On Sat, 14 May 2005 15:10:09 -0400, Jim wrote:

My aging riding mower is nearing replacement. Although it has served
its purpose I think this time I'll go for a lawn tractor that better
fits my 6'4" frame.

For my needs most of the advertised models in the $1,000 - $1,500 range
seem sufficient. Question is the relative value of the automatic
transmission over the regular.

My rider has the manual and has served well without any tranny work.
Other than laziness is there any other advantage warranting the extra
cost to go automatic?
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I have NOT yet read the other replies....BUT ... Honestly I have owned
a hydrostatic drive Cub cadet for close to 30 years... and when I cut
my sons lawn last summer during his vacation using his "stick shift"
Cub Cadet I was cussing up a storm... The next time I needed to cut
his lawn I hauled my own Tractor up to his place...

Good tractors last a long time (mine is like I said close to 30 years
old) ...the hydrostatic transmission is a bargin when costs are
calculated over the tractors lifetime

I do favor Manuel transmissions in cars and trucks...I own 6 vehicles
and only one is an automatic.. but for mowing the lawn ...give me an
automatic...

Bob Griffiths