Looking to Buy a new 30" Rear Engine Lawnmower

Gentlemen,

I am looking to buy a new rear engine riding lawnmower that will pass thru a 36" gate. It looks like a Troy-Bilt TB30 would be a good choice with a Briggs & Stratton engine. How does it compare to the other 30" riding lawnmowers with Powermore engines?

If you have a gate to go through, have you considered any of the 32" zero turns? I only ask because they are technically rear engine and will provide improved efficiency with better maneuverability and increased ground speed.

I grew up using an old Ariens 30" with a 8hp engine and six speed gear selector. It still runs to this day but is in really rough shape. It would be a great project to rebuild it and return to its original glory! Most or your rear engine riders around $1000 just don't seem to be at the level of quality that the Ariens was back then. The snapper RE110, RE130 and RE210 look to be well built if you are set on that type of mower.

Mike