Troy-Bilt 3 in 1 TB566 Self-propelled mower
by Mark Halstead
(Gastonia, NC, USA)
I had the good fortune of buying this mower used for only $150. I saw it grinning from the highway and couldn't resist it. The trademark red paint was shining in the sun. The previous owner had prepared the mower for the winter, so it had no oil. Always a wary shopper, I waited until he was away to turn it over to make sure it had not seized. It seemed too good to be true. It wasn't!
When I got the mower home, before I put fresh oil in the crankcase, I pulled the cord once. Unbelievably, it started! I immediately shut it down and put it away until it was time to mow. When the time came to mow, I filled it with oil and gas and took off around my already-too-high lawn. This mower is wonderful. I have spent too many years with mowers that didn't want to start or couldn't handle grass that was just a little high. This mower mulches if you choose not to use the bag. The Briggs and Stratton 190cc engine produces 6.75 foot pounds of torque and handles even thick grass easily. I always wondered why Briggs never produced a car. The mower is self-propelled as much or as little as you like with a squeeze handle.
Needless to say, I love my Troy-Bilt. I expect plenty of good service from it so long as I take care of it. The only problem I have with the unit comes from my choosing not to use the bag. The front wheel drive assembly clogs with grass from time to time causing the drive belt to disengage. The mower mulches well, but some of the grass gets thrown through the slot where the belt exits the housing. Two screws are all one needs to remove in order to clear up the problem. I say Small price to pay. Great machine!