I really don't see any major difference between a B&S or Kohler engine....both will probably perform equally well so long as they are properly maintained. I think you are on the right track looking at the Husq mowers....no need to pay 100's of dollars extra for "green paint". I have neighbors with JD and Cub Cadet riders, and they often complain about some of the problems they have....I, on the other hand, have had little more than a leaking tire (fixed with Slime). and a broken belt...which I quickly traced back to a loose idler pulley on the deck...fixed with a $2 bolt and locknut. I follow the normal oil and filter changes, grease the spindles and steering frequently, and give it a decent cleaning after each use...and keep it in my workshop when not in use. If I'm mowing on a dry/dusty day, I clean the pre-filter on the air filter when done. I've had it for nearly 4 years, and so far, I am quite pleased.
The problem with the S240 is that with a bagger and tax i'd be about $3200. :thumbdown:
