Ride on mower

[jd_here]

I am just about to buy a ride on mower and would really appreciate any comments on the different makes. The area to be cut is a little less than half an acre. Tia, JD

[veggieburger]

Hi jd, I have bought plenty of mowers in my lifetime, but none has lasted quite as long as one fitted with a decent Honda engine. Bit more pricey but in my opinion worth every penny. I now have a Husquana.

[jd_here]

Thnx veggie, and yes noknowledge, I am knocking on a bit!!

[Clanad]

Not knowing the various manufacturer's that may avaiable in the U.K., here in the U.S. I would recommend a lawn tractor with a hydrostatic transaxle or transmission as opposed to a gear drive. Additionally, the belt system driving the mower blades should be readily accessible. some makes of tractor type mowers take two men and a boy to change a broken belt.

As to powertrains, one brand is Snapper and it uses a unique plate system of transmitting the power from the engine to the wheels.

The most popular make here in the U.S. seems to be John Deere, but Cub Cadet is a close second. I, personally, use a Simplicity and have for years. The Husquvarna you mention has only become avialable in the last decade...

[derrynoose]

I have used the same Westwood(T42 Model) for about 13 years. It has a brush collection system rather than a vacuum and I have found the machine to be very reliable. I have replaced the brushes once. It has twin cutters and cuts a 42 inch swathe. I have rarely had it serviced. I looked at new models just recently and was quite shocked at the price! It's going to have to last a few more years!