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cy078

Help with which mower to buy

cy078
10 years ago

Hi all ... My 20 yr old rover with a 375 b&s engine is about to die. I don't have a big lawn to mow .... Maybe 100 sq mtrs combined front and back. It doesn't have big hills to climb. I frequently cut lawn (it grows 5cm long at worst). I do have two big gum trees that drop bark on both front and back lawn.

I have done some research and want a mulching function on the mower (this just a seems a quicker way to cut the grass).

I don't want to spend the world on it either.

So far my options are 1) 2004 victa tornado and edge vsx160 2 stroke (rebuilt and refurbished) for $295 (aud) less say $30 for a trade in. Has 3 month warranty. 2) brand new sanli power mulcher pms400 for $299 with 2 yr warranty.

Which one would u choose any why ???

Does anyone else know if I can get something else decent for this price range?

Thanks for your help in advance

Comments (6)

  • ericwi
    10 years ago

    I am guessing that you are in Great Britain as those are not manufacturers that I am familiar with. Also, you mention the grass growing " 5 cm" before being cut, instead of using inches, which were invented in England, and are still used here in the USA. I think you should discuss this with your local mower mechanic because they would know about parts availability, if repairs are needed. Also, they would know about reliability, as well. I am impressed that you have kept the Rover going for 20 years.

  • cy078
    Original Author
    10 years ago

    Actually I'm in Sydney, Australia.

    Both local mower specialists just wanted to sell me what they were selling.

    Yes I was extremely impressed with the rover b&s given that it was never serviced at all by my dad ( it was a hand me down a year ago. I assumed he did the due diligence with it. But just put petrol and two stroke oil thinking it was a two stroke .... And its lasted since 92 ... So very impressed)

  • cy078
    Original Author
    10 years ago

    Actually I'm in Sydney, Australia.

    Both local mower specialists just wanted to sell me what they were selling.

    Yes I was extremely impressed with the rover b&s given that it was never serviced at all by my dad ( it was a hand me down a year ago. I assumed he did the due diligence with it. But just put petrol and two stroke oil thinking it was a two stroke .... And its lasted since 92 ... So very impressed)

  • ericwi
    10 years ago

    To me, it seems sensible to use 4 stroke engines when possible, to minimize air pollution, and also minimize fuel usage. If a tool has to be held in the hands, and/or lifted, such as a chainsaw, then the two stroke engine can be justified because it is considerably lighter than an equivalent 4 stroke. Since lawnmowers sit on 4 wheels, and don't need to be super light, I am in favor of 4 stroke power, in this application.

  • ewalk
    10 years ago

    Aussie , Aussie , Aussie Oi , Oi , Oi ! Roflmbo :)

    Have to agree with fellow forum member from Badger Country , any 4-stroke unit with a B&S or Honda Engine would be adequate for your needs . Also not familiar with your Manufacturers listed , since I'am a Canuck. If you have Toro or Snapper , Cub Cadet or Honda available Nationally then your good to go other wise just check with local jobbers for their opinion within a 4-stroke with mulching capabilities you require all the Best Mate !

  • yankdownunder
    10 years ago

    G'day M8
    I've always been an advocate of 4-stroke, unless there is a particular reason why you'd use 2-stroke [weight with a chainsaw...].
    But, I've got to say that the 2-stoke Victas have made me a believer. I'd go with the Victa [better engine] than the [I'm guessing] China made Sanli [?]. Seems as though the China made are hit and miss. You might get a good one, or you may have to go through several [warranty returns] 'til you get a good one. The QC is not up to snuf and they'd happily warranty several than build a good one the first time. That attitude [barely good enough] is abhorrent, and I'd not buy one just for that reason.