Norm, i reckon we are being sold a pup with the cheap replacement stuff thats flooding the market
these days, A rebuilt Briggs is always going to be a better option than a crappy new replacement, regardless of cost.
trouble is people are fooled that new is better, they over look the quality and backup completely.
just as an interesting exersise for you.......go into a mower shop. or where ever they sell those new engines and have a look at them up close.
then tell me what you think...
as for Briggs being made in China, the country of assembly has to be listed as country of origin on any products now days,
and what a lot of companys are doing is sending locally made parts to a factory they have in China for assembly because the labour is cheaper, i know Makita do that with some of their products, and maybe Briggs is to. but from my understanding, they are still proudly American.
and not a waist of time sean, you created much good descussion , and now you should see if you can end up with the old mower for your time, i may even be able to source you a good running Briggs to repower it
