MTD Yard Machines 38" Cutting Deck Riding Lawn Mower

by Amanda
(Flordia)

Let me start out by saying that I've never owned any other ride-on before this one, and that I can be hard on machines. I've owned this for 6 years. Here in Florida, I mow about 45 times a year; my lot is close to 1/2 acre.

This is a cheap machine, and I have put it through the ringer. It started to fall apart last year. Tie rods, tires, steering shaft, blade height bracket, and also general maintenance items like belts. It's difficult to work on, but maybe all ride-ons are.

That said, I probably got my moneys worth out of it. I probably mow close to twice as much as other owners do. Grass grows like crazy here. I thought some things like the steering, front end, and safety interlocks look like pretty cheesy assemblies. But as I said, I've never owned a ride on before now, so have nothing to compare it to. The Briggs and Stratton engine has no trouble pulling my 250 lb frame around in the intense Florida heat.

Anyway, you decide. Just remember that this is not a heavy duty machine. If you buy this machine, I would recommend you don't push it to the limit, and make sure you do your maintenance, it should do well for you. If you are a Hank Hill type, it will probably last you forever. I see a couple of reviewers had bad luck with the battery.

My original lasted at least 2 years, maybe 3. I got a replacement at home depot pretty cheap, and it's still fine. I'm replacing this mower with a more heavy duty machine. I've only had real trouble with it in the last year, and as you can see, it got a lot of use before it started. By the way, one good point is that many parts can be had at Lowes, and ALL parts can be found easily, and reasonably priced on-line.