[USMC_SGT]

Let me start off by saying, a big part of me loves this old tractor, but I am at a crossroads and need some advice from fellow CC members.

I have a 1977 Cub 1450. I bought it insanely cheap 5 seasons ago and it has been treating me well until this year. And I have to admit that I haven't had the funds previous year to fix some issues before it was too late (even though it may have been too late before)

The motor needs a rebuild (not sure if it has been before)
Carb needs to be replaced/repaired (throttle shaft is loose!)
Steering is shot, column, tie rods etc....
hydro relief valves need rebuilt/replaced
Deck (44A) needs a complete overhaul (2 of three bearings are shot)
Wiring is pretty well beat up
Needs paint

In any case I have sourced most of the parts, and I love this tractor....until it came to clicking the button on almost $1500 in parts.....

The up side is that it still runs, and I have been cutting grass with it this season. It has started dieseling bad on shutdown and smoking on startup.

I am open to opinions, suggestions etc..

All the "new" mowers seem so flimsy and cheap with the exception of the mowers in the $4500+ range....but Im afraid to put 1500+ into something that every year parts seem to get harder and harder to find.

Thank Fellas!

Jon