Q: I notice you say the battery is shipped dry. Where do I purchase the battery acid? by Ron from Florida on March 14, 2012
A: Ron
You can purchase battery acid at any local home improvement or hardware store. by Todd, Product Expert
Q: I need to get to a dock area via a steep incline (no mowing required) maybe 30 degrees. Will this mower handle it. by Vincent Greenan from Virginia on August 03, 2011
A: Vincent - I assume you are asking if this mower will ride up and down a 30 degree incline to get from one area being mowed to another area that needs mowing. To be honest, trying to run this mower up a 30 degree incline will probably not work for you. The recommended maximum incline for a Snapper rear engine riding mower is 18 degree of incline. At 30 degrees, I'm not even sure this will make it up the incline at all. I can't recommend this mower for the application you are describing. by Todd, Product Expert
Q: Todd, Do these mowers arrive ready to mow or do they need to be preped first, Like adding oil. Bob by Bob from Florida on June 24, 2011
A: Bob - all of the Snapper rear engine riding mowers require a bit of assembly when they are delivered. You will need to put on the seat, steering column, and front axle . You will need to adjust the seat and the steering wheel to the proper comfort positions, as well. All fluids (including the oil) are pre-filled in this mower. All you need to add is the gas. by Todd, Product Expert
Q: Todd, I really like this mower but I have an extremely small 2 car garage. I have heard about the 'stand on end' feature and was wondering if it is ok to store this mower in that position all year. If not how much of a foot print does this mower need for storage ? by Keith from Kentucky on June 05, 2011
A: Keith - yes, these Snapper rear engine riding mowers can be stored on the rear bumper for extended periods when not in use. Complete instructions on how to do this are found on page 20 of the owner's manual, but in a nutshell, this is the proper procedure to follow to insure the rear engine rider will operate properly when taken out of storage: 1. Thoroughly clean the mower by removing all grass clippings and debris. 2. Perform maintenance and lubrication as required. 3. Drain the fuel from the fuel tank. 4. Start the engine and allow it to run until the engine runs out of fuel. This allows the carburetor and fuel system to remain clean during storage. 5. Remove the battery. 6. Close the vent on the fuel filler cap. 7. Carefully stand the mower on its rear bumper in the desired location for storage.
If you were intending to do this during mowing season, that you won't be able to do unless you want to refill all of the fluids every time you use the mower. The Snapper rear engine riders have a footprint of approx. 64" to 69" long x 32" to 38" wide depending in which model you are ordering. by Todd, Product Expert
Q: I have a 36" gate to the rear yard. Will this mower fit through the gate? by Jennifer from Pennsylvania on May 23, 2011
A: Jennifer - this mower will fit easily through a 36" gate - provided you don't have a bagger attached to it. At it's widest point, this mower is about 30 inches wide with no bagger attached. With the bagger attached, the back end of the mower is about 36" wide, so it would be a really tight squeeze to fit through your gate, if it fit through at all. by Todd, Product Expert
Q: I've just started looking into a riding mower. I have a 1/2 acre yard with Zoysia grass. The yard is about 80% flat with the rest hilly and above a 10 deg grade. I am currently using a self propelled 21" walk behind mower. I bag the grass. It takes about 3 hours to mow. Although I currently bag the grass, I am open to mulching. I would like to have something with a bag attachment to pick up the leaves in the fall. The main goal is to drastically decrease the amount of time I have to spend on the yard. I realize that I will still have to use the walk behind mower for the steep areas of the yard.
What would you recommend?
I have been looking at the Snapper Rear Engine mowers.
Thanks for your help. by John Grater from Missouri on May 23, 2011
A: John - I think the Snapper rear engines riders would be an excellent choice based on the mowing situation you have described. Less than an acre; most of it relatively flat. Any of the Snapper models would be a great choice. I couldn't agree more. Snapper Riding Mowers A lawn tractor or a zero turn would be overkill for a lawn that is less than an acre. A rear engine rider is perfect for this situation.
And the 5 bushel bagger for the Snapper rear engine riders is probably 2.5 to 3 times larger than the bagger on your walk behind mower, so fewer stops to empty out your grass clippings, which will save time as well.
If you are spending 3 hours to mow now, my guess is you will cut that time at least in half if you upgrade to a rear engine riding mower. by Todd, Product Expert
Q: How does the 28" 12.5hp perform on hilly terrain? by Jay Bettiker from New York on May 23, 2011
A: Thanks for your inquiry. This mower will handle smaller hills. I do not recommend this mower for larger hills. It may have difficulty navagating them. by Todd, Product Expert
Q: Can the Snapper 28in 12.5HP or 11.5HP mow in reverse? by Anthony from Alabama on May 16, 2011
A: Anthony - all of the rear engine riding mowers that we carry, regardless of the brand, have what is known as a "Reverse Lockout Mechanism." This is a safety feature which prevents the mower from being shifted into reverse with the blade running. To shift into reverse you must first stop the blade by releasing the blade pedals and then shift to reverse. by Todd, Product Expert
The Snapper 7800785 rear engine riding mower is modeled after the riding mower made famous by Forrest Gump as he mowed the football field in Greenbow, AL. This mower is loaded with features and you can expect superior performance for a long, long time.
The Snapper 7800785 is easy to use and almost anyone can drive one. The disc drive transmission on this mower means there is no clutch or complicated gears to shift through. Just simple forward and reverse driving. The quick response steering makes this mower easy to drive even if you don’t have experience with riding mowers.
The Snapper 7800785 is powered by a 12.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine. The 3-in-1 mowing deck gives you options on what to do with the cut grass. You can send it out the side of the cutting deck, you can bag it with an optional twin-bagger, or you can keep it within the deck until the blade chops it up into a mulch (also an option). The Hi-Vac deck design makes this mower a very good choice for folks who prefer to bag.
The Snapper 7800785 is not as nimble as a zero turn mower or a lawn tractor. It does not offer a tight turning radius. However, this may not be a big deal for you if your lawn is long and relatively straight with room to turn around and the ends.
The Snapper 7800785 rear engine riding mower isn't going to set any speed records, but it’s still a lot faster and easier than pushing a mower around your yard. The anti-vibration system (AVS) makes the ride a little smoother on the driver. The overhead valve (OHV) engine is quieter than many other comparable engines.
Overall, the Snapper 7800785 rear engine riding mower is a good machine. It won't turn on a dime, but with proper care and maintenance, it will cut your lawn for a decade or more.
May 11, 2012
Ivan Eden Valleyt, MN
Great Mower Except?
Starts easy, cuts good, I really like the mower. A few things to get used to, are the blade start and blade clutch. These may be safety features if your mowing a school yard with children present, but a retired person has to struggle to get that damn blade in gear and put the blade clutch down at the same time. It would be easy if I were shorter, but for a tall person to have to reach down to grab the blade start lever and put it in gear is a chore. Also the anti reverse is a pain also. Cuts my mowing time in half, just wish I could get the original blade of so I could use my Ninja Blade.
Starts easy, cuts good, I really like the mower. A few things to get used to, are the blade start and blade clutch. These may be safety features if your mowing a school yard with children present, but a retired person has to struggle to get that damn blade in gear and put the blade clutch down at the same time. It would be easy if I were shorter, but for a tall person to have to reach down to grab the blade start lever and put it in gear is a chore. Also the anti reverse is a pain also. Cuts my mowing time in half, just wish I could get the original blade of so I could use my Ninja Blade... more
April 17, 2012
Moses B. Suffolk, VA
The right mower for my yard.
I decided to move up to a riding mower for my small yard. The snapper fit the package. I can move around the yard where large mower can not go. Thanks for making a machine that is great with the right price tag.
April 15, 2012
Bruce
Happy with Mowers Direct
The mower arrived intact, on time and was fairly easy to put together. The mower started and ran as expected with no problems and I hope will give many years of service.
April 12, 2012
David S. Loveland, OH
28'' rear engine snapper riding mower
After receiving it off the truck, it was in the crate box with plastic cover and I break down the crate, took the plastic cover off of it. I had to install the seat, steering wheel, and other few things was easy to install. There was some warning decals missing on it.
I had checked the engine oil and it was a quart low so I had to buy a quart of oil. I had ordered a mulching kit which was $100.00 and I installed the blade and the side discharge cover. The cover didn't fit right, there was 3 bolts hole on the cover and one fit in and the other bolts holes was too high when you force the bolts in, one end of the side discharge cover was set too high that there a big opening in the rear of the cover the grass can easily discharge out. I took pics of the cover on the discharge cover and send it to Mower Direct and they replied back with a number for me to call the tech support. Give me a break, can't you see the pics that it doesn't fit right. I took the 2 bolts out, force the plastic cover down and drilled 2 new holes through the plastic cover and put the bolts back on, look better. The first day I mowed the grass when I shift the lever between forward and backward, sometime the axle sound like a grind and was hard to shift. When I need to stopped the engine so I could go to bathroom and 5 minutes later I got on the mower to start, it wouldn't start. After waiting an hour, it started. The following next week I mow the grass, the axle grind between forward and reverse and when I needed to stop the mower, then back to start it 5 minutes later, it wouldn't start. The next day I took it to Snapper dealer, after waiting 2 1/2 weeks later was fixed. There was no grease in the axle, the factory didn't put any grease in the axle which cause the axle grid and they has to replace a modular which solved the starting problem.
After receiving it off the truck, it was in the crate box with plastic cover and I break down the crate, took the plastic cover off of it. I had to install the seat, steering wheel, and other few things was easy to install. There was some warning decals missing on it.
I had checked the engine oil and it was a quart low so I had to buy a quart of oil. I had ordered a mulching kit which was $100.00 and I installed the blade and the side discharge cover. The cover didn't fit right, there was 3 bolts hole on the cover and one fit in and the other bolts holes was too high when you force the... more
April 10, 2012
Ron
Snapper rider 12.5hp
Pro's: Easy to operate. It does a good job of cutting grass. Overall a very good mower.
Con's: The mower was delivered in a wood crate. It was difficult to separate the mower from the crate. The hole in the steering shaft where the steering wheel attaches was too small for the roll pin. Also, the two mounting screws for the gas tank were missing. Had to add about a pint of oil to bring up to full mark. No drain valve for the oil to drain instead a plug was installed. That is real inconvenient when you change the oil. What a mess it will leave.
April 10, 2012
Budd C. Fortville, IN
Don't buy it without trying it first -very poor design
I made my decision to buy based on Snapper's reputation and through Mower Direct based on the ease of their site. Those were mistakes on both counts. The order process was fine and the product was received on time - although in a crate and on a pallet. So plan on two hours work just to get it to assembly stage. The Instruction Manual is almost useless, as Snapper makes changes without updating the manual, leaving you guessing about parts and assembly steps.
By far, the WORST feature of this unit is the blade engagement lever. It is a metal rod about the diameter of a pencil that is positioned below the driver's right leg and about 50 pounds of torque is required to engage it. Almost impossible to maneuver unless you are a contortionist. Very poor design and a major problem, as you must repeatedly disengage/re-engage the blade while mowing since it will not go into reverse with the blade turning.
As you may have sensed, I am NOT at all pleased pleased with the product and made the effort to contact Mowers Direct and tell them I am not pleased. They suggested that I call Snapper directly to discuss it, so I did. After spending about 10 minutes with a tech looking up the specs (initially for the wrong mower), his only reply to me was that this was the same design they have always used and it is not their problem if I find it difficult to use. Well, good for Snapper - they always use this same ergonomically poor design and good for Mowers Direct - they passed me off to Snapper, and I have a go-cart. Ultimately I spent over $1500 and stated to Mowers Direct IN WRITING that I did not like they product, had difficulty using the product and wanted to know my options - but Mowers Direct NEVER EVEN REPLIED. I can neither suggest the product nor Mowers Direct due to their absolute lack of reply and follow up with a customer who has stated absolute dissatisfaction with the product.
I made my decision to buy based on Snapper's reputation and through Mower Direct based on the ease of their site. Those were mistakes on both counts. The order process was fine and the product was received on time - although in a crate and on a pallet. So plan on two hours work just to get it to assembly stage. The Instruction Manual is almost useless, as Snapper makes changes without updating the manual, leaving you guessing about parts and assembly steps.
By far, the WORST feature of this unit is the blade engagement lever. It is a metal rod about the diameter of a pencil t... more
March 14, 2012
Sheila B. Merkel, TX
My New Snapper Rider and Bagger
I love my 28" cut, 12.5 hp Snapper rider. It is just the right size for my yard. I like the single bagger, but it is so big, it gets pretty heavy and is hard to dump in barrels without a lot falling on the ground. I would rather have had the double bagger except the cost is so much more. Also I did not realize that there would be so much to assemble on the rider itself. It took quite awhile to assemble and the 6 page instructions were not very clear.
I am still very pleased with Mowers Directs fast and friendly service. And I luv, luv, luv my Snapper Rider!
November 18, 2011
Dan Poolesville, MD
First, Best, and probably last, rider
I say my last one because I don't think they build 'em like this anymore. Mine lasted 18 years. Yes. 18. Two of my neighbors went thru three other brands in that time. The rear end finally gave out and was going to be too much to fix. Now I hire some one to cut the grass.
I had this fine mower serviced every other year, zero problems. Had to replace the belt a couple times, but that's to be expected. Easy and straight forward operation. Even cuts in reverse. Stand on end feature is better than I thought for cleaning and storage.
Can't speak for the latest model BUT if I was in the market for another rear engine rider I would certainly go with Snapper.
I say my last one because I don't think they build 'em like this anymore. Mine lasted 18 years. Yes. 18. Two of my neighbors went thru three other brands in that time. The rear end finally gave out and was going to be too much to fix. Now I hire some one to cut the grass.
I had this fine mower serviced every other year, zero problems. Had to replace the belt a couple times, but that's to be expected. Easy and straight forward operation. Even cuts in reverse. Stand on end feature is better than I thought for cleaning and storage.
Can't speak for the latest model BUT if I w... more
October 16, 2011
Anthony Somewhere, AL
Just like Dad's!
Although my yard is small, my back can no longer endure the strain of pushing a lawnmower. I opted for the Snapper rear engine rider because of familiarity and proven reliability. My dad purchased one when I was about 8 years old. He's had his snapper RER for over 20 years. We cut multiple yards a week throughout the year and the snapper was our primary rider. It cut every yard, regardless of size and grass height. Dad had the grass collection system and today, I have the mulch kit on mine.
I'm glad I made the purchase and can now mow, trim, edge the walkway, and clear the driveway of debris in less than an hour. This mower is exactly as I had remembered it to be--great cutting and dependable. The mulch kit performs exactly as advertised and the snapper RER has never disappointed me. I'm totally Savvy!!!!!
Although my yard is small, my back can no longer endure the strain of pushing a lawnmower. I opted for the Snapper rear engine rider because of familiarity and proven reliability. My dad purchased one when I was about 8 years old. He's had his snapper RER for over 20 years. We cut multiple yards a week throughout the year and the snapper was our primary rider. It cut every yard, regardless of size and grass height. Dad had the grass collection system and today, I have the mulch kit on mine.
I'm glad I made the purchase and can now mow, trim, edge the walkway, and... more
August 29, 2011
Chris B. Bryson City, NC
Starts right up
I love the mower...easy to assemble but was disappointed with lift gate service, I still had to have someone available to help get it off truck. With that said the mower performs well here in the mountains and cranked on first start-up with no problems. I did not receive the water bottle holder so I mounted one from an old bike to it using mounting hardware supplied.
July 08, 2011
R. Lea Bartlesville, OK
As expected
Mower arrived quickly. Your delivery service is without equal. Assembly was reasonably quick. Instruction booklet not very well thought out. Snapper should work on that. Mower works just as expected. Its old tech compared to zero turn mowers but seems very sturdy. Previous experiences with Snapper products has been good expect this to provide years of service. Yard is not large, turning radius is not sharp, but haven't experienced any difficulties. Mower goes through all my gates. For the price I don't believe I could have purchased anything to surpass it.
July 07, 2011
Paul Mott Lawrenceville, NJ
Success Story
I like it. It takes a few runs to get a feel for it, and some experimentation to find the best patterns to use in cutting the lawn. I wonder if you have recommendations - circles, figure eights, etc. Also, I am used to mulching, so I have to deal with some clippings after I have finished cutting. But is is just the right size for me and my lawn. It starts immediately, and is easy to drive and steer. Satisfied customer.
June 22, 2011
Mary Fort Worth, TX
I hate it!!!
Very hard to reach the lever that starts the blades! Way to many things to mess with to get it to cut. I hate it.
Feels cheap, would never buy another Snapper product again.
June 05, 2011
Robert Hubert, NC
My mower
The mower arrived sooner than expected, delivered to home. My son is a small engine mechanic and works on these all the time. Assembly was easy for him. Only problem was the missing steering bushing. He purchased and had it running by the weekend. I have used it and love it. The purpose of getting the rear engine was to accommodate by prosthetic right leg. Its easy to swing the leg and get on.
May 30, 2011
Virgil Clinton, MO
Can not return (now backyard mower)
I used the mower once and wanted to return it. I could not return the mower. The mower is very hard to turn, it is jerky. The mower kind of tears the grass, put on a new mulching kit ($90 plus) it still tears the grass. Just bought it in May 2011, it has now become my "backyard mower", no one can see the backyard. Worst buy I ever made.
May 10, 2011
Richard Westfield, IN
rlc.ez
Yesterday was my third cut with the Snapper 2812524BVE I now wish I hadn't purchased it. Not that it's not a good mower it is not good with my landscape. I now must still spend good time with my walk-behind mower or lots of weed whacker time. Now looking at making 34 inch radius mulch beds and removing a ten foot lawn behind my back yard fence, that is not easy to mow and stay on my property with the Snapper.
Speeds are good and using the NINJA mulch blade does a real good job of cutting the grass small making real nice mulch. The clutch is not real tender or smooth with engine set on high speed and reverse almost requires holding the gear shifter back into the reverse setting.
Shipping and packaging was very good.
Yesterday was my third cut with the Snapper 2812524BVE I now wish I hadn't purchased it. Not that it's not a good mower it is not good with my landscape. I now must still spend good time with my walk-behind mower or lots of weed whacker time. Now looking at making 34 inch radius mulch beds and removing a ten foot lawn behind my back yard fence, that is not easy to mow and stay on my property with the Snapper.
Speeds are good and using the NINJA mulch blade does a real good job of cutting the grass small making real nice mulch. The clutch is not real tender or smooth with engi... more
April 30, 2011
Richard St Robert, MO
putting in reverse
Having a hard time putting mower into reverse. Have to jam it in. Doesn't seem right
April 15, 2011
Marvin Glenside, PA
Snapper Rider Mower 12.5 hp
Received my rider crated like Fort Knox in perfect condition! Put the mower together, got the battery fluid in and charged, put in the key and it started right off. Mowed with it today for the first time and it worked like a charm. I couldn't ask for it to be any better, saves me so much time and doesn't drain me of my strength.
April 12, 2011
Frank Pt Charlotte, FL
Loving New Snapper
The price was great, delivery was great, support was great, and the mower is even better, thanks!
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Owners Manual
