No it is not self propelled. It does sound like either exhaust or just a loud engine. There is no grinding or other odd sound. I did put a new muffler on it. Do you think that is just how it is supposed to sound? Thanks for the replies!

I couldn't find the shop manual for my 2012 RER (it's either a 7800784 or 7800785 ) through the Snapper website, so I sent them an email. They sent me a PDF copy of the last Snapper RER shop manual, published several years ago. Cosmetics of the newer models have changed but not the mechanics. Also, my RER drives fine without the blade engaged. Once I engage the blade, everything is fine until I apply the brake/clutch pedal again. When I release the brake/clutch pedal, the mower will not move forward unless I rock it back and forth. But it will work in reverse. And the problem moving forward is worse if I have applied the brake/clutch pedal and placed it in reverse and then try a forward gear. I'm assuming that the problem lies in the drive disc height adjustment. I plan to replace the driven disc while I'm at it. The shop manual shows a "Tool To Hold Driven Disc #3-2392" that will help with removing/installing the driven disc and it will also help with setting the correct distance for the drive disc. The current part number appears to be 7060601YP Snapper or Briggs & Stratton and may be called a "Drive Disc Adjustment Tool" or "Adjustment Gauge".

I have several of them! The best one is the largest deck model they made-33 inch. I bought it in 1983, and have been using it every year since, and it is a great machine! Of course, the engine, a 12 h.p. Briggs, finally stuck its tongue out, one day, and refused to start any more! (After 12 years, or so!) I have used mine for mowing, cart hauling, leaf gathering, and anything i need dragged around the yards! I installed a newer used engine on it, and went right on, using it for everything. Nice thing, it is low centered of gravity, easy to get on and off, simple to run, and a good all-around usage machine! Some complain about its tendency to "rear up", but that problem is addressed by starting out in first gear, and never headed up hill, with a full grass catcher bag on the back! The newer machines have a "soft start disc" that negates the "wild-horse" start-ups. Any way, one needs a bit of excitement in the other-wise boring job of mowing! I have several lawn tractors, but i still like my Snapper Rider. A good investment, i'd say. Only one belt on it, which runs the mower blade. One mower blade. Easy to observe your mowing job. Engine out in the open-no cooling problems.

FOAS, I agree. It's too late for the snapper & your family will enjoy the meal. My point was though that if we make substitutions & don't purchase "Avoid" seafood...the fisherman will reduce their catch (hopefully). A few months back, I spoke with the CEO of Mystic Seaport about starting a seafood watch program based for our local species, perhaps in conjunction with the Monterey Bay Aquarium. They've already got the website to support a watch program. Darn shame what we've done to our waters. There's talk in CT of shutting down lobster traps! Serious talk. I expect it to happen within a couple years. Even our local flounder are on MBA's avoid list. :( We haven't had our marina flounder contest in several years due to commercial over fishing. My town (Stonington) has the last remaining commercial fishing fleet in CT and a unique link to an industry that has for more than 250 years been a major part of CT's maritime heritage. Mostly, the fleet is a local family with a 5 generation business. I don't expect we'll have many more summers with the annual "Blessing of the Fleet" festival. Ahem. Enjoy the snapper. It's one of our favorites. /tricia