Well it appears to be a 30" IF original. Date of mfg has to come from the mfg., they do not use a year code. In my opinion, $500 for an 8 hp RER Snapper is awfully high and would have to be in "new" condition. They haven't used 8 hp engines for many years. Walt Conner

"It almost feels like a tooth is missing on a gear and the chain is 'jumping' over the missing tooth." Yah, could be. I recommend standing it on its rear standards, after taking necessary precautions with the battery and gas tank. Grasp both wheels and give a vigerous pull then push on both of them at the same time. Do this at various intervals all the way around a time or two. Then try each wheel separately. Do you feel anything catch, jump, etc? It could be the teeth of one of the axle shafts have worn out or some gears are pressed on the short, right hand, axle shafts and they some times come off. Might be a chain as you said or a spider gear in differential. Hope it is not an axle ass'y problem as they are no longer available aftermarket and going to be expensive from Snapper. Walt Conner

I have no experience with the 42" model but I am sure they are the same as other models. You don't put grease inside the boots, it works its' way there from the properly filled gear boxes. Walt Conner

I Need help to replace the deck belt and the friction drive rubber ring? where to buy the rubber ring for the drive? it has cracks, worn out. I there any good technique to do? My RER Snapper is a 33 Hivac model, also the deck is so low how do i raise the deck for a higher cut? held by 2 cables. My grass is high now any ideas is very much appreciated. Thank you