Craftsman 28-In. 190Cc Rwd Gas Self-Propelled Mower

Craftsman has long been a trusted name in the realm of tools and yard equipment, but my experience with the Craftsman 28-In. 190Cc Rwd Gas Self-Propelled Mower (CMXGMAM1136528) has been a mixed bag. This mower boasts several features that, on paper, promise a seamless and efficient mowing experience. However, the actual performance and build quality tell a more nuanced story.

Initial Impressions and Setup

Setting up the mower was straightforward and required no special tools, which is always a plus. The 28-inch twin-blade cutting deck seemed robust, and the inclusion of both mulching and side discharge options offered flexibility. The single-lever height adjustment, with six positions, made it easy to customize the cutting height to my lawn's needs.

One feature that stood out during the setup was the rear wheel drive system. This promised improved traction and control, especially on uneven terrain. The mower also comes with a pace control system that adjusts to your walking speed, which sounded like a game-changer for making mowing a more comfortable task.

Performance and Usability

The 190cc Briggs and Stratton engine started on the first pull, a reassuring sign of its reliability. The mower handled my half-acre yard with a mix of flat and slightly hilly sections quite well. The rear wheel drive indeed provided better traction, especially on the inclines, making the task less strenuous.

However, maneuverability was a bit of an issue. While the rear wheel drive offered better traction, it also made the mower less nimble in tight spaces. The front wheels can be locked or allowed to swivel, which helps somewhat, but it still felt cumbersome when navigating around obstacles like flower beds and trees.

The cutting quality was generally good. The twin-blade system delivered a clean cut, and the mulching function did a decent job of breaking down the clippings. However, I noticed that the mower struggled with taller grass unless I used the side discharge option. The mulching blades that come pre-installed are not as effective for bagging, so I had to switch to the high lift blades, which was an extra step I hadn’t anticipated.

Build Quality and Durability

This is where the mower starts to show some weaknesses. While the engine is strong and reliable, the overall build quality leaves much to be desired. Several parts, including the handle and some of the deck components, are made of plastic. These parts are prone to wear and tear much quicker than I would expect from a Craftsman product.

The plastic components also affect the mower’s durability. After a few months of use, I noticed that the handle started to feel wobbly and less secure. The rear grass guard, which is crucial for the bagging function, also had issues staying in place. This resulted in frequent stops to reattach the guard, which was frustrating.

Another concern is the mower’s tendency to clog. Grass clippings often accumulated around the blade spindles and the belt drive area, which required frequent cleaning. While spraying the underside with non-stick cooking spray helped, it was an additional maintenance step that I hadn’t anticipated.

Comfort and Ergonomics

The mower’s pace control system is a standout feature, adjusting to my walking speed and making the mowing process less tiring. However, the handle design could use some improvement. The plastic handle for engaging the drive and blade functions caused some hand fatigue, especially during longer mowing sessions. A metal handle would have been a more durable and comfortable choice.

Noise levels were surprisingly low for a gas-powered mower, which made the experience more pleasant. The fold-up handlebars were also a nice touch, making storage easier and more space-efficient.

Maintenance and Longevity

Maintenance has been a mixed experience. On the positive side, the engine has been reliable and easy to start, and the included oil drain hose made oil changes straightforward. However, the plastic components and frequent clogging issues mean that the mower requires more frequent attention than I would like.

The mower’s longevity is questionable. While the engine seems built to last, the plastic parts and the overall build quality make me skeptical about how many seasons this mower will endure without significant repairs or part replacements.

Final Thoughts

The Craftsman 28-In. 190Cc Rwd Gas Self-Propelled Mower (CMXGMAM1136528) offers a range of features that make it appealing for homeowners with medium to large yards. Its powerful engine, rear wheel drive, and pace control system provide a generally good mowing experience. However, the build quality, particularly the use of plastic components, and the frequent clogging issues are significant drawbacks.

Would I recommend this mower? It depends on your priorities. If you value a powerful engine and features like pace control and rear wheel drive, this mower could be a good fit. However, if durability and ease of maintenance are high on your list, you might want to consider other options. The frequent need for maintenance and the less-than-stellar build quality make it hard to justify the investment for long-term use.