It's A Good Little Tractor
Model Year: 2000
I got this tractor for free. It lived on a grass strip airport, and mowed over 5 acres for 6 or 7 years. They got rid of it when it quit running due to electrical issues. I've had some maintenance issues since I've owned it. I replaced the key switch (why I got it in the first place). Replaced the drive pulley on the hydro. They nailed this one. The pulley is aluminum, and the steel hydro shaft stripped the splines. Way better than stripping the input shaft on the hydro. Replaced blades, tires, a worn steering arm, several batteries, and most recently, the starter. I consider all of these things wear parts, due to its rough life and constant use. Sabre seems to have a weak reputation, and it's certainly not a "real" Deere, but I have pushed, pulled, dragged, and hauled just about everything with this mower, and it still gets up and takes the abuse. It's really too bad (or maybe, it's fortunate) that Sabres have little resale value. They seem to go for around $300 used. With general, and relatively inexpensive maintenance, this thing is one reliable machine. I'll keep it around, even if I upgrade to something else with hydraulics later on. It just goes.
Pros: Reliable, easy to find parts for.
Cons: "Cheap", no resale value.