Qualcast XSZ46B-SD Petrol Lawnmower

I bought his mower approximately 2 years ago for around £160 as I wanted something that wasn't too expensive but wanted a self propelled model, it was reduced by £50 so thought it would be a good buy.

I have had nothing but trouble with it, it never starts! the only time it does is with a completely full(overflowing) tank and then it is only hit and miss. I persevered with it thinking that it might get better, letting the guarantee lapse in the process. This year I cannot get it to start at all, so am without a mower an have 10inch long grass!

I recently contacted Handy a local Mover repair and service centre who told me that for a while Qualcast mowers were made in China, and they wouldn't touch it as they can't get spare parts for it!

Have phoned Homebase where I bought it who didn't get back to me, wish I had paid a bit extra and bought another Sovereign, my last one lasted 20 years!

After running and stopping to empty grass box, this mower is almost impossible to restart. Requires to be left until engine has cooled for 15 minutes, then it can be restarted.

Qualcast took machine back for tests, and returned with exactly same fault. They advise that the emissions controls fitted to these machines make them more difficult to start.

Would not advise anyone to buy this model unless you are young, very fit (strong) and able to pull the starter cord many times.

Would also not recommend Qualcast, who eventually took machine back for tests, then returned it after doing nothing.

If buying a petrol lawn mower, I would warn against any with a Briggs and Stratton engine, unless it is an electric start. Apparently their older engines are far superior, as they have no fitted emission controls. My previous mower which was still going strong after 20 years, had a Briggs and Stratton engine, and started on the first pull of the cord every time.

I have had this mower from new and in regular use for appx 18 months now and I could not be better pleased with it, as it starts first time EVERY Time, and handles the work with ease.

The mower came with a 2 yr guarantee and alas I recently had a problem with the self drive, which lead to me using their Support/ Service centre.

Wow, the service was second to none, and my machine was, without quibble, collected and returned in record time in tip top condition.

I hope to continue using this mower for a long time to come, however, on the basis of my experience, I would not hesitate to but another Qualcast mower.