Craftsman 46-in. Hydrostatic TURN TIGHT Gas Riding Mower

Craftsman's 46-in. Hydrostatic TURN TIGHT Gas Riding Mower, model CMXGRAM1130044, strikes a unique balance between power, comfort, and maneuverability. I had the opportunity to put this mower to the test over several weeks, and here's a detailed account of my experiences.

First impressions matter, and Craftsman doesn't disappoint. The mower's robust 22 HP KOHLER twin-cylinder 7000 series engine is immediately notable. It promises power and delivers it without hesitation. Starting the mower was straightforward and reliable; I never faced any issues with getting it up and running, which is a crucial aspect of any gas-powered equipment.

The hydrostatic transmission stood out as a significant feature for me. Unlike traditional gear-driven systems, the foot pedal hydrostatic transmission allows for smooth speed transitions. This is particularly useful when navigating through different terrains or adjusting speeds on the fly. The forward and reverse operations are intuitive, although I did notice a slightly cumbersome process when engaging reverse, which involves turning the ignition key and pressing a separate button. This is a minor inconvenience, but it does feel like an extra unnecessary step.

One of the most impressive features of this mower is the 5-inch TURN TIGHT radius. For anyone with a yard that includes numerous obstacles such as trees, flower beds, or garden decor, this tight turning radius is a game-changer. It nearly rivals a zero-turn mower in terms of maneuverability, allowing me to navigate around tight spots without having to go back and forth multiple times. This was particularly beneficial in my yard, which has several large trees and narrow pathways.

The 46-inch reinforced stamped steel deck is another highlight. It's sturdy and built to last, which is reassuring for those who mow frequently or have larger properties. The deck height adjustment is easy to use, providing a range of cutting heights to suit various grass types and conditions. However, I did encounter a peculiar issue where the mower wouldn't engage the blades if the deck was in its highest position. After some trial and error, I discovered that lowering the deck height just a notch or two solved the problem, suggesting that the highest setting might be more of a transport mode rather than a cutting height.

Comfort is a critical factor when you're spending significant time mowing, and Craftsman has paid attention to this aspect. The high-back seat offers excellent support, making longer mowing sessions less of a strain on the back. The soft-touch steering wheel adds to the overall comfort, making maneuvering the mower a more pleasant experience. The seat is also adjustable, which is a thoughtful feature for accommodating different user heights and preferences.

Safety and durability are well-addressed with the inclusion of a front-end bumper and reinforced deck. These features give me confidence that the mower can handle a bit of rough treatment without compromising its integrity. The optional mulching kit is a nice touch for those who prefer to mulch their clippings rather than bag them.

However, not everything about this mower is perfect. One area that left me somewhat disappointed was the battery life. I noticed that the battery tends to drain quicker than expected, especially if the headlights are on. This could be due to the lack of a dedicated headlight switch, which means the lights are always on when the mower is running. This is something potential buyers should be aware of, as it might require more frequent battery maintenance or replacement.

Another point of concern is the mower's performance on hills. While it handled flat terrain effortlessly, it seemed to struggle a bit on steeper inclines. The traction on the rear tires wasn't as reliable as I would have liked, leading to occasional slipping. Adding some weight to the rear could potentially solve this problem, but it's an extra step that users may not want to deal with.

Despite these few drawbacks, the overall build quality of the mower is commendable. It's clear that Craftsman has put thought into creating a durable and reliable machine. The mower feels solid and well-constructed, which is something I always appreciate in outdoor power equipment.

In terms of maintenance, the mower is relatively easy to care for. Checking oil levels, tire pressures, and general upkeep are straightforward tasks. However, I did find that accessing certain parts of the mower, like the grease fittings, could be more user-friendly. It took some effort to ensure everything was adequately lubricated, which is something to keep in mind for long-term maintenance.

After weighing all the pros and cons, would I recommend the Craftsman 46-in. Hydrostatic TURN TIGHT Gas Riding Mower? Yes, but with certain reservations. If you have a relatively flat yard with multiple obstacles and value maneuverability and comfort, this mower is an excellent choice. Its power, tight turning radius, and overall build quality make it a reliable option for medium to large yards.

However, if your yard includes steep hills or if you anticipate using the mower for extended periods without breaks, you might want to consider the battery life and traction issues. These are not deal-breakers but are important factors to consider based on your specific needs and yard conditions.

In conclusion, the Craftsman 46-in. Hydrostatic TURN TIGHT Gas Riding Mower is a powerful, comfortable, and highly maneuverable machine that's well-suited for many homeowners. While it has a few quirks, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it a worthy investment for maintaining a pristine lawn.