Just a quick post to wrap up this topic. I gave the back lawn a full mow with the Alroh last week. The drive speed is at the lower end of 'spot on'. By that I mean it is great for a smaller area with many turns. I would however go with a 2.25" pulley (the original factory size) if I had very large open area to mow.
And on a final note the mower has been sold so I can put all my efforts and money into the Diplomat rebuild.