I got 16 years out of my mid-grade Craftsman mower before the engine block developed a crack and I sold the mower as-is and scrambled to find a replacement mower at the end of the summer.
I narrowed my search down to either a Husqvarna or Cub Cadet 42" mower. The only place to get a Husqvarna in town it Home Depot, but I could buy a Cub Cadet from both Home Depot or a local lawn equipment company for about the same price. I chose to support a local business and buy a Cub Cadet from the local company.
My intention was to buy the XT1 with fuel injection, but there was only one 42" mower in stock, the twin cylinder XT2, and they didn't plan to order any more mowers for the season. Once the salesman learned how hilly my yard is and that I plan to use the mower occasionally bag leaves, pull a core aerator and a heavy cart he said I wouldn't regret having the more powerful engine. He was absolutely correct.
