FAQ
TL;DR: After 1 year of use, Favorite SHD56N224L owners report first‑pull starts; "Use the drive only on straight sections." We compare 56 cm deck mowers from NAC, Favorite, World, and Oleo‑Mac, plus fixes for drive and parts issues. [Elektroda, sowiq, post #19389698]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps budget‑focused buyers choosing >50 cm petrol mowers and owners troubleshooting GT self‑propelled drives.
Quick Facts
- Cutting-width sweet spot here is 53–56 cm; both NAC LS56-196L-JR2 and Favorite SHD/SHC56N224L use 56 cm blades. [Elektroda, Siwy206s1, post #19373718]
- Many budget mowers share GT (General Transmission) gearboxes; components and layouts are often near-identical. [Elektroda, wojtek1234321, post #18633648]
- No differential in these drives; disengage the drive before turning to prevent damage. [Elektroda, sowiq, post #19389698]
- Hondas with similar widths sit above this price bracket; consider Oleo‑Mac GV 53 TK as an alternative pick. [Elektroda, wojtek1234321, post #18617160]
- Parts risk: one NAC owner couldn’t source a magnetic flywheel after 4 years, scrapping an otherwise clean unit. [Elektroda, bkowalczewska150, post #21086522]
NAC LS56-196-JR vs LS1166-50675EXi vs Favorite SHC/SHD56N224L — which to choose?
Forum verdict favored Favorite among those choices. As one expert put it, "only the Favorite deserves some attention." If you’re set on a sub‑premium mower with >50 cm width, the community tilt was toward Favorite over the NAC combinations at similar pricing. This reflects hands‑on opinions rather than lab testing, but aligns with multiple buyers’ shortlists. Always check local parts and service before purchase to avoid downtime later. [Elektroda, wojtek1234321, post #18616916]
Are Honda walk‑behind mowers in the
No. A forum advisor confirmed Honda sits outside the example price range discussed here. They linked a 53–56 cm class Honda model to show the higher pricing tier. If you’re shopping under ~PLN 1,500, you’ll usually compare NAC, Favorite, World, or similar brands instead. Consider dealer support and parts availability as part of total ownership cost. [Elektroda, wojtek1234321, post #18617160]
Is Oleo‑Mac GV 53 TK ALLROAD 4 a solid alternative pick?
Yes. It was explicitly recommended as an alternative in this discussion. The suggestion came up when buyers sought a durable, self‑propelled, >50 cm mower without entering the premium Honda price tier. Check local servicing and spares before purchase to ensure long‑term support. Blade width is 53 cm, which still covers large lawns efficiently. [Elektroda, wojtek1234321, post #18617160]
How does World GRL530S compare on durability?
One contributor stated the World GRL530S would be better and more durable than the referenced Oleo‑Mac option. This reflects personal service and field impressions, not standardized testing. If durability is your priority, shortlist the World GRL530S and verify after‑sales parts and service near you. Test drive speed and handle ergonomics if possible. [Elektroda, zagorski-tomasz, post #18617719]
What early failure should I watch for on Favorite SHC56N224L?
A user reported the drive sprocket’s retaining washer came off within about 2 hours, locking one wheel. The loose washer was chewed by gears and scuffed the wheel’s plastic gear. Replacing the washer solved it. Inspect axle clips/retainers on day one to prevent repeat damage. This is an edge case but worth a pre‑mow check. [Elektroda, sowiq, post #18633335]
Does Favorite SHD56N224L have a differential in the drive?
No. The manual requires straight‑line use with the drive engaged, and turning only with the drive off. “Use the drive only on straight sections.” Forcing turns under power strains the gearbox and wheel gears. This behavior is typical for GT‑style single‑axis drives. [Elektroda, sowiq, post #19389698]
How does the Favorite SHD56N224L start after storage?
An owner notes reliable first‑pull starts even after several weeks in a garage. After one year of use, they remained very satisfied with starting and overall function. Use fresh fuel and keep the air filter clean for consistent starts. “Easy‑start” style systems help reduce pull effort. [Elektroda, sowiq, post #19389698]
Are these self‑propelled mowers fast?
One owner summary: everything works fine, but the mower goes slowly. Many GT gearboxes favor steady walking pace to maintain cut quality and traction. If speed matters, test a unit or look for multi‑speed drives. Verify cable adjustment, as overtension can also affect feel. [Elektroda, franas1, post #19565202]
Why do some users advise against NAC mowers?
Parts availability can be a problem for certain NAC models. One owner couldn’t source a replacement magnetic flywheel after a stone strike, effectively scrapping a lightly used mower four years in. Verify spares for your exact model before buying. [Elektroda, bkowalczewska150, post #21086522]
Are NAC mowers reliable if maintained well?
Another user reports owning three NAC machines with no major issues, including a mower lasting 10 years with servicing. They praised performance and value versus premium brands. “You have to use the equipment skillfully, and it will last for years.” Maintenance and careful operation matter greatly. [Elektroda, greenjohnny, post #21172757]
Are these ‘Polish’ mowers actually made in China?
One Favorite owner found the manual states “Made in PRC,” despite local branding. This is common in the segment, where many parts and assemblies come from Chinese factories. Focus on dealer network and parts access more than the label alone. [Elektroda, sowiq, post #18633335]
Do these brands share the same drive components (GT)?
A technician‑level poster noted many Favorites, Worlds, and NACs use similar GT gearboxes. “Drives are practically the same for all.” Cosmetic differences aside, internals and service parts often overlap. This can simplify sourcing generic GT parts when brand‑specific spares are delayed. [Elektroda, wojtek1234321, post #18633648]
Do NAC LS56-196L-JR2 and Favorite SHD56N224L both use Loncin engines?
Yes, the shopper comparing both highlighted Loncin engines in each, alongside 56 cm blades. Engine families can differ by carburetion or trim, but the Loncin base aligns. Check model codes for exact displacement and spec. [Elektroda, Siwy206s1, post #19373718]
Is World GRL530S similar to Favorite SHC56N224L under the hood?
An owner observed they share the same engine family in different versions, plus GT drive. The key difference noted was width: 53 cm for World versus 56 cm for Favorite. That extra width cuts large lawns faster, given sufficient engine torque. [Elektroda, sowiq, post #18633335]
How should I maneuver a mower with front swivel wheels?
Swivel fronts help steering, but disengage the drive before turning because there’s no differential. The manual guidance is explicit: turn only with the drive off to protect the transmission and wheel gears. Keep the front casters clean for smooth pivoting. [Elektroda, sowiq, post #19389698]
Self‑propelled won’t roll backward after disengaging the drive — how do I fix it?
Likely causes: tight cable/belt not fully releasing, jammed wheel ratchets, or debris in the drive. Try this:
- Slack the drive cable per spec; confirm the return spring fully relaxes.
- Pull wheels; clean and lube pawls/ratchets and hubs.
- Refit belt correctly; verify tensioner fully clears the pulley when released.
If it still binds, inspect gearbox bushings and pinion wear. [Briggs & Stratton: Self-Propelled Mower Won’t Roll Backwards]
