2186 is a nice 2000 series tractor. If it was my tractor I'd pull the fender pan, give it a good cleaning. Replace the fuel line from the tank to the carb because they tend to rot on the inside. Change the trans fluid and filter. Change the engine oil and filter along with the air filter. Carb sounds like it is a bit crappy if you need to pull the choke to get the PTO to engage. Take a good look at the deck spindles to make sure they turn nice and free. Grease every thing that has a fitting. The steering sector on the 2000's have 2 fittings and they are a PITA to get at. Price $1000 is on the high side but if it's in real nice condition with only a couple hundred hours it's probably worth what you paid. You sure can't buy a new one for that kind of $$$$. Looking forward to seeing some pics.
