yes jim,

those compact made to fit in batteries are pretty hopeless, as soon as
the first one wears out fit a car size battery. also in some cases a
lot cheaper battery no good buying expensive for mowers.

don't know MTD's or Deeres (what dothey say deere by nams and nature,
lots of proffessional lawnmower people use them)? but go for models
that are original badge models made by the original manufacturer, like
murry you don't see many of their machines under their own label often
used by other manufacturers as a badge model so they have a rider in
their range, they weren't very nice machines then and doubt they would
be any better now.

MTD have varying fans non-fans in the US forums do some research, for
me as i don't think snapper are around in aus' any more pity,
deutscher is very robust, and maybe rover rancher can still cut the
mustard hey?

also look for the country of manufacture on the engine a b&s should be
made in the USA or a Honda should be made in japan.



snipped
With peace and brightest of blessings,

len

--
"Be Content With What You Have And
May You Find Serenity and Tranquillity In
A World That You May Not Understand."

http://www.users.bigpond.com/gardenlen1