OK here goes. 2 years ago I developed a problem with my B&S mower with a preset carb.. The engine would surge constantly, but never reach full power. As I would mow, the mower would generate less and less power until it eventually quit. However, it would start right up. I got frustrated enough that I took it to someone in town who tuned it up for $50. Half of what I paid for the mower new. THat was 2 years ago. Yesterday I was mowing and had to stop to move to a new section of the yard. When I started the mower I heard/felt a snap/pop and the very same problem occurred: surging. What gives? I assume since the problem started all at once that there isn't a problem with a blocked carb. Any thoughts?

Hello: I'm looking for some guidance on which mower to purchase. Here is my situation: I have about .4 of an acre and live in NE Ohio. The yard is flat in the front, but there is a slope in the rear, though it is not dramatic. I'd really like to purchase a Zero Turn Mower from Lowes - like the Toro 42" Cut. Do I need a mower that size? No, not really. I really enjoy the look of the lawn when a zero turn unit has been used. Candidly, I'm certain a walk behind 22" mower would be fine. I use to have a personal pace from Toro that I got rid of when I moved. I guess I am wondering if a ZTR walk-behind unit exists that has a cut of 30-36" that would be easy to manage? Or, do they make a riding ZTR unit that also meets these criteria? Of course, the riding Toro 42" cut ZTR goes for $2,400 and a 22" cut personal pace Toro goes for $4-500. Clearly there's some spread relative to the price. I wish I could find a ZTR (walk behind, or ride) in the $1,200-$1,500 range. Possible? Thanks! Shumax