Author Topic: Recommendation for a power lawn mower?  (Read 2699 times)

lisahi

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Recommendation for a power lawn mower?
« on: June 11, 2013, 03:45:31 PM »
I tried a reel lawn mower on my large St. Augustine grass lawn -- it broke the first time I used it. The grass was just too much for it. And it was a good brand lawn mower. Plus, the size of my yard makes using a reel mower difficult and exhausting. Takes a really long time. I can only mow when the sun starts to set because of the 100+ degree heat here, so I don't have time on my side.

Anyway, that's a long way of saying that I need to save up for a power lawn mower. I'm open to electric or gas (although I've never worked with anything gas before--I know, it's odd). But it needs to be reliable and tough enough to cut through vine-like, sturdy grass, as well as being easy to use.

Suggestions?

DavidR

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Re: Recommendation for a power lawn mower?
« Reply #1 on: June 11, 2013, 07:08:11 PM »
Go on Craigslist or any other classified ads posting in your area or to any thrift shop and get a used Toro 6.5 HP self propelled 22 inch mower.  They come with side discharge, rear bagging and mulching, but don't do the mulching opion.  Make sure it works good before you buy.  Pay no more than $100.00 and really you should be able to get one for less than that.

Then change out the oil (and do it regularly) change the spark plug and use a video on YouTube to take apart and clean the carburator. 

If the machine is in good working order when you get it it will cut your grass, start every time even after sitting all winter (put in gas stablizer) and outlast you. 




davisgang90

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Re: Recommendation for a power lawn mower?
« Reply #2 on: June 13, 2013, 04:18:58 AM »
I've had a Cub Cadet mower for years, just runs and runs.  I used it when I lived in Jacksonville, so I know all about St. Augustine grass.

plantingourpennies

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Re: Recommendation for a power lawn mower?
« Reply #3 on: June 15, 2013, 10:10:47 AM »
I hate buying "things," but when I try to buy it used, and buy it for life.

I looked for a mower with high initial purchase price that could now be purchased at a discount, repaired when necessary, and used for another 20 years. The Honda hr214 was the mower that best fit this bill.

Regardless of what one you choose, learning to maintain it will be the best investment you can make.

Best,
Mr. PoP