In misc.rural JayPomp wrote:
I live an die by Consumer Reports. I think you should try it for a
year. Small price to pay for good advice.

Hm. Every time I've seen something in CR that I own, I've disagreed
strongly with their opinions. Almost to the point where I treat it's
advice as a "Don't do this" kind of a thing.

Bought a Craftsman V-Twin hydrostat and love it.

Careful about Cub Cadet. Consumer Reports likes the line but cautions
on its repair history. It's top 10 worst.

And here seems to be an example. I've never owned a piece of Craftsman
equipment (tools, engine-driven, or electrical) that I haven't regretted
buying. I avoid it now, and have been much happier with my purchases.
Then again, I did step up from a Craftsman riding mower to a 30-year
old John Deer garden tractor, so it's not really the same class of
machine.

Dave Hinz