How to Choose the Best Mower and Avoid the Worst! Lowes Mower Buyer's Guide

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My name is Bre. I took two years of small engine repair at the local college. When I left school, I fell into a wonderful job at a local small engine shop where I worked the counter for a couple years. In 2010 my husband and I opened up our own small engine shop in central Arkansas where I am able to work alongside my family and best friends. We see over 2,000 pieces of small engine equipment every year, and answer 1,000's of small engine questions. We specialize in brands such as Briggs and Stratton, Kohler, Echo and Shindaiwa, but work everyday on MANY other brands like Stihl, Husqvarna, Honda, Craftsman, Remington, Red Max, Troy Bilt, Scag, Bad Boy, Hustler, World Lawn, Poulan, Mantis, Etc.. Hopefully, my experience I share, will save you Time, Money and Frustration in the future!
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Although very informative, these videos are for entertainment purposes. Please use all possible safety precautions when repairing and operating your small engine equipment.

[@Chickanic]

Thanks for Watching! Find a link to all of my "Must Have", Favorite Tools HERE!! www.amazon.com/shop/chickanic?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_aipsfchickanic_9ERPFPBNGQ924P8NS63B

[@rebelyankeesshow5686]

Do you know if any troy bilt decks would work on a cub cadet lt1042?

[@k9under]

Have a 43 year old snapper rider still going strong.

[@MrGordy61]

Different brands, Case, Simplicity, AC but yah old iron ;)

[@daleolson3506]

New stuff complete garbage

[@kevinhaley6776]

Its hard to kill a snapper

[@waynestefinashen239]

Our personal mower at Eliminator Performance is a Snapper, love the simplicity of the drive system and easy to work on.

[@dans_Learning_Curve]

Don't know how old my Snapper Zero turn is.

[@nodsib]

For the John Deere oil change, you can get a kit to convert it back to a regular oil system for around $20. I got three new cheap E120s for lawn crews to run and as soon as they each were due for the first oil change I swapped them to the old style system. $60 is $50 too much for an oil change, especially with three units getting 150-200 hours a season each, so 10-12 oil changes per year saves me $500-600 a year converting back those three units

[@keithcurtis6671]

I did the same on mine. The other issue with the EZ Change other than the exorbitant price is that you are only changing about half the oil so you never do a complete oil change.

[@nodsib]

Exactly! Between the cost and the half-ass oil change it’s definitely worth it to convert to the old system. Only time I’d say it’s a good idea is for a homeowner who can’t handle their own oil changes and only put 20 or 25 hours on it a year so only changing half the oil doesn’t matter if they swap it once a year

[@drwisdom1]

@@nodsib You make a solid case that the John Deere is poorly engineered.

[@nodsib]

@@drwisdom1 they are extremely well engineered, takes a lot of innovation and smarts to engineer that much value for shareholders into their product ;)

[@robertbankhead8661]

Definitely agree, first thing i did was change out that quick change (actually means quick cash for JD). Mower is nice, still have to clean that deck but not too bad. Overall,would have gone with zero turn style on my 3/4 acre place,but it is what it is. Thanks Chickanic!

[@GaryDolan-oe8oo]

I have 2 weed eaters I watched your video and got them running. Thank you for your videos. I am learning how to work on small engines and you help me learn more.

[@christopping5876]

I have absolutely no idea why I am watching this when I do not have a lawn to mow! Must be the great, factual, no-nonsense presentation!

[@rusmokin]

I have a lawn and a mower, but all I could think about is motor boats. :P

[@wenleo5150]

😂😂

[@wenleo5150]

​@@rusmokin😆

[@TCMaine]

That broken down XMark would make a great restoration video! Thx for all your videos. The time you take to carefully show each step in a repair sets your videos apart from most others. Well done!

[@alexandercopeland2849]

​@@Rockjock007 your just mad because she can fix things better then you.

[@pale2502]

@@alexandercopeland2849 right lmao this doofus can’t even sharpen his own blades and he’s trashing this intelligent woman.

[@rcnelson]

This site is always worth a thumbs-up, but it's sure discouraging to see what passes for equipment now. The Tecumseh on my 45-year-old Garden Way still runs strong, although the spindles on the mower itself have been replaced several times. The engine is also a single cylinder, a type of engine that is perfectly reliable if it's built properly. Tens of millions of one cylinder motorcycles and older lawn care equipment have been superbly reliable since forever. We're just being dealt crap these days.

[@dark.poioisionedwolf7456]

Looking into buying a riding mower for my dad for the first time and had no clue what to look for. This helped greatly

[@garylaurenzi877]

Your video is the most practical overall opinion (review) and best I have heard for anyone wanting to purchase a rider for mowing their yard. Great tips on Mfrs, construction and possible service issues from a Lady who sees these machines pass through her shop. Fine job and well done there Chickanic!!

[@kevinjaramiello7455]

Just found her today I luckily just bought a Ariens edge 52” from Lowe’s today and I had the same opinion she understands the industry has a lot of colors lol definitely glad I did my homework trying to avoid MTD stamped deck issues

[@philkuusisto1558]

I've had my Craftsman yard tractor for 20 years now, with a single cylinder, and the only thing I have changed is the spark plug, blades and the oil. No complaints. The one banger is still running great!

[@CountryRock2k1]

The older singles are solid engines. It's the new ones that are junkers.

[@mauryd3444]

That's when Craftsman was sold and backed by Sears and built to their standards. Any and all parts were readily available from Sears also. Those days are gone, unfortunately.

[@kingsman8475]

I have a Craftsman from Sears from the 90's and was told that they are junk, but I was able to get in fixed in 2021 and it's hanging in there! I have a Briggs & Stratton from the 1970's bought at J.P. Penney, and it is still a monster. A twenty year senior to the Craftsman!

[@rudygeorgiamulesandcountry1594]

20 years ago was a long time ago !

[@christiand690]

I got my craftsman in mid 80's, so almost 40 yrs now. Still runs strong. I even had a mowing business for 2-3 yrs of that.

[@kingsman8475]

I have a Craftsman from Sears from the 90's and was told that they are junk, but I was able to get in fixed in 2021 and it's hanging in there! I have a Briggs & Stratton from the 1970's bought at J.P. Penney, and it is still a monster. A twenty year senior to the Craftsman!

[@triumphmanful]

Transmissions keep breaking down. Swopped some and still bad. Crappy QC

[@paullaw9380]

Thanks for NOT overcomplicating the explainations. Just means I don't need to use extra brain power. Great assortment of topics. Keep up the good work.

[@berniestewart1738]

I remember when that Forest Gump special was around $1000 and that wasn’t long ago. I was blessed to buy a lightly used Toro time cutter for that back in 2015. Started a weekend lawn business and it paid for itself very quickly. Great stuff as always.

[@waynestefinashen239]

Not too many have the Gumption to start a business like you did, congratulations and all the success bernie

[@josephforgione6207]

Great video. It is nice that you took the time to share your observations of all of the riding lawnmowers and zero turn mowers.

[@eddiecrawford9268]

I just bought a Bad Boy Rogue (Commercial) 72' deck with the Kawasaki FV 1000 35hp engine. As a mechanic, I am vey impressed with the openess of all the components. Eveything is very easy to get to. The deck is 3 gauge (1/4') with 3/8' side plates. It has a great suspension system with an adjustable suspension seat...love it !!

[@anilborah3127]

Delivered a nice even cut, has the super tight turning ability kzbin.infoUgkx1VWTrayKBdCKAjzAcZ_Eg4dhHTae3LkN also recommend I was looking for, and is just a blast to drive. It takes a little bit to get used to driving one after driving a normal tractor style, but once you've got it, you've got it. If you're cutting lines, you have to be careful spinning the mower around or the back tire will dig a bare spot. Just take it nice and slow during the turn and then it's back to full throttle across the yard!

[@carltondoorman9145]

This is actually a really useful video, especially at this time of year. You brought up some ideas I would never have thought of!

[@aaronbillbradley7343]

A lot of truth and honesty in your review. The big box store mower are built for a price point. Stay away from the single cylinder, MTD stamped decks, and plastic transmissions. Keep up the great content!

[@BoubaDiallo_]

So the John Deere s100 is a stay clear?

[@daveowens9849]

We have the 30 inch Troy Bilt riding lawnmower and we've had it for almost 7 years now. Wasn't that expensive, and it fit between our chain link fence gate to get into the backyard. We have it serviced every February before mowing season hits, and we've never had a problem with it. That switch near the mulcher cover was annoying at first, but it hasn't been a problem since we first bought it. It's an easy fix. Steering hasn't been a problem. One of the best lawnmowers I've ever used. Heck, I even gave our neighbor the second key and he uses it on his yard. Older, with breathing problems, and all he has to do is put gas in it. Like our little Troy Bilt.

[@catherinegleason1365]

I had a Cub Cadet for over 15 yrs, was great until belt issues started. Bought Husquvarna & am loving it. I have many acres to mow & no issues..yet! Love your videos

[@jameskennedy673]

I have a Craftsman T1800/ 42” rider with twin cylinder Kohler motor to mow our one acre, it’s been trouble free. I bought it before our local Sears went out of business, gave a little over $1,000.00 when they had a friends & family sale. Your right about time to start mowing again, but with all of the rain we have a small lake in our front & back yard.

[@rodeleon2875]

after going through 3 or 4 of the lowes mtd type mowers, i started buying 50-60 year old cub cadets for a few hundred each and use those. for the price of 1 of these lowes mowers i can have a fleet of half a dozen old ones that are easy to work on with most parts readily available and are classic pieces of american made machinery. and they look good too.

[@REPTAR4567]

Good Morning, I came across your channel and just love your video's on repairs. You make it interesting and very easy to follow along. Most repair channels the person spends a lot of time talking about things that don't have anything to do with the repair. Thanks again will keep watching for sure.

[@nonutuisamoa1358]

This is exactly the info I am looking for, a recommended lawn mower to have, a family member is going to Hawaii next month and this is one thing to get/buy from Hawaii...a lawn mower...thank you Chickanic.

[@jacklabloom635]

New mower prices are insane. Glad I bought a second mower a few years back for $1600. 24 HP Intek, 46 inch cut. My toughest mower is a 2000 Poulan Pro 42” cut. I purchased it for $2000 from Sears in 2000. That mower has been tough as hell. Still going strong. I have abused it and it still runs great. Blades, battery, oil, and belts are the only things I have had to replace. Mostly blades. Replaced belts once. Replaced battery three times.

[@philipjames9558]

Just bought an ariens apex 52 from Lowes. Did lots of research and this is basically an entry level commercial mower. It's awesome

[@farmerboy8940]

Go Girl! Nice and informative video. Being a farmer, and having to repair my stuff....Amazed at some of the changes in equipment. Case in point, you mention the small battery. I felft the same 4 years ago when I bought a Gravely 42 ZT. Turns out it is a AGM battery. (Research them). They are smaller, but just as powerful, and most cases last longer. My fav. trick is to have the deck fully raised and place and put weight on that foot to see how the mower deck wobbles.

[@gembearer67]

Your advice is precious as gold, thank you, thank you, thank you!

[@brianmilliard6998]

I’m a big fan of Craigslist free stuff. I score free lawnmowers routinely. Most need a good carburetor cleaning and a routine tune up and the blade resharpened. Usually up and running for $50 bucks.

[@keithcurtis6671]

Great video and overview of the "Big Box" mowers. A few years ago I bought a John Deere riding mower, but got it from a John Deere Dealer vs Big Box store. When time for an oil change came along I spent the $25 on the kit to get rid of the EZ change system and use a standard spin on filter. Best thing I did as $60 to change only half the oil is dumb!

[@gordonhutchinson2949]

I did the same...

[@waynestefinashen239]

@@gordonhutchinson2949 Dont know why everyone does not do this.

[@johnouellette6380]

Thanks for a lot of good information. When you mentioned to stay away from the single cylinder engines, I had to write a comment. I have a 9hp 1964 (59 years old) Simplicity Landlord garden tractor with an L single cylinder engine and I still use it all the time. Regular maintenance is the big secret for long life.

[@channell11]

We've got a 21hp Briggs single that's been in the family 14 years. Starts right up and doesn't burn oil. I've heard some of these have head gasket issues, but we've been fortunate.

[@opiegonebad58]

My dad got one of the Ariens zero turn mowers last year after his Troybuilt finally died and he loves it. Tons of power and runs like a scalded cat through the weeds.

[@wtmayhew]

Thanks, great advice as usual. You’re not kidding, sticker shock! Like twice what my YT4000 cost 12 or so years ago. “Craftsman” apparently changed manufacturers. The old YT4000 parts all seem to cross to Husqvarna parts which are usually less expensive than Craftsman. The advice on spindles is right on. Usually a rock breaks it before the bearing goes bad. Luckily the genuine Husqvarna spindles are not expensive, though it is still a pain in the neck to change them. I have wood sticks cut to length to wedge the broken off mounting tabs below the deck so I can back out the bolts. If there isn’t enough of the tab left to wedge, I use a Dremel tool to cut it off. Sometimes you can grab the tab remnant with Vise-grips.

[@GaryT1952]

You are becoming a super star Bre! Love this channel

[@NOName-co2qh]

A high quality mower that's often overlooked for the smaller lawns are the Snapper rear riders. The Hi-Vac series with a bagger will pick up pine straw along with everything else. They were once equipped with Honda engines but later Briggs.

[@jameslomenzo1139]

I had an old 70's Snapper with a 30inch cut,one bland, best cutting mower I've ever had.

[@drewwhippy490]

Very impressed by your breadth of knowledge.

[@THEMOWERMEDIC1]

I agree 100% with your mower Choices! Great video!❤️❤️

[@Chickanic]

Good Morning Jeremy!

[@THEMOWERMEDIC1]

@@Chickanic mornin! It’s That time ! Grass is knee high here in talty Texas!

[@cup_and_cone]

The new smaller batteries are AGM, or non-spillable type with glass mats. They're somewhat better from a safety perspective because they don't vent and can be turned on their side, they're also more durable because they don't really lose electrolyte as quickly and can take some abuse since there's no liquid sloshing around. As long as the CCA numbers are the same, they're theoretically better batteries.

[@5roundsrapid263]

I was coming here to say the same thing. Most new cars have AGM batteries now, too.

[@georgepruitt637]

Time will tell if these batteries will work and last.

[@RaffaPed]

I noticed the sticker says 11 amp hour which is around a quarter of the output of a standard car battery. Not sure it matters for turning over a small engine though. Maybe smaller is better in that case.

[@5roundsrapid263]

@@RaffaPed Riding mower batteries are only about 150-300 cold cranking amps, so that sounds about right.

[@BudTheDrummer]

That same Technology Battery is in my BackUPS power supplies for my PCs. I get 2-3 years out of them and they cost around $30. I get the units for $5 at Thrift stores with dead or missing batteries. Regular lead acid batteries sulfate. That is to say they shed lead off their plates and it deposits at the bottom of the battery case. When the mound reaches the plate the cell shorts out and the battery dies. Sometimes you can shake the battery and break the mound away for a few more uses. I think the AGM batteries is a smart move.

[@hemihead001]

I have an older JD LA145 . I do regular maintence on it and have had 0 issues with it . I like it very much .

[@TheRocco28]

I bought my Husqvarna from a large dealer that only sells Husqvarna products. It is not sold in box stores as it has the 22 horsepower Kohler twin in a 42 inch deck. Also have an 18 inch Husqvarna chainsaw. No problem with either one of them. Great products.

[@brgracer100]

spot on about the Ariens ztr. great mower . 40 yr small engine shop here. We are Lowes warranty center . We see very few of the Ariens in for repairs .

[@jameshigginbotham4243]

I love watching you. You are a blessing to all of us who work on our small engines.

[@marshallking-ls1lz]

Been watching your channel for a while now. Have fixed 2 push mower with the help of it. But I have a POULAN-PRO for over 7 yrs and the most problem I have with it is the spendles cutting a 1.78 of land. I try and fix my own mowers and other people. I only know one other guy like you here in Moultrie Georgia his name is Calvin of MTPOWER. Keep up the good work and may you stay blessed for your honesty and kind guidance.

[@michaelprozonic]

We got a Husqvarna 26HP Kohler engine with a 54” deck and hydrostatic drive. It has a monster bag system on back because we live in the burbs with a ton of trees . Gives a nice smooth cut. It gets stored outdoors all year long with only a cover over it and has no rust anywhere.

[@timtimtimmay4654]

I’d like to provide one big plus on the Ariens Apex. What sold me on it was serviceable hydraulics with filters. If you plan on keeping a mower super long term, that was a huge selling point.

[@davidquinn9676]

My hydraulics on my Grasshopper (made in Kansas) look serviceable too. But since the interval is 1000 hours, in 15 years of ownership (after buying used) I've never touched them.

[@thomasheer825]

The hydraulic drive systems are not built by Ariens they are industrial components, depending on their specs, good units have large hydraulic reserves and filters built into the units. It costs more, but it is worth if for the customer long term. I like Pharris as they have full suspension, which takes quite a bit of shock loading off of the drive units and the operator's bottom.

[@albundy5198]

@@davidquinn9676 grasshoppers are the best not sure why people don’t pay the extra money and get a quality mower

[@jamesmiller8591]

You guys gotta be kidding you never heard of a hustler they were the guys were invented 0 turning runs forever cost a lot, but they’re well worth it the best I’ve ever used and I’ve used them all

[@timtimtimmay4654]

@@jamesmiller8591 I've heard and shopped them all. I picked the Ariens because of cost, durability, and specifications for my non commercial needs.

[@gregfisher216]

Great Video ! I had a Cub a few years ago .I loved the Kawasaki 18 Horse twin .I had the 42 inch stamped deck and no PTO. I hated the deck. It never could mow thick grass, the belt would slip !I tried a bunch of things to get the belt to do right but no dice! Leveling the deck was torture ! but when you got it dialed in ,it cut a beautiful lawn . In your video ,I thought I heard you Toro doesn't make a commercial rider . I went o their website and they do in fact make them but you ain't gone see them at a box store.

[@mikezupancic2182]

I worked an assembly line at MTD years back. The Cib Cadet, craftsman, and others seemed the same but there were subtle differences most often that made the cub cadet ever so slightly better.

[@zzbudzz]

My cub cadet Rzt 50 I bought in 2007 is still going strong ...I just had to get the deck welded back together a few times 🙄

[@Mach141]

The CC has some beefier parts throughout.

[@cooldood1025]

It's odd that the Craftsman tractors still have steel hoods and the CCs have gone to all plastic. I think MTD should make a Craftsman ('garden tractor') w/ locking diff/ fab deck in their lineup. They seem to reserve that for Cub Cadet only - but you get a plastic hood and cheap brush guard.

[@Mach141]

@@cooldood1025 Plastic hoods are a good thing

[@ChrisG9978]

There is a line of Cubs with fabricated mowing decks, instead of the usual stamped decks found on all riding mowers (John Deere, Craftsman, etc.) at the big box stores. The fab decks are 11 gauge steel, vs 13 gauge for stamped decks. The fab decks have lifetime warranties, and I know Cub does honor them. Beyond the decks, the Cubs have better quality parts. Considering the Craftsman mowers cost virtually the same as the Cubs, I'll always take a Cub over a Craftsman any day of the week.

[@davidmckay9552]

I love when somebody has the guts to make a call!

[@tomraines7398]

would appreciate seeing something similar only with the big box store push mowers, thanks for the great videos

[@BM-mn5mm]

I must have lucked out. I bought a craftsman mower about eight years ago and never had a problem.

[@willc3586]

I have a 2006 Troy-Bilt 50-in zero turn. They only build it for 1 year and then they switched in 2007. It's built so much better than the other models and I'm so glad I bought that one when I did. I haven't had any issues from it. One PTO switch and almost 20 years.

[@SS-vp6us]

Yes, you are so right about the spindles on the Husqvarna‘s and the carburetor suck also

[@gmamagillmore4812]

I found a really simple, no cost way to never have another bad experience at Lowes.

[@bextar6365]

CRAPSMAN mowers !

[@s.a.stewart2743]

I have a 1980s Simplicity (owned by Briggs and Stratton) rider, that I repowered with a single cylinder Tecumseh (10hp). Went from a crappy 12hp briggs that was worn out to a strong running 10hp techumseh, that I bought new old stock a while back. Love that thing and have less than 250 dollars in it.

[@georgehofgren6123]

Simplicity rocks. Dealer only, but worth it. All USA 🇺🇸... the genuine article. A used Conquest or Prestige (with Real hydrostats) is an investment you won't regret 😉 The more recent ones have Full suspensions and higher-speed trannys so you can mow quicker. Also true automatic traction control (and a diff lock). Mine's got real power steering, a rear hitch and a Johnny Bucket on the front. Also doesn't need choking and works Perfect👌. Snap up a used Simplicity and win the game 😉

[@njseashorechas2698]

Thanks for your research and detailed video. Love your honesty also!

[@aa-lg8go]

Thanks for the time you put into this video. It helped me a lot.

[@thsarethbreaks]

I'm glad i bought my Murray Select 42" 17.5hp Briggs back in 2019 for $900, brand new on clearance at Walmart and still running and cutting today.😊

[@philliphall5198]

Can’t beat the old Murray I’ve put several new engine on last year and expect to do the same this year

[@thsarethbreaks]

@@philliphall5198 well its been 4 years since i boughtit,with the original battery and i haven't had any problem with cranking it.

[@Eupher6]

Just subscribed today and enjoy the presentations. Saw this one and appreciate the commentary about stamped vs. fabricated decks. My first zero turn was a Toro (I forget the model) and I literally beat it to death over 7 seasons on 5 acres. Stamped deck, rusted out, blown spindles. Fast forward to a new zero turn, a Bad Boy ZT Elite that I bought in Mississippi in 2016. Less than 100 hours on it now, but I maintain it and the Kawasaki engine like they say. Since my wife and I now live in central Arkansas (hello, neighbor!) and since Bad Boy has their HQ in Batesville, AR, maybe a word or two about these machines. My research and experience with this machine indicates they're pretty stout from a construction standpoint, the Kawasaki engines (I have an FR730 2-cylinder) are excellent, and the only problem I have with it is that it's very sensitive to tire pressure. That, and the odd duck balancing of the deck can lead to stripes where you don't want them. Skag or Gravely might be a better overall machine, but they cost major $$$ when, as a homeowner, I just don't need that much machine. I needed more than the Toro offered, though.

[@VM-ie6wd]

Saving up for a SCAG. Thanks for this video

[@tomr5021]

Thank you I bought a Ariens Apex 2 years ago and love it. Very well built I’m in Pea Ridge Ar so I know how it is mowing rocks

[@johnbirkland6254]

GE made an excellent electric tractor back in the late 60's to early 70's called called the Electrak. Used golf cart batteries on a 3 acre property, Had a 3 motor 3 blade front mounted deck that didn't trample the grass before cutting it. Worked very well cutting below spruce tree branches too.

[@charlesbrown4483]

Just looked that up, really cool I had no idea. But I can't imagine the performance would be great for anything more than a half acre of flat ground lol.

[@quantumjim45]

18 yr-old Craftsman 42" LT2000 w/single cylinder. I keep spare spindles on hand - like you say, they definitely go out if you hit something and I do. Fortunately they're easy to find and not particularly expensive. But the engine has (knock on wood) continued to hold up fine.

[@bigboybuilder]

we have a GT5000 that is trashed with only 150 hours on it

[@bassman6619]

Bought an ikon 52 and I really enjoy this zero turn mower. Thanks

[@johnc6157]

Knowledge is power. Great review. Thanks.

[@tyrehester5550]

I’m planning on retrofitting my easy change JD this year. It is a great mower. Although, I like the look of the lawn after I cut with my 21” 2006 snapper, but the rider gets to cleanup afterwards. ✅ Thanks for all you do👏

[@jimbrewer2893]

Conversion kits are fairly low priced. Very easy to do.

[@hughbrackett343]

That's my plan as well as soon as I get to my first oil change.

[@Bill-1370]

One piece of advice I would like to give anyone looking into buying a new mower, avoid the big box stores, if your going to be spending a few thousand dollars then go to an actual dealer who not only sales the mower but has repair facilities for your mower, that way you can get your mower repaired at the same place you bought it from and avoid playing phone tag.

[@TexasLocalProduce]

Nope. I did that. I bot my Toro from a dealer place. Crappy service. I wud have been better off buying from Lowes, wud have saved me $$ up front during the sale & not disappointed with the service a yr. later when I needed help.

[@bigboybuilder]

7 year old bad boy and the tires still hold air, oil and filter change are all i have done to it 5 acers with an abundance of trees@@TexasLocalProduce

[@jameslomenzo1139]

I ended up buying a S100 JD from Lowes, I received a 10% military discount, saving $249. The dealer wouldn't have given me that.

[@jameslomenzo1139]

@benk4881 military discount basically pays the taxes, one thing I did was change the oil,filter after 3-4 hours to get the metal shavings out of the new engine' that's something that's overlooked.

[@truthof7382]

Bought my John Deere S120 at a dealer for that reason. While buying the sales guy said it doesn’t matter where you buy them, they all come to his store for repairs no matter where you buy. So there you go.

[@dougwright5014]

I think it is awesome to see a women doing mechanical work!! love it!!

[@edgardomatos7742]

Thank you , you answer my question. I've been asking for 2 weeks. John Deer. Twin cylinder. Thanks again ...and used.

[@dougwitman9176]

On the exmark, I use "Mother's back to Black" on the plastic trim and fuel tank, etc. Very easy to use and returns a nice shine while cleaning off the dirt and fade. On the big box store mowers, I was told by a John Deere mechanic that the models sold at bigbox stores are not the same as those sold at a Deere dealer. Motors and other drive components are cheapened down to compete against the other brands. You get what you pay for.

[@rodrogers6895]

One of the differences I noticed is that the mowers sold at a dealer have a bearing on the front wheel shafts. The ones sold at the ‘box’ stores have a bushing that wears out sooner. You can buy the bearing and retrofit your cheaper mower once the bushing wears out.

[@rodneybrand8521]

Hey Chickanic..on that exmark you have on the trailer don't paint the fuel tanks..use Kiwi liquid shoe polish instead ..it won't flake or peel you will be amazed..I've used it in so many applications ..try it you'll see..just make sure the tanks are really clean..Cheers 🥂🥂🥂🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@5roundsrapid263]

There’s a spray called Back to Black I’ve seen at auto parts stores. It’s made for faded bumpers and trim, but it should work for tanks, too.

[@rodneybrand8521]

@@5roundsrapid263 I've used that before..it didn't last for me..used it on my 07 F-150 cowl screens mirrors and running boards about a month they needed it again..the shoe polish has been on it for about a year..and it still looks great..a lot cheaper..lol.. i don't tell everyone because they might laugh..Cheers 🍺🍺🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@carlmorgan8452]

Who cares about looks ..... just run

[@rodneybrand8521]

@@carlmorgan8452 well Carl...if I'm buying a used mower i don't want one that looks like it's been stored outside..if you don't believe it try selling one good running mower that looks bad .. It won't happen..i know this because i fix and resell them.

[@davidnorbertpenn]

Thank you for this video. I had a Cub Cadet LTX1045 with the awful Kohler Courage single. Although it lasted me 10+ years, it was a constant battle to keep it mowing. Replaced that V.C gasket 6 times. Thanks to your advise i bought a Deere S140. Twin cylinder, 48" deck, and NO EZ OIL CHANGE! For me the S140 was the sweet spot in the line for a cost/benefit angle. I bought mine from the local JD dealer instead of the big box. They gave me the same price and much better service. It is a great machine and i look forward to many years with it.

[@winkletown8828]

Extremely valuable information, thanks for this ❤

[@terrencebuller7676]

I have a 1993 John Deere GT 262, wouldn't trade it for a new Zero turn. Like you said keep up on maintenance. Love your program, Thank you for all the tips and tricks. Take care 👍

[@georgestrickland9278]

is the hood broken like most of those models?

[@SteveBueche1027]

Bought the basic Ariens almost 8 years ago. Only oil changes and upkeep. Love it. The John Deere is a Pain in the butt.

[@RichardCWard]

Good advice, thank you again. I bought lawn mowers at Sears for years and it's a shame that Sears is gone. The best was the one with the larger wheels on the rear and I think was a Briggs and Stratton engine, gave it to my son when I bought the Husqvarna I now have, big mistake.

[@rcud1]

Yeah I see how these mowers have significantly gone up in price in last 2-3 years and they can just sit on the lot as far as I'm concerned.

[@sunbeam8866]

I've never bought a new riding or walk-behind mower. All of my yard equipment, along with most of the appliances in my home, were bought cheaply used, or were curbside rescues. Nearly all have made it to at least 20 years and are still working. There has been such a bumper-crop of shoddy design and manufacture over the past 10 years, only now 'enhanced' by outrageous post-pandemic prices!

[@sydecarnutz972]

Keeps me motivated to maintain my old LT1000. Can't afford to replace that old beast! new one is nowhere near as good either!

[@ksavage681]

Keep repairing what you have, they'll get the message.

[@joep6023]

That was excellent, Chickanic! Thanks for the great information... Getting ready to buy a zero turn and thought I had to go with the Deere but I'm taking your advice on the beefier Ariens. (I'm rough on equipment): )

[@JesseGrowsChannel]

Great video thank you for breaking down the basic differences between all the different brands

[@123pwop]

I love you....... Thank you for some REAL advice in a confusing world of zero turns ! CHICKANIC rules ! Philip.

[@nuancolar7304]

One other thing to watch out for on the John Deere is to avoid those plastic transmissions on the lower-end models. Easy to spot, just look at from behind and you'll see that plastic housing around the rear axle.

[@sandasturner9529]

Good looking out

[@yoyo762]

The pot metal transaxles are bad enough. But plastic......yikes.

[@disco4535]

Which series doesnt have that?

[@petezereeeah]

The plastic manual trans was on the JD E100, and was discontinued 2021. All JD trans are hydrostatic now.

[@JaxT83]

@@disco4535 you don’t get rid of the k46 plastic trans until the ~$6000 x380 or x390. And the x380 still as an internal oil filter. The x390 has an external filter. I think both are k58. Then the x500 series moves up to the much beefier k72 with diff lock. I just went through this and ended up just getting an older shaft driven diesel deere for less money. Take a look at models like the gt225/235/245, gx325/335/345/355 or like an LX255. Those are all 900-3500ish depending on model/location/condition and have beefier transmissions, some with diff lock.

[@joeolejar]

I turned the stamped deck on my 50 inch White Horse rider to a fabricated deck as various parts developed cracks and holes. Most of the reinforcing was around the spindles as you might expect.

[@hoosiermink]

Thanks for all the advice that is easy to understand. I'm buying a new zero turn after having a Deutz-Allis rider for 20 plus years. I'm buying a Ariens at the dealer. Love your cat with the eartip!

[@brentflora8965]

Our next door neighbor has an old Toro. It hadn't been started for at least 5yrs. I swapped the battery, checked the oil (which was clean), pulled the choke & hit the key! At first for some reason it wasn't getting fuel. So I pulled off the fuel line at the filter & blew into the tank from the top. Something came out of the line & gas began to run. I hit the key again & ol' Red Rider came to life! Enjoyed rolling the lawn with it.

[@TheWhitetailrancher]

Its literally a snowstorm here today. I think I'm safe for quite a while. Bout 3 feet of snow on the ground at the moment.

[@carpeinferi]

The sticker shock has thus far deterred me from replacing my 16 year old Husqvarna, but the speed of a ZT is definitely is siren song having roughly 7 acres to keep up with. But so far despite using it more like a brush mower I've only had to replace 1 spindle.

[@noname-oe9jy]

That inflation's going through everything. Everything has doubled in price or more.

[@thomasclark250]

Mine is a 90’s Wizard, basically an MTD. I bought it off my uncle. It was in rough shape. Single cylinder Briggs blew up, replaced it with a V Twin. New belts, blades, paint, seat, wiring, muffler, spindles, tires, and rewired it. Runs great, and didn’t cost me over $500 all together.

[@truthprevails7017]

Love your channel! Good content and great advice. Keep it going!

[@brensdaman926]

IMO, the Husqvarna's are made pretty well. I've had mine for a while and it's held up quite well

[@raymondkirby3910]

P.S. I work 16 hours a week at Home Depot, we just sold an 80volt Ryobi Zero turn for 7999.99. 8 grand , how insane is that!

[@georgepruitt637]

Quite insane !!!

[@philliphall5198]

Crazy 😜

[@bobbybishop5662]

Holy cow for that price you can buy a commercial grade Hustler that will last many years.

[@JesseCase]

I thought those little Ryobi zero turns were kinda neato when they first came out, but I about had a stroke when I seen what they wanted for them! Even back then they were too expensive at around $4999. I can't believe they have doubled the price! They are just way too proud of them things!!

[@jamint5ky507]

For that much money I can hire someone to do it for me for several years to come

[@djbessette76]

Great video and thank you much for all the information

[@mpraineri]

I have a 20 year old craftsman lt2000 with a single cylinder Kohler 17hp Command Pro. The engine is great. Still going strong.

[@chrism6952]

I have the same thing. So much stuff is broke on it but it runs and I cant afford another one.

[@davidhollfelder9940]

I send out a message via the neighborhood social media from time to time, and have got so much outdoor power stuff “destined for the trash”. Most of it was nearly in new condition .. just needed a carb kit or cleaning, etc. (ethanol gas disease). 😮

[@longreach207]

Being in the market for a new piece of equipment I sincerely appreciate your informative video!

[@tomarmstrong4761]

A bit over a year ago, I sort-of inherited my father-in-law's TroyBilt Pony lawn tractor. The 42" cut makes for a MUCH quicker mowing time on the over-half-acre lot I'm on now. Having been a truck mechanic for U-Haul and having done a lot of different stuff over the years, I know the value of being gentle on the equipment. I did scuff a front tire against a brick wall to the point that I had to have an inner tube, and I keep a trickle-charger connected to the battery if I'm not going to use the mower for a while. I'm sure I can do a lot of the maintenance chores myself, but as I get on in years, I find myself more willing to pay others to do things like change the oil or make sure the magneto is doing its job.

[@bergerbe1]

John Deere AUC12916-KIT will convert engine to standard oil filter. ~$40

[@dmalloy96]

Looks like my cows might have to mow my yard this year for the price of those 👍 great video

[@philliphall5198]

Goats and sheep

[@robertsimon276]

Awesome video my thoughts exactly we both agree on stamped decks and for the most part all engines are good just take care of them!

[@jimchandler6744]

I just stumbled upon your videos and I have to say, it is nice to see an attractive young lady who is mechanically inclined. Where have you been all my life? Too late now. I turn 80 next month so I missed my chance. Thank you for providing these videos. I have been working on things for a long time and I still learn from videos like this. Thanks again.

[@ForestToFarm]

Bought a Craftsman T210 going on 3 years ago. I compared it to a similar John Deer setting next to it. Craftsman had better comfort by far. Higher back seat. Better feel as far as turning goes. Near zero turn turning ability which going on 3 years for me has been awesome. That higher back seat was a huge plus for me. I mow about 1 acre where I currently live then over 3 more on property I am currently developing into a small farm/homestead. I was personally not impressed with the John Deer at all. The craftsman is very quiet as well and my neighbors owns a John Deer and the thing sounds like a Sherman Tank when he mows lol. No kidding we hear it plain as day inside our house and are always very pleased when he finishes mowing 😂. My family says they don’t even know I am mowing unless they are in a room close to where I am mowing at the time. Could not be happier with that T210 Craftsman. It rides great cuts even and with the ability to steer so tight combined with the hydrostatic drive my mowing time was cut in half or better. Love this thing. Hope it holds up. I usually take families older broken down mowers and fix them then run them till there is nothing left. It was a cheap way to save a lot of money over the course of my life. At near 60 I finally decided to spoil myself for a change. I am glad / thankful the good lord gave me a very strong mechanical ability allowing me to fix pretty much everything I have owned my entire life. Its saved me tens of thousands over the course of my life. I gotta say though having a mower you can walk up to and pretty much count on to do its job every time is nice. I will say there was an issue with this particular model back when I bought it. The deck drive belt jumped off a couple times when I hit heavy grass. I had seen videos about it and people were trash talking this mower. So I took a look. Grabbed the pulleys one by one and sure enough there was one loose. The bolts were never tightened at the factory. I tightened them and checked the others which were all good. Never a problem since then. It was brand new but I was not a bit upset. I expect human error with most anything these days as quality seems to no longer be a priority. Terry

[@CNCMatrix]

You couldn't GIVE me a craftsman ANYTHING. Bought one of their weed eaters years ago and it worked for one and a half uses and started having issues with it. Bought my Deere 3 years ago and aside from it being noisy It's been one of the best things I've ever bought. It'll actually last too, so there's that.

[@Ebikelover]

In may 2016 i bought my first ever rider a 48" Husqvarna and the triple bagger unit from Lowes with a 10% off coupon, I change the oil and sharpen the blades every 2 years and blow out the air filter once a year and it's a beast. I absolutely love it