Features
- Self-propelled single speed with front wheel drive
- 3-in-1 deck for side discharge, mulching, or rear bagging
- Dual-lever height adjustment with 6 positions from 1.25 inches to 3.75 inches
Specifications
| Cutting Width | 21 inches |
| Engine | 150cc Briggs and Stratton |
| Weight | 73.0 lbs |
| Power Source | Gas |
| Warranty | 2 Year Limited Warranty |
This self-propelled gas push lawn mower features a 21-inch cutting deck and is powered by a 150cc engine.
Model Number: CMXGMAM211201
Craftsman 21-in. Gas Self-Propelled Mower Review
When I first laid hands on the Craftsman 21-in. Gas Self-Propelled Mower (CMXGMAM211201), I was optimistic about its potential. Craftsman has been a household name for years, and my expectations were high. However, my experience with this mower was a mix of both highs and substantial lows.
Assembly and Build Quality
The initial assembly of the mower was more challenging than anticipated. The instructions provided were not as clear as they should be, making a seemingly straightforward task frustrating. I had to resort to online videos to help guide me through the setup process. The build quality also left much to be desired. While the mower looked robust from a distance, closer inspection revealed several issues. For example, some of the nuts and bolts were either missing or poorly threaded, requiring me to substitute parts from my own workshop.
Performance and Usability
Once assembled, the mower did start on the first pull, thanks to its 150cc Briggs and Stratton engine. The self-propelled feature, driven by the front wheels, was a welcome addition, making mowing less physically taxing. However, the single-speed self-propulsion often felt jerky and could be hard to manage, especially when navigating around garden obstacles.
In terms of cutting performance, the 21-inch deck provided a decent cutting width, and the 3-in-1 functionality for side discharge, mulching, and rear bagging was versatile. Unfortunately, the mower struggled in denser turf. It often felt like it was riding on top of the grass rather than cutting through it, leading to an uneven finish. I found myself having to go over the same area multiple times to achieve a satisfactory cut.
Ergonomics and Handling
The mower's ergonomics were another area of concern. The handle height is fixed and non-adjustable, which could be a deal-breaker for taller users. At 6 feet tall, I found myself hunched over, which was uncomfortable and caused back strain after prolonged use. Additionally, the handle for the self-propelled unit was awkwardly positioned, requiring one hand on the main handle and the other on the self-propelled lever, making it difficult to steer smoothly.
Maintenance and Durability
Maintaining the mower has been a mixed bag. While the engine started easily the first season, subsequent seasons have been problematic. Despite using fresh gasoline and following recommended storage practices, I encountered starting issues after the mower had been stored for the winter. Cleaning the carburetor became a routine task, which was both time-consuming and frustrating.
The paint job on the mower was another letdown. I noticed bare metal on the underside of the machine and the engine block, indicating a sub-par paint job that could lead to rusting over time. Moreover, the mower's plastic components, such as the drive cable clips, showed signs of wear and tear much sooner than expected.
Customer Support and Warranty
Craftsman's customer support and warranty service also left much to be desired. When issues arose, getting a timely response from customer service was challenging. The warranty process was cumbersome, requiring me to transport the mower to an authorized service center that was inconveniently far from my location. Even then, the resolution was not always satisfactory, and I often felt that the issues were deemed as "normal wear and tear," which was frustrating.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
In conclusion, the Craftsman 21-in. Gas Self-Propelled Mower has its merits, particularly in its engine performance and self-propelled feature. However, these positives are overshadowed by significant drawbacks in build quality, ease of use, and reliability. The assembly process is more complicated than it should be, and the mower's overall durability is questionable. The fixed handle height and awkward self-propelled controls make it uncomfortable for extended use. Maintenance issues further detract from the convenience that a lawnmower should offer.
Given these factors, I find it difficult to recommend the Craftsman 21-in. Gas Self-Propelled Mower. While it may suffice for those with smaller, less demanding lawns and who are willing to perform regular maintenance, the issues I encountered make it hard to justify the investment. For the price, there are likely more reliable and user-friendly options available on the market. If Craftsman can address these shortcomings in future models, they may regain the trust that their brand once commanded. For now, however, I would advise looking elsewhere for a more dependable lawn mowing solution.
Project Ideas
Business
Lawn Care Service
Start a lawn care business offering mowing, edging, and lawn maintenance services. Use the self-propelled mower to handle various lawn sizes efficiently and provide quality service to clients.
Seasonal Yard Cleanup
Offer seasonal yard cleanup services, including leaf removal, grass cutting, and winter preparation. The mower's mulching feature can be particularly useful for managing fallen leaves in autumn.
Neighborhood Lawn Co-op
Create a neighborhood lawn care cooperative where members share the mower and collectively maintain each other's lawns. Charge a membership fee or set up a rental system to generate income.
Event Lawn Preparation
Provide specialized lawn care services for events such as weddings, parties, and community gatherings. Ensure the venue's lawn is perfectly trimmed and aesthetically pleasing for the occasion.
Eco-Friendly Lawn Solutions
Offer eco-friendly lawn care services that focus on sustainable practices, such as mulching grass clippings and using organic fertilizers. Market your services to environmentally conscious homeowners.
Creative
Garden Maze
Create a small garden maze in your backyard by strategically mowing paths through tall grass or wildflower patches. Use the mower's precision and maneuverability to design intricate patterns.
Lawn Art
Use the mower to create large-scale designs or messages in the lawn. By varying the cutting height and direction, you can produce artistic patterns that are viewable from above.
Grass Recycling
Collect grass clippings using the rear bagging feature and use them as mulch or compost material for your garden. The mulched grass can help retain soil moisture and provide nutrients.
Herb Spiral
Mow a spiral path in your lawn to create a unique herb garden. Plant different herbs along the spiral, allowing easy access and a visually appealing design.
Backyard Golf Course
Design a mini-golf course in your backyard by mowing different lengths of grass to create fairways, roughs, and putting greens. Use obstacles like rocks and plants to add challenges.