antdonato

Last Summer I bought a Honda w/ smart drive and the blade clutch control at Home Depot.  Fortunately you have 30 days to return lawn equipment because I ended up returning it for the Toro 2017 w/ Personal Pace.  Yes after 10 minutes your thumbs will bother you  (I'm only 35).  Also the smart drive control is sealed with oil.  My unit was slowly oozing out, which left me wondering about the long term durability.

Overall the Honda's OHC engine is far superior to the Tecumseh.  It starts easier and is quieter.  As for cutting the lawn (mulching and bagging), they both do a good job (I bag one week, then mulch the following week).   The Personal Pace operation is so intuitive you have to get the Toro just for that option. 

My only regret is that I didn't get the equivalant Lawn Boy model.  It's basically a newer model 2017. Same Tecumsah engine, same personal pace feature, more creature comforts (padded handles, easy tilt handle and bag removal), the only negative is the cutting with is one inch smaller

good luclk