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".

Thank you for all the replies so far. Background on me. I am a experienced 25 year tech. 15 years was working for a JD Ag dealer workin lawn/garden products. SO I am a little bit biased towards the Green products. I spent various years working in the auto/heavy truck fields. I have also held a parttime commercial mowing business or two over the years, but used traditional tractors to do the job. I opened my own lawn shop about 1 year ago. I have spent time with the Brigg's Rep talking Brigg's, Ferris and Snapper Pro. I was not interested in Snapper home type equipment. I have also spent time with the Big Dog, Bad Boy, Gravely and Bob Cat Rep's. I am really having some GREEN withdrawls to be honest...lol.. I have looked at nearly every brand out there. Most of the commercial crews I service equipment for are wanting to get away from the newer JD ZTR's, which I don't blame them, JD really goofed on the Z800 series. I was just looking for real world experience, no hype etc.. just the honest truth how your machine has performed during your ownership. Thanks, DD

I moved at a borderline age ... just starting college .. the whole family moved as well ... even had cousins out here ... good thing too ... all of my family cousins and all did the house and built in pool thing ... back in the late 80's early 90's one could do that for 150 K ... now the same set up 350 - 400 K ... I liked Hawaii ... but the humidy is a killer ... even indoors ... your always wet ... bet there would be some great aquarium keeping out there ... very cool ocean type place ... but what to do for work ??? Long Island seafood is the best !! That I miss ... I don't miss the taxes ... out here they are in an uproar over $750 a year taxes !! ... Good Day ....