Craftsman 28-in. RWD Gas Self-Propelled Mower

Gas-powered lawn mowers have always been a staple in maintaining large yards, and I recently had the opportunity to use the Craftsman 28-in. RWD Gas Self-Propelled Mower, model number CMXGMAM201202. After several sessions of mowing, I gathered some insightful observations about how this mower performs in real-world conditions.

Assembly and Setup

Starting with the assembly, the Craftsman mower was quite straightforward to put together. The foldable handle was a nice touch, allowing for compact storage and ease of setup without the need for tools. The initial setup took me less than ten minutes, which includes charging the battery for the electric start. The included SAE 30 oil was a thoughtful addition, ensuring I had everything needed to get started right away.

Engine and Power

The heart of this mower is its 223cc OHV engine manufactured by Briggs & Stratton®. This engine is surprisingly powerful and started on the first pull, which was a relief. With an engine of this caliber, the mower tackled thick and wet grass with ease. The self-propelled feature, driven by rear wheels, made it effortless to navigate even on inclines and uneven terrain. I found the pace control system particularly useful, allowing me to adjust the speed to match my walking pace comfortably.

Cutting Performance

The 28-inch wide cutting deck is a significant upgrade from the usual 21-inch decks. This wider deck drastically cut down my mowing time, especially on my half-acre lawn. The mower offers a 3-in-1 convertible deck, giving you the option to mulch, side discharge, or bag grass clippings. I primarily used the mulching feature, which performed admirably, leaving no clumps or missed areas. The five-position height adjustment is simple to use, although a bit stiff at first. It allows for precise control over the cutting height, ranging from 1.25 to 3.75 inches.

Maneuverability and Comfort

The large rear wheels significantly improved maneuverability, particularly in tight spots and around obstacles. The front wheels can be locked or allowed to swivel, which makes navigating corners and curves much easier. However, the fixed wheels can make it less agile in extremely tight areas. The handle grip was comfortable, but after prolonged use, I noticed some hand fatigue due to the tension required to hold the blade engagement bar.

Build Quality

One area where the Craftsman mower could improve is in its build quality. While the engine and main components feel robust, several parts are made from plastic, which raises concerns about long-term durability. For instance, the rod holding the rear grass guard tends to slip out, and the bagger doesn't always stay securely in place. I also noticed that the mower tends to leave missed strips of grass occasionally, which can be frustrating. The mower’s deck, partly made of plastic, does not inspire confidence in its longevity.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Maintenance is fairly straightforward but not without its quirks. The mower includes a factory fit oil drain hose, which makes oil changes less messy. However, the lack of a fuel shutoff valve means you’ll need to add one yourself if you plan to run the carb dry after each use. Cleaning the mower is relatively easy, thanks to the foldable handle, which allows for easier access to the underside of the deck. Spraying the underside with non-stick cooking spray, as recommended, helps keep grass clippings from building up.

Issues and Concerns

Despite its many strengths, the Craftsman mower is not without its issues. Some users have reported difficulty with starting the engine after the first season, even with regular maintenance. The rear grass bagger design could use improvement, as it tends to drag on the ground when half full. Additionally, the plastic components, particularly in high-stress areas, have shown signs of wear and tear after prolonged use. The mower also tends to consume a considerable amount of gas, which could be a concern for those who are environmentally conscious.

Final Thoughts

The Craftsman 28-in. RWD Gas Self-Propelled Mower offers powerful performance and significant time savings for larger yards. Its wide cutting deck and robust engine are its standout features, providing efficient and effective mowing. However, the build quality and some design flaws, particularly with the plastic components and bagger system, are noteworthy drawbacks.

Recommendation

Would I recommend this mower? It depends. If you have a large yard and need a powerful, self-propelled mower that can handle thick grass and inclines, the Craftsman mower is a solid choice. Its wide cutting deck and easy start engine significantly reduce mowing time and effort. However, if you are concerned about long-term durability and reliability, especially with the plastic components and potential starting issues, you might want to consider other options or be prepared for some maintenance challenges.

In summary, the Craftsman 28-in. RWD Gas Self-Propelled Mower is a capable machine with some room for improvement. It’s a great fit for those who prioritize power and efficiency but may not be the best choice for those seeking a long-term, maintenance-free solution.