Husqvarna YTH24V48 48" Lawn Tractor Mower 24HP Briggs (Scratch and Dent)

Just got this machine. Runs and cuts with no issues.

Good

This rider is my first; but I've had plenty of success stories with Huqvarna equipment in the past (trimmers, chainsaws, etc.). We needed something to tackle a generally level, 2.25-acre parcel at a new home we purchased.
This mower came via UPS Freight in what appeared to be "custom" (SLE) wooden protective crate/frame packaging. A half hour and a claw hammer can get you out of it for the most part; but I ended up taking a reciprocating saw to it for ease of rolling it off the pallet myself.
The mower didn't come with a key or manual...but the manual's readily available online, and a universal tractor key can be had at most stores selling power equipment for about 3 to 4 bucks.
I followed the instructions in the manual for setup, with the main concerns being ensuring leveling the mower deck and checking the oil. Before you get mowing, I also followed Husqvarna's recommendations for purging any trapped air in the transmission. (This tractor utilizes a hydrostatic transmission, so it's very prudent that you do this.) It's easy...you operate the tractor without the flywheel engaged.
With setup complete, I put something in the cupholder and went to town. This mower took care of a relatively long lawn with ease. (The previous owner hadn't had his lawn service come in about 2-3 weeks.) Our lawn isn't very rough to mow, so I took fool advantage of this mower's ability to run at nearly 7.5 mph. If I had a pattern and attack plan figured out before hopping on, I probably could've finished faster than the hour and 45 minutes it took me on my first run. Its cut is smooth (check the deck first!) - and while the lawn wasn't 3 feet high, this tractor didn't even blink. The variable speed capability of the hydrostatic transmission allows you to bee line at a tree and slow down very quickly to take your time going around it.
This tractor, especially after a first mow, is already seeming like it's the best value for a 48-inch cutting width, ease of operation and comfort while riding. I'm impressed with its build quality as well (uniform welds, cast iron frame, solid components, etc.).
SLE's customer service is also wonderful...UPS Freight was originally hesitant to drop off this 650-lb package in my driveway with a lift gate; but SLE got on the horn with them and essentially arranged for FedEx to make the delivery of UPS decided not to.
I'd certainly purchase from SLE again. This tractor is the SAME as what is being sold at Lowe's and Home Depot with a YTA24V48 model number; but my understanding is that the newer model has a CVT instead of a hydrostatic transmission...but it's priced at $1,999.99 as of September 2016. Save yourself 300 bucks.