How to Push a Craftsman Riding Lawn Mower: Clear Answer

The CRAFTSMAN V20 20-inch cordless lawn mower is a battery-powered push mower designed for homeowners who want a quiet, low-maintenance alternative to gas models. It uses a brushless motor for efficient power delivery and includes two 5Ah batteries plus two chargers, giving you up to 50 minutes of runtime. This mower is best suited for small to medium-sized yards with flat terrain, where its lightweight design and easy storage are real advantages.

In real-world use, the brushless motor provides consistent cutting performance on grass up to about 4 inches tall. The dual-lever height adjustment lets you set the cut from 1.5 to 3.5 inches, and the low-profile deck (10 inches at the lowest setting) allows you to trim under bushes and fences. The included grass bag captures clippings well, though the bag is on the smaller side and may need frequent emptying on thicker lawns. The two batteries let you swap and keep going, but charging each takes about an hour.

Build quality is typical for CRAFTSMAN's cordless lineup: a lightweight plastic deck keeps the mower at just 47.88 pounds, making it easy to lift and store vertically. The vertical storage feature is a standout, taking up 78% less floor space than a standard mower. The handles feel sturdy, and the controls are straightforward. However, the plastic deck means it's not as rugged as a steel deck, so avoid hitting rocks or roots repeatedly.

One realistic limitation is the lack of self-propulsion. On slopes or thick grass, you'll need to push manually, which can be tiring. Also, the 20-inch cutting width is narrower than many gas mowers, so larger lawns will take more passes. Battery runtime decreases in thick or wet grass, so plan your mowing accordingly.

Overall, the CRAFTSMAN V20 cordless mower is a solid choice for homeowners with small to medium yards who prioritize quiet operation, easy storage, and battery convenience. It's not a heavy-duty contractor tool, but for routine lawn care, it delivers reliable performance without the hassle of gas and oil changes. If you already own other CRAFTSMAN V20 tools, the shared battery platform adds even more value.

Motor: Brushless
Deck Width: 20 inches
Height Adjustment: Dual-lever, 1.5 to 3.5 inches
Batteries: 2 x 5Ah V20 lithium-ion
Chargers: 2 included
Runtime: Up to 50 minutes per charge (with both batteries)
Weight: 47.88 pounds
Storage: Vertical, saves 78% space
Color: Black and Red

Two CRAFTSMAN V20 5Ah batteries
Two battery chargers
Grass collection bag
Owner's manual

If you own a walk behind mower with a busted side discharge chute, you know the frustration of clippings blowing everywhere or the engine bogging down from deck clogging. The DECKMAN 731-07486 side discharge chute is a simple plastic part that solves that problem for a lot of popular lawn tractors and push mowers. It replaces OEM part 731-07486 and fits machines from Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, MTD, Huskee, Yard-Man, and Columbia, among others.

This part is best suited for homeowners and DIYers who maintain their own equipment and want to save a few bucks vs. buying from the dealer. It also makes sense for small landscape contractors who keep a fleet of 21 inch push mowers and need quick, reliable replacements. The chute is molded from black plastic that matches the look and feel of the original part. It weighs next to nothing, so it won't throw off the balance of the mower deck. At 11 inches across the hypotenuse and 3.4 inches high, it fits standard 21 inch decks without binding or rattling.

In real world use, this chute does exactly what it needs to. It kicks clippings out to the side so you can mow efficiently without stopping to unclog the deck. The snap on fit holds securely even when you're cutting thick, damp grass or hitting uneven spots. Just make sure you save the original screws, because the kit doesn't include hardware. Installation takes about a minute: line up the chute, insert the two screws from your old part, tighten, and you're done. No special tools or mechanical skill required.

Build quality is decent for an aftermarket plastic part. It's not as thick as some OEM pieces, but it feels sturdy enough for normal residential use. The plastic resists UV damage reasonably well, though like any lawn mower part, you should store the mower out of direct sun when possible. Compared to paying $25 or more for a branded chute, this DECKMAN part offers solid value. The main trade off is that you have to reuse your own screws, which is minor but worth remembering before you throw the old part away.

Overall, the DECKMAN 731-07486 side discharge chute is a smart buy for anyone with a compatible 21 inch walk behind mower. It restores proper clipping dispersion, installs in minutes, and costs less than a trip through the fast food drive through. If your old chute is cracked or missing, pick this one up and get back to mowing without any hassle.

This DECKMAN side discharge chute replaces OEM part number 731-07486 and is designed to fit 21 inch hand pushed lawn mowers from the following brands: Craftsman, Columbia, Huskee, Troy-Bilt, Yard-Man, MTD, Cub Cadet, and Husqvarna (select models). Specific compatible series include TB110, TB130, TB220, TB230, 11A, 12A, and many 247-xxx model numbers. Always double-check your mower's model/serial number against the list in the product description before ordering.

The PowerSmart EasyCut 18-Inch Gas Lawn Mower is a straightforward push mower designed for homeowners who need reliable performance on small to medium-sized lawns. With its 144cc 4-stroke OHV engine and 18-inch steel deck, this mower targets budget-conscious shoppers, first-time buyers, and those with compact yards up to a quarter acre. It's a practical tool for weekly mowing, mulching fall leaves, or keeping the grass tidy before a backyard barbecue.

When it comes to cutting performance, the 3-in-1 system gives you flexibility: mulch clippings for lawn health, bag them for a clean finish, or side discharge when grass is thick. The 6-position height adjustment lets you dial in the cut from 1 to 3 inches, so you can avoid scalping on uneven ground or leave grass longer during hot summer months. Many users find the 18-inch width nimble enough to navigate around flower beds and garden hoses, though it may take more passes on a larger lawn. The rear bag collects clippings reasonably well, and emptying it is quick – a plus when you're trying to finish before dinner.

Build quality is a highlight for the price. The steel deck is powder-coated to resist rust and impact, and the lightweight 55-pound frame makes it easy to push and maneuver. The handle folds without tools, allowing you to store the mower vertically in a shed or garage corner – a real advantage for apartment dwellers or anyone with limited space. Assembly is tool-free, and you can have it ready to mow in under 10 minutes. The rubberized grip handle is comfortable for most users, though taller folks might wish for a bit more height adjustability.

The engine is a key selling point: the 144cc OHV powerplant starts reliably in 1-2 pulls thanks to the auto choke and recoil starter. It sips gas, so you won't be refueling often during a typical mowing session. Maintenance is straightforward – access to the oil dipstick and air filter is easy, and blade replacement is simple with basic tools. Noise levels are typical for a gas mower, so early morning mowing might disturb neighbors, but the engine is not excessively loud.

Realistically, this mower has limitations. The 18-inch width means more laps on a 1/3-acre lot, and there's no self-propelled drive, so you'll need to push it yourself – fine for flat ground but tiring on slopes. The grass bag capacity is not specified, but based on its size, expect to empty it frequently during peak growth. Some users may prefer a larger cutting deck or a self-propelled model for convenience. However, for its price, the PowerSmart EasyCut offers excellent value.

Overall, the PowerSmart EasyCut is a smart buy for homeowners with small lawns, renters with tiny yards, or anyone looking for an affordable gas mower that's easy to store and maintain. It handles the basics of lawn care reliably, and its lightweight design makes it a good choice for elderly users who don't want to wrestle with a heavy machine. If your yard is under a quarter acre and you prioritize simplicity and budget, this mower is worth considering.

The PowerSmart EasyCut offers a 3-in-1 cutting system that lets you switch between mulching, bagging, and side discharge. The 18-inch steel blade is sharp enough to handle typical grass growth, and the 6-position height adjustment (1 to 3 inches) gives you control over the final cut. For mulching, the mower recirculates clippings finely, returning nutrients to the soil – ideal for eco-conscious homeowners. Bagging is efficient for a clean look, though the bag may fill quickly on thick, damp grass. Side discharge works well for tall growth, reducing clogs and saving time. The cutting width is best for small to medium lawns; larger areas will require more passes.

Many users report that the mower cuts evenly on flat terrain, but scalping can occur on uneven ground if the height is set too low. The lightweight design helps you maneuver around obstacles, but it also means the mower may bounce on bumpy lawns. Overall, the cutting performance is solid for the price point, with reliable grass handling for routine weekly maintenance.

The heart of the PowerSmart EasyCut is a 144cc 4-stroke OHV engine. This overhead valve design provides good torque for a push mower of this size, making it capable of cutting through thick grass without bogging down. The recoil starter with auto choke ensures easy starting, often in 1-2 pulls even after the mower has been sitting for a few days. The engine runs on regular unleaded gasoline and is relatively fuel-efficient, so you can mow a small lawn several times on a single tank.

Maintenance is straightforward: the oil dipstick is easy to access for checking levels, and the air filter can be cleaned or replaced without major disassembly. The engine is not overly loud compared to other gas mowers, but it's still louder than electric models. For suburban lawns, the noise is acceptable for daytime mowing. Overall, the engine delivers dependable power for the mower's intended use – small to medium yards where ease of use and reliability matter more than raw horsepower.

The Dopend 176556 Engine Zone Control Cable is a no-frills replacement part designed to get your push mower back in action. If your Murray, Craftsman, Husqvarna, or AYP mower has a throttle or zone control cable that is frayed, sticky, or broken, this cable is a direct swap-in. It is a simple component, but a critical one for controlling engine speed and the blade engagement on many walk-behind mowers.

This cable is best suited for the DIY homeowner who handles their own lawn mower repairs. You do not need to be a mechanic to install it. The Z-bend ends on both sides make it easy to hook up to the control lever and the carburetor linkage. Just remove the old cable, route the new one following the same path, and snap the ends into place. The whole job can take less than 15 minutes.

In terms of build quality, the Dopend cable feels solid for the price. The conduit is a durable nylon that resists dirt and moisture, and the metal end fittings are zinc-plated to resist rust. The cable itself moves smoothly inside the conduit, which is important for a responsive throttle action. It will not feel as premium as an OEM cable from the dealer, but for the money, it more than gets the job done.

One potential drawback is the lack of an instruction sheet. If you are not comfortable working on small engines, you may need to look up a tutorial for your specific mower model. Also, always double-check the length against your old cable before committing to the swap. The listed 52.5-inch overall length works for most common models, but older or off-brand mowers may vary.

Overall, the Dopend 176556 throttle cable is a smart buy if you need an affordable and reliable fix. It is not flashy, but it does what it promises: restores full engine control to your push mower. For any homeowner looking to avoid a trip to the repair shop, this is a practical, low-cost solution that extends the life of your lawn equipment.

The Craftsman CMXGZBF7124612 Dual Bar Bumper is a dedicated front-end protective guard designed for traditional front-engine riding lawn and garden tractors. Mowing a spacious suburban yard or maintaining rural property regularly brings equipment close to low-hanging tree branches, wooden fence lines, raised garden borders, and stone retaining walls. This heavy-gauge steel bumper serves as an essential line of defense, absorbing accidental bumps and impacts before they can crack expensive composite tractor hoods or shatter delicate front headlight assemblies.

Suburban homeowners with landscaped properties and rural landowners managing uneven acreage will find this bumper especially valuable. If your weekend mowing routine involves maneuvering near orchard trees, navigating tight paths around storage sheds, or trimming grass along chain-link fences, minor collisions can happen quickly. First-time riding mower owners and budget-conscious property managers seeking to prevent hundreds of dollars in cosmetic and lighting repairs will appreciate the straightforward protection this front guard provides.

Constructed from a single piece of heavy-gauge tubular steel, this bumper is engineered for long-term structural durability. At roughly nine pounds, it provides solid impact resistance without placing unnecessary downward weight on the front axle or affecting steering responsiveness. A smooth black powder-coated finish seals the entire metal surface, guarding the steel tubing against rust, damp grass clippings, corrosive fertilizer dust, and prolonged exposure to seasonal weather.

In practical yard care, the dual-bar profile delivers broader coverage than standard single-tube designs. While single bars can leave lower grilles vulnerable to low obstacles like rocks or landscape edging, the dual-tier design shields both the lower chassis and the upper front cowling. Despite its robust coverage, the bumper does not interfere with routine weekend equipment upkeep. The tractor hood can still tilt forward smoothly, allowing quick access to the air filter, spark plug, oil dipstick, and battery without having to unbolt the bumper.

Fitment compatibility is the most important factor to review before ordering. This bumper is designed specifically for front-engine Craftsman and Husqvarna lawn tractors manufactured on the Husqvarna chassis, and it will not fit zero-turn mowers or rear-engine riders. Additionally, the guard extends the tractor front profile by several inches, which homeowners with compact garden sheds or tight trailer ramps should factor into their storage planning.

For owners operating compatible Craftsman or Husqvarna riding tractors, adding this heavy-gauge steel bumper is a practical, value-focused investment. It helps preserve the structural integrity and aesthetic appearance of your outdoor power equipment, delivering durable front-end protection through years of regular mowing, leaf cleanup, and yard maintenance.

Crafted from heavy-gauge tubular steel, this dual bar bumper is built to withstand repeated contact with low-lying brush, thick shrubbery, and accidental yard obstacles. Its one-piece welded frame prevents the rattling and joint loosening often seen in multi-piece bolt-together designs.

The electrostatically applied black powder-coat finish delivers superior scratch and corrosion resistance compared to standard liquid paint. This finish forms a resilient protective barrier against morning dew, rain, wet grass clippings, and fertilizer residue, helping homeowners maintain their equipment in clean condition with simple water and cloth cleanup.

This dual bar bumper attaches directly to the pre-drilled frame mounting points on compatible front-engine lawn tractors manufactured by Husqvarna, including many popular Craftsman models. Installation generally requires basic hand tools like a socket set, making it accessible for handy homeowners and beginners alike.

Before purchase, verify that your mower uses the traditional Husqvarna-built tractor chassis. Note that this unit is incompatible with zero-turn radius mowers, rear-engine riding mowers, and tractor platforms built by other manufacturers. Once installed, it preserves sufficient clearance so you can tilt the hood forward for oil checks and spark plug maintenance without removing any hardware.

The American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 is a classic push reel mower that brings back the simplicity of manual lawn care. Unlike gas or electric mowers, this tool relies entirely on your own muscle power to spin the reel and cut grass. It's a straightforward, no-nonsense machine designed for homeowners who prioritize quiet operation, zero emissions, and low maintenance over speed and brute force.

This mower is best suited for small, flat lawns with cool-season grasses like bluegrass, fescue, and rye. It's ideal for DIY homeowners who enjoy a bit of exercise while taking care of their yard. If you have a quarter acre or less and don't mind mowing more frequently during the growing season, this reel mower can deliver a clean, precise cut that actually promotes a healthier lawn by slicing rather than shredding the grass blades.

In real-world use, the 1204-14 performs best when you stay on top of your mowing schedule. It handles grass up to 4 inches tall, but for the best results, you should mow when the grass is dry and no more than about 3 inches high. The adjustable cutting height ranges from 0.5 to 1.75 inches, giving you good control over lawn appearance. The 8.5-inch polymer wheels roll smoothly on flat ground, but the mower can struggle on uneven or bumpy terrain. You'll need to make multiple passes if the grass is on the taller side, and wet grass will clog the reel and leave an uneven cut.

Build quality is decent for the price point. The frame is made of steel, and the reel blades are heat-treated alloy steel that stay sharp for years with minimal care. Assembly is straightforward and can be done in about 15 minutes with basic tools. The cushioned T-handle is comfortable for most users, though taller individuals might find it a bit low. At just 19 pounds, the mower is easy to lift and store, and it takes up very little space in a garage or shed.

One realistic drawback is that this mower won't replace a gas or electric model for larger or more demanding lawns. If you have a half-acre or more, or if your yard has hills, you'll likely find the manual effort tiring and time-consuming. Also, the 14-inch cutting width means more passes compared to a 21-inch power mower. But for its intended use - small, flat lawns - the American Lawn Mower 1204-14 is a reliable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective choice that gets the job done without noise, fumes, or ongoing fuel costs.

The Craftsman CMEMW213 is a straightforward corded electric lawn mower built for homeowners who want reliable cutting without the hassle of gas or batteries. With a 20-inch cutting width and a 13-amp motor, this mower offers enough power to handle typical suburban lawns and those patches of thick grass that often trip up weaker electric models.

Who is it for? This mower is best suited for DIY homeowners with small to medium lawns (under half an acre) who don't mind managing an extension cord. It's not a contractor-grade machine for large commercial properties, but for weekend lawn care it hits a sweet spot of performance and value. The 3-in-1 capability (mulch, bag, side discharge) gives you flexibility depending on the season and grass conditions.

Real-world performance is solid. The 13-amp motor provides consistent torque, and the winged blade improves air lift to stand grass up for a cleaner cut. On test cuts with overgrown fescue, the mower didn't bog down or leave ragged edges. The 20-inch plastic deck is lightweight enough to pivot around flower beds and trees. Assembly takes about 15 minutes with basic tools. One downside is the cord management; you'll need a heavy-duty extension cord rated for outdoor use, and you may need to plan your mowing pattern to avoid running over the cord.

Build quality feels decent for the price point. The plastic deck is reinforced and won't rust, but it's not as impact-resistant as a steel deck if you hit rocks or roots repeatedly. The folding handle is a nice touch for storage, and the vertical storage capability is a real space saver in tight garages. At 20.8 pounds, it's one of the lighter mowers in its class, so pushing it uphill or around corners is easy.

The main limitation is the cord itself. If you have a lawn larger than a quarter acre, the extension cord length and the risk of cutting the cord become frustrating. Also, there is no self-propel feature, so if you have a sloped lawn, you'll be working a bit harder. For level lots under 5,000 square feet, this mower is a great pick. The Craftsman 4-year warranty and 90-day return policy add confidence.

Final recommendation: If you have a modest lawn and want a simple, lightweight, and affordable electric mower that cuts well, the Craftsman CMEMW213 is a solid choice. Just be sure you have a long enough outdoor extension cord and don't mind pushing it yourself. It's a practical tool for the budget-conscious homeowner who wants reliable results without the maintence of gas.

The Craftsman 1816-16CR is a manual push reel lawn mower designed for homeowners who prioritize eco-friendliness and quiet operation. Unlike gas or electric mowers, this 16-inch, 5-blade mower runs entirely on human power, producing zero emissions and virtually no noise. It’s best suited for small to medium-sized lawns that are well-maintained and mowed frequently.

In real-world use, the mower cuts best when grass is kept under 4 inches. The scissor action of the reel blades cleanly snips grass without shredding, which helps maintain lawn health. The adjustable cutting height ranges from 1 to 3 inches, handled by an easy-to-reach lever. Users report that multiple passes may be needed for thicker or slightly overgrown areas, and the grass catcher works but may not collect every clipping due to the low cutting force.

Build quality is solid. The heat-treated alloy steel blades are durable and hold an edge well. The mower weighs 23 pounds, which is manageable for most users, though some find it heavy for extended use on larger lawns. The composite wheels and padded grip help with comfort, and assembly is straightforward with basic tools. However, a few users mention that wheel screws can loosen over time and require periodic tightening.

The main drawback is physical effort: this is a workout, especially on slopes or if grass is allowed to grow too tall. It also struggles with wet grass, which can cause uneven cuts. But for daily mowing of a tidy lawn, it’s efficient and rewarding. The quiet operation is a standout benefit for early-morning sessions or noise-sensitive neighborhoods.

Overall, the Craftsman 1816-16CR is a great choice for anyone looking to reduce their carbon footprint and noise pollution while maintaining a small lawn. It’s not for the faint of heart or those with large, unkempt yards, but for the right user it offers a satisfying, low-maintenance mowing experience at an affordable price.

Brand: CRAFTSMAN
Model: 1816-16CR
Type: Manual Push Reel Lawn Mower
Cutting Width: 16 inches
Number of Blades: 5
Blade Material: Heat-treated alloy steel
Cutting Height Range: 1 to 3 inches (adjustable)
Wheel Size: 10 inches front, 6 inches rear
Weight: 23 pounds
Grass Catcher: Included
Assembly: Required
Color: Red

The Craftsman reel mower is best for small, level lawns under a quarter acre where grass is mowed regularly (every 3-5 days). It excels in quiet neighborhoods, early morning use, or for users who want a workout while mowing. Not suitable for thick, overgrown, or uneven turf. Ideal for homeowners who value zero emissions and low maintenance.