Rating Summary
“Powerful and manuverable but poor mulching capability”
Craftsman 26 HP 52 in Zero Turn Tractor —
Review of Craftsman 26 HP 52 in Zero Turn Tractor (Model 28992
This is a well-built system that is made for Sears by Simplicity. The hydrostatics are a bit sloppy, but that is standard for the non-professional zero-turn mowers. The 52" three-blade system cuts very well, and provides a very even nice looking cut. The blades that are supplied are not mulching blades and Sears does not sell mulching blades for this model. Sears does sell a Mulching kit which works, more or less, but the system does not do as good a job of mulching as it could if the blades were designed properly.
The best feature of this system is the excellent power provided by the 26 HP engine, which is more than adequate to handle the cutting deck as well as motion. Speed is excellent. The mower is solid and well made and the starting system is reliable. The model I have has the Briggs and Stratton engine, and this is an excellent twin cylinder engine that is well made and reliable. While not as good as their Vanguard model, the engine provided is one step down from their best engine, and should give many years of reliable service. A key requirement will be to replace the oil and air filter at least once each season.
The electric cutting depth control works well, but the depth guage is very difficult to read while sitting in the seat. It is best to mark the desired depth with a piece of tape if reproducibility is desired.
In summary, an excellent ZT tractor which lacks only a decent mulching system. I have been told mulch blades will be available at some point, but not to hold my breath.
