Craftsman Push Broadcast Spreader

Craftsman's Push Broadcast Spreader: A Mixed Bag of Strengths and Challenges

Using the Craftsman Push Broadcast Spreader, I encountered a blend of impressive strengths and notable challenges. The model CMXGZBF450532 offers an 85 lb capacity hopper, which is quite generous and can cover around 12,000 sq. ft. This makes it a suitable choice for medium to large lawns. The heavy-duty polyethylene construction promises durability, resistant to rust and corrosion, which is a significant advantage in maintaining the tool over the years.

Assembly and Initial Impressions

The assembly process, however, proved to be more tedious than I anticipated. While the instructions were somewhat clear, there were inconsistencies and parts that were either mislabeled or missing. Specifically, the instruction manual mentions six hex bolts (¼”-20 x 1 ¾”), but the actual assembly requires seven. This discrepancy led me to make an additional trip to the hardware store, which was inconvenient.

Moreover, the hardware was loosely packed in the box, and some parts were scratched due to the lack of protective packaging. This oversight in packaging and labeling detracts from the initial user experience, especially for those who expect a seamless setup.

Performance and Usability

Once assembled, the spreader showcased its robust construction. The 12-inch turf tread tires provided excellent traction and smooth movement across my lawn, even on uneven terrain. The T-style handle, designed for improved ergonomics, felt comfortable and made maneuvering the spreader relatively easy.

The direct rod control for accurate applications is a feature that stood out. It allowed me to regulate the flow of the material precisely, though I found the control settings to be somewhat limited. The spreader offers ten graduation settings, but in practice, they seem to translate into three effective levels: a little, most, or all. This lack of finer control can be a limitation for users who require more precise distribution.

Common Issues

A recurring issue I encountered, which seems to be a common problem among other users, is the tire rubbing against the bolts that attach the stand to the frame. This friction not only hampers the movement of the spreader but also raises concerns about the longevity of the tires and the overall efficiency of the tool. Adjusting the axle length or replacing the tires with narrower ones could potentially solve this problem, but it is an additional hassle that users should not have to deal with.

Another minor annoyance is the rubber sleeves on the handles, which tend to rotate and slide off during use. While this does not affect the functionality significantly, it can be a nuisance, especially on bumpy or sloped yards.

Durability and Versatility

On the positive side, the spreader's durability is commendable. The rustproof poly hopper and enclosed gearbox contribute to its long-lasting performance. I used the spreader for both fertilizing the lawn and spreading salt during the winter, and it performed admirably in both tasks. The heavy-duty construction indeed lived up to my expectations in terms of sturdiness and reliability.

The ease of use is another strong point. Despite the initial assembly challenges, once set up, the spreader is straightforward to operate. The hopper's large capacity minimizes the need for frequent refills, making it efficient for larger areas.

Conclusion

Craftsman's Push Broadcast Spreader is a tool with significant potential, marred by a few critical design and packaging flaws. Its robust construction, generous capacity, and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any gardener's toolkit. However, the assembly issues, missing parts, and tire rubbing problems are drawbacks that Craftsman needs to address.

Would I recommend this spreader? Yes, but with reservations. If you are prepared to deal with the initial assembly challenges and possibly make a few adjustments, the spreader will serve you well. Its performance and durability in actual use are impressive, and for that reason, it earns a place in my garden shed. However, if you are looking for a tool that offers a hassle-free setup and finer control over the spreading process, you might want to explore other options.

In summary, the Craftsman Push Broadcast Spreader CMXGZBF450532 is a sturdy, reliable tool that performs well once you get past the initial hurdles. Its strengths in durability and capacity make it a worthwhile investment for those with larger lawns and varied spreading needs.