Well one thing Aagtech is leaving out is ROOOOOM. The 982 SGT is far more comfortable than the 782 GT because of the extra 6 inches and for me 6'3 that means alot. My 982 has a Linamar 20hp replacement which is the same company that owns Onan and after a fuel supply problem I fixed with aluminum tubing to prevent supply line kinks, it has operated with no complaints cutting several acres weekly (during season)Here are a couple of side by comparison pictures see size difference.

As far as the Onan's go, they are great engines. They are probably better than the Kohlers, but parts are very expensive and becoming harder and harder to find. The only issue I know of with the Onan B48 was with the connecting rods. The original style was prone to break due to a big hole they cast into the rod. The newer rods are a soilid design and a lot more reliable. And Matt, don't forget about the 2182. 21hp Kubota Gas SGT. As far as books go, I really like Ken Updikes book, but it only covers IH built cub cadet. For basic info on all the Cub Cadets, you can't beat Oscar H. Will's book, Cub Cadet, The first 45 Years. It dosn't go into the deatail that Ken's book does, but Oscar's covers everything up to early 2000's.

AJ

Oops...not only did I forget the 2182, I forgot the 1782...:bash2:

Those super garden tractors are all horrible junk. Especially the ones with 3 pt hitches, ptos, tillers and especialy the ones with front end loaders. Just to be safe send them to me and I'll make sure that they are disposed of in a safe and enviornmemtally responsible way so that no one gets hurt or anything bad happens!

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w...10016Small.jpg

Thanks for all the info, keep it coming if you have something else to add! This will be good for the next person starting from scratch.
I am understanding much more about it all and have a good idea of what to do and to look for. I know once I have one here the learning will be easier and more furious!
As far as the book, Oscar Will The first 45 Years, I can't find a copy anywhere. I looked on bookfinder, half.com, abebooks, etc.... but no copies. Anyone have a copy to sell?
I will order the Ken Updike book though, as said it looks like a wealth of info.

Chip

You can find his book at http://www.tractorshop.com I guess I should have posted where to get it at. And I can't believe I missed the 1782. That was my first super. Bad AJ. Bad AJ.

AJ

I forgot about dual brakes and the power steering! Love those also. What we need is a fabricator to make steel replacements for the plastic hood panels.:bigthink:

I'd like to get the 82 series style as they are the toughest looking. I hope that's my next one. My friend has a trailer queen 982 and it is has all the options and is just awesome. He's got the bush hog and tiller for it which would be fun to use.