Lawn Mower Advice

[msglee]

I'm looking to buy a new lawn mower. I like the one Home Depot has advertised for $299, it's a Toro self propelled variable speed high-wheel mower. Can someone tell me what is the advantage of high wheels in the back?

Thank You

[will2000]

The big rear wheels are great in rough terrain. It's not needed for a smooth lawn.

[JPK]

IMO,

I used to have a trusty old Craftsman mower. It was Front Wheel Drive and had big wheels in back. I decided I needed better and I went to the highly recommended Honda line with the plastic deck.

Big mistake. My old Craftsman had 3 yrs of annual service included. When that expired I did nothing and it kept running great for years. I have had my Honda for two years now and after a couple of cuts this spring it wouldnt start and I had to have it serviced to the tune of $135. They said bad gas gummed the carb - That is BS.

The biggest different is the Honda is a RWD vs FWD. With a FWD, you just lift the front wheels to stop or turn. With my Honda RWD, I have to disingage the drive bar whenever I am approaching. It sounds like not a very big deal - but it is.

I know Toro is a well respected name. More $$ does not necessarily mean better.

JPK

[rgG]

Can someone tell me what is the advantage of high wheels in the back?

Much easier to roll on those high wheels.

[OWC Jamie]

Easier to turn around 180 at the end of a row also.

If they are real cheep wheels with no bushings they won't last. (the wheels)

[dotman]

love my lawnboy from home depot. The service guy was great on pointing out which model had the better motor. and the grab bar underneath the steering handle that propels it forward is great for easy and fast mowing. btw, I'm a mulcher. hate bagging grass clippings.

dot.

[kahuna1342]

With the big wheels in the back it is much easier to install the spinners.

[mattkime]

consider a reel mower.

[iaJim]

I'm a big proponent of buying an older mower and having it repaired if necessary. For that matter, if the old mower you have was ever any good, it's probably worth repairing. This is one of the things that a small shop can still do. I know a 12 year old kid who is fixing lawn mowers and selling them for $100 bucks. There are many good Snappers that are tossed away because they need a new spark plug. Don't spend hundreds of dollars on something that can be repaired. Save yourself some money and get a repair. A new motor doesn't cost as much as a new mower. A used motor costs even less. Find a mower shop, not a Home Depot.

[gabester]

I have a Neuton battery powered mower that I share with my neighbors. My only complaint about it is the relatively narrow blade. Still, my neighbors appreciate it as well because it is quiet, and newer models have a wider blade.
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