Roadbike, of _course_ I'm comparing CR's reliability reports to those of other research journals. Gathering data, reporting on it, and analyzing it is what CR purports to be doing. What else should they be compared to? I am _not_ talking about their individual product tests - I'll get to that in a minute since you brought it up - but rather these data compilations from which CR expects its readers to draw conclusions. There are literally thousands of research journals in all kinds of fields, and their processes are standardized and transparent. And there's a reason: because you can't draw conclusions about sample data or generalize such conclusions beyond the sample if the research isn't rigorous, well controlled, and transparent. The fact that CR is sampling owners of mowers is no excuse for their piss-poor work, anymore than if they were surveying patients in a research study for medication compliance. The research is only useful if it meets research standards. Such things as interrator reliability (where different-branded mowers that are the same under the paint and made in the same factory should have the same result) matter. If the reports aren't reliable or valid, then what is the point of buying the magazine!?! Why would _anyone_ buy CR if they didn't think the info in it was reliable or valid? That would just be plain stupid. But it's not, and all the advertisement of their _journalists_ in white lab coats won't change that. Speaking of their product tests, I recall one test of an Echo blower that was tested in some standardized way (ANSI? OSHA? I forget) and reported with some sort of decible rating for that lab test. CR purported to replicate the test and got a louder result, and called Echo liars in writing. Unfortunately, they didn't know all the original test procedures and therefore couldn't possibly replicate the standardized testing. But that didn't stop them from smearing the Echo product all to hell and back. Even after Echo wrote a letter protesting the incorrect procedures, CR wrote a rebuttal saying "Echo does have a choice: tell the truth about their product!" That not only shows a lack of willingness to listen, but also a fundamental misunderstanding of proper testing procedures.

Hello again Sargeant, Well the JD is out of warranty and I cannot buy an extended service plan that covers the "drive train". But after taking engine_tech UtahÂs advice and checking them both out head to head the JD is just a great machine and there is no comparing the two. It is a hard thing for me since I am a warranty nut, but I think based on your "objective" input and from talking to the local JD dealer that I will go with the X304. I canÂt thank you enough for putting the time and effort into helping me with your knowledge and insight. It is a big investment/need for my family and I have the ability, (at times), to out think myself when trying to make the right call. I can be a "ROCKHEAD", (my wifeÂs description), when I am trying to gather information to help in making a decision, so on behalf of my wife, kids, neighbors, coworkers and of course myself thank you for the help, your input has been a great help. Have a great day. Scott

Because you're still wrestlin' with the problem, I'm gonna throw in another 2 cents - so, you're into me for 4 cents, now. wavinwayne is right about the JD network. Deere supports their equipment for a long time after manufacture of any given model ceases. My Deere dealer is primarily in business for agriculture, but has had in stock every part for my old STX-38's that I've ever needed. And their prices have never been out of line, that I can tell. Can't speak about Sears support. But keep in mind that most of the parts you're going to need are available from a variety of places - belts, filters, blades, an occasional battery or tire, and engine parts (which will be from Briggs, or Kawasaki, or Kohler - not the tractor manufacturer.) Deere, Husqvarna, MTD - none of them actually make the parts that I've listed. They buy the engines, transmissions, belts, tires, batteries, etc. from suppliers, and these things are available from nearly any lawn equipment repair shop. Still, there may be a requirement to replace some part that must come from the manufacturer. jopopsy recommends the Snapper rear-engine rider. For the size and description of your property, I think the Snapper RER would be an excellent machine. I didn't recommend it in my first response because you said you wanted to pull an aerator. Except for that, the Snapper would have been my first recommendation (note that this is an opinion). My 96-year-old mother has a Snapper RER that is at least 30 years old, and still plugging along (both my mother and the mower). That old machine has seen more use and abuse than any lawn mower I've ever seen. I've said before, the Snapper RER aint purty, and it ain't sexy - what it is is one hell-for-stout lawn mower. I don't think you'll go wrong with any of the machines mentioned so far. If there is a Lowe's near you, go by and take a look at the Husqvarna that they sell for $1499 - it appears to me to be an excellent buy at that price. If there's a Husqvarna dealer in the neighborhood, he'll probably have it at the same price.

I didn't mean to offend anyone with my comment on Husqvarna and Craftsman. After retiring (30 yrs. aviation mechanic) I have worked the last 4 years for a John Deere dealer in the parts department. We also sell several other brands. I have learned a great deal about mowers and sell hundreds of parts every week. All brands have models that have specific problems. I see several people each week frustrated trying to get parts for MTD, Craftsman and other brands. Sears here sells mowers but does not carry parts. When I see a person come in with a Husqvarna steering sector looking for a bushing which is thin plastic I don't consider that to be high quality. Anyway, the John Deere X300 series is a good unit, but I would go with a 48C deck rather than a 42". When you get up to the X500 series you get a heavier duty transaxle, actual wheel bearings instead of bushings, etc. I'm sure this is true for most brands, you get what you pay for. I haven't had any problems getting parts for the LX188 so you should be able to keep it running for many more years.