I've now posted several post about different riding tractors and talked to different repair shops about these tractors. Most of the time the engine will outlast the hydro tramission. Usually because the motor is stronger that the the tramission in pulling power. I know that Hustler is the better but Big Dog is part of Hustler. Big Dog has a 7 year warranty and heavy transmission motor . I'm going to take a look at the 52 inch Big Dog at a price of $3500 and will probably buy. I have mowed my 3 acreas with a push mower twice, the slopes were the worse. I was really tired and all out after finishing mowing. I don't want to do it again. I must make a discision. Anyone else have Big Dog?