mtbmike

to get this started, i'd like to say that 3 stages don't seem to get much love. added complexity that you just don't need. also, tracks are awesome but when doing such a long driveway i'd prefer wheels. You're gonna want heated grips and an excellent lighting system.

thank you. i got it out yesterday, there were 2 tabs to squeeze like you said! all fixed.

simplicity pro p1524e. dflector cable seemed frozen, but now is somehow jammed. i want to remove to replace. can't figure out how to detach plastic housing from bracket, please see pic http://imgur.com/BPO2cqQ.jpg it's the end to the right , the black housing somehow is attached to the metal bracket on the machine. does this just pull out?

so i'm having the same issue with the briggs on my simplicity. I believe this is a known issue with these engines, especially if they have been overheated. try a google search. i thought this thread was good: http://www.tractorforum.com/f154/briggs-engine-eats-push-rods-18318/

thanks for your reply. i was thinking about my problem machine, and it seems to mostly be setup issues. I think my dealer didn't do a great job, and my plan is to take it elsewhere in the spring and leave it to be fixed. i think you summed it up - its the constant attention that i hate. nothing worse than something breaking in the middle of a big storm (we just got 33 inches here). i expect my gear to work when i need it and expect to be constantly repairing it.