I'm also open to suggestions on a better lawn mower. I have 0.8 acre,
mostly slopes, and tractor will not due since back is down a slope. I like
rear wheel drive and mulch all grass.

I have had a Honda self propelled mower for over 20 years, and it still runs
good with regular normal maintenance. The Brigs engines seem to be stubborn
starters in cold weather, and they don't give you accessible external controls to
adjust the air/fuel, etc. The Honda is more expensive, but in my opinion, worth
the extra cost.

Sherwin D.