Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Sdx 38- Black Deck, great shape, black deck

Question
Paul-
Yesterday I was Frantic trying to figure out what was wrong with my new used mower.  I Read up on your previous responses and saw that a loose PTO ground was common.  You mentioned it being on the right rear engine mount.  I found a bolt that was hanging by about two threads with a couple wires hanging from it.  Cleaned up the connection "shiny" and cranked the bolt back down.  Good as new.

Now I have two question, one:
where can I get a users manual.  I am not much of a mechanic and I have no idea how to maintain small engines.

Two:
Is there a way to determine how old my mower is, maybe something off of the engine?  I bought it for $600- With new blades, Bagging system, new oil and Air filter.  Shes in great shape, starts right away and very smooth.  She also had all of her maintenance and annual service done at a dealer up until the last couple years.  Good Deal? Ok, so thats three questions.

By the way, I am thinking about adding reactive armor panels to my mower, do you know where I can get some.  Maybe some "peanut butter" as well.  From one vet to another, Thanks!

Josh


Answer
When I was in tanks we didn't need reactive armor on our tanks.  We were just the baddest mother's around and only had to worry about the Russians and frankly we weren't to worried. Different world today.  Instead of reactive armor I would recommend a mulch kit.  They cost about 100.00 and really work.

The only place I know to get an owners manual would be from Deere.  It will be ridiculously expensive because they haven't been in print for several years.  

They built "black" STX tractors from about 1993-1997. The year doesn't matter to us folks in the industry. A 3 year old machine used 10 hours a week will be worth far less than a 10 year machine used 1 hour a week. See my point.

As far as maintenance goes. Oil and filter change every 50 hours.  Do plugs and fuel filter at the same time.  Replace the air filter as needed.  Clean the foam rap on the filter about every 25 hours.  Sharpening blades is a little more iffy.  Look at your grass blades. If the blades are cut off clean the blades are Ok. If the blades appear torn they need to be sharpened.

I would like to complement you on reading a few previous answers before asking your question.  As you can see I have answered the STX PTO ground question about a gazillion times. It's nice when someone uses the "AllExpert" resources that are provided. THANKS.