Good High Wheel Mower -- Tall Grass ???

[James Nipper]

I have a summer cabin in the mountains. Because I don't live there full time, the grass can get up to three feet at times. Part of the land is on a pretty good slope, so I need good traction on a self propelled mower.

For about 25 years, I have used a Yazoo high wheel mower. It has a Briggs and Stratton engine, I believe it is 7 hp. The mower is about worn out, and I am thinking about replacing it.

This old mower uses a friction feed type thing whereby a spinning gear thing rubs up against the wheel tire, and makes it move. It is NOT a good system , as you don't get real good traction that way. It is sufficient if you are on perfectly level, dry land. No good on a slope or in wet conditions.

What is a good replacement, hopefully something with a real gear drive?? Around 7-8 hp is still ok. Price around $700-900 is about what I think I could spend. I do like the Briggs and Stratton engine.

Any ideas ??

Thanks !!

--James--

[SQLit]

If it is working good why not either rebuild or replace the motor?

[John W. Wells]

I had a "Pro" mower with a similar drive and the same sort of drive problems. Any moisture on the grass and the darn thing wouldn't pull up hill. My property was steep in many places and rough everywhere.

I replaced it with a Bachtold. This has a slipping-belt clutch and chain drive to the wheels. Very reliable and easy to control. Bought mine new for $650 almost 25 years ago. Dunno what they cost now. But grass, blackberries, brush--it'll take down anything.

Mine has an 8hp Briggs--never had to touch it. Starts on the second pull (the first is full choked).

I see they have a web presence

--John W. Wells