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Lawn Mower Reviews
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Lawn Mowers Performance
Lawn Mowers Ease of Use.
With no engine to maintain, the Scotts 2000-20 jumps to the head of the class. It earns a loud shout-out in lawn mowers reviews on Amazon for its environmentally-friendly, low-tech design. This person-powered mower revolutionized grass cutting for one homeowner who says it transformed an annoying chore into a pleasant and relaxing task. Another user, however, reports that the Scotts 2000-20 demands extra muscle power in thick grass and requires additional passes to get an even cut on hills.The corded electric Black & Decker MM275 draws compliments in lawn mower reviews on the Target site from women who don't mind the cord and appreciate a simple, cheap mower that doesn't involve messing with gas and oil. That said, one homeowner grouses on Buzzillions about needing a special adapter to connect the mower to an extension cord, and another recommends buying the 9-amp model instead of the cheaper 6.5-amp version if you'll be pushing through heavy grass. Note that the Black & Decker MM275 incorporates a folding handlebar for easy storage.
The gas mowers on our list, the Toro 20331 and Craftsman 37068, also earn cheers for ease of use, according to lawn mower reviews on Home Depot and Sears. Toro users like the simple assembly (just attach the handle and height clips), high rear wheels, self-propelling front wheel drive, and quick start. One lawn mower review notes, though, that it's heavier and harder to turn than an electric mower and the height clips don't always stay in place. The Craftsman 37068 likewise finds favor with users who appreciate its quick start, self-powered auto drive, and 12-inch rear wheels that deftly manage rough terrain. The Husqvarna 6.75 hp 21", on the other hand, is panned in several mowers reviews on MySears.com for shutting down after only minutes of usage; one mower operator reports that the blade cut into the side of the decking when the handle was lifted up to turn. Starting problems plague the Ariens 2-in-1, according to lawn mowers reviews at Home Depot, where several owners also grouse that this Kohler-engine model uses too much gas.
Lawn Mowers Maintenance.
Wheels, bolts, belts, and bearings that can come loose from the vibration of everyday use should always be checked before you start to mow, and make sure to keep the blades sharp. An annual check-up at the start of every mowing season is also vital. But none of this is especially taxing.Reel mowers are particularly easy to store and maintain, according to mower reviews. Experts at Reelmowers.com explain how to sharpen the blades yourself by taking the mower apart, brushing the blades with a special compound, and then cranking the blades backward. One owner hoses down the Scotts 2000-20 before putting it away and hits it with a shot of WD-40 to keep it pristine, according to his mowers review on the Target website. Maintenance is also minimal with cheap electric mowers. If you have a corded lawn mower, make sure to unplug it before cleaning under the deck and around the blades. If you have a cordless lawn mower, recharge the battery before it runs dry and keep it connected to the charger when not in use. Don't leave a cheap electric lawn mower exposed to rain or snow.
Gas-powered mowers require more care and attention. First, always use the gas and oil recommended by the manufacturer and turn the air filter side up when cleaning so the oil doesn't drain out. Cleaning off the built-up dirt and grass immediately after use is important; the Toro 20331 includes a convenient wash-out port, which lets you hook up a hose to the top of the deck for washing off and around the blades. Experts suggest draining the gas and follow the winterizing directions suggested by the manufacturer. And before the start of the next season, you'll need to change the oil and the spark plug, and clean or replace the air filter.
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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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