Craftsman 21-in Gas Push Mower

Craftsman's 21-in Gas Push Mower, model CMXGMAM823760, is a tool that promises versatility and power for smaller yards. With its 159cc engine, adjustable handle, and 3-in-1 convertible deck, it appears to be a solid choice for homeowners looking for a reliable lawn care solution. However, my experience with this mower has been a mixed bag, revealing both strengths and significant weaknesses.

First Impressions and Assembly

Out of the box, the Craftsman mower looks sturdy and well-built. The assembly process was straightforward, with clear instructions that made it easy to get the mower ready for its first use. The adjustable loop handle felt comfortable, and the high rear wheels promised better maneuverability, especially on uneven terrain. The deck wash port is a thoughtful feature, making it easy to clean the underside of the mower after use.

Performance on the Job

The first time I used the mower, it started on the first pull, which was a pleasant surprise. The 159cc engine provided ample power, and the mower handled my small yard with ease. The 21-inch cutting width allowed me to cover more ground in less time, and the dual-lever, 6-position height adjustment made it easy to customize the cutting height to my preference.

The 3-in-1 convertible deck was another highlight. I appreciated the flexibility to choose between bagging, mulching, or side discharge. The included mulch kit worked well, finely chopping the grass clippings and returning them to the lawn to enrich the soil. The dust blocker bag was effective in minimizing dust and debris, making the mowing experience more pleasant.

Issues and Concerns

Unfortunately, the initial positive experience did not last. After a few uses, the mower began to sputter and stall. Despite following all recommended maintenance steps—changing the spark plug, using fresh gas, and cleaning the carburetor—the engine's performance continued to decline. The mower would often die after a few minutes of use, requiring numerous pulls to restart.

Another significant issue was the build quality. The front wheel adjustment lever was difficult to move, and upon inspection, I found that the rod between the wheels was bent. This made it challenging to achieve an even cut, and the overall mowing experience was frustrating.

The mower also struggled with debris management. The design of the deck allowed grass and leaves to blow out the front, and there was a noticeable gap where the bag attached to the mower. This resulted in debris flying out and creating a dust cloud, making it necessary to wear safety goggles and a respirator.

Maintenance and Durability

One of the mower's selling points is its system that eliminates the need to change oil. While this sounds convenient, it may contribute to some of the engine issues I experienced. The mower produced white smoke on several occasions, indicating potential oil problems. The lack of clear instructions on oil maintenance added to the confusion and frustration.

The durability of the mower is another concern. After just a few months of use, the blade fell off due to a broken piece. This required a trip to a local repair shop, adding to the overall cost and inconvenience. The mower's components, particularly the carburetor and spark plug, seemed prone to frequent issues, requiring constant attention and replacement.

Customer Support

Dealing with customer support was another challenging aspect. Navigating the phone tree and getting dropped calls made it difficult to resolve issues. When I finally reached a representative, the support offered was minimal, and the process of getting warranty repairs was cumbersome.

Final Thoughts

While the Craftsman 21-in Gas Push Mower has some attractive features and initially performs well, the long-term experience leaves much to be desired. The frequent engine issues, build quality concerns, and lack of effective customer support make it hard to recommend this mower. For those looking for a reliable and low-maintenance lawn care solution, this model may not be the best choice.

Recommendation

Based on my experience, I would not recommend the Craftsman 21-in Gas Push Mower. While it has some positive attributes, the numerous issues with performance, durability, and maintenance overshadow the initial benefits. Homeowners would be better served by considering other options that offer more consistent reliability and support.