Craftsman 21-in. Gas Push Mower

Craftsman has long been a trusted name in the world of tools, and their 21-in. Gas Push Mower (model CMXGMAM1125499) promises to uphold that legacy. With a 140cc Briggs and Stratton engine, a versatile 3-in-1 deck, and several user-friendly features, this mower aims to be a reliable choice for those with smaller yards. However, my experience with this mower has been a mixed bag, revealing both strengths and notable weaknesses.

Setting up the Craftsman mower was straightforward. The instructions were clear, and all necessary components were included in the box. I particularly appreciated the adjustable loop handle, which allowed me to find a comfortable position for pushing the mower. The dual-lever height adjustment was also easy to use, enabling me to quickly set the cutting height anywhere from 1.25 inches to 3.75 inches.

When it comes to cutting performance, the mower does a commendable job. The 21-inch cutting width is adequate for small to medium-sized lawns, and the 140cc engine provides sufficient power to tackle even moderately thick grass. The mower's 3-in-1 deck offers the flexibility to mulch, bag, or side discharge grass clippings. I found the mulching option particularly effective, as it finely chopped the grass and returned it to the lawn, eliminating the need for bagging. The included mulch kit was a nice touch, making it easy to switch between different mowing modes.

However, the mower's performance is not without its flaws. Despite the promise of a "2-pull guaranteed start," I encountered occasional difficulties starting the engine, especially after the mower had been idle for a while. This issue was frustrating, as it often required multiple pulls to get the engine running. Additionally, while the mower is relatively lightweight and easy to maneuver, the rear wheel size of 11 inches did not provide the best traction on uneven terrain. The mower sometimes struggled on slopes or areas with dense grass, requiring extra effort to push.

One of the more concerning issues I encountered was the build quality. While the mower initially felt robust, it became evident over time that some components were not as durable as they should be. For instance, the rear bag's frame was slightly bent upon arrival, requiring some adjustment to fit correctly. Moreover, the handle's attachment to the deck seemed prone to loosening, necessitating frequent tightening of the thumb screws to prevent it from coming apart during use.

Another significant drawback was the mower's engine reliability. After a few months of use, I noticed that the engine's performance began to decline. It became harder to start, and there were instances where the engine emitted blue/white smoke, indicating potential internal issues. This decline in performance was disappointing, especially considering the mower's relatively short usage period.

Despite these issues, there are some positive aspects worth mentioning. The mower is quieter than older models, which is a welcome improvement for those who prefer a less noisy mowing experience. Additionally, the mower's ability to handle tall grass and small sticks was impressive, making it a suitable choice for maintaining an overgrown lawn.

In terms of maintenance, the Craftsman mower requires regular upkeep to ensure optimal performance. Changing the air filter and spark plug annually, as well as keeping the oil level full, is essential. However, even with diligent maintenance, the mower's engine issues persisted, raising concerns about its long-term reliability.

The mower comes with a 2-year limited warranty, which provides some peace of mind. However, my experience with Craftsman's customer service was less than satisfactory. When I encountered issues, the process of getting the mower serviced under warranty was cumbersome and time-consuming. The nearest service center was an hour away, and I had to pay a mandatory fee for the initial assessment. Ultimately, the warranty did not cover the repairs, attributing the issues to "negligence maintenance," which I found to be an unfair assessment.

In conclusion, the Craftsman 21-in. Gas Push Mower has its merits, including ease of setup, adjustable features, and decent cutting performance. However, the mower's build quality and engine reliability leave much to be desired. While it may be suitable for those with smaller yards who require a basic, no-frills mower, the recurring issues with starting and engine performance make it hard to recommend wholeheartedly.

If you are considering this mower, be prepared for potential maintenance challenges and ensure you have access to a reliable service center. For those who value durability and long-term reliability, investing in a higher-quality mower from a more reputable brand may be a wiser choice. In the end, while the Craftsman mower gets the job done, its drawbacks overshadow its strengths, making it a less-than-ideal option for those seeking a dependable lawn care solution.