All: (except for the more simple amongst us)

Whilst waiting for my Kubota MX5200HD, which is now at least March 22
delivery?, I need something to tidy up around my "shearers quarters".
Had a lot of trees around the shed, that were dying and/or dead due to
mistletoe, which have been sorted into future firewood, and crap, which
was burnt.

So the area i was keeping 'clean' around the shed with my old (10yo)
ride-on has tripled in size. The place has basically shaken the shit out
of the poor old McCulloch ride on. Every time i take it up there, it
comes home with the deck needing re-alignment. It's not suited to rough
stuff, but it did well...

So I scored a few crisps from the wife/CFO for my birthday, and have
decided on this: https://www.cubcadet.com.au/rzt-s-92.html

Fabricated deck, USA made, zero turn, 4 wheel steering, 6 year domestic
warranty on motor (Kawasaki 23hp v twin) and mower...
Scored a good price (field days price... saved over $1000 on retail, and
got a set of blades thrown in...)

Don't know if there's any supporters of Cub Cadet here... I can think of
a few punters who may have *experience with cub cadet/any brand ride on*
but what I'd like to hear is if you have owned a cub cadet ride on, or
others, have you/are you having any issues with getting parts? I have
ordered an oil filter, air filter and some oil, and saw someone complain
about getting parts, so I'm thinking of ordering double, and multiple
spare blades....

Cheers...

On 17/11/2021 8:31 pm, lindsay wrote:
>
> All: (except for the more simple amongst us)
>
> Whilst waiting for my Kubota MX5200HD, which is now at least March 22
> delivery?, I need something to tidy up around my "shearers quarters".
> Had a lot of trees around the shed, that were dying and/or dead due to
> mistletoe, which have been sorted into future firewood, and crap, which
> was burnt.
>
> So the area i was keeping 'clean' around the shed with my old (10yo)
> ride-on has tripled in size. The place has basically shaken the shit out
> of the poor old McCulloch ride on. Every time i take it up there, it
> comes home with the deck needing re-alignment. It's not suited to rough
> stuff, but it did well...
>
> So I scored a few crisps from the wife/CFO for my birthday, and have
> decided on this: https://www.cubcadet.com.au/rzt-s-92.html
>
> Fabricated deck, USA made, zero turn, 4 wheel steering, 6 year domestic
> warranty on motor (Kawasaki 23hp v twin) and mower...
> Scored a good price (field days price... saved over $1000 on retail, and
> got a set of blades thrown in...)

What a coinkidink :)

> https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME51CM4

--

> Don't know if there's any supporters of Cub Cadet here... I can think of
> a few punters who may have *experience with cub cadet/any brand ride on*
> but what I'd like to hear is if you have owned a cub cadet ride on, or
> others, have you/are you having any issues with getting parts? I have
> ordered an oil filter, air filter and some oil, and saw someone complain
> about getting parts, so I'm thinking of ordering double, and multiple
> spare blades....

Got exactly the same machine, which I nought it new in November 2017. So
far it's got around 120 hours on it and has not missed a beat since I
bought it, which is more than I can say for the Toro lawn tractor it
replaced.

Haven't needed to buy any parts so far apart from service items like
plugs and filters which I get from ebay. The local mower shop in Baccus
is an agent for their range, and according to them they don't have any
trouble getting bits. The blades hold their edge well and I've only had
to sharpen them once so far, and the quick release deck makes that job a
piece of piss. They've changed the engines on them from the 23hp Kohler
in mine to the Kwaka unit that you've got, and I'm not sure if it's
because Kohler caused them any dramas or they just did a better deal
with Kawasaki, but I think the rest of the machine is the same and
they're pretty reliable.

They're also pretty decent to drive with the steering wheel being far
easier to use than the lap bars in my opinion. Especially if you tow a
spray tank like we use here as you can drive with one hand and use the
spray wand with the other which is why we bought it.

They're a good machine that does a great job, and you won't be disappointed.

--
--
--
Regards,
Noddy.

On 17/11/21 8:31 pm, lindsay wrote:
>
> All: (except for the more simple amongst us)
>
> Whilst waiting for my Kubota MX5200HD, which is now at least March 22
> delivery?, I need something to tidy up around my "shearers quarters".
> Had a lot of trees around the shed, that were dying and/or dead due to
> mistletoe, which have been sorted into future firewood, and crap, which
> was burnt.
>
> So the area i was keeping 'clean' around the shed with my old (10yo)
> ride-on has tripled in size. The place has basically shaken the shit out
> of the poor old McCulloch ride on. Every time i take it up there, it
> comes home with the deck needing re-alignment. It's not suited to rough
> stuff, but it did well...
>
> So I scored a few crisps from the wife/CFO for my birthday, and have
> decided on this: https://www.cubcadet.com.au/rzt-s-92.html
>
> Fabricated deck, USA made, zero turn, 4 wheel steering, 6 year domestic
> warranty on motor (Kawasaki 23hp v twin) and mower...
> Scored a good price (field days price... saved over $1000 on retail, and
> got a set of blades thrown in...)
>
> Don't know if there's any supporters of Cub Cadet here... I can think of
> a few punters who may have *experience with cub cadet/any brand ride on*
> but what I'd like to hear is if you have owned a cub cadet ride on, or
> others, have you/are you having any issues with getting parts? I have
> ordered an oil filter, air filter and some oil, and saw someone complain
> about getting parts, so I'm thinking of ordering double, and multiple
> spare blades....
>

I've never owned a ride on mower but I've used a few and worked on them,
what I find is the steering is bloody awful so a "zero turn, 4 wheel
steering" mower should fix that problem.
The ride over rough ground can also be bone jarring so a bigger machine
should ride better, good luck with it.

--
Daryl

On 17/11/2021 5:31 pm, lindsay wrote:
>
> All: (except for the more simple amongst us)
>
> Whilst waiting for my Kubota MX5200HD, which is now at least March 22
> delivery?, I need something to tidy up around my "shearers quarters".
> Had a lot of trees around the shed, that were dying and/or dead due to
> mistletoe, which have been sorted into future firewood, and crap, which
> was burnt.
>
> So the area i was keeping 'clean' around the shed with my old (10yo)
> ride-on has tripled in size. The place has basically shaken the shit out
> of the poor old McCulloch ride on. Every time i take it up there, it
> comes home with the deck needing re-alignment. It's not suited to rough
> stuff, but it did well...
>
> So I scored a few crisps from the wife/CFO for my birthday, and have
> decided on this: https://www.cubcadet.com.au/rzt-s-92.html
>
> Fabricated deck, USA made, zero turn, 4 wheel steering, 6 year domestic
> warranty on motor (Kawasaki 23hp v twin) and mower...
> Scored a good price (field days price... saved over $1000 on retail, and
> got a set of blades thrown in...)
>
> Don't know if there's any supporters of Cub Cadet here... I can think of
> a few punters who may have *experience with cub cadet/any brand ride on*
> but what I'd like to hear is if you have owned a cub cadet ride on, or
> others, have you/are you having any issues with getting parts? I have
> ordered an oil filter, air filter and some oil, and saw someone complain
> about getting parts, so I'm thinking of ordering double, and multiple
> spare blades....
>
> Cheers...

I have a Cox Stockman so can't help you there but it looks solid, is
zero turn (wish mine was) and most importantly has a drinks holder.
Can't go wrong.

On 17/11/2021 11:34 pm, Noddy wrote:
> On 17/11/2021 8:31 pm, lindsay wrote:
>>
>> All: (except for the more simple amongst us)
>>
>> Whilst waiting for my Kubota MX5200HD, which is now at least March 22
>> delivery?, I need something to tidy up around my "shearers quarters".
>> Had a lot of trees around the shed, that were dying and/or dead due to
>> mistletoe, which have been sorted into future firewood, and crap,
>> which was burnt.
>>
>> So the area i was keeping 'clean' around the shed with my old (10yo)
>> ride-on has tripled in size. The place has basically shaken the shit
>> out of the poor old McCulloch ride on. Every time i take it up there,
>> it comes home with the deck needing re-alignment. It's not suited to
>> rough stuff, but it did well...
>>
>> So I scored a few crisps from the wife/CFO for my birthday, and have
>> decided on this: https://www.cubcadet.com.au/rzt-s-92.html
>>
>> Fabricated deck, USA made, zero turn, 4 wheel steering, 6 year
>> domestic warranty on motor (Kawasaki 23hp v twin) and mower...
>> Scored a good price (field days price... saved over $1000 on retail,
>> and got a set of blades thrown in...)
>
> What a coinkidink :)
>
>> https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME51CM4

Thats my new baby!!! :-) Although I'm not sure if mine has the deck wash
or cruise.... Seems the specs change a bit....

>> Don't know if there's any supporters of Cub Cadet here... I can think
>> of a few punters who may have *experience with cub cadet/any brand
>> ride on*
>> but what I'd like to hear is if you have owned a cub cadet ride on, or
>> others, have you/are you having any issues with getting parts? I have
>> ordered an oil filter, air filter and some oil, and saw someone
>> complain about getting parts, so I'm thinking of ordering double, and
>> multiple spare blades....
>
> Got exactly the same machine, which I nought it new in November 2017. So
> far it's got around 120 hours on it and has not missed a beat since I
> bought it, which is more than I can say for the Toro lawn tractor it
> replaced.

Cool. My little McCulloch has done a stirling job, but it's not supposed
to do what it's done. (mow grass full of half inch thick sticks, etc..)
So it's retired to here, and the Cub Cadet get's it's own shed up the
block. If I ca n find one with doors wide enough. which brings me to my
next question.. would you be so kind to measure it, length by width, so
I can see if it will fit in the tray on the back of my ranga? Tray
measures 1790 x 1820. sales droid said they 'think' it will fit, one way
or another. I have asked CC Australia, but waiting on a reply, and not
expecting one in a hurry.... Not too sure when I'll pick it up.. either
early December or just before Xmas, but fuck, it's gunna get a workout
over the Xmas hols whilst waiting for the tractor. The grass is so high
around the place, the emu's are getting bogged! Looking into the paddock
next door, they look like submarine periscopes. Cant see 'em till you
yell, and then all the heads pop up! :-)
https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME527E8 emus in the grass

This is the neighbours dam. It's risen 8 feet in the last 12 months, and
the last 2 feet in a week. So the joint is a bit wet. :-)
https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME527E6 neighbours dam

Amazing rainfall up there, and who knows when it's gunna stop? Happy to
see it rain, rather than burn.

> Haven't needed to buy any parts so far apart from service items like
> plugs and filters which I get from ebay. The local mower shop in Baccus
> is an agent for their range, and according to them they don't have any
> trouble getting bits. The blades hold their edge well and I've only had
> to sharpen them once so far, and the quick release deck makes that job a
> piece of piss. They've changed the engines on them from the 23hp Kohler
> in mine to the Kwaka unit that you've got, and I'm not sure if it's
> because Kohler caused them any dramas or they just did a better deal
> with Kawasaki, but I think the rest of the machine is the same and
> they're pretty reliable.

Cheers.. I'll ring the mob I bought it from, and order double, and as I
use one set of service gear, I'll order another so I wont run out. Is
the customer allowed to do the first service using their products? (oil
and filter)? I really couldn't be fagged dragging the thing backwards
and forwards, even though the dealer in sort of on the way to the
block/on the way home...

> They're also pretty decent to drive with the steering wheel being far
> easier to use than the lap bars in my opinion. Especially if you tow a
> spray tank like we use here as you can drive with one hand and use the
> spray wand with the other which is why we bought it.

Never driven a zero turn mower, but I can see the benefits after the
current tractor/slasher and ride on mower. I own a stick rake which goes
behind the tractor, but it's not much good if the tractor is rooted. The
McCulloch did okay, but every now and then, it'd hit a big one, and
scare the bejesus out of ya... :-) Just gunna plow through with the new
machine, and see how it copes with 12-18mm sticks and the odd manuksa
root ball....

https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME5281S this was taken 9 months ago...
it's fucking overgrown now! :) got some work to do... it's a bog at the
mo. Assuming the rain will stop at some stage, theres a bit to do around
the camp, and under the trees to the right in the pic... ;-D

>
> They're a good machine that does a great job, and you won't be
> disappointed.

Happy to hear that. only info I had was from a shop in Dandenong, where
I'd bought the McCulloch 9 years ago... did a little research, and found
the CC $1250 cheaper down the road. Thanks for looking after your
customers!Not. I wont be back... :-) New dealer seems a bit more
interested...

Cheers..

On 18/11/2021 9:24 am, Daryl wrote:
> On 17/11/21 8:31 pm, lindsay wrote:

> I've never owned a ride on mower but I've used a few and worked on them,
> what I find is the steering is bloody awful so a "zero turn, 4 wheel
> steering" mower should fix that problem.

Yep. it's the same on a tractor.. If you wanna follow the line you've
just cut, you need to wander out in a big loop, if your not doing
rectangles :-) Wombat burrows make it interesting :-)

> The ride over rough ground can also be bone jarring so a bigger machine
> should ride better, good luck with it.

Cheers. First thing I'm gunna when the tractor arrives is weld up a flat
frame the 4in1 bucket can grab, get a truckload of soil delivered if the
truck can get in, and spread it out under the trees next to the shed.
The excavator that knocked the dead trees over in March has made the
area very lumpy, which is bad for me, as I have a poor left ankle. We'll
spread it out, and it'll become a bowling green. Then plant some more
gums for shade to replace the dead ones, and all will be good. The whole
place is a work in progress, but I would have shot Dan Andrews by now if
i didnt have my little getaway.:-)
>
>

On 18/11/2021 7:10 pm, lindsay wrote:
> On 17/11/2021 11:34 pm, Noddy wrote:

>>> So I scored a few crisps from the wife/CFO for my birthday, and have
>>> decided on this: https://www.cubcadet.com.au/rzt-s-92.html
>>>
>>> Fabricated deck, USA made, zero turn, 4 wheel steering, 6 year
>>> domestic warranty on motor (Kawasaki 23hp v twin) and mower...
>>> Scored a good price (field days price... saved over $1000 on retail,
>>> and got a set of blades thrown in...)
>>
>> What a coinkidink :)
>>
>>> https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME51CM4
>
> Thats my new baby!!! :-) Although I'm not sure if mine has the deck wash
> or cruise.... Seems the specs change a bit....

I think so. Don't worry too much about the deck wash as it doesn't do a
hell of a lot. You'll get far better results by jacking it up or driving
it up on ramps and hitting it with a pressure washer from underneath.

The cruise control is a great feature. Hopefully yours will have it.

>> Got exactly the same machine, which I nought it new in November 2017.
>> So far it's got around 120 hours on it and has not missed a beat since
>> I bought it, which is more than I can say for the Toro lawn tractor it
>> replaced.
>
> Cool. My little McCulloch has done a stirling job, but it's not supposed
> to do what it's done. (mow grass full of half inch thick sticks, etc..)
> So it's retired to here, and the Cub Cadet get's it's own shed up the
> block. If I ca n find one with doors wide enough. which brings me to my
> next question.. would you be so kind to measure it, length by width, so
> I can see if it will fit in the tray on the back of my ranga? Tray
> measures 1790 x 1820. sales droid said they 'think' it will fit, one way
> or another. I have asked CC Australia, but waiting on a reply, and not
> expecting one in a hurry.... Not too sure when I'll pick it up..

You should be okay. A quick measurement in the dark tells me it's almost
2 metres long by 1700 wide with the grass deflector folded down. You
should be able to get it on the back with a little bit sticking out.
I've had mine in a 7x5 trailer with the tailgate off and it was okay.

Speaking of the grass deflector, when you go pick yours up ask the
dealer if they'll give you this:

> https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME52CEG

It's just a little bracket that they use to keep the grass deflector
locked in the upright position while the thing is being shipped in it's
crate, and it's fucking handy as fuck. It just clips in at the pivot pin
like this:

> https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME52CEJ

They normally throw the things away after they've unpacked the machine
and done the pre-delivery, but the local shop here accidentaly left mine
in place when they delivered it and it's grouse for parking the machine
with the deflector folded up so you don't stand on it and break it.

> https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME52CEE

Makes it easier to transport, and as my mower lives in a container with
my tractor and other shit it allows me to have a walkway in between all
the crap and not accidentally stand on the thing and snap it off :)

--

> either early December or just before Xmas, but fuck, it's gunna get a workout
> over the Xmas hols whilst waiting for the tractor. The grass is so high
> around the place, the emu's are getting bogged! Looking into the paddock
> next door, they look like submarine periscopes. Cant see 'em till you
> yell, and then all the heads pop up! :-)
> https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME527E8  emus in the grass

Fucking hell. That will test it :) Looks like it's been wet. Wish it was
that green around here.
>
> This is the neighbours dam. It's risen 8 feet in the last 12 months, and
> the last 2 feet in a week. So the joint is a bit wet. :-)
> https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME527E6  neighbours dam

Nice.

> Amazing rainfall up there, and who knows when it's gunna stop? Happy to
> see it rain, rather than burn.

Absolutely. Been pretty wet here as well, and the weeds are going nuts :)

>> Haven't needed to buy any parts so far apart from service items like
>> plugs and filters which I get from ebay. The local mower shop in
>> Baccus is an agent for their range, and according to them they don't
>> have any trouble getting bits. The blades hold their edge well and
>> I've only had to sharpen them once so far, and the quick release deck
>> makes that job a piece of piss. They've changed the engines on them
>> from the 23hp Kohler in mine to the Kwaka unit that you've got, and
>> I'm not sure if it's because Kohler caused them any dramas or they
>> just did a better deal with Kawasaki, but I think the rest of the
>> machine is the same and they're pretty reliable.
>
> Cheers.. I'll ring the mob I bought it from, and order double, and as I
> use one set of service gear, I'll order another so I wont run out. Is
> the customer allowed to do the first service using their products? (oil
> and filter)? I really couldn't be fagged dragging the thing backwards
> and forwards, even though the dealer in sort of on the way to the
> block/on the way home...

Dunno. I've never been back since :)

There's not much too them. They use a simple spin on oil filter, have a
couple of plugs, a basic fuel filter and a decent air filter element.
You can buy service kits of the things on ebay pretty cheap, and they're
decent stuff. You'd need to search for your particular Kawasaki model
number, but for my Kohler they're like this:

> https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Air-Filter-Shut-Off-Valve-For-Kohler-7000-Series-Engine-32-083-09-S-12-050-01-S-/194496159493?hash=item2d48dfdf05

For 50 bucks you get a set of plugs, an oil filter, a fuel filter, an
air filter, a new fuel tap, and a new replacement fuel pump. Oh, on the
subject of air filters, if the kwaka engine has the air filter located
right at the rear of the machine like the Kohler engine does then it
will get pretty dusty quite quickly. The filter is a paper element type
but they come with a foam "pre-cleaner" band on them, and they work very
well if you pick up a can of K&N air filter oil and give them a light
coating before use.

When they get filthy, take the foam band off and wash it in petrol and
then leave it to dry before refitting it and giving it another spray
with oil.
>> They're also pretty decent to drive with the steering wheel being far
>> easier to use than the lap bars in my opinion. Especially if you tow a
>> spray tank like we use here as you can drive with one hand and use the
>> spray wand with the other which is why we bought it.
>
> Never driven a zero turn mower, but I can see the benefits after the
> current tractor/slasher and ride on mower. I own a stick rake which goes
> behind the tractor, but it's not much good if the tractor is rooted. The
> McCulloch did okay, but every now and then, it'd hit a big one, and
> scare the bejesus out of ya... :-) Just gunna plow through with the new
> machine, and see how it copes with 12-18mm sticks and the odd manuksa
> root ball....

It should do fine. The wife is the main mower pilot around here and she
gives ours hell. The shed has a few dents in the back wall where she's
picked shit up and flung it at it at super sonic speed, and it scares
the crap out of me every time :)

You'll love the steering wheel. It leaves a hand free to hold your beer.

> https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME5281S  this was taken 9 months ago...
> it's fucking overgrown now! :) got some work to do... it's a bog at the
> mo. Assuming the rain will stop at some stage, theres a bit to do around
> the camp, and under the trees to the right in the pic... ;-D

Looks like a really cool place to hang out :)
>> They're a good machine that does a great job, and you won't be
>> disappointed.
>
> Happy to hear that. only info I had was from a shop in Dandenong, where
> I'd bought the McCulloch 9 years ago... did a little research, and found
> the CC $1250 cheaper down the road. Thanks for looking after your
> customers!Not. I wont be back... :-) New dealer seems a bit more
> interested...

Funny that. I bought mine from the local mower shop in Bacchus and while
the mower itself was pretty well priced (I think I paid 5 and a half
grand, but that was 4 years ago), they're pretty exxy for anything else
so I don't bother with them much.

--
--
--
Regards,
Noddy.

Daryl wrote:
>
>I've never owned a ride on mower but I've used a few and worked on them,
>what I find is the steering is bloody awful so a "zero turn, 4 wheel
>steering" mower should fix that problem.

AFAIK the zero turns (the only way to go) all have four wheel steering
by virtue of the castors at the front! Steering with levers is fine
once you get used to it and it's the same system used by a lot of
industrial machinery. (Dunno how you can instantly reverse with a
steering wheel unless it works like a dodgem car.) :)

>The ride over rough ground can also be bone jarring so a bigger machine
>should ride better, good luck with it.

The fabricated frame (as opposed to a pressed frame) is essential for
rough going but I'd still expect an awfully rough ride from a mower
that size which has very similar specs to our 10y.o Toro TimeCutter.
About the only damage it's suffered from rough ground is the exhaust
shield breaking off the Kawasaki engine early in its life. Otherwise
it's been extremely reliable.

--
John H

On 19/11/2021 7:57 am, John_H wrote:
> Daryl wrote:
>>
>> I've never owned a ride on mower but I've used a few and worked on them,
>> what I find is the steering is bloody awful so a "zero turn, 4 wheel
>> steering" mower should fix that problem.
>
> AFAIK the zero turns (the only way to go) all have four wheel steering
> by virtue of the castors at the front!

Two wheel steering and two lazy "followers" :)

> Steering with levers is fine once you get used to it and it's the same system used by a lot of
> industrial machinery.

There's nothing complicated about levers, other than them making one
handed operation somewhat less easily accomplished.

(Dunno how you can instantly reverse with a
> steering wheel unless it works like a dodgem car.) :)

It kind of does. It'd be easier to understand observing it in practice,
but the system works incredibly well.

>> The ride over rough ground can also be bone jarring so a bigger machine
>> should ride better, good luck with it.
>
> The fabricated frame (as opposed to a pressed frame) is essential for
> rough going but I'd still expect an awfully rough ride from a mower
> that size which has very similar specs to our 10y.o Toro TimeCutter.

I don't know what your Toro rides like but this rides okay. It's
actually quite comfortable to drive, which is way more than I could say
about the Toro we had. The bloke over the road has a zero steer with lap
bars which I borrowed a couple of times and having the wheel in front of
you makes it a different experience.

> About the only damage it's suffered from rough ground is the exhaust
> shield breaking off the Kawasaki engine early in its life. Otherwise
> it's been extremely reliable.

I think all manufacturers make good and bad models. Our Toro was a 38
inch lawn tractor, and it was a total heap of shit. It continually shook
itself to pieces, breaking things or having things fall off and I
couldn't wait to get rid of it. The blades seemed like they were made
out of Balsa wood and it used heaps of fuel for the amount of work it
managed to do (it had an 18hp Briggs if I remember correctly). It was
probably more suited to a large suburban "pool table smooth" block than
small acreage with a little bit of rough ground, but it was a heap of
crap nonetheless.

Buy comparison, the Cub Cadet hasn't missed a beat, cuts the grass in
less than half the time and does a *much* better job of it, is easier
and more comfortable to operate (the cruise control is excellent), mows
in reverse without needing to unlock a switch under the seat with the
ignition key (which was an absolutely dick "feature" on the Toro :) and
has had zero problems in the last 4 years.

If Lindsay's new mower works as well and proves to be as reliable as
ours has I'm sure he'll be very happy with it.

--
--
--
Regards,
Noddy.

Noddy wrote:
>On 19/11/2021 7:57 am, John_H wrote:
>
>>
>> The fabricated frame (as opposed to a pressed frame) is essential for
>> rough going but I'd still expect an awfully rough ride from a mower
>> that size which has very similar specs to our 10y.o Toro TimeCutter.
>
>I don't know what your Toro rides like but this rides okay. It's
>actually quite comfortable to drive, which is way more than I could say
>about the Toro we had. The bloke over the road has a zero steer with lap
>bars which I borrowed a couple of times and having the wheel in front of
>you makes it a different experience.
>
>> About the only damage it's suffered from rough ground is the exhaust
>> shield breaking off the Kawasaki engine early in its life. Otherwise
>> it's been extremely reliable.
>
>I think all manufacturers make good and bad models. Our Toro was a 38
>inch lawn tractor, and it was a total heap of shit. It continually shook
>itself to pieces, breaking things or having things fall off

Toro have at least four distinct model ranges with their lawn tractors
at the bottom of the heap, as with most other manufacturers.

The mower Lindsay's looking at appears to be more or less equivalent
to Toro's TimeCutter range which is considerably superior to their
lawn tractor, and priced accordingly.

As per usual, you get what you pay for!

For my money a fabricated frame and hydrostatic drive are the most
essential components of anything decent.

I don't know what you ground is like, or Lindsay,s, but ours is a
cracking clay which becomes exceptionally rough when it dries out, at
which point a tractor and slasher becomes the preference.

--
John H

On 19/11/2021 3:31 pm, John_H wrote:
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Noddy wrote:
>> On 19/11/2021 7:57 am, John_H wrote:
>>

>> I don't know what your Toro rides like but this rides okay. It's
>> actually quite comfortable to drive, which is way more than I could say
>> about the Toro we had. The bloke over the road has a zero steer with lap
>> bars which I borrowed a couple of times and having the wheel in front of
>> you makes it a different experience.
>>
>>> About the only damage it's suffered from rough ground is the exhaust
>>> shield breaking off the Kawasaki engine early in its life. Otherwise
>>> it's been extremely reliable.
>>
>> I think all manufacturers make good and bad models. Our Toro was a 38
>> inch lawn tractor, and it was a total heap of shit. It continually shook
>> itself to pieces, breaking things or having things fall off
>
> Toro have at least four distinct model ranges with their lawn tractors
> at the bottom of the heap, as with most other manufacturers.

I'm sure they do.

> The mower Lindsay's looking at appears to be more or less equivalent
> to Toro's TimeCutter range which is considerably superior to their
> lawn tractor, and priced accordingly.
>
> As per usual, you get what you pay for!

Kinda. Sometimes you pay a lot and get very little.

> For my money a fabricated frame and hydrostatic drive are the most
> essential components of anything decent.

Agreed.

> I don't know what you ground is like, or Lindsay,s, but ours is a
> cracking clay which becomes exceptionally rough when it dries out, at
> which point a tractor and slasher becomes the preference.

Ours can be hard over a dry summer or two, and the ride gets noticeably
harsher when it is, but the Cub Cadet does well. I don't know whether
that's by fluke or design, but there is a distinctly different "feel" in
the ride quality between holding onto the wheel as opposed to using lap
bars. You seem to be able to steady yourself easier if that makes sense,
and the seating position feels a bit more reclined.

--
--
--
Regards,
Noddy.

On 18/11/2021 10:15 pm, Noddy wrote:
> On 18/11/2021 7:10 pm, lindsay wrote:
>> On 17/11/2021 11:34 pm, Noddy wrote:
>
>>>> So I scored a few crisps from the wife/CFO for my birthday, and have
>>>> decided on this: https://www.cubcadet.com.au/rzt-s-92.html
>>>>
>>>> Fabricated deck, USA made, zero turn, 4 wheel steering, 6 year
>>>> domestic warranty on motor (Kawasaki 23hp v twin) and mower...
>>>> Scored a good price (field days price... saved over $1000 on retail,
>>>> and got a set of blades thrown in...)
>>>
>>> What a coinkidink :)
>>>
>>>> https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME51CM4
>>
>> Thats my new baby!!! :-) Although I'm not sure if mine has the deck
>> wash or cruise.... Seems the specs change a bit....
>
> I think so. Don't worry too much about the deck wash as it doesn't do a
> hell of a lot. You'll get far better results by jacking it up or driving
> it up on ramps and hitting it with a pressure washer from underneath.
>
> The cruise control is a great feature. Hopefully yours will have it.

Seems no to either. Apparently the newer version has neither, due to
costs. No biggie. Deck wash is easy enough to fit up myself, and the
cruise would be nice, but not too sure that in my situation, it would be
a valuable addition. The forthcoming Kubota will do the bulk of the
work.... The Cub Cadet will have a fair bit to do until the Kubota
arrives...

>
>>> Got exactly the same machine, which I nought it new in November 2017.
>>> So far it's got around 120 hours on it and has not missed a beat
>>> since I bought it, which is more than I can say for the Toro lawn
>>> tractor it replaced.
>>
>> Cool. My little McCulloch has done a stirling job, but it's not
>> supposed to do what it's done. (mow grass full of half inch thick
>> sticks, etc..) So it's retired to here, and the Cub Cadet get's it's
>> own shed up the block. If I ca n find one with doors wide enough.
>> which brings me to my next question.. would you be so kind to measure
>> it, length by width, so I can see if it will fit in the tray on the
>> back of my ranga? Tray measures 1790 x 1820. sales droid said they
>> 'think' it will fit, one way or another. I have asked CC Australia,
>> but waiting on a reply, and not expecting one in a hurry.... Not too
>> sure when I'll pick it up..
>
> You should be okay. A quick measurement in the dark tells me it's almost
> 2 metres long by 1700 wide with the grass deflector folded down. You
> should be able to get it on the back with a little bit sticking out.
> I've had mine in a 7x5 trailer with the tailgate off and it was okay.

Yep. Thanks for that. Seems like the width isn't a problem, and the
motor will hang over the tray with the tailboard removed, but all four
wheels on the tray. I've several anchor points mounted in the tray, even
more on the sides, and lo and behold, Wurth have produced some ratchet
tie-downs, which I now have a fair sized carton full. :-) Never mind the
shit Bunnings sell. ;-) It wont be going nowhere. Mates have asked how I
will get it out/off the tray... I have a "stock ramp" I used to get the
quads on and off the Navara... the ranga is a little higher, but I'm
sure i'll not have an issue unloading it...

> Speaking of the grass deflector, when you go pick yours up ask the
> dealer if they'll give you this:
>
>> https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME52CEG
>
> It's just a little bracket that they use to keep the grass deflector
> locked in the upright position while the thing is being shipped in it's
> crate, and it's fucking handy as fuck. It just clips in at the pivot pin
> like this:
>
>> https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME52CEJ
>
> They normally throw the things away after they've unpacked the machine
> and done the pre-delivery, but the local shop here accidentaly left mine
> in place when they delivered it and it's grouse for parking the machine
> with the deflector folded up so you don't stand on it and break it.
>
>> https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME52CEE
>
> Makes it easier to transport, and as my mower lives in a container with
> my tractor and other shit it allows me to have a walkway in between all
> the crap and not accidentally stand on the thing and snap it off :)

Heh.. mine's gunna live in a container, which was gunna become my
wingman's bedroom for his family.... so i'll probably buy a shed and
some concrete from Bunnings in Bairnsdale, and head down that path...

>> either early December or just before Xmas, but fuck, it's gunna get a
>> workout over the Xmas hols whilst waiting for the tractor. The grass
>> is so high around the place, the emu's are getting bogged! Looking
>> into the paddock next door, they look like submarine periscopes. Cant
>> see 'em till you yell, and then all the heads pop up! :-)
>> https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME527E8  emus in the grass
>
> Fucking hell. That will test it :) Looks like it's been wet. Wish it was
> that green around here.

Rainfall has been awesome. No complaint from me, (until if have to use
my winch.

>> This is the neighbours dam. It's risen 8 feet in the last 12 months,
>> and the last 2 feet in a week. So the joint is a bit wet. :-)
>> https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME527E6  neighbours dam
>
> Nice.

Seems it's forced a few red-bellied blacks up a bit higher towards his
shack.... :-)

>> Amazing rainfall up there, and who knows when it's gunna stop? Happy
>> to see it rain, rather than burn.
>
> Absolutely. Been pretty wet here as well, and the weeds are going nuts :)

I recently had an issue with a stihl line trimmer i use at home. Broken
down 4 times since new. Bought a Honda 4 stroke from Bunnings, (5% off
too), and it just works. Starts 2nd pull as advertised. Fuck the weeds.
Whilst it wont go too hard, it will sort the majority. ;-) Has a
'twisted' string. I poo-pooed it at first.. now looking to buy more...
>
>>> Haven't needed to buy any parts so far apart from service items like
>>> plugs and filters which I get from ebay. The local mower shop in
>>> Baccus is an agent for their range, and according to them they don't
>>> have any trouble getting bits. The blades hold their edge well and
>>> I've only had to sharpen them once so far, and the quick release deck
>>> makes that job a piece of piss. They've changed the engines on them
>>> from the 23hp Kohler in mine to the Kwaka unit that you've got, and
>>> I'm not sure if it's because Kohler caused them any dramas or they
>>> just did a better deal with Kawasaki, but I think the rest of the
>>> machine is the same and they're pretty reliable.
>>
>> Cheers.. I'll ring the mob I bought it from, and order double, and as
>> I use one set of service gear, I'll order another so I wont run out.
>> Is the customer allowed to do the first service using their products?
>> (oil and filter)? I really couldn't be fagged dragging the thing
>> backwards and forwards, even though the dealer in sort of on the way
>> to the block/on the way home...
>
> Dunno. I've never been back since :)

Thats my plan!

>
> There's not much too them. They use a simple spin on oil filter, have a
> couple of plugs, a basic fuel filter and a decent air filter element.
> You can buy service kits of the things on ebay pretty cheap, and they're
> decent stuff. You'd need to search for your particular Kawasaki model
> number, but for my Kohler they're like this:
>
>> https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Air-Filter-Shut-Off-Valve-For-Kohler-7000-Series-Engine-32-083-09-S-12-050-01-S-/194496159493?hash=item2d48dfdf05
>>
>
> For 50 bucks you get a set of plugs, an oil filter, a fuel filter, an
> air filter, a new fuel tap, and a new replacement fuel pump. Oh, on the
> subject of air filters, if the kwaka engine has the air filter located
> right at the rear of the machine like the Kohler engine does then it
> will get pretty dusty quite quickly. The filter is a paper element type
> but they come with a foam "pre-cleaner" band on them, and they work very
> well if you pick up a can of K&N air filter oil and give them a light
> coating before use.
>
> When they get filthy, take the foam band off and wash it in petrol and
> then leave it to dry before refitting it and giving it another spray
> with oil.

Many, many thanks for the info. Duly noted , printed, and filed..

On 19/11/2021 7:27 pm, lindsay wrote:
> On 18/11/2021 10:15 pm, Noddy wrote:
>
>> I think so. Don't worry too much about the deck wash as it doesn't do
>> a hell of a lot. You'll get far better results by jacking it up or
>> driving it up on ramps and hitting it with a pressure washer from
>> underneath.
>>
>> The cruise control is a great feature. Hopefully yours will have it.
>
> Seems no to either. Apparently the newer version has neither, due to
> costs. No biggie. Deck wash is easy enough to fit up myself, and the
> cruise would be nice, but not too sure that in my situation, it would be
> a valuable addition. The forthcoming Kubota will do the bulk of the
> work.... The Cub Cadet will have a fair bit to do until the Kubota
> arrives...

That's a bit of a bugger. Still, it's not like holding the pedal down is
hard work.
>> You should be okay. A quick measurement in the dark tells me it's
>> almost 2 metres long by 1700 wide with the grass deflector folded
>> down. You should be able to get it on the back with a little bit
>> sticking out. I've had mine in a 7x5 trailer with the tailgate off and
>> it was okay.
>
> Yep. Thanks for that. Seems like the width isn't a problem, and the
> motor will hang over the tray with the tailboard removed, but all four
> wheels on the tray. I've several anchor points mounted in the tray, even
> more on the sides, and lo and behold, Wurth have produced some ratchet
> tie-downs, which I now have a fair sized carton full. :-) Never mind the
> shit Bunnings sell. ;-) It wont be going nowhere. Mates have asked how I
> will get it out/off the tray... I have a "stock ramp" I used to get the
> quads on and off the Navara... the ranga is a little higher, but I'm
> sure i'll not have an issue unloading it...

I'm sure it'll be easy.

I've got a set of folding alluminium ramps, but I found the easiest way
to get it in and out of the box trailer was to just hook the trailer up
to the tow bar on the tractor's 3 point linkage and then tilt the
trailer all the way up and just drive the thing in and out like one big
ramp.

>>> https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME52CEE
>>
>> Makes it easier to transport, and as my mower lives in a container
>> with my tractor and other shit it allows me to have a walkway in
>> between all the crap and not accidentally stand on the thing and snap
>> it off :)
>
> Heh.. mine's gunna live in a container, which was gunna become my
> wingman's bedroom for his family.... so i'll probably buy a shed and
> some concrete from  Bunnings in Bairnsdale, and head down that path...

Cool.

>>> either early December or just before Xmas, but fuck, it's gunna get a
>>> workout over the Xmas hols whilst waiting for the tractor. The grass
>>> is so high around the place, the emu's are getting bogged! Looking
>>> into the paddock next door, they look like submarine periscopes. Cant
>>> see 'em till you yell, and then all the heads pop up! :-)
>>> https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME527E8  emus in the grass
>>
>> Fucking hell. That will test it :) Looks like it's been wet. Wish it
>> was that green around here.
>
> Rainfall has been awesome.  No complaint from me, (until if have to use
> my winch.

The only thing I'm not liking about the wet weather at the moment are
the leaks in my shed roof. We've had a couple of decent storms here in
the last few weeks, and a couple of sheets of laserlite have been
damaged. I've got a bloke coming out to replace it all, but in the mean
time I have buckets all over the place to catch the drips.

>>> This is the neighbours dam. It's risen 8 feet in the last 12 months,
>>> and the last 2 feet in a week. So the joint is a bit wet. :-)
>>> https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME527E6  neighbours dam
>>
>> Nice.
>
> Seems it's forced a few red-bellied blacks up a bit higher towards his
> shack....  :-)

The blacks are pretty tame. It's those brown cunts you have to watch.
They won't just bite you, they'll chase you into the shed to bite you,
then rape your cat and then steal all your beer :)

Cunts of things they are.

>>> Amazing rainfall up there, and who knows when it's gunna stop? Happy
>>> to see it rain, rather than burn.
>>
>> Absolutely. Been pretty wet here as well, and the weeds are going nuts :)
>
> I recently had an issue with a stihl line trimmer i use at home. Broken
> down 4 times since new. Bought a Honda 4 stroke from Bunnings, (5% off
> too), and it just works. Starts 2nd pull as advertised. Fuck the weeds.
> Whilst it wont go too hard, it will sort the majority. ;-) Has a
> 'twisted' string. I poo-pooed it at first.. now looking to buy more...

Same here. We had some two stroke Bunnings thing (I think it was called
a "Talon" or some such) and as with all two stroke things it decided one
day that it wasn't starting and that was that. After throwing it on the
junk pile I went to Bunnings and bought a brush cutter with a Honda GX25
engine and it's never missed a beat in almost 10 years. Starts first
pull, does a great job and never stops.

I put one of these on ours, as the standard head was rubbish:

> https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/144277705115?hash=item21979f119b:g:di8AAOSwu-FhhPg0

Works well. Takes 4mm plastic rope which is strong enough to deal with
most of the weeds, but not strong enough to accidentally cut through
fencing wire.

>>> https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Air-Filter-Shut-Off-Valve-For-Kohler-7000-Series-Engine-32-083-09-S-12-050-01-S-/194496159493?hash=item2d48dfdf05
>>>
>>
>> For 50 bucks you get a set of plugs, an oil filter, a fuel filter, an
>> air filter, a new fuel tap, and a new replacement fuel pump. Oh, on
>> the subject of air filters, if the kwaka engine has the air filter
>> located right at the rear of the machine like the Kohler engine does
>> then it will get pretty dusty quite quickly. The filter is a paper
>> element type but they come with a foam "pre-cleaner" band on them, and
>> they work very well if you pick up a can of K&N air filter oil and
>> give them a light coating before use.
>>
>> When they get filthy, take the foam band off and wash it in petrol and
>> then leave it to dry before refitting it and giving it another spray
>> with oil.
>
> Many, many thanks for the info. Duly noted , printed, and filed..

No probs.

>> It should do fine. The wife is the main mower pilot around here and
>> she gives ours hell. The shed has a few dents in the back wall where
>> she's picked shit up and flung it at it at super sonic speed, and it
>> scares the crap out of me every time :)
>>
>> You'll love the steering wheel. It leaves a hand free to hold your beer.
>
> LOL... when i mow home with the McCullough, it doesnt take me long to do
> the front yard and naturestrip... maybe 2 mins max. As I head back
> through the garage to do the back yard, I have to pass the beer fridge.
> It's like a drive through with travellers....  :-)

ROTFL :)

Fucking awesome :)

>>> https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME5281S  this was taken 9 months ago...
>>> it's fucking overgrown now! :) got some work to do... it's a bog at
>>> the mo. Assuming the rain will stop at some stage, theres a bit to do
>>> around the camp, and under the trees to the right in the pic... ;-D
>>
>> Looks like a really cool place to hang out :)
>
> Labor of love, but after some issues with my ex-mate that owns a
> property on the Wonnangatta river, 10k west of Dargo, the wife suggested
> I buy my own. Be 12 years old this summer; had a shitload of fun up
> there with my mates, built a "shearers quarters" and machinery shed, and
> have had a ball there. Neighbors are all awesome too, which makes life
> there more simple. One has done a bit of slashing around my shed and
> access track because he knows my tractor's not up to it... Great
> neighbour. Great people. Wont retire there (have other plans) but a
> magic joint to get out of town, and do what I want, when I want....

Nice. It's a lovely part of the world. I used to love going to Dargo
when I was young. Shit-tonnes of great scenic bike rides.

>> Funny that. I bought mine from the local mower shop in Bacchus and
>> while the mower itself was pretty well priced (I think I paid 5 and a
>> half grand, but that was 4 years ago), they're pretty exxy for
>> anything else so I don't bother with them much.
>
> Yep. Have learnt about this particular mob. Got them to repair my Honda
> 2.0ei? gennie (that I'd bought from them) under warranty.. went to pick
> it up, and they'd suggested they'd done all sorts of "service" to it...
> from memory? $800 worth on a $2k gennie. It was a warranty job, ffs!
> Told 'em I wasn't paying a cent as it was warranty, and picked it up
> free of charge on the spot. Wont name 'em, so the sea-lice of aus.cars
> (you know, the ones who say they aren't stalkers!) will have something
> to do tomorrow. I'll help: They are in Greens rd, Dandenong, and their
> two part name begins with "Red Sh.." If you flogs need any help, which
> wouldn't surprise me, just ask. :-D

On 19/11/2021 10:20 pm, Noddy wrote:
> On 19/11/2021 7:27 pm, lindsay wrote:
>> On 18/11/2021 10:15 pm, Noddy wrote:
>>
>>> I think so. Don't worry too much about the deck wash as it doesn't do
>>> a hell of a lot. You'll get far better results by jacking it up or
>>> driving it up on ramps and hitting it with a pressure washer from
>>> underneath.
>>>
>>> The cruise control is a great feature. Hopefully yours will have it.
>>
>> Seems no to either. Apparently the newer version has neither, due to
>> costs. No biggie. Deck wash is easy enough to fit up myself, and the
>> cruise would be nice, but not too sure that in my situation, it would
>> be a valuable addition. The forthcoming Kubota will do the bulk of the
>> work.... The Cub Cadet will have a fair bit to do until the Kubota
>> arrives...
>
> That's a bit of a bugger. Still, it's not like holding the pedal down is
> hard work.

Lol, I'll survive. The Kubota has cruise. :-)

>> Heh.. mine's gunna live in a container, which was gunna become my
>> wingman's bedroom for his family.... so i'll probably buy a shed and
>> some concrete from  Bunnings in Bairnsdale, and head down that path...
>
> Cool.

Sheds are cheap, the concrete floor isn't :-)

> The only thing I'm not liking about the wet weather at the moment are
> the leaks in my shed roof. We've had a couple of decent storms here in
> the last few weeks, and a couple of sheets of laserlite have been
> damaged. I've got a bloke coming out to replace it all, but in the mean
> time I have buckets all over the place to catch the drips.

Same.. seems our little earthquake a couple of months ago has upset the
roof on the factory, and is leaking across the centre. No biggie,
plumber booked to sort it. My biggest whinge has been a gum tree that
was planted by Kingston Council maybe 10 years ago? The mindless
cretins planted a ghost gum? on their land, 2 metres from the rear of my
factory. Long story short, (and Tommy's all over this, because he's not
a stalker) is the whole east side of the street took the council to
court for damage to their (and my) buildings, it got as far as
'mediation" and their *insurance co* paid out under sufferance. Council
rely on their insurance company for everything, and we can see the
outcome...

After the payout, the trees were the subject of a "discussion by parks
and gardens" and they decided to leave it/them. Move on to three weeks
ago...
So much rain, and add a bit of a decent blow, and lo-and behold, their
tree decided to lean over. Onto their fence, and threaten to kill anyone
on the path in their park, or even worse, when the "mutton bird"
easterlies turn up, maybe damage my factory big time, or worse, kill an
employee taking a dump. Took 6 fucking phone calls. 6th call, I asked if
they were recording, (yes) and then said that the council will be done
for manslaughter if the tree hurts anyone. Same rules as last time. The
knew of the "nusience", yet allowed it to continue. Amazingly, head of
Parks and Gardens suddenly joins the call, and a team were out to fix it
25mins later.

>>>> This is the neighbours dam. It's risen 8 feet in the last 12 months,
>>>> and the last 2 feet in a week. So the joint is a bit wet. :-)
>>>> https://www.imagebam.com/view/ME527E6  neighbours dam
>>>
>>> Nice.
>>
>> Seems it's forced a few red-bellied blacks up a bit higher towards his
>> shack....  :-)
>
> The blacks are pretty tame. It's those brown cunts you have to watch.
> They won't just bite you, they'll chase you into the shed to bite you,
> then rape your cat and then steal all your beer :)

LOL I've posted a pic of Boris the Brown before.. I dont want to meet
him again. Plenty of rb blacks, and yep, they are nearly harmless, they
just send a shiver down my spine. cant believe such a tiny head sits on
a 4-5 foot body. Reminds me of ... guess who? :-D
>
> Cunts of things they are.

You've nailed it. :-D

>
>>>> Amazing rainfall up there, and who knows when it's gunna stop? Happy
>>>> to see it rain, rather than burn.
>>>
>>> Absolutely. Been pretty wet here as well, and the weeds are going
>>> nuts :)
>>
>> I recently had an issue with a stihl line trimmer i use at home.
>> Broken down 4 times since new. Bought a Honda 4 stroke from Bunnings,
>> (5% off too), and it just works. Starts 2nd pull as advertised. Fuck
>> the weeds. Whilst it wont go too hard, it will sort the majority. ;-)
>> Has a 'twisted' string. I poo-pooed it at first.. now looking to buy
>> more...
>
> Same here. We had some two stroke Bunnings thing (I think it was called
> a "Talon" or some such) and as with all two stroke things it decided one
> day that it wasn't starting and that was that. After throwing it on the
> junk pile I went to Bunnings and bought a brush cutter with a Honda GX25
> engine and it's never missed a beat in almost 10 years. Starts first
> pull, does a great job and never stops.
>
> I put one of these on ours, as the standard head was rubbish:
>
>> https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/144277705115?hash=item21979f119b:g:di8AAOSwu-FhhPg0
>>
>
> Works well. Takes 4mm plastic rope which is strong enough to deal with
> most of the weeds, but not strong enough to accidentally cut through
> fencing wire.

Fucksticks! On my wishlist...

Found this today.. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTYIbxzXAoM There
are several others available that will marry up with the front end
loaded on my Kubota. (Eurohitch) gee, the carnage i'll cause... One mob
has priced them at $5000 plus GST, I reckon i may get one built for 1/2
price...

>>>> https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Air-Filter-Shut-Off-Valve-For-Kohler-7000-Series-Engine-32-083-09-S-12-050-01-S-/194496159493?hash=item2d48dfdf05
>>>>
>>>
>>> For 50 bucks you get a set of plugs, an oil filter, a fuel filter, an
>>> air filter, a new fuel tap, and a new replacement fuel pump. Oh, on
>>> the subject of air filters, if the kwaka engine has the air filter
>>> located right at the rear of the machine like the Kohler engine does
>>> then it will get pretty dusty quite quickly. The filter is a paper
>>> element type but they come with a foam "pre-cleaner" band on them,
>>> and they work very well if you pick up a can of K&N air filter oil
>>> and give them a light coating before use.
>>>
>>> When they get filthy, take the foam band off and wash it in petrol
>>> and then leave it to dry before refitting it and giving it another
>>> spray with oil.
>>
>> Many, many thanks for the info. Duly noted , printed, and filed..
>
> No probs.

We'll see if the seller offers the same info :-) Really appreciate
yours. makes life easier when your minimum 40k from a dealer, *if*
there's one in bairnsdale..

>> Labor of love, but after some issues with my ex-mate that owns a
>> property on the Wonnangatta river, 10k west of Dargo, the wife
>> suggested I buy my own. Be 12 years old this summer; had a shitload of
>> fun up there with my mates, built a "shearers quarters" and machinery
>> shed, and have had a ball there. Neighbors are all awesome too, which
>> makes life there more simple. One has done a bit of slashing around my
>> shed and access track because he knows my tractor's not up to it...
>> Great neighbour. Great people. Wont retire there (have other plans)
>> but a magic joint to get out of town, and do what I want, when I want....
>
> Nice. It's a lovely part of the world. I used to love going to Dargo
> when I was young. Shit-tonnes of great scenic bike rides.

Yep. a few of my mates and their sons rock up at my joint, with their
bikes, and disappear for the day.

I spent 15-20 years up Dargo every 2nd weekend or so on the Wonnangatta.
Seen all sorts of shit, from platypus in the river, bushfires thats
started from lightning strikes and ended up burning 1/10 of the state,
meteors with flaming tails hurtling across the sky, the Sombrero Galaxy,
mate reported F-111 being chased by a f/a-18... deer walking across his
paddock to the river most mornings... And a fox. One particular fox.
cunning as a shithouse rat. Took nearly 5 years to get him. Got his
rellies, but this one fox made a mistake one cold, frosty morning. As
Bill Lawry would say "Got 'im, yeah. Tell ya story walking, pal". Yep,
happy Happy joy Joy....

(watching Adele special on the idiot box.... fuck she can sing...

On 21/11/2021 7:49 pm, lindsay wrote:
> On 19/11/2021 10:20 pm, Noddy wrote:

>> The only thing I'm not liking about the wet weather at the moment are
>> the leaks in my shed roof. We've had a couple of decent storms here in
>> the last few weeks, and a couple of sheets of laserlite have been
>> damaged. I've got a bloke coming out to replace it all, but in the
>> mean time I have buckets all over the place to catch the drips.
>
> Same.. seems our little earthquake a couple of months ago has upset the
> roof on the factory, and is leaking across the centre. No biggie,
> plumber booked to sort it. My biggest whinge has been a gum tree that
> was planted by Kingston Council  maybe 10 years ago?  The mindless
> cretins planted a ghost gum? on their land, 2 metres from the rear of my
> factory. Long story short, (and Tommy's all over this, because he's not
> a stalker) is the whole east side of the street took the council to
> court for damage to their (and my) buildings, it got as far as
> 'mediation" and their *insurance co* paid out under sufferance. Council
> rely on their insurance company for everything, and we can see the
> outcome...
>
> After the payout, the trees were the subject of a "discussion by parks
> and gardens" and they decided to leave it/them. Move on to three weeks
> ago...
> So much rain, and add a bit of a decent blow, and lo-and behold, their
> tree decided to lean over. Onto their fence, and threaten to kill anyone
> on the path in their park, or even worse, when the "mutton bird"
> easterlies turn up, maybe damage my factory big time, or worse, kill an
> employee taking a dump. Took 6 fucking phone calls. 6th call, I asked if
> they were recording, (yes) and then said that the council will be done
> for manslaughter if the tree hurts anyone. Same rules as last time. The
> knew of the "nusience", yet allowed it to continue.  Amazingly, head of
> Parks and Gardens suddenly joins the call, and a team were out to fix it
> 25mins later.

Amazing what a threat of legal ramifications will do.

Moorabool has as much of a cunty attitude with their Elm trees in the
Avenue of Honour. Half of them are either dead or near death as they're
past their expected life span, and a lot of them are full of concrete
holding the things up :)

We lost a couple of big ones in the recent storms, and they're forever
losing branches that fall onto people's property or cars and council's
response is always that it's an "act of God" and that they're not
liable. Like fuck they're not. They own the trees and they're liable for
any damage they may happen to cause, but they *always* refuse to
entertain the idea and call people's bluffs.

Cunts.

>> The blacks are pretty tame. It's those brown cunts you have to watch.
>> They won't just bite you, they'll chase you into the shed to bite you,
>> then rape your cat and then steal all your beer :)
>
> LOL I've posted a pic of Boris the Brown before.. I dont want to meet
> him again. Plenty of rb blacks, and yep, they are nearly harmless, they
> just send a shiver down my spine. cant believe such a tiny head sits on
> a 4-5 foot body. Reminds me of ... guess who? :-D

ROTFL :)

>>> I recently had an issue with a stihl line trimmer i use at home.
>>> Broken down 4 times since new. Bought a Honda 4 stroke from Bunnings,
>>> (5% off too), and it just works. Starts 2nd pull as advertised. Fuck
>>> the weeds. Whilst it wont go too hard, it will sort the majority. ;-)
>>> Has a 'twisted' string. I poo-pooed it at first.. now looking to buy
>>> more...
>>
>> Same here. We had some two stroke Bunnings thing (I think it was
>> called a "Talon" or some such) and as with all two stroke things it
>> decided one day that it wasn't starting and that was that. After
>> throwing it on the junk pile I went to Bunnings and bought a brush
>> cutter with a Honda GX25 engine and it's never missed a beat in almost
>> 10 years. Starts first pull, does a great job and never stops.
>>
>> I put one of these on ours, as the standard head was rubbish:
>>
>>> https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/144277705115?hash=item21979f119b:g:di8AAOSwu-FhhPg0
>>>
>>
>> Works well. Takes 4mm plastic rope which is strong enough to deal with
>> most of the weeds, but not strong enough to accidentally cut through
>> fencing wire.
>
> Fucksticks! On my wishlist...
>
> Found this today.. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTYIbxzXAoM  There
> are several others available that will marry up with the front end
> loaded on my Kubota. (Eurohitch)  gee, the carnage i'll cause... One mob
> has priced them at $5000 plus GST, I reckon i may get one built for 1/2
> price...

Fucking hell. Wish I had seen that video when I was clearing the bock
here in 2009. We had Boxthorns everywhere and they're absolute cunts of
things to remove.

>>>>> https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Air-Filter-Shut-Off-Valve-For-Kohler-7000-Series-Engine-32-083-09-S-12-050-01-S-/194496159493?hash=item2d48dfdf05
>>>>>
>>>>
>>>> For 50 bucks you get a set of plugs, an oil filter, a fuel filter,
>>>> an air filter, a new fuel tap, and a new replacement fuel pump. Oh,
>>>> on the subject of air filters, if the kwaka engine has the air
>>>> filter located right at the rear of the machine like the Kohler
>>>> engine does then it will get pretty dusty quite quickly. The filter
>>>> is a paper element type but they come with a foam "pre-cleaner" band
>>>> on them, and they work very well if you pick up a can of K&N air
>>>> filter oil and give them a light coating before use.
>>>>
>>>> When they get filthy, take the foam band off and wash it in petrol
>>>> and then leave it to dry before refitting it and giving it another
>>>> spray with oil.
>>>
>>> Many, many thanks for the info. Duly noted , printed, and filed..
>>
>> No probs.
>
> We'll see if the seller offers the same info :-) Really appreciate
> yours. makes life easier when your minimum 40k from a dealer, *if*
> there's one in bairnsdale..

Yep. Nothing worse than needing something and you can't get it.

>> Nice. It's a lovely part of the world. I used to love going to Dargo
>> when I was young. Shit-tonnes of great scenic bike rides.
>
> Yep. a few of my mates and their sons rock up at my joint, with their
> bikes, and disappear for the day.
>
> I spent 15-20 years up Dargo every 2nd weekend or so on the Wonnangatta.
> Seen all sorts of shit, from platypus in the river, bushfires thats
> started from lightning strikes and ended up burning 1/10 of the state,
> meteors with flaming tails hurtling across the sky, the Sombrero Galaxy,
> mate reported F-111 being chased by a f/a-18... deer walking across his
> paddock to the river most mornings... And a fox. One particular fox.
> cunning as a shithouse rat. Took nearly 5 years to get him. Got his
> rellies, but this one fox made a mistake one cold, frosty morning. As
> Bill Lawry would say "Got 'im, yeah. Tell ya story walking, pal". Yep,
> happy Happy joy Joy....

Lol :)

> (watching Adele special on the idiot box.... fuck she can sing...

She can sing the blue off the sky.

--
--
--
Regards,
Noddy.

lindsay wrote:
>On 19/11/2021 10:20 pm, Noddy wrote:
>
>>
>> The blacks are pretty tame. It's those brown cunts you have to watch.
>> They won't just bite you, they'll chase you into the shed to bite you,
>> then rape your cat and then steal all your beer :)

Your must have the savage variety down there! Probably the variant
that puts its tail in its mouth and rolls after you (we've only got
the bears).

>LOL I've posted a pic of Boris the Brown before.. I dont want to meet
>him again. Plenty of rb blacks, and yep, they are nearly harmless, they
>just send a shiver down my spine. cant believe such a tiny head sits on
>a 4-5 foot body. Reminds me of ... guess who? :-D

Wife has a baking dish for the birds under a dripping tap about 5
metre from our back door. I've spotted a very large brown drinking
from it on two recent occassions. Wife will have a fit if she
eventually spots it, especially since we had a half metre juvenile in
the house recently for the first time ever (I've put it down to
climate change).
>> Cunts of things they are.

Heard on the radio the other day that snakebite kills two people a
year in Oz. Bees, wasps and tick account for many more!
Actually learned something I didn't know about them. Apparently they
need to drink regularly to survive (might need to hide the beer). One
way to keep them away is to remove any water sources.

--
John H

On 22/11/2021 8:58 am, John_H wrote:
> lindsay wrote:
>> On 19/11/2021 10:20 pm, Noddy wrote:
>>
>>>
>>> The blacks are pretty tame. It's those brown cunts you have to watch.
>>> They won't just bite you, they'll chase you into the shed to bite you,
>>> then rape your cat and then steal all your beer :)
>
> Your must have the savage variety down there! Probably the variant
> that puts its tail in its mouth and rolls after you (we've only got
> the bears).

Lol :)

>> LOL I've posted a pic of Boris the Brown before.. I dont want to meet
>> him again. Plenty of rb blacks, and yep, they are nearly harmless, they
>> just send a shiver down my spine. cant believe such a tiny head sits on
>> a 4-5 foot body. Reminds me of ... guess who? :-D
>
> Wife has a baking dish for the birds under a dripping tap about 5
> metre from our back door. I've spotted a very large brown drinking
> from it on two recent occassions. Wife will have a fit if she
> eventually spots it, especially since we had a half metre juvenile in
> the house recently for the first time ever (I've put it down to
> climate change).

We had a juvenile Brown in the bedroom a few years ago. The wife thought
it was something I dropped and she yelled at me to "pick up my shit" as
she kicked it across the carpet. Then when it wiggled and tried to crawl
away she just yelled at me :)

>>> Cunts of things they are.
>
> Heard on the radio the other day that snakebite kills two people a
> year in Oz. Bees, wasps and tick account for many more!

Yeah, the mortality rates are pretty low, given that around 3000 bites a
year are recorded and 9 of the top 10 deadliest snakes are in our back
yards. Fortunately we have good health facilities* (on average) and
excellent antivenom. The two or three who die each year seem to be the
poor unfortunates who are allergic to the antivenom.

*My local hospital doesn't keep snake bite antivenom on hand even though
this is a "rural" area and Brown snakes are everywhere here at the
moment. The local vet does though :)

> Actually learned something I didn't know about them. Apparently they
> need to drink regularly to survive (might need to hide the beer). One
> way to keep them away is to remove any water sources.

That no doubt helps.

I have a two metre brown living under the deck on the back of my house.
I've pulled up heaps of boards trying to catch the thing but never have.
I've given up looking for it and will deal with it if and when it ever
decides to show itself.

--
--
--
Regards,
Noddy.

On 22/11/2021 7:05 am, Noddy wrote:
> On 22/11/2021 8:58 am, John_H wrote:
>> lindsay wrote:
>>> On 19/11/2021 10:20 pm, Noddy wrote:
>>>
>>>>
>>>> The blacks are pretty tame. It's those brown cunts you have to watch.
>>>> They won't just bite you, they'll chase you into the shed to bite you,
>>>> then rape your cat and then steal all your beer :)
>>
>> Your must have the savage variety down there!  Probably the variant
>> that puts its tail in its mouth and rolls after you (we've only got
>> the bears).
>
> Lol :)
>
>
>>> LOL I've posted a pic of Boris the Brown before.. I dont want to meet
>>> him again. Plenty of rb blacks, and yep, they are nearly harmless, they
>>> just send a shiver down my spine. cant believe such a tiny head sits on
>>> a 4-5 foot body. Reminds me of ... guess who? :-D
>>
>> Wife has a baking dish for the birds under a dripping tap about 5
>> metre from our back door.  I've spotted a very large brown drinking
>> from it on two recent occassions.  Wife will have a fit if she
>> eventually spots it, especially since we had a half metre juvenile in
>> the house recently for the first time ever (I've put it down to
>> climate change).
>
> We had a juvenile Brown in the bedroom a few years ago. The wife thought
> it was something I dropped and she yelled at me to "pick up my shit" as
> she kicked it across the carpet. Then when it wiggled and tried to crawl
> away she just yelled at me :)
>
>>>> Cunts of things they are.
>>
>> Heard on the radio the other day that snakebite kills two people a
>> year in Oz.  Bees, wasps and tick account for many more!
>
> Yeah, the mortality rates are pretty low, given that around 3000 bites a
> year are recorded and 9 of the top 10 deadliest snakes are in our back
> yards. Fortunately we have good health facilities* (on average) and
> excellent antivenom. The two or three who die each year seem to be the
> poor unfortunates who are allergic to the antivenom.
>
> *My local hospital doesn't keep snake bite antivenom on hand even though
> this is a "rural" area and Brown snakes are everywhere here at the
> moment. The local vet does though :)
>
>> Actually learned something I didn't know about them.  Apparently they
>> need to drink regularly to survive (might need to hide the beer).  One
>> way to keep them away is to remove any water sources.
>
> That no doubt helps.
>
> I have a two metre brown living under the deck on the back of my house.
> I've pulled up heaps of boards trying to catch the thing but never have.
> I've given up looking for it and will deal with it if and when it ever
> decides to show itself.
>
>
>

Like you did the last snake you killed with a trap?

If you have to go chasing them you have nothing to worry about and if
you want one removed call a snake catcher and they will do it for you.

Some people are just so fucking ignorant...

On 22/11/2021 10:05 am, Noddy wrote:
> On 22/11/2021 8:58 am, John_H wrote:
>> lindsay wrote:
>>> On 19/11/2021 10:20 pm, Noddy wrote:
>>>
>>>>
>>>> The blacks are pretty tame. It's those brown cunts you have to watch.
>>>> They won't just bite you, they'll chase you into the shed to bite you,
>>>> then rape your cat and then steal all your beer :)
>>
>> Your must have the savage variety down there!  Probably the variant
>> that puts its tail in its mouth and rolls after you (we've only got
>> the bears).
>
> Lol :)
>
>
>>> LOL I've posted a pic of Boris the Brown before.. I dont want to meet
>>> him again. Plenty of rb blacks, and yep, they are nearly harmless, they
>>> just send a shiver down my spine. cant believe such a tiny head sits on
>>> a 4-5 foot body. Reminds me of ... guess who? :-D
>>
>> Wife has a baking dish for the birds under a dripping tap about 5
>> metre from our back door.  I've spotted a very large brown drinking
>> from it on two recent occassions.  Wife will have a fit if she
>> eventually spots it, especially since we had a half metre juvenile in
>> the house recently for the first time ever (I've put it down to
>> climate change).
>
> We had a juvenile Brown in the bedroom a few years ago. The wife thought
> it was something I dropped and she yelled at me to "pick up my shit" as
> she kicked it across the carpet. Then when it wiggled and tried to crawl
> away she just yelled at me :)

No such thing as a juvenile... as far as I know, a 12 inch brown can
kill you as good as a 5'....
>
>>>> Cunts of things they are.

+1. Times 10.

>> Heard on the radio the other day that snakebite kills two people a
>> year in Oz.  Bees, wasps and tick account for many more!

I've also heard that 9 out of 10 snakebites are caused by attempting to
kill the snake. I've killed several, all because they got between me and
what I was doing... i generally leave 'em alone if i can.
>
> Yeah, the mortality rates are pretty low, given that around 3000 bites a
> year are recorded and 9 of the top 10 deadliest snakes are in our back
> yards. Fortunately we have good health facilities* (on average) and
> excellent antivenom. The two or three who die each year seem to be the
> poor unfortunates who are allergic to the antivenom.
>
> *My local hospital doesn't keep snake bite antivenom on hand even though
> this is a "rural" area and Brown snakes are everywhere here at the
> moment. The local vet does though :)

My joint is 40 k/40 mins from Bairnsdale, a BIG town in Gippsland. I've
the gps coordinates for the front yard ainted on the wall, in case.

Only ever been threatened by a big brown (Boris) once. Yes, they are as
nasty as Julia Gillard, as welcome as a boatload of illegals, and as
cordial as Peter Dutton. We get plenty of red bellied blacks, which are
nearly as timid as felix. The babies go right off.. :-)
>
>> Actually learned something I didn't know about them.  Apparently they
>> need to drink regularly to survive (might need to hide the beer).  One
>> way to keep them away is to remove any water sources.
>
> That no doubt helps.
>
> I have a two metre brown living under the deck on the back of my house.
> I've pulled up heaps of boards trying to catch the thing but never have.
> I've given up looking for it and will deal with it if and when it ever
> decides to show itself.
>
>
>

On 22/11/21 8:33 pm, lindsay wrote:
> On 22/11/2021 10:05 am, Noddy wrote:
>> On 22/11/2021 8:58 am, John_H wrote:
>>> lindsay wrote:
>>>> On 19/11/2021 10:20 pm, Noddy wrote:
>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> The blacks are pretty tame. It's those brown cunts you have to watch.
>>>>> They won't just bite you, they'll chase you into the shed to bite you,
>>>>> then rape your cat and then steal all your beer :)
>>>
>>> Your must have the savage variety down there!  Probably the variant
>>> that puts its tail in its mouth and rolls after you (we've only got
>>> the bears).
>>
>> Lol :)
>>
>>
>>>> LOL I've posted a pic of Boris the Brown before.. I dont want to meet
>>>> him again. Plenty of rb blacks, and yep, they are nearly harmless, they
>>>> just send a shiver down my spine. cant believe such a tiny head sits on
>>>> a 4-5 foot body. Reminds me of ... guess who? :-D
>>>
>>> Wife has a baking dish for the birds under a dripping tap about 5
>>> metre from our back door.  I've spotted a very large brown drinking
>>> from it on two recent occassions.  Wife will have a fit if she
>>> eventually spots it, especially since we had a half metre juvenile in
>>> the house recently for the first time ever (I've put it down to
>>> climate change).
>>
>> We had a juvenile Brown in the bedroom a few years ago. The wife
>> thought it was something I dropped and she yelled at me to "pick up my
>> shit" as she kicked it across the carpet. Then when it wiggled and
>> tried to crawl away she just yelled at me :)
>
> No such thing as a juvenile... as far as I know, a 12 inch brown can
> kill you as good as a 5'....

I was told that the juveniles are more dangerous, apparently if they
bite you the inject you will all their venom whereas a mature snake only
inject you with a small amount.
Don't know if that's true or not.
This time last year I had a 12" long brown in my backyard behind my
garage but haven't seen any this year.
We also used to see a lot of rabbits around here but they seem to have
disappeared, I wonder if the rabbits have been poisoned and the snakes
have gone elsewhere looking for a meal?
I have a vacant lot next door and the back of my place backs onto open
space above the Werribee river so they have plenty of space to hide.

--
Daryl

On 22/11/2021 8:33 pm, lindsay wrote:
> On 22/11/2021 10:05 am, Noddy wrote:

>> We had a juvenile Brown in the bedroom a few years ago. The wife
>> thought it was something I dropped and she yelled at me to "pick up my
>> shit" as she kicked it across the carpet. Then when it wiggled and
>> tried to crawl away she just yelled at me :)
>
> No such thing as a juvenile... as far as I know, a 12 inch brown can
> kill you as good as a 5'....

That's my understanding. They're venomous from birth.

>>>>> Cunts of things they are.
>
> +1.  Times 10.
>
>>> Heard on the radio the other day that snakebite kills two people a
>>> year in Oz.  Bees, wasps and tick account for many more!
>
> I've also heard that 9 out of 10 snakebites are caused by attempting to
> kill the snake. I've killed several, all because they got between me and
> what I was doing... i generally leave 'em alone if i can.

As long as they don't bother me I don't bother them, but when they
threaten me or anyone else here they go to snake heaven.

The last snake fatality around here occurred when the snake, which was a
4 foot Brown, decided it wanted to creep into the house garage and stick
it's head in a rodent trap to check out the peanut butter flavoured
bait, and it killed itself in the process.

>> *My local hospital doesn't keep snake bite antivenom on hand even
>> though this is a "rural" area and Brown snakes are everywhere here at
>> the moment. The local vet does though :)
>
> My joint is 40 k/40 mins from Bairnsdale, a BIG town in Gippsland. I've
> the gps coordinates for the front yard  ainted on the wall, in case.

Good idea.
> Only ever been threatened by a big brown (Boris) once. Yes, they are as
> nasty as Julia Gillard, as welcome as a boatload of illegals, and as
> cordial as Peter Dutton. We get plenty of red bellied blacks, which are
> nearly as timid as felix. The babies go right off.. :-)

Lol :)

--
--
--
Regards,
Noddy.

On 22/11/2021 10:37 pm, Daryl wrote:
> On 22/11/21 8:33 pm, lindsay wrote:

>>> We had a juvenile Brown in the bedroom a few years ago. The wife
>>> thought it was something I dropped and she yelled at me to "pick up
>>> my shit" as she kicked it across the carpet. Then when it wiggled and
>>> tried to crawl away she just yelled at me :)
>>
>> No such thing as a juvenile... as far as I know, a 12 inch brown can
>> kill you as good as a 5'....
>
> I was told that the juveniles are more dangerous, apparently if they
> bite you the inject you will all their venom whereas a mature snake only
> inject you with a small amount.
> Don't know if that's true or not.

No idea. You seem to get a different story about the things depending on
who you talk to.

One of the candidates for the last local election was a snake catcher by
the name of Jarrod Bingham. I think he ended up getting elected. Anyway,
I was chatting with him one day down at the Village shopping centre
while I was waiting for a cup of coffee and we got talking about snakes.
He claimed that Brown snakes are venomous from birth, but generally
while they're young their fangs are too short to do anything. Not that
I'd be willing to put that theory to the test, but he reckons that while
they've got black heads they're pretty harmless.

> This time last year I had a 12" long brown in my backyard behind my
> garage but haven't seen any this year.
> We also used to see a lot of rabbits around here but they seem to have
> disappeared, I wonder if the rabbits have been poisoned and the snakes
> have gone elsewhere looking for a meal?
> I have a vacant lot next door and the back of my place backs onto open
> space above the Werribee river so they have plenty of space to hide.

We have chickens, and they bring foxes and mice. We get foxes in the
yard almost every night, and I had to electrify the fence around the
chicken yard to stop them helping themselves (a hungry fox can climb a 2
mtr high wire fence pretty easily). The mice I can't do much about and
they bring the snakes. I have tight grid aviary wire around the chicken
yard that the snakes don't like going through, but they mice dig tunnels
and occasionally a snake will venture down into one and eat all the
young mice.

Sprung a couple in there doing it, and they scare the shit out of you
when they poke their heads out unexpectedly.

--
--
--
Regards,
Noddy.

Noddy wrote:
>
>One of the candidates for the last local election was a snake catcher by
>the name of Jarrod Bingham. I think he ended up getting elected. Anyway,
>I was chatting with him one day down at the Village shopping centre
>while I was waiting for a cup of coffee and we got talking about snakes.
>He claimed that Brown snakes are venomous from birth, but generally
>while they're young their fangs are too short to do anything. Not that
>I'd be willing to put that theory to the test, but he reckons that while
>they've got black heads they're pretty harmless.

I'd accept that as being basically correct except there doesn't seem
to be a general consensus as to what length they are when their fangs
are sufficiently developed to penetrate skin.... I've always assumed
it to be around 30cm. FWIW young browns have a diamond pattern on the
back of their head and in SA where I grew up they were always known a
diamond snakes, as distinct from browns, and regarded as harmless.
They lose the diamond at around 30cm (12").

I killed a 50cm (18") brown inside our house recently and it certainly
wasn't agressive and made no attempt to strike. I used a waste paper
basket to pin it down as I didn't want to damage the polished floor by
belting or shooting it.

Snakes are much easier to kill than most people realise (a 12G
shotgun, or even a .410, is gross overkill). .22 ratshot is more than
adequate for even a very large brown.

We also get yellow faced whip snakes around the house which grow to
around 1.2m. They're also venomous but absolutely harmless to humans
as they don't develop long enough fangs. I'd never deliberately kill
one.

--
John H

On 23/11/2021 10:55 am, John_H wrote:
> Noddy wrote:
>>
>> One of the candidates for the last local election was a snake catcher by
>> the name of Jarrod Bingham. I think he ended up getting elected. Anyway,
>> I was chatting with him one day down at the Village shopping centre
>> while I was waiting for a cup of coffee and we got talking about snakes.
>> He claimed that Brown snakes are venomous from birth, but generally
>> while they're young their fangs are too short to do anything. Not that
>> I'd be willing to put that theory to the test, but he reckons that while
>> they've got black heads they're pretty harmless.
>
> I'd accept that as being basically correct except there doesn't seem
> to be a general consensus as to what length they are when their fangs
> are sufficiently developed to penetrate skin.... I've always assumed
> it to be around 30cm. FWIW young browns have a diamond pattern on the
> back of their head and in SA where I grew up they were always known a
> diamond snakes, as distinct from browns, and regarded as harmless.
> They lose the diamond at around 30cm (12").

I think it depends largely on what "Brown" you're talking about, as
there seems to be a *lot* of variation in colours and patterns. All I've
ever seen around here are typical Eastern Browns, but they come in many
different forms.
> I killed a 50cm (18") brown inside our house recently and it certainly
> wasn't agressive and made no attempt to strike. I used a waste paper
> basket to pin it down as I didn't want to damage the polished floor by
> belting or shooting it.

I probably would have done the same. The juvenile one we had in the
bedroom I just picked up with a pair of kitchen tongs and put it in a
plastic shopping bag and took it outside where it sadly got into an
aggressive argument with a very sharp machetti.

> Snakes are much easier to kill than most people realise (a 12G
> shotgun, or even a .410, is gross overkill). .22 ratshot is more than
> adequate for even a very large brown.

I find dispatching them with a long handled shovel to be reasonably
easy, but far and away the easiest way is with a piece of metal strand
cable. My father taught me that as a kid when we used to go hunting.
He'd walk around with his broken shotgun over his arm, and a piece of
3/8 metal cable over his shoulder. Whenever we came across a snake,
which we used to a lot and they were mostly Tigers, he'd whack it over
the back with the cable which would break it's back and kill it instantly.

It probably sounds stupid doing it that way when you have a shotgun over
your arm, but it was actually quicker doing it that way than it was to
cock and aim the gun.

> We also get yellow faced whip snakes around the house which grow to
> around 1.2m. They're also venomous but absolutely harmless to humans
> as they don't develop long enough fangs. I'd never deliberately kill
> one.

I don't go out of my way to hurt any animals, but Brown snakes get
treated a little differently. As long as they stay on their side of the
fence I couldn't care less, but once they cross over and pose a threat
they go to snake heaven.

--
--
--
Regards,
Noddy.

On Tue, 23 Nov 2021 13:34:26 +1100, Noddy wrote:

> I probably would have done the same. The juvenile one we had in the
> bedroom I just picked up with a pair of kitchen tongs and put it in a
> plastic shopping bag and took it outside where it sadly got into an
> aggressive argument with a very sharp machetti.

Sure you did Fraudster. I believe you. Honest.

alvey
Wondering what size cup a "machetti" is served in?

--
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
https://www.avast.com/antivirus