Craftsman 28-in. Self-Propelled RWD Gas Push Mower

When I first encountered the Craftsman 28-in. Self-Propelled RWD Gas Push Mower (CMGM231204), I was optimistic. Craftsman has a longstanding reputation for dependable tools, and this mower boasts a robust 223cc Briggs & Stratton engine, a versatile 3-in-1 deck, and a compact design with foldable handles for easy storage. However, after putting it through its paces, my experience was a mixed bag of highs and lows.

Unboxing and Setup

Setting up the mower was straightforward. The assembly required no tools, and the foldable handles snapped into place easily. The included manual was clear and concise, which made the initial setup less daunting. One notable inclusion was an 18-ounce bottle of SAE30 oil, which was thoughtful and saved me a trip to the store. However, I quickly realized the importance of ensuring the caster wheels were locked in their forward position; otherwise, the mower had a tendency to veer off course during use.

Starting and Performance

One of the standout features of this mower is its one-step starting mechanism. There’s no need for priming, and true to its claim, the mower started on the first pull. The 223cc engine roared to life with a satisfying hum, quieter than many smaller engines I've used in the past. It's clear that the engine was designed for power and efficiency.

Cutting Capabilities

The mower offers a 3-in-1 deck, allowing for side discharge, mulching, or bagging. I primarily used the mulching option and was impressed with the mower’s performance. It mulches the grass finely, leaving no clumps behind, which is a boon for maintaining a healthy lawn. However, switching to bagging mode revealed a significant drawback: the mower only comes with mulching blades. High-lift blades must be purchased separately to make bagging effective, which feels like an oversight given the mower's premium price point.

Maneuverability

The self-propelled rear-wheel-drive system is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it makes mowing large, flat areas a breeze, significantly reducing the effort needed to push the mower. On the other hand, the lack of caster wheels makes it cumbersome in tight spaces. Maneuvering around flower beds and garden gnomes was frustrating, requiring frequent adjustments and more physical effort than I anticipated.

The speed of the self-propulsion is adequate, but I found myself wishing it could go just a bit faster. If you're mowing a large area, this slight speed limitation can make the task feel longer than it needs to be.

Build Quality

Here’s where things start to get dicey. The mower has a solid, heavy-duty feel to it, but closer inspection reveals several areas where cost-cutting measures are evident. Many high-stress areas, such as the part that holds the safety cable, are made from plastic. This plastic construction led to premature wear and tear. Over time, these parts are likely to fail, which could render the mower useless without costly repairs or replacements.

Moreover, the grass bagger has its own set of issues. The rod holding the rear grass guard is too short, causing it to slip out frequently. This problem is incredibly frustrating, especially when you need to empty the grass bag multiple times during a single mowing session.

Maintenance

Maintenance is straightforward but not without its quirks. The mower includes a factory-fit oil drain hose, which makes oil changes a breeze. However, the lack of a fuel shutoff valve is a glaring omission. Modern fuel quality necessitates running the carb dry after each use to prevent clogs, and this requires a manual workaround. I added a shutoff valve myself, which should have been part of the original design.

Overall Durability

The mower’s durability is a mixed story. While the engine is robust and starts easily, the surrounding hardware leaves much to be desired. The plastic components in high-stress areas are prone to failure, and the mower’s overall durability is questionable. After just a few mowing seasons, it’s likely that these parts will need replacement, which detracts from the mower’s value proposition.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the Craftsman 28-in. Self-Propelled RWD Gas Push Mower is a powerful machine with several strong points, including its easy start, robust engine, and effective mulching capability. However, these advantages are overshadowed by its poor maneuverability in tight spaces, questionable build quality, and the need for additional purchases to fully utilize all its features.

Would I recommend this mower? For those with large, open lawns who primarily mulch and don't mind some DIY maintenance, it could be a worthwhile investment. The engine's power and reliability are hard to beat. However, if you need a mower that’s easy to maneuver, or if you frequently switch between mulching and bagging, you might find this Craftsman model more of a hassle than a helper. It’s a good machine, but not without its significant flaws. Choose wisely based on your specific needs and tolerance for ongoing maintenance.