A few things that may help: Are there decals under the hood? Can you post a pic or two? The engine code # would give us a year. Do either of the belts have a legible part #?

I'm not going to be much help on this other than to say you can at least post the engine Model number, Type number, and the Code number you find on the engine itself. The Code number will reveal the date the engine was built. Knowing when the engine was built might help some of the Scotts/Deere experts determine who the "baby daddy" is.
In the manufacturing industry the time line is pretty narrow from engine build to tractor build.

"....In the manufacturing industry the time line is pretty narrow from engine build to tractor build."

+1
I'm aware of a Craftsman tractor on another forum that had a 5 day difference. I'd probably expect a "few" weeks to be more the norm though.

Here's a shot at it... JD made a machine in 2000 that might fit the bill - 1542HS Sabre Mod yr 2000
S/n range: GX1542B020001-120407

Here is a link that might be useful: info source

If it looks like this it's a Scotts by Murray...

{{gwi:313804}}

If it looks like this it's a Scotts by John Deere...

{{gwi:351265}}

Thanks Folks, I knew I could depend on you. It is true that a picture is worth a thousand words. According to the pictures posted by justalurker, mine is definitely a Scotts by Murray. Thanks justalurker. Anyone know where I can get a owners and/or parts manual?

IIRC you have a Scotts (by Murray) 1542 and the model # is 42561X8. check around the tractor for a sticker with that #. May be under the seat on the fender pan.

If that is the number then click here for parts.

If that is not the model # then find the correct model # then click here to find the correct parts lit.

Owner's manuals for the old Scotts by Murray are hard to find. You might contact Murray and they might email you a copy.

Thanks justalurker! I really appreciate the help. The parts site is going to be very helpful.