halle1@houxz.UUCP (J.HALLE) (04/30/84)
Recently, someone asked about recommendations for lawnmowers. I can without reservation tell everyone to avoid Sears lawn tractors like the plague. Mine is less than a year old and is kaput. Without exception, EVERYONE in my development who has (or had) a Sears tractor has had serious problems within 15 months or so of first use. This includes over a half dozen mowers and several models. The bottom line is that they are JUNK. I will be talking with the store manager today to insist on my money back. Actually, I should get more than that, but it would be hard to convince the manager of that. But we'll see. More details later. Also, don't get trailing sweepers. They sweep OK (not great) but the bag refuses to stay in the frame. I have it TIED in, but it still keeps popping out. Without the ties I can't go more than ten feet. And if the casters jam, as mine did the first time I used it, you'll break something.
jeffh@plx.UUCP (Jeff Huntington) (05/01/84)
In defense of Sears Lawnmowers. We have had a Sears mower for two or three years now, and have had no problems at all. All I have had to do to it is change the oil and put gas in it. I forget what model it is, but it is one with the four cycle engine. I think four cycle engines are a good deal (I have a four cycle outboard as well - not Sears), it starts with one or two pulls every time. This is just one persons experience - not a recommendaton to buy.
bwm@ccieng2.UUCP ( Brad Miller) (05/02/84)
I have a sears lawnmower - their 83 top of the line electric start self propelled 22" (?) $450+ job. Runs absolutely terrific, no problems whatsoever. This is its second season. I have never had a problem with a mower that I have regularly maintained, I.E. changed the oil frequently, check the belt tension, oil and clean the gear mech, etc., etc...... Most should be done twice a season, except chaning oil which should be every 4-6 weeks (or about 12 hours of operation). Brad Miller -- ...[cbrma, rlgvax, ritcv]!ccieng5!ccieng2!bwm