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Gas Mowers, Reel Mowers
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Lawn Mowers Features (continued)
Gas Push Mowers, Self-Propelled Mowers.
Most low-cost gas mowers are bigger and heavier than electric and reel mowers, and new models feature a 4-cycle engine that runs on straight 87-octane gas, which is a big advance over the old 2-cycle engines that require a gas-oil mixture. Like cheap electric lawn mowers, gas mowers come in two configurations.Cheap self-propelled mowers usually sport front-wheel drive. Pricier self-propelled mowers, like the White Outdoor Self-Propelled Mower by MTD (starting at $422, Amazon), are rear-wheel drive. Experts note that front-drive pulls forward from the front, provides better traction on flat terrain, and easily makes 180-degree turns. On the other hand, bagging is harder with front drive because the weight of the bag in the back of the mower interferes with the traction on the front wheels. Rear drive works better on hilly ground and for negotiating around obstacles like trees and rocks. Each system has its partisans, and a lively discussion about the pros and cons plays out in postings on the Gardenweb.com forum.
Lawn Mower Operations.
Starting a low-cost mower is most easily accomplished with a reel mower like the Scotts 2000-20: with no motor to start, just stand behind and push. Cheap electric mowers, like the Black & Decker MM275, feature an effortless hand-lever start. Cheap gas mowers of the past were notorious for difficult pull-starts, but the models on our list minimize the effort required: the Toro 20331 and Craftsman 37068 feature a quick-start technology that incorporates an automatic choke and eliminates the need to prime the engine. Some upscale models, like the Troy-Bilt 3-in-1 (starting at $400, Amazon), incorporate a key start for the ultimate in easy-on functionality.Speed is the next consideration. If you're using anything other than a reel mower, you'll want a model that doesn't outrun your walking pace. The speed on electric and gas mowers is usually controlled by a handle lever or push bar. Experts at How Stuff Works say speeds on self-propelled mowers with just one speed average about 2.5 miles an hour. Some new self-propelled mowers, like the Toro 20331, have variable speed control that lets you set your own pace, be it a leisurely stroll or more of a work-out; the speed on these models usually ranges between zero and five miles an hour. The ultimate speed control freak might be interested in the pricier Toro Personal Pace Walk Power Mower 20332 (starting at $349, Amazon), which responds to your walking speed by speeding up or slowing down as you do.
Your mowing efficiency is affected by your speed, of course, but also by the width of the cutting path and the height of the blades. The cutting width on cheap reel mowers ranges from 12 inches to 20 inches; cheap electric mowers are usually 18 or 19 inches; and cheap gas mowers range from 19 to 22 inches, with the larger cutting swath found on self-propelled mowers. Remember, the larger the blade, the more difficult it is to push so it's no surprise that self-propelled gasoline models cut the widest path.
Because experts recommend that you cut no more than one-third of the lawn's height in a single mowing, you'll want a lawn mower with multiple height settings. According to AllAboutLawns.com, grass that's too short may not withstand drought or excessive heat, and grass that's too long can accumulate thatch that gets in the way of water and fertilizer. The ideal height depends on the type of grass in your lawn; OrganicLawncareTips.com suggests that Kentucky Bluegrass, for example, should be mowed to a height of 1.5-2.5 inches. The Scotts 2000-20 features nine cutting heights ranging from one to three inches; the Black & Decker MM275 features six heights that max out at 3.5 inches; the Toro 20331 offers cutting heights of 1-4 inches; and the Husqvarna 6.75 hp 21'' features five cutting heights that max out at 3.5 inches. Specs for the Craftsman 37068 do not mention cutting heights, but this self-propelled model comes with 12-inch rear wheels that can be raised or lowered for the height that suits your lawn.
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Best Cheap Lawn Mowers
Black & Decker MM275
For a small yard, this corded electric mower receives overwhelmingly positive reviews for its lightweight 38 pounds and easy storage, start up, and stop. Some users take issue with having to manage the cord but most reviewers prefer that to replacing a battery or dealing with gasoline. Six cutting heights, from 1 to 3.5 inches, can be adjusted for all wheels at once with one lever; the side bag attachment is sold separately. A 6.5 amp version is lighter and cheaper. Read more »Lawn Mowers Deals
Toro 20331
The Toro brand lives up to its name with this mower, which boasts a standard 22-inch cutting blade, variable speed self-propelled drive system, 4-cycle Briggs & Stratton engine, and washout port for attaching a hose to clean out under the decking. Users like the price, ease of use, and front-wheel drive, but some grumble about flimsy parts. Read more »Lawn Mowers Deals
Good Cheap Lawn Mowers
Scotts 2000-20 Reel Mower
This noiseless reel mower provides a classic low-tech (as in, person-power) grass-cutting solution; it’s easy to maintain and store, and cuts without tearing the grass. Like other reel mowers, the Scotts 2000-20 20 in. has a cutting gap (the space between the wheels and blade), so you may need to make more passes. This model doesn’t as well on tall grass, but users find it sufficient and even desirable for small yards. Read more »Lawn Mowers Deals
Craftsman 37068
The Craftsman 37068 includes welcome features, like a 22-inch deck, Platinum Series Briggs & Stratton engine, and a design that mulches, bags, or discharges grass clippings. Big wheels make for easy turns and the only obvious complaint is a small 1.6 quart-gas tank. Read more »Lawn Mowers Deals
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Ariens 2-in-1
The Ariens 2-in-1 mower receives mixed reviews for its heavy Kohler engine, poor traction from 8-inch plastic wheels, bolts-to-plastic outer cover, and difficult pull-start. There is no side discharge on this model but it does come with a grass collection bag. Read more »
Husqvarna Rear Bag Mower 21 inch
Despite all the makings of a good mower with its Honda engine and Husqvarna name, this one misses the mark; several users report front springs flying off and others complain that the blade cuts into the outer decking when the handle is lifted to shift weight to the front wheels for pivoting.
Products Mentioned in This Review
Fiskars Momentum Reel MowerAriens 2-in-1
Husqvarna Rear Bag Mower 21 inch
Scotts 2000-20 Reel Mower
Craftsman 37068
Black & Decker MM275
Toro 20331
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