Is a Cub Cadet right for me?

[billh1963]

I'm a newbie and just found this awesome forum. Growing up I mowed 5 acres for a neighbor using her Cub Cadet. I remember from the manual that it was a 1969 model, had the hydrostatic transmission and the deck was raised and lowered electrically. I guess is was a 147?

Jump forward 35 years and I just retired my 1996 Craftsman mower. Shopping newer models and I am amazed at how much plastic is used these days....they feel and look very flimsy. I remember the old Cub Cadet and how solid and reliable it was...and how it looked like a tractor. It even had a PTO.

Rather than buy a new mower, I am thinking of buying an old Cub Cadet. I definitely want one like I rode those many years ago. My yard is 1.5 acres and here in SC we mow almost year round. I want hydrostatic and the electric deck. Would a 146 or 149 fit the bill? Some of the attachments would be interesting as well. After 40 years how reliable would a Cub cadet be and what is the parts availability?

Looking on craigslist I'm not seeing anything that fits the bill. Other than craigslist, ebay, and here what other places should I look?

Thanks!

Thank you!