Craig, my comment was based on my guess of what produces the best market value. You have a restored classic mower, and I think those are most valuable when they are entirely original (i.e. original paint in good condition). The second most valuable presentation is when they are authentically returned to original condition and appearance. All of the 'owner's improvements' reduce the value, they don't increase it. If your mower is in really good condition and nearly all the parts are genuine originals, one day somebody will probably repaint it in the original colours, then sell it for much more than he or she pays you for it.
In other words, my comment was economic, not aesthetic. Even so, a hot pink classic Briggs wouldn't float my personal boat.
