Scotts S1742 3.00 star(s) (2)

Hard to Keep Running Over a Long Span of Years
Model Year: 1999

Bought by my son at Home Depot. Given to me in 2002. Cut very well for a while, but then had many problems with the safety interlocks. Finally had to bypass all of them. Had mower belt problems with bets put on by service companies including the John Deere service company in my area. Had battery problems and had to bypass the solenoid once the engine starts to eliminate battery drain. Belt problem finally solved (I hope) with a belt bought from GreenParts online store. Now I have a pulley belt problem. I am waiting for my friend to return from England next week to drop the deck to see what the problem is.

Pros: Mows well when working.
Cons: Does not work long enough to finish mowing.

Good Basic Mower
Model Year: 2003

I inherited this about 10 years ago. It is reliable and does a nice job cutting my lawn. It has a reasonable amount of power for its engine and size. It is my back up mower but if it had hydro-static vs. the 5 speed stick it would be my primary. Handles nice, good on fuel, easy to work on. I don't know about the availability of parts since I've little break on it. The engine has a spin on oil filter which is nice. The headlights are always on which I could do without. Having to push and hold a button to mow in reverse is annoying. At first I thought the plastic hood was a sign of cheapness but I have found it has fewer dents and much less rust than my metal hooded mower.

Pros: Reliable, good fuel consumption, good speed, quality mowing, spin on oil filter.
Cons: Push and hold button to mow in reverse, not hydro-static.