I've had mine now for 14 years.  I have had to replace the arms because the machine hasn't been "coddled!"  It is propelled by the water pressure and the centrifugal force of the rotating arms  You can make the thing back up by flipping the angle of the arm direction 180*  I now use it on  my daughters yard as they don't have sprinkler system here.  Its eco friendly in that a minimum of water is wasted.....two speeds and with the ramp and a good hose, very predictable as to time and area.  The area can be enlarged by pulling the hose thru and redirecting the path.....I think it worth the $$.  Cant comment on the newer manufacturing complaint but as it stands now.... this will outlive me! .