I moved to a new state and left my old Weedeater branded mower behind. I'm almost sorry as I thought it would be easy to replace. It had a Briggs engine. I bought it in 2002. Replaced the tank. Replaced the coil. It had a steel deck and was rusting. It got to be that it wouldn't restart when stopped. So I got 22 years of service out of it. Replaced blade twice. Bag was finally wearing holes in it. Wish I could get one just like it but new.
I have had Toros forever. My latest is 15 years old. It’s a Personal Pace with a Briggs and Stratton engine. I’ve had to replace the tires and that’s it. Basic maintenance has helped. Change oil, spark plug, and air filter yearly for my 4000 sq ft. Yard.
Maintenance is the key for sure. Most people ignore all that and wonder why their equipment never works the following season or why they have to replace it every year, or why its in the shop all the time. Another thing is to not use that ethanol gas garbage in any of these small engines.
I have a husqvarna sel -propelled mower with a Honda engine on it. I bought it at Lowe’s around 2019 and I love it. After I mow I wipe it down with car cleaners so it shines, and I do the under wash every time I’m done too. I change my oil, plugs and filter. It takes me about 4 hrs to do my lawn, due to a hill I can’t drive a big mower and I had people mow but they walked my lawn and I had to have it re-sodded. I don’t know what we’re going to do now that Honda is gone, and there doing away with gas mowers
@@sharonmenzel7791 I definitely agree there! We will be trying to keep the Honda's being sold today running for 20 years like many of them have lasted until now
2:35 I have that Kohler, The BS toro in front of it with e-start, and the honda slanted bucket toro super recycler. in 7 years I changed the oil once on that kohler and I got it free from a neighbors garage fire. Survived fine just the rope burned. Everyone says they hate that Kohler XT675 but they dont say why. Ive never had a problem in 7 years. 1 pull start. That B&S has a plastic cam.
They have a bad auto choke design that causes hard starting much worse than any of the other designs. Many times choke stays open instead of returning to closed. These also have a plastic camshaft
Great advice! I have a 19” Toro with an aluminum deck. I’ve replaced the old Tecumseh with a Chinese engine but the Toro parts are still as good as new after 33 years. My neighbor has a 2 cycle aluminum deck Lawnboy also over 30 years old. That old aluminum deck equipment was the best!!
Update: ((optional add on) Toro part number 144-6377 traction assist handle kit) does fit all new Toro mowers that have the new baby carriage curved shape. IMO you could make your own Toro's BTAH (Black Traction Assist Handle) from 2 pieces of wood in ((L) shape) and some bolts and washers. Toro's BTAH converts Toro's PPM (Personal Pace Mowers) (which requires a person to push Toro's heavy mower forward before the self-propelled drive kicks in) to ((easily without effort) controlling Toro's self-propelled drive with just your fingers and hands without moving forward). This is needed on steep hills where you need the Toro mower to pull you and this powerful mower up the hill without any effort on your part. The powerful Toro mower can do this only with BTAH and not by Toro's PPM (extra exercise mode). Without BTAH you end up pushing this heavy Toro mower up the hill. Thank you for your help and understanding on this Toro (back breaking) mower issue.
i bought a $1,495.00 masport 8.5hp contractor model with a blade clutch on it and i love it it even mows over thick brush and doesnt hurt the machine wich it runs over brush and shreds like knife through butter mtd is junk wich made in canada
So right now im debating between an Ariens razor with the B&S EXI725 engine versus a Troy-Bilt with the B&S ready start engine. They both have their own version of pace control im just wondering for longevities sake which i should pick. I unfortunately can't find a honda at any of the stores near me.
If the Briggs is the older style flat head I would go with it, otherwise they are about the same quality wise. The Ariens replacement parts are much more expensive should something fail
Great analysis! I own a HRR216 Honda that's 3 years old now & love it. Of course, I do proper maintenance bc I'm mechanically inclined being a senior.👍🖖
I'm a homeowner but have a large lawn. You're spot on regarding the Timemaster. I've owned mine for about 7 years and have repaired it more times than I care to admit. Complete garbage. Wish I'd known better before inviting the "Time Disaster" into my garage.
I went with a Timemaster for my 10k sqft yard. Loved the idea of it and and when its running well it has been pretty awesome. Seems to go through traction and blade belts too often and this year a tensioner pulley broke causing my blades to get out of time and scare the hell out of me lol. It's a 2018 and I just have this feeling it is time to get rid of it (especially while new prices are so crazy - I'm going to ask for more than what I bought it for used in 2019). I just got a new Honda HRX217HLA and so far I'm fine with spending the extra 15 minutes or so mowing the lawn.
@@ViralHeadcase Definite would get out from under it, with inflation many tractors are worth more than they were when bought new 5 years ago. Crazy! Father in law just bought a Honda because he couldn't get a Toro with a good engine anymore
I got lucky with my old Lawn-Boy Insight. I bought it used 8 years ago and, other than basic maintainance and cleaning the carb, it's been perfectly reliable. The Tecumseh engine has plenty of power but I do worry about parts availability though.
Good information - especially for someone just starting out. If i can add a few thoughts...if your lawn is anything more than 45'x100' get yourself a self propelled unit. I personally would never use front wheel drive - only if you have very flat terrain - as a bag fills up - front drive lose traction - rear drive gets more traction. Home owner with more money to spend - newer Toro SR4...on a budget older Super Recycler with Briggs and Stratton GTS engine (watch for oil blow by - a little on cold start ok... better to have none)...I don't like personal pace - but it is what it is it's ok... Commercial operators - money is no object wide area walo behind get a Skag or a Ferris... definitely take this man's advice DO NOT BUY 30" Timemaster... cumbersome and awkward and problems galore...if you can afford an Exmark/Toro Commercial with a Kawasaki 180cc go for it...heavy...get blade brake clutch - one of the benefits of these machines...if you are on a budget or like me 15-20lbs makes a difference...if you can find them in good condition - John Deere 14SB/JX75 with Kawasaki 150cc engines...I love these mowers and choose them over Exmark/Toro commercial...parts can be getting scarce - beware...wheels are weakest component IMHO...you best be a tinkerer and self maintain/repair person if you go with old 14SB/JX75's...but you can often oick them up for little $...I haven't paid more than $200CAD and as little as $0 to $50 for them...these mowers were built to last and give an excellent cut quality - especially if bagging...they have mulch plugs and side discharge adapters available...As a final thought - Craftsman, Columbia, Troybilt, MTD, Husqvarna, yardworks etc etc...don't buy new...only buy used if it is a cottage/RV mower or small city lot... don't spend much (less than $100) and DO buy iver anything battery powered - they will last you longer and can be repaired or tossed because you have minimal invested...batteries are too expensive and don't last and aren't really repairable - usually narrower because they spin smaller and lighter duty blades...plastic...finally-yes i know I didn't mention Honda mowers or engines - personal preference... don't care for them and i mow for a living...others live them...cheers! Happy mowing!
All great information I agree with. I do love a Honda mower though, but I do not mow with them though. Loved the John Deere mowers but they are like others and getting too expensive/scarce for parts. They make many good units with the Kawasaki engine that are beefy like this Exmark (the John Deere mowers rather heavy also). I like the Personal Pace but it takes a little more of a form to start it otherwise you are working against the self propel. It really is too bad you have to spend so much money up front to avoid buying something that will break down very soon/often. Thanks for watching!
I bought my Timemaster in 2014, it had the original B&S 190 on it. It was underpowered but got the job done. I have replaced one transmission, the belt pulleys, until I pulled the front cover off and some belts and blades. I never had real problems with it until the beginning of this year (hard to start, surging, power problems). I finally had enough and decided to replace the engine instead of buying anything new. I replaced it with a Kohler CV224 and it has the power the machine needed from the beginning. I kept it in the garage all the time until the middle of last year when it went outside to make some room. It was covered but it still got rain on it and that, I think, more than anything is what wears a machine out. Now with the new engine and the commercial blade engagement brake and commercial pulleys I still have less into it than a 30" Scag with the same engine... While it hasn't been completely hands off it hasn't been a completely horrible machine. It has the commercial parts in the right places so I don't worry about longevity and until I have an extra 7K laying around for a 32" stand on mower the time master still gets the job done by half the amount of time I would spend with a 21" mower. Overall it has cost me around $15-18 per month in purchase/maintenance & running costs so I am still ahead of the game. And with the new engine it should last another 10-20 years which will make the costs even less.
That is awesome replacement idea for the engine!Glad to hear it is doing you well, just a homeowner using it correct? Not used commercially? About how big is the yard?
I have a Honda HRA214 self-propelled that’s 41 years old and still going strong. Inherited from the in-laws maybe 20 years ago, long before I knew anything about small engines except where to put the gas and oil, knock out the filter, oil the wheels and height adjustments and sharpen/balance the blade. Until 2 years ago I never changed the oil - just checked it before running every time and topped it a couple times a year. Never even had a prefilter until yesterday! Only ever had one problem - a broken small part connected with the front wheels not rolling backwards. That’s it! I’d buy a used, old Honda over anything out there every time! Now that I’ve taught myself small engine work I appreciate this mower even more. I still have it and use it as a loaner only to trusted relatives and customers.
I grew up with its brother, the HR214SX. I still have one hiding in my shed, it needs some work but the last time I had it out it was running relatively well for a close to 40 year old machine. Very much like the HRA but with an aluminum deck instead of stamped steel and gear shift was on the handle beside the engine throttle control instead of behind the engine. I had a couple HRA units too. I wasn't a fan of the position of the gear shifter but I can see some thinking that's a good spot and also removes a control cable.
@@IndRepair not really just change the oil when needed and i have only replaced the air filter once or twice in 8 years. Im currently not using it because when i started it last time to mow it was surging so needs a air filter and ima just do a full service on it. So first new spark plug in 8 years.
I just retired my Toro Recycler 21 inch.. bought at home depot 5-6 years ago. (My mistake) The grass had been getting stuck between the blade and the body and with lack of throttle control just couldn't keep up unless you mow the lawn three times a week. Today I brought home a Masport 800 ST S21 3'n1 SPV, So far its cut everythig the Toro wouldn't
Interesting there. I have seen Masport around for a while I have thought about becoming a dealer of many different things but nothing jumps out at me like I feel it should if I am going to carry a line
I had a Toro was only 2 years old can I keep losing Spark a torn apart and the flywheel was loose so I tighten it twice and when I took it out to cut the grass the motor started knocking tore it apart turn the flywheel over I had a crack from one side of the flywheel to the other I won't buy a Toro again that was $500 I got a old Troy-Bilt my brother gave me Motors knocking and it still goes we live on the hill we got about an acre of grass the cut battery it won't work for us we would kill going up and down the hill awesome video thank you for the video
I have the newest Honda HRZ hydrostatic , zero regrets, it's amazing. You do need to change the hydrostatic oil though. I mow twice a week for like 6 months of the year , 9k sq ft of lawn.
I've bought a used toro self drive twice now over the last 10 years, they last a long time, I'm not a fan of the personal pace system on the newer ones, the plastic carbs are different and from what I see with those is you have to make the hole bigger when it gets clogged up after a few years, idk. I Def don't want a electric mower but pretty soon they will be all you can get I'm sure. Great video
My go to, the Personal Pace are so hard for people to start until they get the form down since you are constantly working against the self propelled with the way most people start them. Thanks for sharing
Great and informative video. I will say, I personally hunt for those old ayp craftsman’s with the tecumseh engines. They maybe old, but those engines just like to go as long as the carburetor is good. I wouldn’t recommend them to anyone else going used; but I can service them myself and have acquired enough NOS parts to keep them around for years to come.
Another little tidbit on those ayp craftsman’s, a lot of them have ball bearing wheels. Important to keep in mind if you own one and need to replace a wheel
If I knew anything about lawn mowers I'm sure your advice would help but...I'm an old lady who is shopping for an affordable self propelled lawn mower (with electric start) I am only going to get older and may not want to push 80lbs around my yard another 10 years or battle with trying to start it. I'm looking at a Toro 22" recycler with Personal Pace and electric start. Model #21464. Some reviews make is sound good, but other places I see it trashed. It has a Briggs and Stratton engine. Any experience or words of wisdom with these?
@@IndRepair im glad i bought a 1495.00 a8.5hp commercial masport and its the best austrillian made and heavy duty solid beefy mower wich ive been happy with and its like a giant bush hog and mtds made in canada there junk
The newer Honda gcv160 motor that comes on Husqvarna I have a question even though Honda is going out of business selling small engines will there still be parts available for something like that
So far Honda has been one of the cheapest and most reliable engine parts suppliers I would not see why that would change but since they stopped making them it may just
I need to replace my Toro Super Recycler, it’s 15 years old. I’m looking at a Bad Boy/YBravo. All metal transmission, Kawasaki commercial engine. Look pretty good.
Honda's hydrostatic transmission is a game changer- but you will need to service it to make sure it's filled and air-bled properly. Mine was too low and after I finally fixed it (didn't want to haul the mower to a dealer or deal with arguing over whether its warranty issue) - I can highly recommend picking one up before you can't. The auto-choke also is a joke- be prepared to spend $10-15 for a wax cartridge if you do any dusty rip outs- the dust slows the cartridge and makes the auto choke not work properly. That decompression defect though- get that fixed.
I have a sr4 from 2012 with the Honda engine and it’s still running like a champ! Sad to hear that Honda is discontinuing their lawn mowers because that was going to be the replacement.
I actually got one of those toros with the Kohler exactly like the one you pointed at. It was free on the side of the road. Starts and runs good for now. But I'm not going to stick any money into it besides change the oil. Once it starts having issues it will be gone. I have another one of the kohler engines on a mower that was also free that thing smokes like a train and knocks but somehow still runs. It's got major engine issues. But it's only used on the rough and bad stuff so I'm not worried about it. 😅my brother inlaw actually has one on a lawnboy mower and it's actually a decent engine reliable for him. Good video!
Definitely use to worn out and old ones for the rough locations, this will keep your good equipment top notch. Thanks for your comment and for watching!
If that Briggs flathead was a truck engine, it would be a Ford 300 - nearly indestructible. Same goes for the Tecumseh Eager engines that Sears used - I actually used a couple of those mowers commercially. The Toro Super Recycler is about the best mulcher I've ever used - it leaves the yard with a bagged look. My experience with the Husqvarna's w/ the Honda engine was issues with the drive system handle breaking, the engine brake not working, and the transmission locking upon pulling the mower in reverse...I expected better quality from a $450 mower.
What about John Deere? I have a 20 yr old one that the belt just went. It's a self propelled one. I can't find a replacement belt .Do you know if they still make replacement parts?
Was given a Kohler engine lawnboy mower.. it's sat a few months and won't start.. I'm not sure if I should try to bring it back from the dead az i only bought a blade and air filter for it. It worked when we got it..
Probably needs a carburetor clean, carburetor replaced or a thermal discount for the auto choke. See issues with them all the time but if you use ethanol free fuel it will solve many of these for you
I always hear people say no to those Kohlers but I have had 1 for about 15 years and the thing runs like the day I bought it. Don't know if I was lucky cause I know a shop like yours sees everything but personally I could not be happier with mine. I had a Briggs that wore out piston rings in 2 seasons and that was the last one I ever bought. Thanks for the review of these units.
@@IndRepair Just the basics. I use pump gas during the running months and ethanol free for winter storage but like you stated and the more I read I'm stating to think I have just been really lucky cause no one I see has much positive to say lol Maybe the basics is more than most. Thanks for the video.
@@jdub976 We have a 2007 Lawn Boy with Kohler power. No problems so far. Got it new, been mowing 1-2 times a week all these years. Use none ethanol gas and Brad Penn racing oil..
Hi what is your point of view on a 21387 Toro super recycler with the 190cc Briggs it’s an older model but I found a new one or is a Honda hrn216 a better option Thanks for the great video
Personally I would stick with the Honda since those Toro Recyclers have the larger Briggs but newer style engine is not well made. This is the route I sent the in-laws in when his mower went
I have an MTD push mower I bought as a return item for $135 at Home Depot. I figured if it died no big deal, I had just bought my house so needed something cheap and quick. 7 years later and it’s still running like new. Just change the air filter, oil and spark plug every year.
I believe they are a little slower than the honda but still a good speed. I like the personal pace but some people really do not like to try and maneuver it. I would go to a dealer and see if they have a floor model to try out first
I do not have any first hand experience with them but they seem just like a Chinese engine and standard design. I would make sure that you can get parts for them and if so would say it should be a decent mower for a smaller yard
The cub cadet has the same design as the one Troy Bilt in the video I believe. Not a bad engine, drive train and body not great but they will work well if you take care of them. Definitely use ethanol free fuel
John Deere also made some alright mowers. I have a JS45 castor ball bearing wheels and I bought it in 2010 and it’s mowing good! I think John Deere hired snapper to make them because it has the exact same high vac deck and bagging system as a snapper but instead has a normal transmission unlike a snapper with the friction disc which I hear mixed reviews about. It has a 190cc 8.75 motor which is a intek. Luckily it’s not the new style of 190cc Briggs that have plastic all around because it actually has metal. I love the mower because it cuts wet grass fine and doesn’t loose power. Just the coil is bad and starts first pull when cold but the second the coil is warm it takes 20 pulls. I’ve checked the valves and they are fine. I would love to see a video like this about snowblowers! I’m debating on buying a MTD 8/24 snowblower with a Tecumseh on it over a new Briggs which also have mixed reviews and quality.
I agree, they did make some decent mowers. The parts are ridiculously prices, of course. The friction drive is a pain to work on and has its issues but works pretty well in this application overall. I would definitely choose the older 8/24 with the Tecumseh. Tecumseh was called the Snow King for a reason. Great engine
@@IndRepair What I like about my John Deere is that they have parts. They are pretty expensive, but I can always repair them. Since it's the middle of summer, I can save myself hella money by buying an old snowblower now! I have good experience with my 5 horse Tecumseh besides being underpowered.
It seems odd to me that there are very few brands that have fuel shutoff. I've watched a lot of videos of repairs of small engines, and it always seems that the carburetors are gummed up. I always turn the fuel off on my Honda, and let it run out of gas before putting it up.
I had a powersmart come into my shop. That had a broken crank and sump. The customer said he stalled in in tall grass. And there was no blade damage. I put a used briggs 5.50 on it for him and he was happy.
I made the massive mistake of buying a Toro 30” Timemaster 2 years ago. ($1499) Just had a pulley failure which destroyed the synchronous belt. I replaced two pulleys and the belt. I’ll probably take the $$ hit and sell it. I’m so disappointed; thought this would be my forever mower. I’ll most likely get a 21” SR-4 ($800) OR jump off the cliff and try EGO electric mower. I noticed no Troy-Bilt in your shop…good brand?? Thanks for the gold mine of info!!!
I had a gift card for Lowe’s so I was locked in to craftsman or ego, I went with the craftsman m230($500!). The hard plastic wheels are ripping up my lawn, I’m going to have pump the oil out as it has no drain plug(oil change free design🤷🏻♂️). Anything special besides the plastic carbs on those I should take extra care to maintain? Thanks
I seized the engine on my Husqvarna 725AWD with the B&S 190cc engine about 4 days ago. I've used it for about 8 years. It's been a workhorse with zero issues. What are the chances I can free up the engine and get it working again? Yes, I made a super rookie mistake of running it out of oil. We've been working on a major renovation since February and getting the grass cut was just a distraction. Now I'm paying the price. I went out and bought a new Honda HRX217 with the 200cc engine as a replacement but not super happy with the drive system. Especially on hills it just doesn't work. Almost like there's a clutch slipping. The wheels don't even spin. I've actually considered replacing the engine on the Husky. A local dealer has the exact replacement engine in stock for around $300 including tax. What are your thoughts on this?
Put some oil in it and get it to free up by moving the blade (unplug the spark plug first to make sure it does not start). Pull it slowly a few times then get it started. Run it for 2-3 minutes and dump the oil and out fresh in. Repeat this once more and run it. Bet you get 2 or 3 more years out of it. If they have a new spare engine for $300 buy it!
@@IndRepair I was able to pull the cord and turn it over a few times. It got tight and tighter until it wouldn't move anymore. You can't turn it by the blade. It's part of the belt system. I'll have to get to the motor shaft. Might be worth a try. Thank You!
@@IndRepair It has the max adjustment knob on it so it's variable. But pushing the handles all the way down makes no difference. It'll also speed up and slow down without any movement. It'll take some getting used to if I can't get the husky running.
I wouldn't recommend the M350 but the other two are a lot better design. I am also not a big fan of the drive on those two but the body is way better that the M350 and other MTD stuff
@@IndRepair why wouldn’t you recommend M350? I have are same just different color.SC900 has deck wash. They all have front axle issue due to plastic insert it sets in. Tomato 🍅 tomato 🍅
I need something that can semi brush cut, that can handle a semi forested kinda yard. I usually weed whack but its back on my back. Lots of rocks and uneven dirt. It needs to be able to take a beating.
If you want it to last go with something rated for commercial use if you can afford or even finance it. It will pay for itself in lack of frustration and downtime very quickly. If the deck isn't heavy/sturdy it likely will not hold up well to abuse like you and I put a mower through
I’m 22 and have no clue about lawn mowers, I don’t have a ton of money to get an expensive one and I’m not interested in a bunch of features as long as it works. What’s something I should specifically look into that’ll last?
Great advice and thoroughness across the product lines for the Toro and engine you recommend from Briggs & Stratton what series is that the 625 725? I will keep an eye out for the one with the blue filter DeWalt has introduced this year a very interesting 163 cc engine rear wheel drive mower which I know is MTD branded wondering if that is better the reviews initially seemed good
They made this style under a lot of different model names. The Dewalt is the same as all the other cheaper MTD models and has the cheaper Briggs engine on it. We had one in recently. The drivetrain did look like a different design to me but I didn't work on it so not positive
10:34 Sir, what is the Brand & actual Model number of that Orange mower with the crab leg front wheels?? I'd like to get that front wheel setup as parts if I can THANK YOU !
If you don't take care of it, it don't matter what you buy. So many people never bother to maintain any of the equipment they buy, and always complain about everything, but leave out the fact they never maintained it.
Do you know of any mowers that are self propelled and have a side chute or one that you can fit with a side chute. I have too much lawn for a bagger. I have back issues. Just fixed my broken pull cord on my self propelled 2011 snapper with a 7.25 Briggs and Stratton engine. The mower is heavy as a top of bricks the only problem. I have in my arsenal a old lawnboy self propelled with a magnesium deck and a two stroke engine. Was thinking of trying to get it up and running. Any ideas on other light weight mowers? Thank you David
The lawn boy would work well if not in bad shape. Light weight is pretty much everyone anymore because they are cheap metal. Toro makes a stamped model with the Loncin engine that works pretty good
I was looking at the more pricey Honda models that also has electric start, and still you have to adjust height down on each wheel like on the cheapest models. It's pretty bad that such an elementary funtionality hasn't been upgraded to a simple one button/lever pull and you raise/lower the whole deck in one go. I just want a brand new machine that I can trust for years to come, and in my country there are none of the models that are on Honda's own website, so maybe old models, I dunno. Will have all winter to think it through so hopefully I can just visit a shop and make some sense out of it if they got any new models(now it is snowblower time, so...).
I think honda never adopted to one handle for all four wheels thing because it in theory puts more stress on one area that could become a problem. The new Stihl gas powered mowers may fit the bill for what you are looking for also
If you look at the front of the engine directly behind the air cleaner you will see either metal or plastic at the bottom at the carburetor between the air filter and block
I respectfully disagree with your statement on Lawn Boy's (only 1 was in your shop for repair) unless your talking about any model after 2004's (when the EPA ruined the great 2 Cycle world). Best 2 Cycle mowers that kept Toro on their toes for a long time, until Toro bought them out in 1989 due to cash problems at Outboard Marine Corporation. I have a 2003 with the unprecedented 6.5 hp DuraForce Gold Series Commercial Grade engine (debuted in 1998) that is still a beast today. Didn't MTD make the lower end Lawn Boy's for Toro to keep the green machine low in the marketplace thus giving them a bad rep eventually?? *thumbs up earned*
Based on my limited experience...if you currently have one that you are happy with and cuts well; maintain and keep it as long as you can. The newer ones are junk...its like the manufacturers are trying to get us all to invest in $2K machines.
I'm exhausted looking for a mower. I am SO confused. My yard is a nightmare, and the only 200cc engines that I know of are the Toro at nearly the price of a rider and a YardMax which I see is terrible. Maybe I should just get some sheep and be done with it. At least I'd keep the grass cut, get a few dollars from wool once a year., and if the going gets too tough, dinner. :)
For me, aluminium decks are the way to go. Throw a briggs flathead or a ohv honda engine on there and you have a mower for life. Had chequered experiences with the gcv hondas. Coming from someone who both uses and fixes mowers for hours upon hours every week
For sure aluminum will last longer but they are a lot heavier and can end up seizing bolts after a period of time then they are a pain to repair. I love the Hondas but they have seen some issues occasionally, especially with the camshaft
People or I live just love to throw out perfectly AYP Craftsman mowers with the Briggs engine because they just get a new one instead of trying to fix it. Very rarely do I find one with a bent crankshaft.
Definitely was a great engine and many of them still around in good condition, although we are starting to see more and more in the 15-20 year old range with low compression or major engine wear. You would probably need 5 of the other Briggs engines to get you through that much time mowing
I bought a used Troy bill TBS 380 Porsche more. How fast are they for the engine speed and are they good mowers and what engine is on them? I bought you do you know how much they are brand new I can’t find anything on them. what the value is on them
I paid $100 it’s like new it needs a tune it’s rough to start who ever had it put to much oil In it that’s why it’s hard to start do you know what the problem could be
My $600 electric mower took a dump after 1 season. No idea what sensor or motor is burned out. My brother got out my aunts old 2003 Craftsman mower, put $30 of parts into it, and boom, im back mowing my lawn. Im not sold into this electric revolution just yet.
Battery operated correct? What brand was this? I see them new all the time with issues straight out of the box but only certain brands. Many recalls also
@@IndRepair in fairness it was a battery Ryobi, not Ego. Ego might be better, but I can't drop the $ right now. My electric Stihl weed Wacker has been great also.
Very good advice for sure 👍 People need to understand that they can’t afford the price of the better mowers now 😢😢😢😢 Obiden times will never be forgotten 😢
Honda guy here. Had an exmark 30 in with kohler engine, and it turned out to be the biggest mistake in my life. Heavy as hell, terrible cut quality, the deck would clump up with clippings (with the chute open), which resulted in my having to stop and clear out the deck every few steps. Had to take it in to have the gas tank replaced on day 1. After 3 days, bolts were missing. Had to sell it and lost $1000 just to get rid of it.
I’ve been driving HRX217HXA’s since 2005. I’d recommend them to anyone, but they have three Achilles heels: 1) The rear (drive) axle doesn’t have any convenient way to lube it where it goes through the wheel adjusters; when it dries out, the dry bushings prevent the mower from rolling backwards. The only fix is to disassemble the whole rear drive system so you can get grease into the bushings. Someone smarter than me needs to devise a modification for this. 2) It’s very heavy but the wheels are similar size to lighter mowers. In areas where the mower runs along the same path (along property lines, etc.), it can wear ruts into the yard. 3) Honda doesn’t include the governor shaft oil seal on vertical engines that are intended for vertical applications (mowers). The seal is readily available and easy to install, but without it, the cooling fins will end up coated in oil. When they put the same engine on horizontal applications (pressure washers), the seal is included from the factory. Again, if mine died today I’d go buy a used one with a GCV190. I’m going to anyway if I can find a well maintained one at a good price, just for the spare engine. If you buy one used, be sure to get the bagger frame and bag. For some reason they’ve skyrocketed in price.
Definitely great mowers! I have worked on several late seventy and early 80's Honda mowers that still run amazing. See several older briggs same way also
I bought a ten year old one last year for about CA$100. In fact, I was just using it today on a couple of lawns. I guess it's heavy compared to some machines but only about 2/3 the weight of my commercial Honda. Some and I would include my opinion is when the bag is full the unit has the tendency to rock backwards. That said, it's an excellent mulching machine and that's how I was using it today. It's incredibly quiet, even with the blade engaged, I liken it to a fan running next to a sewing machine.
The price of a new mower is nuts. I had a drive cable break on an old toro , and when I went and picked up the new cable I ask what a new toro like my personal paces was over 700 buck ! I will just fix my mower, on thanks to a new one.
Still probably quite a few left out there but from my understanding the engines will no longer be made either. Probably will take a couple years before supply runs out
Hey nice tutorial The new OHV Toro’s are garbage. Breaking down left and right I think it’s all the plastic engine components. Maybe do a break in oil change would help out.
@IndRepair ethanol free with marine stabil, run gas out end of season, never one carb issue. 22 years still NEVER have cleaned the carb! Wheels replaced couple times in rear and new cable. Oil change end of season, spark plug checked or changed, debris shaken off filter most of the time or changed if needed. Keep trying to buy another, but can't kill this one yet.
Strait up the old mowers with the quantum engines is the best like the old green craftsmans with the 6.5 hp quantums they are very tough super powerful and last forever
Matt I had to read comments to find your name as I have only subscribed recently I have Honda HRU216 commercial strong engine all the whistle's and bells only issue very heavy mower will last me for Ever.
@@IndRepair Thanks for the heads up. I had a Husquavarna AWD 3-1 that died on me after 14 years of use. The repair shop informed me they couldn't source parts for it. Husquavarna went WOKE for all electric. My backyard has a 20-25 degree incline which 7.5HP AWD huski could manage with ease. Grrr these WOKE Companies.
You know I never was a huge fan of the design but they sure will run forever! Seems like many of the parts are starting to become obsolete but the snapper with the Briggs is a solid machine. Thanks for the input, I definitely omitted that one
At this point i might revert back to my sickle. I can't trust anything new.
For sure. Deception is everywhere!
The 40 yr old lawnboys just keep chuggin
Yes, they sure do!
I hate all the TH-cam reviews with the damn affiliate links!
@@benyosep5640 Some are authentic, but most are obviously biased in the direction of money in the pocket
I moved to a new state and left my old Weedeater branded mower behind. I'm almost sorry as I thought it would be easy to replace. It had a Briggs engine. I bought it in 2002. Replaced the tank. Replaced the coil. It had a steel deck and was rusting. It got to be that it wouldn't restart when stopped. So I got 22 years of service out of it. Replaced blade twice. Bag was finally wearing holes in it. Wish I could get one just like it but new.
They definitely lasted forever if taken care of! Now even with good service you are lucky to get more than 5 years before major issues
masport 8.5hp commercial its a solid beefy mowers and tires are solid rubber size of monster truck tires and i love mine and huge solid blades
I have had Toros forever. My latest is 15 years old. It’s a Personal Pace with a Briggs and Stratton engine. I’ve had to replace the tires and that’s it. Basic maintenance has helped. Change oil, spark plug, and air filter yearly for my 4000 sq ft. Yard.
Thanks for sharing, that is our experience with them also. Great machine!
Maintenance is the key for sure. Most people ignore all that and wonder why their equipment never works the following season or why they have to replace it every year, or why its in the shop all the time. Another thing is to not use that ethanol gas garbage in any of these small engines.
Definitely!
After 2 Honda’s I’m extremely disappointed they have discontinued production. They are expensive but I have the best lawn on the street.
They definitely cut amazing!
I have a husqvarna sel -propelled mower with a Honda engine on it. I bought it at Lowe’s around 2019 and I love it. After I mow I wipe it down with car cleaners so it shines, and I do the under wash every time I’m done too. I change my oil, plugs and filter. It takes me about 4 hrs to do my lawn, due to a hill I can’t drive a big mower and I had people mow but they walked my lawn and I had to have it re-sodded. I don’t know what we’re going to do now that Honda is gone, and there doing away with gas mowers
@@sharonmenzel7791 I definitely agree there! We will be trying to keep the Honda's being sold today running for 20 years like many of them have lasted until now
I’ll vouch for my Toro Super Recycler, B&S, black bag, blade brake, model 20373, 14 years now and rock solid.
Absolutely a solid machine. Service it and take care an you will get another 14
Hang onto it! The new Toros are total garbage.
Getting lawn mower reviews from Tom hanks love it
Lol
2:35 I have that Kohler, The BS toro in front of it with e-start, and the honda slanted bucket toro super recycler. in 7 years I changed the oil once on that kohler and I got it free from a neighbors garage fire. Survived fine just the rope burned. Everyone says they hate that Kohler XT675 but they dont say why. Ive never had a problem in 7 years. 1 pull start. That B&S has a plastic cam.
They have a bad auto choke design that causes hard starting much worse than any of the other designs. Many times choke stays open instead of returning to closed. These also have a plastic camshaft
I have a murray push mower with the newer plastic carb and have had it for 5 or 6 years and it still runs like a top
That is great news, service is key with an engine like this
Great advice! I have a 19” Toro with an aluminum deck. I’ve replaced the old Tecumseh with a Chinese engine but the Toro parts are still as good as new after 33 years. My neighbor has a 2 cycle aluminum deck Lawnboy also over 30 years old. That old aluminum deck equipment was the best!!
Definitely! Thanks for sharing, that Is awesome!
I have 3 19" Toros 79' & 1980 with Tecumseh motors 1 needs a new motor which Chinese engine fits? Vertical shaft.
@@robertblacksmith4355 Depends on the model but there are quite a few out there that have the same shaft size. 25mm vs 1" on some
Update: ((optional add on) Toro part number 144-6377 traction assist handle kit) does fit all new Toro mowers that have the new baby carriage curved shape.
IMO you could make your own Toro's BTAH (Black Traction Assist Handle) from 2 pieces of wood in ((L) shape) and some bolts and washers.
Toro's BTAH converts Toro's PPM (Personal Pace Mowers) (which requires a person to push Toro's heavy mower forward before the self-propelled drive kicks in) to ((easily without effort) controlling Toro's self-propelled drive with just your fingers and hands without moving forward).
This is needed on steep hills where you need the Toro mower to pull you and this powerful mower up the hill without any effort on your part.
The powerful Toro mower can do this only with BTAH and not by Toro's PPM (extra exercise mode).
Without BTAH you end up pushing this heavy Toro mower up the hill.
Thank you for your help and understanding on this Toro (back breaking) mower issue.
Thanks for sharing
I’m going to rebuild by 1986 Snapper push mower. I paid $550 for it. Now one like it is about $1500.
Definitely a good thing! Crazy how much everything has went up!
i bought a $1,495.00 masport 8.5hp contractor model with a blade clutch on it and i love it it even mows over thick brush and doesnt hurt the machine wich it runs over brush and shreds like knife through butter mtd is junk wich made in canada
@@michaelmactavish4445 Nice!
So right now im debating between an Ariens razor with the B&S EXI725 engine versus a Troy-Bilt with the B&S ready start engine. They both have their own version of pace control im just wondering for longevities sake which i should pick. I unfortunately can't find a honda at any of the stores near me.
If the Briggs is the older style flat head I would go with it, otherwise they are about the same quality wise. The Ariens replacement parts are much more expensive should something fail
I was give a troy bolt runs great it's approx. 15 yrs old , only had to replace drive cable.
Nice!
Great analysis! I own a HRR216 Honda that's 3 years old now & love it. Of course, I do proper maintenance bc I'm mechanically inclined being a senior.👍🖖
Thank you! So much of mower longevity is maintenace, especially with the junk they are selling now
I'm a homeowner but have a large lawn. You're spot on regarding the Timemaster. I've owned mine for about 7 years and have repaired it more times than I care to admit. Complete garbage. Wish I'd known better before inviting the "Time Disaster" into my garage.
Absolutely! Thanks for sharing!
I went with a Timemaster for my 10k sqft yard. Loved the idea of it and and when its running well it has been pretty awesome. Seems to go through traction and blade belts too often and this year a tensioner pulley broke causing my blades to get out of time and scare the hell out of me lol. It's a 2018 and I just have this feeling it is time to get rid of it (especially while new prices are so crazy - I'm going to ask for more than what I bought it for used in 2019). I just got a new Honda HRX217HLA and so far I'm fine with spending the extra 15 minutes or so mowing the lawn.
@@ViralHeadcase Definite would get out from under it, with inflation many tractors are worth more than they were when bought new 5 years ago. Crazy! Father in law just bought a Honda because he couldn't get a Toro with a good engine anymore
G'day from Australia 🇦🇺
Subscribed
Cheers! Thank you!!
I have an EGO and I am on my 3rd season with it. I love it. I also have their string trimmer and 16” chainsaw that is 40cc equivalent.
Awesome!
What model Ego? I've returned both I tried. No suction power at all and struggled mulching
I got lucky with my old Lawn-Boy Insight. I bought it used 8 years ago and, other than basic maintainance and cleaning the carb, it's been perfectly reliable. The Tecumseh engine has plenty of power but I do worry about parts availability though.
Definitely a good engine just carburetor issues but proven to last. Ethanol free fuel solves most of these
Good information - especially for someone just starting out. If i can add a few thoughts...if your lawn is anything more than 45'x100' get yourself a self propelled unit. I personally would never use front wheel drive - only if you have very flat terrain - as a bag fills up - front drive lose traction - rear drive gets more traction. Home owner with more money to spend - newer Toro SR4...on a budget older Super Recycler with Briggs and Stratton GTS engine (watch for oil blow by - a little on cold start ok... better to have none)...I don't like personal pace - but it is what it is it's ok... Commercial operators - money is no object wide area walo behind get a Skag or a Ferris... definitely take this man's advice DO NOT BUY 30" Timemaster... cumbersome and awkward and problems galore...if you can afford an Exmark/Toro Commercial with a Kawasaki 180cc go for it...heavy...get blade brake clutch - one of the benefits of these machines...if you are on a budget or like me 15-20lbs makes a difference...if you can find them in good condition - John Deere 14SB/JX75 with Kawasaki 150cc engines...I love these mowers and choose them over Exmark/Toro commercial...parts can be getting scarce - beware...wheels are weakest component IMHO...you best be a tinkerer and self maintain/repair person if you go with old 14SB/JX75's...but you can often oick them up for little $...I haven't paid more than $200CAD and as little as $0 to $50 for them...these mowers were built to last and give an excellent cut quality - especially if bagging...they have mulch plugs and side discharge adapters available...As a final thought - Craftsman, Columbia, Troybilt, MTD, Husqvarna, yardworks etc etc...don't buy new...only buy used if it is a cottage/RV mower or small city lot... don't spend much (less than $100) and DO buy iver anything battery powered - they will last you longer and can be repaired or tossed because you have minimal invested...batteries are too expensive and don't last and aren't really repairable - usually narrower because they spin smaller and lighter duty blades...plastic...finally-yes i know I didn't mention Honda mowers or engines - personal preference... don't care for them and i mow for a living...others live them...cheers! Happy mowing!
All great information I agree with. I do love a Honda mower though, but I do not mow with them though. Loved the John Deere mowers but they are like others and getting too expensive/scarce for parts. They make many good units with the Kawasaki engine that are beefy like this Exmark (the John Deere mowers rather heavy also). I like the Personal Pace but it takes a little more of a form to start it otherwise you are working against the self propel. It really is too bad you have to spend so much money up front to avoid buying something that will break down very soon/often. Thanks for watching!
I bought my Timemaster in 2014, it had the original B&S 190 on it. It was underpowered but got the job done. I have replaced one transmission, the belt pulleys, until I pulled the front cover off and some belts and blades. I never had real problems with it until the beginning of this year (hard to start, surging, power problems). I finally had enough and decided to replace the engine instead of buying anything new. I replaced it with a Kohler CV224 and it has the power the machine needed from the beginning. I kept it in the garage all the time until the middle of last year when it went outside to make some room. It was covered but it still got rain on it and that, I think, more than anything is what wears a machine out. Now with the new engine and the commercial blade engagement brake and commercial pulleys I still have less into it than a 30" Scag with the same engine... While it hasn't been completely hands off it hasn't been a completely horrible machine. It has the commercial parts in the right places so I don't worry about longevity and until I have an extra 7K laying around for a 32" stand on mower the time master still gets the job done by half the amount of time I would spend with a 21" mower. Overall it has cost me around $15-18 per month in purchase/maintenance & running costs so I am still ahead of the game. And with the new engine it should last another 10-20 years which will make the costs even less.
That is awesome replacement idea for the engine!Glad to hear it is doing you well, just a homeowner using it correct? Not used commercially? About how big is the yard?
@@IndRepair Yes, residential use. My lot is a little over 1/3 of an acre.
That I'd a good amount of use on it, I am glad it kasted so long for you that is awesome
I have a Honda HRA214 self-propelled that’s 41 years old and still going strong. Inherited from the in-laws maybe 20 years ago, long before I knew anything about small engines except where to put the gas and oil, knock out the filter, oil the wheels and height adjustments and sharpen/balance the blade.
Until 2 years ago I never changed the oil - just checked it before running every time and topped it a couple times a year. Never even had a prefilter until yesterday!
Only ever had one problem - a broken small part connected with the front wheels not rolling backwards. That’s it!
I’d buy a used, old Honda over anything out there every time!
Now that I’ve taught myself small engine work I appreciate this mower even more. I still have it and use it as a loaner only to trusted relatives and customers.
I grew up with its brother, the HR214SX. I still have one hiding in my shed, it needs some work but the last time I had it out it was running relatively well for a close to 40 year old machine. Very much like the HRA but with an aluminum deck instead of stamped steel and gear shift was on the handle beside the engine throttle control instead of behind the engine. I had a couple HRA units too. I wasn't a fan of the position of the gear shifter but I can see some thinking that's a good spot and also removes a control cable.
They sure do last and last!
That is awesome!
I have a troy built with a briggs and it has not had issues. It was given to me used and i have been useing it for 8 years now.
Is it the Briggs with the blue filter? If so keep rocking with it for the next 17 years or so
@@IndRepair it’s the one with the oval filter that clogs up fast.
@@wardraven8755 Interesting! You must take care of it then, I do not hear that often. Awesome!
@@IndRepair not really just change the oil when needed and i have only replaced the air filter once or twice in 8 years. Im currently not using it because when i started it last time to mow it was surging so needs a air filter and ima just do a full service on it. So first new spark plug in 8 years.
Got a Toro SR4 20092 and a 2011 Snapper Ninja. Both have the older B&S motors and both run like champs!!
Definitely the cream of the crop!
I just retired my Toro Recycler 21 inch.. bought at home depot 5-6 years ago. (My mistake) The grass had been getting stuck between the blade and the body and with lack of throttle control just couldn't keep up unless you mow the lawn three times a week. Today I brought home a Masport 800 ST S21 3'n1 SPV, So far its cut everythig the Toro wouldn't
Interesting there. I have seen Masport around for a while I have thought about becoming a dealer of many different things but nothing jumps out at me like I feel it should if I am going to carry a line
Good overview of the walk behind mowers. You even covered the Husqvarna line! Great video.
Thanks for watching! I appreciate that
I had a Toro was only 2 years old can I keep losing Spark a torn apart and the flywheel was loose so I tighten it twice and when I took it out to cut the grass the motor started knocking tore it apart turn the flywheel over I had a crack from one side of the flywheel to the other I won't buy a Toro again that was $500 I got a old Troy-Bilt my brother gave me Motors knocking and it still goes we live on the hill we got about an acre of grass the cut battery it won't work for us we would kill going up and down the hill awesome video thank you for the video
Interesting, was this on the newer Briggs engine then I would suspect?
I have the newest Honda HRZ hydrostatic , zero regrets, it's amazing. You do need to change the hydrostatic oil though. I mow twice a week for like 6 months of the year , 9k sq ft of lawn.
Definitely agree there!
Can you recommend a good push mower with a brake stop that mulches and bags for 1/4 acre?
I would go with the Honda or an exmark similar to the one shown at the end of the video
I've bought a used toro self drive twice now over the last 10 years, they last a long time, I'm not a fan of the personal pace system on the newer ones, the plastic carbs are different and from what I see with those is you have to make the hole bigger when it gets clogged up after a few years, idk. I Def don't want a electric mower but pretty soon they will be all you can get I'm sure. Great video
My go to, the Personal Pace are so hard for people to start until they get the form down since you are constantly working against the self propelled with the way most people start them. Thanks for sharing
Great and informative video. I will say, I personally hunt for those old ayp craftsman’s with the tecumseh engines. They maybe old, but those engines just like to go as long as the carburetor is good. I wouldn’t recommend them to anyone else going used; but I can service them myself and have acquired enough NOS parts to keep them around for years to come.
Another little tidbit on those ayp craftsman’s, a lot of them have ball bearing wheels. Important to keep in mind if you own one and need to replace a wheel
If you can keep it going definitely a great idea!
If I knew anything about lawn mowers I'm sure your advice would help but...I'm an old lady who is shopping for an affordable self propelled lawn mower (with electric start) I am only going to get older and may not want to push 80lbs around my yard another 10 years or battle with trying to start it. I'm looking at a Toro 22" recycler with Personal Pace and electric start. Model #21464. Some reviews make is sound good, but other places I see it trashed. It has a Briggs and Stratton engine. Any experience or words of wisdom with these?
I would stay away from it because of the engine that is on it. If it has that style looking engine go for another model
thank you
@christinep. Glad to help!
@@IndRepair im glad i bought a 1495.00 a8.5hp commercial masport and its the best austrillian made and heavy duty solid beefy mower wich ive been happy with and its like a giant bush hog and mtds made in canada there junk
There are two mowers I swear by - any Toro SR4, and the lawn boy insight series - all 4 lines of insight. They just cut the best and hold up well.
Definitely!
The newer Honda gcv160 motor that comes on Husqvarna I have a question even though Honda is going out of business selling small engines will there still be parts available for something like that
So far Honda has been one of the cheapest and most reliable engine parts suppliers I would not see why that would change but since they stopped making them it may just
I need to replace my Toro Super Recycler, it’s 15 years old. I’m looking at a Bad Boy/YBravo. All metal transmission, Kawasaki commercial engine. Look pretty good.
Definitely a solid engine/machine
Honda's hydrostatic transmission is a game changer- but you will need to service it to make sure it's filled and air-bled properly. Mine was too low and after I finally fixed it (didn't want to haul the mower to a dealer or deal with arguing over whether its warranty issue) - I can highly recommend picking one up before you can't.
The auto-choke also is a joke- be prepared to spend $10-15 for a wax cartridge if you do any dusty rip outs- the dust slows the cartridge and makes the auto choke not work properly.
That decompression defect though- get that fixed.
Definitely love the old slide back choke mechanism (until they don't work). Thanks for watching
I have a sr4 from 2012 with the Honda engine and it’s still running like a champ! Sad to hear that Honda is discontinuing their lawn mowers because that was going to be the replacement.
Definitely a sad thing!
I actually got one of those toros with the Kohler exactly like the one you pointed at. It was free on the side of the road. Starts and runs good for now. But I'm not going to stick any money into it besides change the oil. Once it starts having issues it will be gone. I have another one of the kohler engines on a mower that was also free that thing smokes like a train and knocks but somehow still runs. It's got major engine issues. But it's only used on the rough and bad stuff so I'm not worried about it. 😅my brother inlaw actually has one on a lawnboy mower and it's actually a decent engine reliable for him. Good video!
Definitely use to worn out and old ones for the rough locations, this will keep your good equipment top notch. Thanks for your comment and for watching!
If that Briggs flathead was a truck engine, it would be a Ford 300 - nearly indestructible. Same goes for the Tecumseh Eager engines that Sears used - I actually used a couple of those mowers commercially. The Toro Super Recycler is about the best mulcher I've ever used - it leaves the yard with a bagged look. My experience with the Husqvarna's w/ the Honda engine was issues with the drive system handle breaking, the engine brake not working, and the transmission locking upon pulling the mower in reverse...I expected better quality from a $450 mower.
Definitely good info and I would agree with everything here
What about John Deere? I have a 20 yr old one that the belt just went. It's a self propelled one. I can't find a replacement belt .Do you know if they still make replacement parts?
Normally you can still get replacement parts for them. Do you have a model number?
@@IndRepair It's a JS25. My repair guy says just get a new mower because it's been in the shop more often lately.
Belt is part number 7100883YP
@@IndRepair Thank you very much. I think the lawn mower has some life in it yet.
Awesome!
Was given a Kohler engine lawnboy mower.. it's sat a few months and won't start.. I'm not sure if I should try to bring it back from the dead az i only bought a blade and air filter for it.
It worked when we got it..
Probably needs a carburetor clean, carburetor replaced or a thermal discount for the auto choke. See issues with them all the time but if you use ethanol free fuel it will solve many of these for you
@@IndRepair I'll remember to go ethanol free from here on.. what are your thoughts on the synthetic ethanol free gas options for lawnmowers?
@@rauldelarosa2768 It is great, we prefer Aspen engineered fuels
I always hear people say no to those Kohlers but I have had 1 for about 15 years and the thing runs like the day I bought it. Don't know if I was lucky cause I know a shop like yours sees everything but personally I could not be happier with mine. I had a Briggs that wore out piston rings in 2 seasons and that was the last one I ever bought. Thanks for the review of these units.
Interesting! You keep it serviced and use ethanol free fuel? Don't hear that one often!
@@IndRepair Just the basics. I use pump gas during the running months and ethanol free for winter storage but like you stated and the more I read I'm stating to think I have just been really lucky cause no one I see has much positive to say lol Maybe the basics is more than most. Thanks for the video.
@@jdub976 Yeah for sure! Basics is more than most but even those that take care of them seem to have issues. I saw it myself with mine
@@jdub976 We have a 2007 Lawn Boy with Kohler power. No problems so far. Got it new, been mowing 1-2 times a week all these years. Use none ethanol gas and Brad Penn racing oil..
Great news!
13:22 WHERE can you get those Kaw engines NEW??? around 8 to 10 HP , is that the largest SINGLE cylinder they sell?? I can't find them, HELP !
Any commercial dealer should have a mower with this engine on it
Great videos! Thank you! I am beginning my search for a good lower-end Zero turn mower. Have you done any reviews for those yet?
I sure have not, I will put it on the list
Hi what is your point of view on a 21387 Toro super recycler with the 190cc Briggs it’s an older model but I found a new one or is a Honda hrn216 a better option
Thanks for the great video
Personally I would stick with the Honda since those Toro Recyclers have the larger Briggs but newer style engine is not well made. This is the route I sent the in-laws in when his mower went
Awesome !
A really appreciate you responding, I will definitely look into into the Honda
Glad to help
I have an MTD push mower I bought as a return item for $135 at Home Depot. I figured if it died no big deal, I had just bought my house so needed something cheap and quick. 7 years later and it’s still running like new. Just change the air filter, oil and spark plug every year.
Nice!!
Are the new toro awd 163cc as quick as the honda hrn216vyu? And is the toro personal pace a good system or annoying to use? Thanks.
I believe they are a little slower than the honda but still a good speed. I like the personal pace but some people really do not like to try and maneuver it. I would go to a dealer and see if they have a floor model to try out first
Thanks, any idea about Baumr-AG Lawn Mower 139CC 17"? Thanks
I do not have any first hand experience with them but they seem just like a Chinese engine and standard design. I would make sure that you can get parts for them and if so would say it should be a decent mower for a smaller yard
@@IndRepair thank you so much
Glad to help!
I bought a 1984 782 d diesel cub cadet mower one of the best mower out here I also bought a cub cadet push mower self propelled a great mower also
The cub cadet has the same design as the one Troy Bilt in the video I believe. Not a bad engine, drive train and body not great but they will work well if you take care of them. Definitely use ethanol free fuel
Thanks for the video and tips. Helpful
Glad to help!
Just met this guy at his shop today, super nice dude, sold me a hell of a fuckin mower for the low!!!
Nice to meet you! 😊
@@IndRepair hell yeah brother, come to my coffee shop some time, balanced brews , Leroy Illinois.
@@dr.flinch6745 I don't get over that way often but next time I do I will come by
@@IndRepair sounds good bud, do you sharpen mower blades there?
@@dr.flinch6745 We sure do!
John Deere also made some alright mowers. I have a JS45 castor ball bearing wheels and I bought it in 2010 and it’s mowing good! I think John Deere hired snapper to make them because it has the exact same high vac deck and bagging system as a snapper but instead has a normal transmission unlike a snapper with the friction disc which I hear mixed reviews about. It has a 190cc 8.75 motor which is a intek. Luckily it’s not the new style of 190cc Briggs that have plastic all around because it actually has metal. I love the mower because it cuts wet grass fine and doesn’t loose power. Just the coil is bad and starts first pull when cold but the second the coil is warm it takes 20 pulls. I’ve checked the valves and they are fine. I would love to see a video like this about snowblowers! I’m debating on buying a MTD 8/24 snowblower with a Tecumseh on it over a new Briggs which also have mixed reviews and quality.
I agree, they did make some decent mowers. The parts are ridiculously prices, of course. The friction drive is a pain to work on and has its issues but works pretty well in this application overall. I would definitely choose the older 8/24 with the Tecumseh. Tecumseh was called the Snow King for a reason. Great engine
@@IndRepair What I like about my John Deere is that they have parts. They are pretty expensive, but I can always repair them. Since it's the middle of summer, I can save myself hella money by buying an old snowblower now! I have good experience with my 5 horse Tecumseh besides being underpowered.
Definitely!
It seems odd to me that there are very few brands that have fuel shutoff. I've watched a lot of videos of repairs of small engines, and it always seems that the carburetors are gummed up. I always turn the fuel off on my Honda, and let it run out of gas before putting it up.
Definitely a strange thing for us too, only makes sense if you don't care much about the equipment your selling
I had a powersmart come into my shop. That had a broken crank and sump. The customer said he stalled in in tall grass. And there was no blade damage. I put a used briggs 5.50 on it for him and he was happy.
Crazy how easily we see them fail. The old Briggs is definitely a winner on push mowers
tell me if it is worth buying a lawn mower Solo by AL-KO 548K ???
I have never seen one in person but it looks like a very well built machine
Was one of the early Toros you mentioned not to buy a 22” Recycler? Perhaps Toro model 20333? I was looking at one used locally.
The Tecumseh engine on it is not the best but some people love them
I made the massive mistake of buying a Toro 30” Timemaster 2 years ago. ($1499) Just had a pulley failure which destroyed the synchronous belt. I replaced two pulleys and the belt. I’ll probably take the $$ hit and sell it. I’m so disappointed; thought this would be my forever mower. I’ll most likely get a 21” SR-4 ($800) OR jump off the cliff and try EGO electric mower.
I noticed no Troy-Bilt in your shop…good brand??
Thanks for the gold mine of info!!!
Definitely what I would do, they just break so often/easily!
Troy bilt is made by MTD we get more MTD products than anything stay away in my opinion
Don’t buy ego if you go electric.. the Milwaukee is the best electric
@@pillcosby3949 I haven't seen many of them but them seem built well
A LOT of great information. Need to watch several times to get all info.
Thanks for watching Steve!
So should I buy a Honda HRX217 ??????
Great mower
Great video Matt. Keep them coming. 👍👍
Thanks for watching!
I had a gift card for Lowe’s so I was locked in to craftsman or ego, I went with the craftsman m230($500!). The hard plastic wheels are ripping up my lawn, I’m going to have pump the oil out as it has no drain plug(oil change free design🤷🏻♂️). Anything special besides the plastic carbs on those I should take extra care to maintain? Thanks
Make sure the bolts attaching the frame to the axle plastics don't back out (of course change the oil/filter)
@@IndRepair going to have to siphon the oil out, that’s the design. Thanks !
Definitely, either siphon it or tip over to the side with oil fill tub closest to ground and air filter up
I seized the engine on my Husqvarna 725AWD with the B&S 190cc engine about 4 days ago. I've used it for about 8 years. It's been a workhorse with zero issues. What are the chances I can free up the engine and get it working again? Yes, I made a super rookie mistake of running it out of oil. We've been working on a major renovation since February and getting the grass cut was just a distraction. Now I'm paying the price. I went out and bought a new Honda HRX217 with the 200cc engine as a replacement but not super happy with the drive system. Especially on hills it just doesn't work. Almost like there's a clutch slipping. The wheels don't even spin. I've actually considered replacing the engine on the Husky. A local dealer has the exact replacement engine in stock for around $300 including tax. What are your thoughts on this?
Put some oil in it and get it to free up by moving the blade (unplug the spark plug first to make sure it does not start). Pull it slowly a few times then get it started. Run it for 2-3 minutes and dump the oil and out fresh in. Repeat this once more and run it. Bet you get 2 or 3 more years out of it. If they have a new spare engine for $300 buy it!
Honda likely just needs the drive cable adjusted to better suit your needs
@@IndRepair I was able to pull the cord and turn it over a few times. It got tight and tighter until it wouldn't move anymore. You can't turn it by the blade. It's part of the belt system. I'll have to get to the motor shaft. Might be worth a try. Thank You!
@@IndRepair It has the max adjustment knob on it so it's variable. But pushing the handles all the way down makes no difference. It'll also speed up and slow down without any movement. It'll take some getting used to if I can't get the husky running.
Engage the clut h then see if you can get it to turn the engine. Worth a shot otherwise turn the flywheel after removing the recoil
RWD only way to go! TBWC23, Craftsman M350 Cub Cadet SC900
All great mowers.
I wouldn't recommend the M350 but the other two are a lot better design. I am also not a big fan of the drive on those two but the body is way better that the M350 and other MTD stuff
@@IndRepair why wouldn’t you recommend M350? I have are same just different color.SC900 has deck wash. They all have front axle issue due to plastic insert it sets in. Tomato 🍅 tomato 🍅
@@gravelewok8284 Just the standard MTD design, I like ball bearing axles much better but definitely few and far between anymore with that design
I need something that can semi brush cut, that can handle a semi forested kinda yard. I usually weed whack but its back on my back. Lots of rocks and uneven dirt. It needs to be able to take a beating.
If you want it to last go with something rated for commercial use if you can afford or even finance it. It will pay for itself in lack of frustration and downtime very quickly. If the deck isn't heavy/sturdy it likely will not hold up well to abuse like you and I put a mower through
I’m 22 and have no clue about lawn mowers, I don’t have a ton of money to get an expensive one and I’m not interested in a bunch of features as long as it works. What’s something I should specifically look into that’ll last?
I would look for a Briggs & Strattong with the flat head used in good condition will last a long time and not break the bank
Great advice and thoroughness across the product lines for the Toro and engine you recommend from Briggs & Stratton what series is that the 625 725? I will keep an eye out for the one with the blue filter
DeWalt has introduced this year a very interesting 163 cc engine rear wheel drive mower which I know is MTD branded wondering if that is better the reviews initially seemed good
They made this style under a lot of different model names. The Dewalt is the same as all the other cheaper MTD models and has the cheaper Briggs engine on it. We had one in recently. The drivetrain did look like a different design to me but I didn't work on it so not positive
10:34 Sir, what is the Brand & actual Model number of that Orange mower with the crab leg front wheels?? I'd like to get that front wheel setup as parts if I can THANK YOU !
Sorry, not sure but Ariens commercial mowers were made with this same design for a long time
If you don't take care of it, it don't matter what you buy. So many people never bother to maintain any of the equipment they buy, and always complain about everything, but leave out the fact they never maintained it.
Definitely
Damn thats alot of work you got there my mom was in her 70s using electric mower she loved it i am a personal pace fella
I love the personal pace too but the wife despises it and she does all the trimming
@@IndRepair glad you got good wife and herlper
Yes sir couldn't do any of it without her
No thing beats Honda.
They make a great mower
Do you know of any mowers that are self propelled and have a side chute or one that you can fit with a side chute. I have too much lawn for a bagger. I have back issues. Just fixed my broken pull cord on my self propelled 2011 snapper with a 7.25 Briggs and Stratton engine. The mower is heavy as a top of bricks the only problem. I have in my arsenal a old lawnboy self propelled with a magnesium deck and a two stroke engine. Was thinking of trying to get it up and running. Any ideas on other light weight mowers?
Thank you David
Repair the 2-cycle Lawnboy.
The lawn boy would work well if not in bad shape. Light weight is pretty much everyone anymore because they are cheap metal. Toro makes a stamped model with the Loncin engine that works pretty good
Definitely!
I was looking at the more pricey Honda models that also has electric start, and still you have to adjust height down on each wheel like on the cheapest models. It's pretty bad that such an elementary funtionality hasn't been upgraded to a simple one button/lever pull and you raise/lower the whole deck in one go.
I just want a brand new machine that I can trust for years to come, and in my country there are none of the models that are on Honda's own website, so maybe old models, I dunno.
Will have all winter to think it through so hopefully I can just visit a shop and make some sense out of it if they got any new models(now it is snowblower time, so...).
I think honda never adopted to one handle for all four wheels thing because it in theory puts more stress on one area that could become a problem. The new Stihl gas powered mowers may fit the bill for what you are looking for also
How can you tell which engines have the plastic carburetor?
If you look at the front of the engine directly behind the air cleaner you will see either metal or plastic at the bottom at the carburetor between the air filter and block
Little confused on the good vs bad Briggs engine. My Toro Recycler Max has the EXI Series 7.25 GT 163cc engine. Wondering which category it falls in
It is one of the lower end engines made with mostly plastic parts
Sorry I couldn't answer you differently
I bought my Toro push mower back in 2002, and it's still running strong. Replaced back wheels and pull rope. Everything else is all original.
Definitely something we see quite a bit with this mower. They sure don't make them like they used to
I respectfully disagree with your statement on Lawn Boy's (only 1 was in your shop for repair) unless your talking about any model after 2004's (when the EPA ruined the great 2 Cycle world). Best 2 Cycle mowers that kept Toro on their toes for a long time, until Toro bought them out in 1989 due to cash problems at Outboard Marine Corporation. I have a 2003 with the unprecedented 6.5 hp DuraForce Gold Series Commercial Grade engine (debuted in 1998) that is still a beast today. Didn't MTD make the lower end Lawn Boy's for Toro to keep the green machine low in the marketplace thus giving them a bad rep eventually?? *thumbs up earned*
Old 2 cycle Lawn Boys are still around today, they were rock solid but the newer stuff not so much. I believe they did. I appreciate that!
All those mowers are so clean!! Definitely makes it much nicer to work on them when they are clean😊
Haha that is for sure!
Based on my limited experience...if you currently have one that you are happy with and cuts well; maintain and keep it as long as you can. The newer ones are junk...its like the manufacturers are trying to get us all to invest in $2K machines.
Definitely!
Thanks❤
Thanks for watching!
I'm exhausted looking for a mower. I am SO confused. My yard is a nightmare, and the only 200cc engines that I know of are the Toro at nearly the price of a rider and a YardMax which I see is terrible. Maybe I should just get some sheep and be done with it. At least I'd keep the grass cut, get a few dollars from wool once a year., and if the going gets too tough, dinner. :)
Grab a Honda 190cc new while you can
For me, aluminium decks are the way to go. Throw a briggs flathead or a ohv honda engine on there and you have a mower for life. Had chequered experiences with the gcv hondas. Coming from someone who both uses and fixes mowers for hours upon hours every week
For sure aluminum will last longer but they are a lot heavier and can end up seizing bolts after a period of time then they are a pain to repair. I love the Hondas but they have seen some issues occasionally, especially with the camshaft
@@IndRepair i dont mind that side of it usually. Have often taken every bolt out of customers machines and put antiseize on the bolts
Helps tremendously! Kudos to you
@@IndRepair generally to regular customers machines cos i know ill be the misfortune who has to work on it next lol
I know that is right! Saves a ton of time in the future
What are your thoughts on the Toro commercial mowers?
Many of them are just Exmarks with a different label good mowers most models
People or I live just love to throw out perfectly AYP Craftsman mowers with the Briggs engine because they just get a new one instead of trying to fix it. Very rarely do I find one with a bent crankshaft.
Definitely was a great engine and many of them still around in good condition, although we are starting to see more and more in the 15-20 year old range with low compression or major engine wear. You would probably need 5 of the other Briggs engines to get you through that much time mowing
I bought a used Troy bill TBS 380 Porsche more. How fast are they for the engine speed and are they good mowers and what engine is on them? I bought you do you know how much they are brand new I can’t find anything on them. what the value is on them
I mean, Troy built TBS 380
Good Briggs engine no so great body / drive train. It will last if you take good care of it keep it clean
I paid $100 it’s like new it needs a tune it’s rough to start who ever had it put to much oil In it that’s why it’s hard to start do you know what the problem could be
Too much oil will do it. Drain it down to a good level if not running good probably has a gummed up carburetor
My $600 electric mower took a dump after 1 season. No idea what sensor or motor is burned out. My brother got out my aunts old 2003 Craftsman mower, put $30 of parts into it, and boom, im back mowing my lawn. Im not sold into this electric revolution just yet.
Battery operated correct? What brand was this? I see them new all the time with issues straight out of the box but only certain brands. Many recalls also
@@IndRepair in fairness it was a battery Ryobi, not Ego. Ego might be better, but I can't drop the $ right now. My electric Stihl weed Wacker has been great also.
Ryobi, kobalt and greenworks we see rather often. Definitely expensive the good ones
Brother my makita did the same shit not even a year in and is done back to gas it is
Very good advice for sure 👍
People need to understand that they can’t afford the price of the better mowers now 😢😢😢😢
Obiden times will never be forgotten 😢
For sure!
Honda guy here. Had an exmark 30 in with kohler engine, and it turned out to be the biggest mistake in my life. Heavy as hell, terrible cut quality, the deck would clump up with clippings (with the chute open), which resulted in my having to stop and clear out the deck every few steps. Had to take it in to have the gas tank replaced on day 1. After 3 days, bolts were missing. Had to sell it and lost $1000 just to get rid of it.
Interesting take on the 30" exmark! We see about 50 a year, never have I heard that complaint!
The Kohler Engine, I agree, is junk on these smaller mowers. They make a few good engines but not this one!
Please raise the volume for us really old folks ❤
He did get too far from microphone, near the end.
I will pay closer attention to this, got a clip on microphone and it picked up too much background or white noise
You just can't beat the Briggs flat head engines, they run for ever.
If taken care of they sure will!
The Loncin engine is actually very durable as well. Cast iron cylinder liner, crank bearings instead of bushings, triple piston rings.
I agree. I just prefer the Briggs
Clear as mud
Glad you caught on
TY for Sharing
I appreciate you watching Ken!
I’ve been driving HRX217HXA’s since 2005. I’d recommend them to anyone, but they have three Achilles heels:
1) The rear (drive) axle doesn’t have any convenient way to lube it where it goes through the wheel adjusters; when it dries out, the dry bushings prevent the mower from rolling backwards. The only fix is to disassemble the whole rear drive system so you can get grease into the bushings. Someone smarter than me needs to devise a modification for this.
2) It’s very heavy but the wheels are similar size to lighter mowers. In areas where the mower runs along the same path (along property lines, etc.), it can wear ruts into the yard.
3) Honda doesn’t include the governor shaft oil seal on vertical engines that are intended for vertical applications (mowers). The seal is readily available and easy to install, but without it, the cooling fins will end up coated in oil. When they put the same engine on horizontal applications (pressure washers), the seal is included from the factory.
Again, if mine died today I’d go buy a used one with a GCV190. I’m going to anyway if I can find a well maintained one at a good price, just for the spare engine.
If you buy one used, be sure to get the bagger frame and bag. For some reason they’ve skyrocketed in price.
Definitely great mowers! I have worked on several late seventy and early 80's Honda mowers that still run amazing. See several older briggs same way also
I bought a ten year old one last year for about CA$100. In fact, I was just using it today on a couple of lawns. I guess it's heavy compared to some machines but only about 2/3 the weight of my commercial Honda. Some and I would include my opinion is when the bag is full the unit has the tendency to rock backwards. That said, it's an excellent mulching machine and that's how I was using it today. It's incredibly quiet, even with the blade engaged, I liken it to a fan running next to a sewing machine.
Yeah they sure had a good muffler system and love the blade brake clutch and full controls
What about the murray mowers
They are made by MTD anymore but some of the older ones were made pretty well
The price of a new mower is nuts. I had a drive cable break on an old toro , and when I went and picked up the new cable I ask what a new toro like my personal paces was over 700 buck ! I will just fix my mower, on thanks to a new one.
It sure is crazy!
Hopefully Honda still makes Honda engines for lawn mowers for mower builders.
Still probably quite a few left out there but from my understanding the engines will no longer be made either. Probably will take a couple years before supply runs out
Hey nice tutorial
The new OHV Toro’s are garbage. Breaking down left and right
I think it’s all the plastic engine components. Maybe do a break in oil change would help out.
Thanks for the comment! I have not seen much of it but was wondering how the Loncin engines would hold up to abuse
2002 Toro Tecumseh engine still running strong in 2024!
Good engine just carburetor issues like everything else!
@IndRepair ethanol free with marine stabil, run gas out end of season, never one carb issue. 22 years still NEVER have cleaned the carb! Wheels replaced couple times in rear and new cable. Oil change end of season, spark plug checked or changed, debris shaken off filter most of the time or changed if needed. Keep trying to buy another, but can't kill this one yet.
Awesome job keeping it going 👏
Strait up the old mowers with the quantum engines is the best like the old green craftsmans with the 6.5 hp quantums they are very tough super powerful and last forever
For sure great engine
Matt I had to read comments to find your name as I have only subscribed recently I have Honda HRU216 commercial strong engine all the whistle's and bells only issue very heavy mower will last me for Ever.
Definitely! It is actually Martin. Thanks for watching!
It’s Martin actually
What about Snapper?
Old school Snapper mowers are great, much of the new stuff is just branded Snapper but made by MTD. If it looks like those, avoid it
@@IndRepair Thanks for the heads up. I had a Husquavarna AWD 3-1 that died on me after 14 years of use. The repair shop informed me they couldn't source parts for it. Husquavarna went WOKE for all electric. My backyard has a 20-25 degree incline which 7.5HP AWD huski could manage with ease. Grrr these WOKE Companies.
Should be able to get one now online about anywhere seems like
HOnda or Exmark. Got it.
Toro, exmark and a few others that make some good commercial models but 95% of consumer mowers will fail in a short amount of time
Don't forget about a used Snapper disc drive mower.
You know I never was a huge fan of the design but they sure will run forever! Seems like many of the parts are starting to become obsolete but the snapper with the Briggs is a solid machine. Thanks for the input, I definitely omitted that one