The Apex and Kubota have the same 3100 series transaxles, the same engines, wheels and 10 ga deck. The Apex has a 4 year, (500 hr) warranty compared to the Kubota's 3. Up here the Kubota costs more, (though not by a lot). Is your dead Ariens not still covered under warranty or is Ariens not living up to it ? Thanx.