The Craftsman 37037 is part of the lawn mower & tractor
test program at Consumer Reports. In our lab tests, push mower
models like the 37037 are rated on multiple criteria, such as those listed below.
Mulching:
Reflects a combination of evenness, which is how close the mowers came to even, carpet-like mowing, and how completely the mower distributed its clippings over the lawn's surface.
Bagging:
Denotes a combination of evenness, which is how close the mowers came to even, carpet-like mowing, and how much clippings the bag held before it filled or the chute clogged.
Side discharging:
A combination of evenness, which is how close the mowers came to even, carpet-like mowing, and how evenly clippings were dispersed from the side-discharge chute.
About This Brand
Craftsman is one of the market leaders in lawn mower and tractor sales. Most of the models in the Craftsman line are made by Husqvarna. Craftsman lawn tractors run the price spectrum from gear-drive models priced at about $1,000 to fully-featured hydrostatic drive units that cost more than $2,000. Most Craftsman lawn tractors feature Briggs & Stratton engines, and the 42-inch-deck models are among the most popular. The majority of Craftsman lawn mowers are gas powered, but the company offers a corded electric and an electric rechargeable model. Most models feature either a Honda or Briggs & Stratton engine and have side-discharge, rear-bag, and mulching modes. Craftsman also markets a line of garden tractors and zero-turn riders. Craftsman products are sold at Sears, Kmart, and online at Sears.com.
Can bag Indicates whether the mower can cut in the bagging mode. In this mode, the clippings are gathered in a removable catcher. Lawns tend to have the best appearance after cutting in this mode because the mower essentially vacuums the lawn clean and leaves very little debris behind. This advantage is offset by the need to periodically empty the catcher and dispose of the grass clippings.
Can bag
Yes
Can mulch Indicates whether the mower can cut in the mulching mode. In this mode, the discharge port is closed off, and the mower re-cuts clippings until they're small enough to settle and decompose in the lawn. Cutting in this mode reduces the need to fertilize the lawn because some of the nutrients from the clippings are returned to the soil. It is also more convenient because there is no need to empty a catcher or dispose of any clippings. Certain conditions are required for successful mulching, and if these conditions are not met, many visible clippings can be left behind on the lawn. For successful mulching, one should avoid cutting more than one third of the grass's length, cutting wet grass, or cutting at too fast a pace.
Can mulch
Yes
Can side discharge Indicates whether the mower can cut in the side-discharge mode. In this mode, the mower simply discharges the clippings off to the side of the mower. Depending on the length of the grass cut, this method tends to leave many visible clippings behind. This mode is preferable when cutting tall grass because the mower is less likely to clog, since the clippings are quickly removed from the deck.
Can side discharge
Yes
Deck size (in.) Most models have a deck size, or cutting swath, of 20 to 22 inches. There is no significant advantage from one size to another. A larger deck can cut more grass in a single pass, but in this size range the difference is negligible.
Deck size (in.)
21
Engine size For gas-powered mowers, engine size in cubic centimeters (cc) provides a rough indication of the engine's power; electric models are rated in volts (for cordless) or amperes (corded). A larger number for either a gas or electric model, however, does not necessarily result in better cutting performance.
Engine semi-seized the first day I used it. Feeling that I had nothing to loose I pulled the starter cord hard and slowly until it loosened. I was able to then started the mower.<br /><br />Also on the first and only day I used this mower several times after the initial start the mower would not start, requiring up to 20 pulls on the starter cord to start the mower.<br /><br />I have been busy at work, but I will return this mower as soon as possible!
How long have you owned it:
A month or less
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
By Very upset
from Edmonton, AB
1.0
Mechanically unsound
9/20/2012
Pros
Cons
Requires Constant Maintenance
Best Uses
Comment:
I had this mower for less about 3 months (Approx 7-8 cuts) and the engine seized up. I am very meticulous with everything that I own. Upon assembling the mower I added the necessary gas and oil that was needed. I check the oil every time I refill the gas tank. I took the mower in for repair when the engine seized and according to the mechanic it was because there was no oil in the mower. A new lawnmower should not go through oil that quickly and so therefore it had to be a leak, cracked cylinder or possibly bad rings. Craftsman refused to stand by their warranty and either replace or repair the lawnmower. I will never buy Craftsman again.
How long have you owned it:
One-to-three months
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
By Kenny G
from Taxachusetts
(3 of 3 customers found this review helpful)
4.0
A Very Nice Mower
6/5/2012
Pros
Adjustable Cut-Lengths
Easy to assemble
Easy to Push & Steer
Lightweight
Quiet
VEry fuel efficient
Cons
None known at this time
Best Uses
Hills
Mulching
Small Lawns
Comment:
For the money, approximately $220, I am very impressed with this mower. Cuts beautifully, lightweight and easy to mow a medium size lawn and many hills on my property. Started on its first pull out of the box, very quiet, and has started on the 1st pull every time so far. I am very pleased with the whole package and hope for many years of consistent results.
4 people have reviewed this model.
Can bag
