Craftsman 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower

The Craftsman 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower, model CMXGMAM1125505, offers a mixed bag of features and performance. As someone who has put this mower through its paces, I have a comprehensive take on its strengths and weaknesses.

Initial Impressions and Setup

Straight out of the box, the mower's setup is relatively straightforward. The handles are easy to fold and unfold, which is a plus for anyone with limited storage space. The assembly instructions are clear, and I had the mower ready to go in about 15 minutes. The mower's weight is noticeable at 84 pounds, but it's manageable, especially with the self-propelled feature.

Starting Mechanism

One of the standout features of this mower is its easy starting system. Craftsman has designed it to start without the need for priming or choking, and it lives up to this promise. The Briggs and Stratton engine roars to life with a single pull, which is a significant convenience. This feature alone makes it appealing for those who dread the sometimes tedious task of getting a mower started.

Cutting Performance

The 21-inch deck offers a good balance between size and maneuverability. The mower's 3-in-1 deck allows for discharge, mulching, or bagging. During my tests, the mower performed admirably in all three modes. The mulching function is particularly efficient, leaving behind finely chopped clippings that enrich the lawn. However, the bagging system has its quirks. The 2.3-bushel Dust Blocker bag does minimize dust and debris, but it fills up quickly, especially if you're dealing with a larger yard. This means frequent stops to empty the bag, which can be a bit of a hassle.

Maneuverability and Ease of Use

The mower is equipped with 11-inch rear wheels, which significantly improve its maneuverability. Navigating around tight corners and obstacles is relatively easy. The dual-lever, 6-position height adjustment is another user-friendly feature. It allows for quick and easy changes to the cutting height, accommodating various grass lengths and yard conditions.

However, the front-wheel-drive (FWD) system has its limitations. While it makes turning easier, it struggles on inclines and uneven terrain. You often need to lift the back of the mower to make it move forward, which can be tiring. The self-propelled feature works well on flat surfaces but lacks the power needed for more challenging landscapes.

Build Quality and Durability

This is where the mower falls short. The overall build quality feels somewhat flimsy. The handles, made from a lower-grade metal, tend to bend when you exert too much pressure while turning. Over time, this could lead to breakage, necessitating repairs or replacements. The plastic components, particularly the gas cap and some parts of the deck, also seem prone to wear and tear.

Maintenance and Longevity

Craftsman touts the mower's "never change the oil" feature, which is convenient but feels counterintuitive. Regular oil changes are a standard practice for maintaining engine health, and skipping this step could potentially shorten the mower's lifespan. The mower also goes through air filters relatively quickly, especially if you have a dusty yard. This adds to the ongoing maintenance costs.

Storage

The easy-fold handles are a boon for those with limited storage space. The mower can be compactly stored in a garage or shed without taking up too much room. However, it doesn't support vertical storage, which would have been a nice addition for even more space-saving.

Customer Support

My experience with Craftsman's customer support has been less than stellar. Getting through to their support team can be a time-consuming process, and finding authorized repair facilities is a challenge. This is a significant drawback, especially if you encounter issues that require professional attention.

Final Thoughts

The Craftsman 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower offers several appealing features, such as an easy starting system, versatile cutting options, and good maneuverability. However, its performance is marred by issues like a weak FWD system, flimsy build quality, and subpar customer support.

Would I recommend this mower? It depends on your needs. If you have a small, relatively flat yard and value ease of starting and setup, this mower could be a good fit. However, if you have a larger yard with inclines or need a more robust and durable machine, you might want to look elsewhere. The convenience features are attractive, but the mower's long-term reliability and performance leave much to be desired.