Jeffrey, You just cited the only reason I keep the Cub Crapette around (other than the fact SWMBO drives it)
1 hand control....forward,reverse,stop, left hand . Gas, deck height, key, right hand.
look ma, no feet!!
Thats how they were built back then.
Also it doesn't have the annoying seat switch or the "only in forward" mower engagement.
Oh, one other issue
Most of the "new" tractors out there are made by MTD....Deere, Cub, Craftsman whoever, same crap, different paint job. I'd suggest looking for a restored or restorable older lawn tractor before I'd drop 2 grand or better on the new rider.
Maybe you could find another Peerless with a blown engine,,,,get a tranny that way??