If I was buying one today, it would be a John Deere. I had one for 12 years
before it was stolen and never replaced any thing but a couple of belts. I
foolishly replaced it with a front engine Snapper. What a piece of junk!
Problems all the time. If I ever buy another one it will be another John
Deere.
Dave

"Jonathan Race" wrote in message
rthlink.net...
Greetings!

I have a question for anyone who has been looking around for a new lawn
tractor.

Currently I own two acres, of which about 1.5 acres is mowable grass
(bahia,
I live in central Florida). Recently my Murray lawn tractor's automatic
transmission decided to start leaking, and since it's a non-rebuildable
sealed unit the local repair shop wants $650.00 plus labor to install a
new
unit. The mower is only three years old, but is unfortunately out of
waranty.

I have found a way to keep it filled, but I know the problem will only get
worse before it gets better. The new transmission is a heavier unit and
is
also repairable, but for the money I'm starting to think I should be
looking
for a new tractor.

My question is this: Knowing how much mowing I have to do (1.5 acres
mowed
weekly), what lawn tractor would give me the best service and is
reasonably
repairable for a max budget of $1800.00?

I've done a little looking online, but most of what is posted is
advertising
and it's hard to tell what features I would need based on a manufacturer's
internet site. My current unit has 17hp and a 42" mower deck and seems to
be about the right size.

Thanks for any opinions or advice - Jonathan

--
Acta Non Verba - Deeds Not Words
Lieutenant Jonathan Race, EMS Supervisor
Orange County (FL) Fire-Rescue Department