Yeah, I agree on the 2 v 4 issue, suppose I am essentially asking to be convinced on the Husky. The 225R ran nearly flawlessly for 19 years. The 336 is the logical step up, now that I know my needs better than then. Plus, I am doing more commercial work, and I would never be confident with a new mfr. Plus (I have not checked) but I believe they share the same cutting gearbox, which I just changed last season- that settles the price difference. Appreciate the thoughts.
Oh, what killed it? The fuel tank/crankcase began leaking, externally at first (I managed to repair it and later found a NOS case.) When I had it installed it would run 30 seconds or so before overheating and stopping. I was told it was an internal leak - the main bearings would not seal correctly- and it overheated and caused a vapor lock. Was told "not cost effective" to repair. I remain skeptical, but there are only 2 shops in town, I don't trust myself and could really use the extra power anyway. Ran a chart, the 336 weighs less than 2 lbs more than the 225, but puts out more than half a hp.
Again, thanks, I will probably buy this week. We have a year-round fire season in CA now, so, you know.