Interesting , yes it is . It also has taps from the pump to add a hydraulic 3 point hitch to the back for plows and other implements . I do have the belt covers , and they are on the deck . Wouldn't do to get grabbed and lose a limb ... I'm not sure what pressure I've got in the tires right now , but probably too much . Less pressure , especially on the rear , means more tread in contact with the ground and that might be part of my traction problems . I still need to figure out why the main deck height knob on the lift mechanism isn't working correctly , it seems to be stuck . I expect by weeks end I'll have it all sorted out and correctly adjusted . Today I'll be picking up new tires for the front and a new belt for the main drive . New spindle bearings on the outboards are coming too . That should be all I need to have it fully and properly functioning . I'm not sure what a new yard/garden tractor with comparable features costs , but I know I can't afford one . JD is proud enough of their new units you have to call to get a price ... there were no prices in the flyer I got in the mail , just discount offers between $500-$1000 , so you know they ain't cheap !