I've got a Scotts 16/42 hydro w/ the Kohler command engine...knock on wood-not a minutes trouble..got 279 hrs. on it-and got it @ a really good deal-end of season...made by JD
I know one year the Scotts were made , I think, by MTD, and not worth a tinker's da*n!
I use a bagger on mine w/ the uplift blades and it does an excellant job....Only things i've done is an hour-meter, filled rear tires, and svced evry 50 hrs....
***I do need to find out how/what to service the unidrive-there are no zerk fittings, or grease plug I see..***
Thanks for any info.....