When I lived in southern Kentucky, I planted KY bluegrass because Centipede and St Augustine doesn't grow well. Poor soil, lots of rocks, clay, you name it.
I have a snapper with a 46" cut and 21.5 Kawasaki engine. No problems in 9 years--not even a belt change. Just grease the spindle bearings regularly. I don't think the 46" cut is made any longer, however. I would consider a Toro too.
I have a snapper 46" deck with 21.5 Kawasakl engine. Trouble free for the past 5 years. I would either buy another snapper or a toro. I don't think snapper makes the 46" deck with a kawasaki engine any longer. I have changed the blades (3 blades) once, change the oil regularly, and grease...