GTH2448T Worth Fixing?

Engine model: 445677-0476-E1

Bought this mower today for $60. It was backfiring through the carb something awful. Exhaust push rod was gone on one of the cylinders. Just to see if it would run I got one from a parts engine. Mower fired up. Running on both cylinders. Engine seems to run ok but coughs a small amount on low throttle. Drives ok except it needs new drive pulley's and belt. The deck works.

Of course I will have to remove the engine retrieve the push rod.

Is there a big chance of the push rod being swallowed again?

I know the mower looks like crap but it does seem to function really good. I don't know if I should invest into it though.

Running and working as it should the valur would be $500 or more. Now its your choice. Wish I was closer to you I would have taken it off your hands for $100.00

I would, even if I ended up having to put a new engine in it. I had one and trade it in on a Jon Deere X500 and wish I had it back. If I could pick up one for $100.00 I would.
Jerry