Thanks BB,

I'l get onto those ASAP. My $5 throttle cables seem to have worked! I ran the mower (that had no spark) for half an hour or so and cut some of the lawn here. Currently staying with the in-laws while our house is built and they're on acreage, so I certainly wasn't going to mow their whole place...

I have a dilemma - I bought a 3rd SB45 for the reel and picked it up today, but I know I'm going to struggle to just scrap it...so I'm thinking of restoring a 3rd later on and just buy a new reel for ourselves in a year or so..

Of the three, if all engine mounting points, etc are all in good condition, which would you suggest is the best to keep for myself?
[Linked Image]

From L-R, engines are 1974, 1975 & 1977.
From L-R, model numbers are 450810, 450423 & 450810.

I guess what I'm struggling with is what are the pros and cons of each mower... Does anyone have any advice? Please ignore the missing chain cases and air cowling. I just didn't have them on for the photo.