Re: Buying a Lawn and Garden Mower/Tractor

Posted by Steve Hansen on April 13, 1999 at 21:04:03:

In Reply to: Buying a Lawn and Garden Mower/Tractor posted by Bill Nutile on April 13, 1999 at 18:12:50:

Bill,

I have owned an 18 hp Craftsman garden tractor for about seven years now. If you are just going to mow grass you do not need a garden tractor - you need a riding mower. My experience tells me a garden tractor is no tractor at all and does not do as good a job of mowing as a machine designed around this principal function. With a acre to mow you will need something in the order of a 44" deck. I would check all of the major dealers and also the various home centers. Get an idea of the features you need - hydro or clutch and gears, bagger, mulching blades, etc. Once you know what you want price shop. I would not overlook the small independent dealers. They tend to have good equipment and service what they sell (if they don't service on site they will usually pick up and deliver). Their prices will be higher than the department store models (most of which are made by MTD or Murray) but may be less than what you will see at the Green or Red Store. My Craftsman has given me good service. However, I know people who have had problems. I recommend an engine with a full flow oil system with a filter. My fater-in-law is about your age. He has a bit of trouble getting on and off his mower and the clutch is starting to be too much for him. If you think you might be facing these kind of problems look at one of the specialized machines (motor in back - seat in front) that are easier to mount. Hydro may be a desireable feature also. Power steering is available on some top of the line models but be prepared to pay through the nose for it. If you keep your mower inside when it is not being used, run fresh gas, change the oil and filters (air, fuel, and oil) regularly and run sharp blades it will last forever. This kind of maintenance is easy to do yourself and there are people available who will do if for you if you are not inclined (and not just the folks from Sears). This is both more and less than you asked for. Hope it helps. E-mail me if you have follow-up questions.

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