Does the snapper dealer have any older "used" models that would have the traction control for sale? You might be able to get a real nice tractor thats a couple years old for what a new lower end model would cost. Also you would get the Briggs Vanguard which is a much better engine and the entire tractor would outlast the newer entry leve one. Alot of us have done this on the board.

Case in point I bought a 2000 john deer gt235 last spring for $1900. and the newer replacement models are over $5000 with similar features. Snapper makes good products on the higher end but not sure who makes the one your looking at.
Godd luck and keep us posted and also do a serch on here about snapper.

Don't forget to check Craigslist. I picked up a GT255 for $150 with a snow thrower and all of the goodies. Mint!

Thanks. Did find the search function after posting and have read up a little on the company management issue. Sounds to me like I should drop some of the notion related to "superior" and consider them price per price/ feature to feature to models sold in box stores.

As for used, I agree that deals can be found, but I grew up in a household with 10 used mowers and the worst lawn in the neighborhood. We just unloaded my fiancee's JD that she had bought used because her dad said "you have to get a JD." Unfortunately he was in Florida and she ended up with a pretty green lemon...

Fortunately, I ended up with little less of my father's engineering genius and a lot more of my mother's elbow grease. If I can find a great used deal before mowing season I will take your advice.

Going to an auction this weekend to look at a drum set for one of the boys. See they have a cub cadet with 11 hours listed...

Thanks again.

Simplicty had been extremely well managed and purchased Snapper along with the commercial ZTR company Ferris. Then a couple years ago they sold to Brigg and Stratten.

To be honest, I really haven't heard much negative about the sale with the exception that Simplcities older factory in Wisconsin is shuting down and moving to the larger capacity plant "I believe located in Georgia", but that may turn out to be a good thing in the long run ( I really don't know). The machines themselves look to be little changed since before Briggs purchased them.

I really like my Conquest. I too noticed a great reduction in the scalping of the yard, at least compared to the Yardsman tractor I previously had.

Well, I'm back to were I started. Bought a craftsman "pro series" last night. My buddy got one with the 42" deck and 24hp Briggs ELS for $1800. I had wanted the snapper he pointed me to, but the model I wanted was just to much for what they wanted without enough benefit for me.

I got the 46" model with the Kohler 25hp engine. They wanted $2000 for it, but a trip to Lowe's showed they were giving away free 10 cf carts with all JD and Husq. So Sears ended up selling me the 46" for $2037 including tax and a "free" 12 cf cart. (MSRP $2500 plus $150 for cart. With tax, a savings of $700 off retail ain't too shabby. Best I could get on the Snapper was $2600)

Thats only $400 more than my last Poulan Pro from Sears and this is more than twice the tractor. Also, techically better than the snapper I could barely afford in many areas. (thicker, welded frame and better engine) If I get seven years on this one or sell for decent price in four or five I will be happy. Between mine and my buddy's, I will let you know how this model shakes out.

One knock already: the Black with bright yellow highlights isn't doing anything for me.

Plan for next tractor is 4WD and 3pt hitch in a few years.

Thanks again for everyone's input. We both pick them up Saturday. Keep you posted.

Congrats! I actually like the black paint better than some of the other Craftsman colors. Now you will have to race your friend to see which is faster.

Update: buddy got mad at my deal and renegotiated. He's getting the 46" with 25hp Kohler too at same price. Doesn't want the trailer, so he's negotiating a bagger tomorrow with the senior manager. Only problem is he has to wait until next Saturday now. Good thing spring is a few weeks late here.

Question: His current tractor is a JD L100 I believe. Solid mechanically, but missing a lot of horses. Any ideas on a sale price for him? Any benefit to re-build engine before sale? Starts and runs fine, just no a**. Cost/ hassle of re-build vs increased sale price?

He can probably get a replacement 1-banger, 15 to 17hp engine from a small-engine-surplus outfit, for less than $500, and can get it as low as $250.