Craftsman 36 in Riding Mower with Mulching Deck

Keeping a yard well-maintained can be a rewarding yet time-consuming task. When I decided to test the Craftsman 36 in Riding Mower with Mulching Deck (model CMXGRAM201303), I was hoping it would simplify my lawn care routine significantly. Given its compact size and the promise of being nimble enough to navigate tight spaces, I was eager to see how it would perform.

Initial Impressions and Setup

Upon delivery, the first thing that struck me about the Craftsman mower was its build. The 36-inch steel deck seemed sturdy and well-constructed. The mower arrived mostly assembled, but there were a few minor tasks left for me to complete. I needed to charge the battery and check the fluids, which is standard for most gas-powered equipment. Once these were done, the mower started up without any issues.

Design and Comfort

One of the standout features for me was the adjustable low-back seat. While it may not be the highest quality seat out there, it was comfortable enough for the time I spent mowing. However, I did notice that on uneven terrain, the seat's low profile made it somewhat challenging to maintain a stable position. This is something to keep in mind, especially if your yard has hills or is not perfectly level.

The 18-inch turning radius is a significant advantage. It allowed me to maneuver around obstacles and tight corners effortlessly. This feature alone makes the Craftsman mower a strong contender for smaller yards or gardens with lots of landscaping elements.

Performance and Power

The Craftsman mower is powered by an 11.5 HP Briggs & Stratton single-cylinder engine. Initially, I was skeptical about whether this engine would provide enough power, especially since my lawn tends to grow rather thick and fast. To my pleasant surprise, the engine handled most of the grass with ease. Only during particularly thick patches did I notice a slight bogging down, but disengaging the clutch momentarily helped alleviate this issue.

One notable feature that I found incredibly useful is the 7-speed transmission. It allowed me to adjust the speed according to the lawn conditions, making it easier to manage different areas of my yard. The Turf Saver wheels also provided excellent traction, preventing the mower from slipping, even on slightly damp grass.

Cut Quality and Mulching

The primary reason I chose this model was its mulching capability. The included mulching kit did a fantastic job of returning the clippings back into the soil, enriching it with nutrients. The cut was generally even, and I didn't notice any clumping or rows of uncut grass, which can be a common issue with some mowers.

That said, I did encounter a few challenges. The mower tends to spray grass and dirt, especially in areas with dry or sandy soil. This can be a bit of a nuisance if you're not prepared for it. Wearing protective gear like goggles and a dust mask is advisable to avoid inhaling dirt or getting it in your eyes.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

Operating the mower was fairly straightforward. The control panel is intuitive, and the mower started up reliably every time once the battery was fully charged. However, I did have to troubleshoot a dead battery initially, which was an inconvenience but easily resolved with a quick charge.

The mulching deck requires regular maintenance to prevent clogging and ensure optimal performance. Cleaning the deck after each use is a good practice to adopt. Additionally, the mower's engine may backfire or emit smoke if overworked, so it's essential to monitor its performance and disengage the clutch when necessary.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

In conclusion, the Craftsman 36 in Riding Mower with Mulching Deck offers a blend of reliable performance, comfort, and ease of use. Its compact size and tight turning radius make it ideal for smaller yards or properties with intricate landscaping. The 11.5 HP engine provides adequate power for most residential lawn care needs, although it may struggle a bit in particularly thick grass.

The mulching functionality is a strong highlight, contributing positively to soil health by recycling clippings. However, the mower does have a few quirks, such as the tendency to spray dirt and the occasional need for minor adjustments during use. These are manageable with proper preparation and maintenance.

Would I recommend this mower? Yes, but with some caveats. If you have a smaller yard and need a nimble, efficient machine, the Craftsman mower is a solid choice. It's particularly well-suited for those who prefer mulching over bagging. However, if your yard is larger, hilly, or you require a mower with more robust features and power, you might want to explore other options. Proper assembly and initial setup are crucial to avoid some of the issues I encountered, so double-check everything before your first mow.