Wow! I have the i1046 also... Actually, this is my third... The first one must have been assembled at 4:55pm on a Friday, because the frame flexed, and the drive belt popped off. Traded that one for a rock solid unit that served me well until some jerk stole it out of my yard. My wife and I were about to move at the time to a house with a larger yard, so it made it that much more of a pain. 2 acres, grass allergies, and a 22 inch push mower. Insurance came through, but the deductible was high enough that I had to wait. One day I was in Home Depot, and noticed the i1046 was on clearance. There's the third! Dang, I go through them like gang busters!
So, helpful hints... Watch out for stumps. My deck has taken a beating because I have some stumps that like to hide in the grass. Also, if you notice that it's not pulling like it should, that it doesn't turn one direction very well, or one tire appears to stall. There is an idler/tensioner adjustment on the clutch pedal that no one tells you about. The pin at the end of the clutch rod, when the clutch is disengaged, needs to be in the middle of its travel in the slot on the idler arm. As the belt wears, this changes and the clutch arm keeps proper tension off the belt. I found out the hard way. Should have been in the owners manual.
One other thing. Get the snow blade and some chains. You won't be sorry. Thing plows like a bull! Those dual hydro-stats are awesome when they push.
