loader lift, hitch capacity, and standard-equipment content.
Three Horsepower Tiers, One Platform
The MT2 series spans three distinct HP tiers on a shared compact platform, letting buyers choose the horsepower that matches their workload without jumping to a larger tractor class. The MT226 runs a 3-cylinder MHI engine at 23.9–24.6 HP, while the MT232 and MT242 use Yanmar 3- and 4-cylinder engines at 31.7 and 42.5 HP respectively. All are Tier 4 compliant.
- •MT226 (23.9–24.6 HP): 3-cyl MHI engine, 19 PTO HP (MT226HC)
- •MT232 (31.7 HP): 3-cyl Yanmar engine, 26.2 PTO HP
- •MT242 (42.5 HP): 4-cyl Yanmar engine, 34.8 PTO HP
- •All models Tier 4 Final compliant
- •Shared compact platform — consistent dimensions across HP tiers
HST or Synchro Shuttle — Your Choice
LS builds the MT2 with two transmission options to suit different operator preferences: hydrostatic (HST) for smooth, clutch-free operation, or Synchro Shuttle for operators who prefer gear-driven control and fuel economy. The H (HST) variants come in 3-range configurations with optional cruise control and linked pedal on the MT242H and MT232H, which reduces foot fatigue on long loader runs.
- •HST models (H/HE/HEC/HC): 3-range hydrostatic, no clutch pedal
- •Synchro Shuttle models (E): gear transmission with shuttle lever
- •MT242H/MT232H: optional cruise control and linked pedal HST
- •Linked pedal reduces fatigue on repetitive forward/reverse work
- •TF-LCD instrument panel standard across all variants
Loader and Hitch Capability
The MT2 mounts LS's LL3301/LL3302 front loader with 1,965 lb capacity on MT226 models and 2,506 lb capacity on MT232 and MT242 models. The Cat I 3-point hitch lifts 1,808 lbs at the hitch end. Two sets of remote hydraulic valves are standard across the lineup, giving you hydraulic connectivity for a wide range of front and rear implements without added cost.
- •MT226 loader (LL3301/2): 1,965 lb lift capacity
- •MT232/MT242 loader (LL3301/2): 2,506 lb lift capacity
- •Cat I 3-point hitch: 1,808 lb lift at hitch end
- •2 sets of remote hydraulic valves standard — no extra cost
- •LED headlamps standard for early morning and late evening operation
Factory Cab — All-Weather Compact Operation
The cab variants (HEC, HC) bring a factory-fitted A/C and heat cab to the compact segment at a price well below Japanese-brand cab compacts. The MT242HC adds Bluetooth radio, full LED lighting, and cruise control with linked-pedal HST. For operators who work year-round in variable weather, the cab transforms productivity — heated, quiet cab operation versus open-air ROPS is a fundamental quality-of-life upgrade.
- •Factory A/C and heat cab on HEC and HC variants
- •MT242HC: Bluetooth radio, full LED lighting, cruise control
- •MT226HC/MT232HC/MT242HC all include cab as standard (not optional)
- •Significant price advantage vs equivalent Japanese-brand cab compacts
- •ROPS variants available in same HP levels for lower entry cost
What Owners Say
- •The MT242H is a smooth, capable 42hp compact with HST transmission
- •HST makes loader and tight-space work effortless and efficient
- •LS Tractor HST quality at 42hp is reliable and builds owner confidence
- •4WD traction handles the range of terrain challenges a farm presents
- •An excellent value in the 42hp HST compact class from LS Tractor
Complete Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | |
| Gross Horsepower | 42.5 HP |
| Cylinders | 4 |
| Displacement | 2.188L |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated |
| Transmission & Drive | |
| Transmission Type | HST |
| Drive Type | 4WD |
| Dimensions & Weight | |
| Operating Weight | 3,338 lbs |
| Length | 125" |
| Width | 66" |
| Wheelbase | 74" |
Specs & Compare
Add models to compare side by side
| Specification | LS Tractor MT242H | — | — |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | |||
| Gross HP | 42.5 HP | — | — |
| Cylinders | 4 | — | — |
| Displacement | 2.188L | — | — |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | — | — |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | — | — |
| Transmission & Drive | |||
| Transmission | HST | — | — |
| Drive Type | 4WD | — | — |
| Dimensions & Weight | |||
| Length | 125" | — | — |
| Width | 66" | — | — |
| Height | 95" | — | — |
| Wheelbase | 74" | — | — |
| Weight | 3,338 lbs | — | — |
| Fuel & Performance | |||
| Fuel Capacity | 10.6 gal | — | — |
| Pricing | |||
| MSRP From | $25,000 | — | — |
Compare Similar Models
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Get More From Your LS Tractor MT242H
Owning it is just the start. These guides cover the attachments, upkeep, and equipment that fit this tractor.
Attachment Compatibility
Match implements by hitch, PTO, and hydraulics.
Read guide3-Point Hitch Guide
Categories, pin sizes, and how to attach implements.
Read guidePTO Attachments Guide
How the PTO works and the implements it drives.
Read guideFarm Fuel Storage
Store and transfer diesel on your property.
Read guideOwner Reviews
Reliability and satisfaction from real owners.
Read guide