I was just looking on Craigslist for a replacement lawn tractor for my 92 y/o dad to replace his 197? Montgomery Wards 12hp B&S tractor that smokes for 2 mins when first started and uses oil. I used it last fall to try to mulch the leaves and the engine is very tired. Died when going into a 6" pile of leaves. Found a John Deere STX38 and a 108 w/bagger for $650. I am looking for info on these. Specificlly what engine (brand) and size was used and is either a pressure lube? Also comments on which one is better overall. Kind of limited to a 38" deck as the door to the shed was built to accomendate the 38" deck on the Wards. [url=http://nh.craigslist.org/grd/1072922371.html]2 John Deere riding lawn mowers[/url]

My yard tractor has been working great all summer, but when I went to use it after a 2-3 week layup - it would not start. when I went to check the battery terminals I found the battery lying on its side. All the battery juice had leaked on the back of the mower block and there was white encrusted junk everywhere. The solenoid and the starter would not work - just click. I put hooked up my big trolling motor battery and got the starter to click, but not engage, I pulled the block cover off and can not get the flywheel to turn even with the sparkplusgs out. I do not see how the mower could have frozen up so quick. Can the electric clutch keep the engine from spinning? The mower is a Sears model# 917251481. I hope someone can help me, as I am determined to get this much loved mower going again. :cool: