AZinOH

1. I have a general preference for 2 cylinders, but that's just me.

2. Recommend Briggs for 2 cylinder only. Single cylinder Briggs in recent years are susceptible to head gasket failures. Never owned a Kohler.

3. Can't say...never owned either.

4. No preference.

5. Pressure filtration if you can get it, but splash lube is okay.

$1700 may not be enough to get a tractor that is well suited for snow plowing, especially for the amount you get in Maine. You may be better off to consider a walk-behind snowblower.

AZ 

I've never heard of a Blue Book for lawn mowers...if you ever find it, please post the link. I think it would be helpful to find out what similar mowers are selling for at your location (check the classified ads). My wild guess is that someone who wanted that machine might be willing to offer 40 percent less than the original list price, probably not much more.

AZ

Snowbound,

Do keep us posted on your experience with the machine. When it arrives, make sure there is oil in the engine before starting it and give it a good look-over before you start blowing snow. Also, it might be a good idea to change the oil after a few hours of operation to get rid of any contamination left over from the manufacturing process. After you have some spent time blowing snow, please post a review of your machine.

AZ

The Craftsman is probably an ok purchase, but not a great one. What really counts in your favor is your willingness to take good care of it. Some Craftsman models are better than others, depending on which company made it.  Although you shouldn't have any parts problems with Sears, it would be a good idea to find a dealer NEAR YOUR HOME that can supply simple things like a belt...just to have an alternate source if something IMPORTANT is needed QUICKLY.

This is just pure speculation...but the guy who returned the machine as being "too large for his needs" probably was burning rubber on his way to Home Despot to get either a 9hp Ariens or a 8 hpToro for 50% off. Many such machines were sold there over the last 2-3 weeks for huge savings, but those deals are mostly over now. If you have an HD near you it wouldn't hurt to call and ask if they have anything left...you might still find one.

AZ

toolpig wrote:

Gee....I knew you'd be pleased, and I'm glad for you...but no story? no details?....no pics? This is sorta like saying...."Honey-I stopped at the stop sign on my way home and the brakes worked well".

Please post a review of your machine.

AZ