That is solid advice and I agree since I am religous about maintenance on anything I own. After reading your previous comment again, I've just got to ask.......do you really mow in Vermont in the winter?:0)
BTW, I didn't mention it, but I plan on using Briggs & Stratton SAE 30W oil in my Kawasaki. It is widely available, not expensive and has served me well over the years(used it in that Lawn Chief for 19 years and the Craftsman for 6 years and neither engine ever used a drop of oil between seasonal changes). I see no reason to throw money away on Kawasaki-brand or Synthetic oils when something I have used for years has worked so well.