Craftsman 21-in. Gas Self-Propelled Mower

When it comes to tackling the lawn, the Craftsman 21-in. Gas Self-Propelled Mower (CMXGMAM201207) promises a blend of powerful performance and user-friendly features. I was excited to put this mower to the test and see how it stacks up in both ease of use and efficiency. Here is my detailed account of using this mower over several lawn care sessions.

Initial Setup and Start-Up

Assembling the mower was straightforward; it took about 20 minutes to get everything in place. One of the standout features is the one-step starting mechanism, which eliminates the need for priming. Initially, this worked like a charm. The mower roared to life on the first pull, a satisfying experience that set high expectations for future uses.

Engine and Performance

The 163cc OHV Briggs and Stratton engine provides a strong start, and it’s clear that this mower is built with some serious power under the hood. However, the performance began to waver after a few uses. While the initial mowing sessions were smooth, the engine began to sputter and occasionally stall. This was particularly noticeable when tackling thicker patches of grass, where the mower seemed to struggle and needed to be pushed at a very slow pace to prevent stalling.

Cutting Efficiency and Versatility

The 21-inch cutting deck is a standard size for residential mowers, providing a good balance between maneuverability and coverage. The dual-lever, 6-position height adjustment is user-friendly and offers a decent range of cutting heights from 1.25 inches to 3.75 inches. This feature allows for some flexibility depending on the grass type and desired lawn height.

Craftsman's 3-in-1 convertible deck is another notable feature, allowing for mulching, side discharge, or rear bagging of grass clippings. Switching between these modes is relatively easy, though I found the bagging option to be less effective. The dust blocker bag, designed to minimize dust clouds, didn’t entirely live up to its promise, leading to occasional dusty conditions while mowing.

User Comfort and Ergonomics

The rear-wheel-drive system indeed offers improved traction and control, especially on uneven terrains. Craftsman's pace control system, which adjusts the mowing speed to match the user's stride, is a commendable feature. It makes the mowing process less labor-intensive, especially for larger lawns.

However, the mower’s overall weight is a bit on the heavier side, and prolonged use can become tiring. The build quality also seemed a bit lacking, with certain parts feeling flimsy. This was particularly evident in the height adjustment levers, which felt like they could break with rough handling.

Ongoing Usability and Maintenance

Where the Craftsman mower truly falls short is in its reliability over time. After just a few uses, I encountered significant issues with starting the mower. Despite following all recommended maintenance procedures, including changing the spark plug and using fresh fuel, the mower frequently failed to start. When it did start, it often emitted white smoke, indicating potential issues with the oil.

The maintenance instructions provided are not very clear, making it difficult for users who are not mechanically inclined. This lack of clarity can lead to improper care and further exacerbate operational issues.

Durability and Build Quality

Craftsman has a long-standing reputation for durable tools, but this mower seems to fall short of that legacy. The initial construction felt solid, but wear and tear set in much sooner than expected. The mower's components, particularly the wheels and deck, showed signs of wear after just a few months of regular use.

One particularly troubling aspect was the oil leakage issue. After several uses, I noticed a small pool of oil beneath the air filter, which subsequently leaked into the carburetor. This not only affected the mower's performance but also raised concerns about long-term durability.

Noise Levels and Emission

The mower's noise level is on the higher side, which is somewhat expected for gas-powered models but still worth noting. It can be quite loud, and using ear protection is advisable. Additionally, the emission of white smoke during start-up further detracts from its appeal, especially for those who are environmentally conscious.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

The Craftsman 21-in. Gas Self-Propelled Mower does have some strengths, particularly in its user-friendly features and initial performance. The speed control and ease of height adjustment are notable positives, making the mowing process less cumbersome.

However, persistent issues with engine reliability, starting difficulties, and maintenance challenges overshadow these benefits. The mower's seeming inability to maintain consistent performance, coupled with problematic build quality, makes it hard to recommend this model.

For someone seeking a reliable, low-maintenance mower, this Craftsman model may not be the best choice. While it has potential, the significant drawbacks and frequent operational issues make it a less than ideal option. There are other mowers on the market that provide more consistent performance and better durability, making them a more worthwhile investment for your lawn care needs.