I don't know about running cooler, but I think just having the Onan makes the tractor cooler!
In an apple-to-apple comparison, we've decided the 982 uses a bit more fuel than my 2072 (both have 60" Haban decks). I swear the Onan has more lugging power. My 982 was bought as a non-runner rust bucket. Once we got it going and most of the mechanical stuff fixed I have put it through more torture than any other lawn mower I have ever ran. If it weren't for the power steering on the 2072, I think the 982 would be dads favorite mower. Initially he didn't want me to buy either, now he loves them both! Even talks about ditching a 129 and a 122 he has.
