Craftsman 42-in. Hydrostatic Gas Riding Lawn Mower

Navigating the world of lawn maintenance often brings us face-to-face with a myriad of riding mowers, each promising to transform our yard work into a seamless experience. One such contender is the Craftsman 42-in. Hydrostatic Gas Riding Lawn Mower (CM13APA9ZSA93). With its 20 HP KOHLER twin-cylinder engine, hydrostatic transmission, and a 42-inch steel deck, it appears to be a robust solution for yard enthusiasts. But does it live up to the expectations? Here's my comprehensive take on this machine.

Initial Impressions and Setup

Out of the box, the Craftsman mower has a sturdy appearance. The high-back seat and soft-touch steering wheel are noticeable right away, promising comfort during long mowing sessions. Assembling the mower was relatively straightforward, thanks to clear instructions. However, I did notice that the overall build quality seemed a bit lacking, with certain plastic components feeling rather flimsy.

Performance and Maneuverability

The 20 HP KOHLER twin-cylinder engine provides ample power, making it relatively easy to tackle thick and slightly overgrown grass. The hydrostatic transmission is a highlight, allowing for smooth adjustments in speed and direction with the foot pedal. This feature is particularly useful for navigating around obstacles and tight corners, thanks to the 5-inch TURN TIGHT radius.

However, the mower's performance on uneven terrain left much to be desired. The deck, supported by only one hanger in the front, tends to wobble, resulting in uneven cuts. This issue is compounded if the grass is wet or slightly too long, as the mower tends to bog down and struggle, making for a less than stellar mowing experience.

Comfort and Usability

Comfort is a mixed bag with this mower. The high-back seat is indeed comfortable, but the overall ride can be rough. The clutch engagement is jerky, requiring a delicate touch to avoid sudden starts and stops that can jolt the rider. This rough ride can be particularly taxing on the back, especially if you're mowing a larger yard.

One standout feature is the soft-touch steering wheel, which genuinely enhances the user experience by making steering more manageable and less strenuous. The controls are intuitive and easy to understand, even for those who might not be mechanically inclined. The mower also includes a cup holder, which, while a minor detail, adds a bit of convenience to the mowing routine.

Maintenance and Durability

Regular maintenance is crucial for any lawn mower, and the Craftsman is no exception. The mower's design, however, makes some maintenance tasks more cumbersome than they need to be. For instance, oil changes are more frequent due to the absence of an oil filter, and the oil drain plug's location requires an oil sleeve to avoid a mess.

Durability is a significant concern. Within a few seasons, I encountered several issues, including a shredded drive belt, a failed solenoid, and a problematic PTO cable. These issues necessitated frequent repairs, which were both time-consuming and frustrating. The mower's frame also seems to flex a lot over uneven ground, causing the plastic hood and other components to move around and potentially break over time.

Additional Features and Attachments

The Craftsman mower offers a range of optional attachments, such as a mulching kit and a double bagger. These attachments are easy to install and add versatility to the mower, allowing for different mowing preferences and yard conditions. The mower's ability to mow in reverse is another useful feature, particularly when maneuvering around tight spaces or obstacles.

Noise and Vibration

One of the more noticeable downsides of this mower is the level of noise and vibration. The engine, while powerful, is quite loud, and the mower shakes considerably when the blades are engaged. This can be quite uncomfortable and adds to the overall rough feel of the ride. The shaking also raises concerns about the long-term durability of the machine, as constant vibration can lead to parts wearing out prematurely.

Battery and Starting Issues

Starting the mower has been a consistent issue. The battery seems to lack longevity, often requiring replacement within a short period. This problem is exacerbated by the mower's tendency to have starting issues, which can be incredibly frustrating when you're eager to get your yard work done.

Value for Money

Given its price point, the Craftsman mower offers a decent set of features, but its performance and durability issues make it hard to justify the cost. The mower requires a significant amount of upkeep and maintenance, which can add up over time. If you're looking for a more reliable and user-friendly option, it might be worth investing a bit more in a higher-quality mower from a different brand.

Final Recommendation

In conclusion, the Craftsman 42-in. Hydrostatic Gas Riding Lawn Mower has its strengths, such as powerful engine performance, a tight turning radius, and comfortable steering. However, these benefits are overshadowed by its numerous drawbacks, including frequent maintenance issues, rough ride quality, and questionable durability.

I would not recommend this mower for those seeking a long-term, reliable solution for their yard maintenance needs. Its high maintenance requirements and tendency to break down make it more of a hassle than a help. For those willing to spend a bit more, exploring other brands with better reviews and build quality would likely result in a more satisfying and stress-free mowing experience.