Craftsman 46-in. Automatic Gas Riding Mower

Navigating the world of riding mowers can be a daunting task, especially when you're looking for a blend of power, durability, and ease of use. I recently had the opportunity to put the Craftsman 46-in. Automatic Gas Riding Mower to the test, and my experience brought out both the strengths and weaknesses of this popular model.

Initial Impressions and Setup

Upon unboxing the Craftsman riding mower, I was immediately struck by its robust build. The 46-inch reinforced stamped steel deck felt sturdy and well-constructed, promising durability for extensive use. The mid-back seat seemed comfortable, an essential feature for those long mowing sessions. Setting up the mower was straightforward, and the included mulch kit was a nice touch for those who prefer to handle grass clippings efficiently.

Performance and Maneuverability

The mower is powered by a 382cc engine, which translates to 18.5 HP. This provides ample power for tackling various grass heights and densities. I found the foot pedal controlled automatic transmission to be particularly user-friendly, allowing for smooth transitions between speeds. The 7-speed transmission is a standout feature, offering flexibility to adjust your mowing pace as needed.

In terms of maneuverability, the 18-inch turning radius was a pleasant surprise. It allowed me to navigate tight corners and intricate landscaping with ease. The Turf Saver wheels contributed to this ease of navigation, offering good traction without causing damage to the lawn.

Cut Quality

The cut quality of the mower is generally impressive. The 46-inch deck covers a substantial area, reducing the number of passes needed to mow large lawns. The mower handled both short and tall grass well, leaving a clean, even cut. However, one aspect that stood out was the mower's performance in handling debris and leaves. It tended to shoot them out the front, which can be inconvenient if you’re aiming for a pristine lawn. This is something potential buyers should consider, especially if their lawns often accumulate debris.

Comfort and Usability

Comfort during use is crucial for any riding mower, and here the Craftsman does an admirable job. The mid-back seat provided sufficient support, even during extended periods of mowing. The controls are logically placed and easy to operate, making it accessible even for those who might not be mechanically inclined.

One issue I encountered was that the belt seemed to have a tendency to come off or break. This happened relatively early into my usage, which was frustrating. While customer service was responsive and helpful in addressing the issue, it’s a concern worth noting. Ensuring the belt is properly installed and maintained might mitigate this problem, but it’s an area where the mower could see some improvement.

Build Quality and Maintenance

Craftsman has a long-standing reputation for building durable tools, and this mower generally upholds that standard. However, I did face a few hiccups. A flat tire right out of the box was an unexpected inconvenience. While it was easy enough to fix, it’s not something one expects from a brand-new piece of equipment. Additionally, the bagger design could use some improvement. The tube tends to fly off when hitting bumps, which can be annoying and disrupt the mowing process.

Overall Experience

Despite these issues, the overall mowing experience was positive. The mower’s speed and cutting efficiency were commendable, and the build quality felt solid for the most part. The automatic transmission is a significant advantage, making it easier to control and reducing the physical strain associated with manual gear changes.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Craftsman 46-in. Automatic Gas Riding Mower? Yes, but with reservations. For those with large lawns who need a powerful, user-friendly mower, this model is a strong contender. Its ease of use, comfortable seating, and effective cutting capabilities make it suitable for extensive mowing tasks. However, potential buyers should be aware of the belt issue and the somewhat flimsy bagger design. These are not deal-breakers but are aspects that could affect the overall experience.

In conclusion, the Craftsman riding mower offers a good balance of power, comfort, and functionality. With a few improvements, it could be an outstanding choice. For now, it remains a solid option for those in need of a reliable and efficient mowing solution.