Craftsman 42&#34 24hp V-Twin Briggs & Stratton Yard Tractor - 49 state Reviews


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Rating Summary | 70% of reviewers recommend (30 out of 44)

Impressions of my First Riding Mower

Craftsman 42&#34 24hp V-Twin Briggs & Stratton Yard Tractor - 49 state — 

So far, I'm very happy with this tractor (my first)....read on if you want to hear the long version. I have always shopped at Sears for tools and outdoor power equipment, so when I finally got tired of my 4+ hour grass cutting extravaganza every week, I naturally decided to look there for a riding mower. I did my research and read the literature provided by Sears and looked at the website numerous times, in addition to "casually" looking at the store a few times. When I got serious about buying, I went in an talked to a salesperson, who was able to answer many of my questions. I had also looked at a few tractors at competiting stores, so I was well prepared. I originally purchased the YT3000 series, but a computer error at the store prevented my order from being placed, so needless to say I was pretty irked; when I called the store to find out why no tractor was delivered on the scheduled day, the manager apologized, explained, and offered the YT4000 (28925) for the same price - the upgade was offered because the original model would not have been available for another two weeks - they did try and make it right for me. We were able to handle all of the exchange arrangements over the phone. With 12 months same as cash AND 5% cash back, I do feel I was treated right. I opted for the manual transmission instead of the hydrostatic because I have heard that hydrostats need to be totally replaced (if/when) they fail and the cost is comparable to a new machine....my logic is it is cheaper to replace a belt than a hydrostat unit. The tractor was delivered on a Saturday without a hitch. The delivery guys were superb and courteous. Although I had printed an owners manual from the website and read it carefully prior to delivery, the guys took the time to point out the location/operation of all of the important controls. I had fresh gas ready and we fueled up and the engine started right away. (Fuel Capacity is 3 gallons - get a fuel can that can handle it! - the tank was thirsty). I also checked the oil level prior to start up, it was at the min level, so I also had some SAE30 ready just in case and added enough to properly fill the crankcase. I purchased the bumper and mulch kit at the store and installed both in less than 30 minutes. I did not have to disconnect the "browning shield" as indicated in the instructions for the bumper as I could fit my hands underneath to slip the bolts in. The mulch kit installed easily...basically a plastic "plug" which prevents the clippings from exiting the side discharge. The blades that come with the mulch kit are high-lift blades which are the same as the blades on the mower, so I did not change those and kept them as spares. I checked the deck for level and found that mine was perfectly adjusted, so off I went to tackle the grass. Being my first tractor it took a little while to get used to the speeds and cutting height, but as soon as I saw how wide the 42" cutting swath was and the evenness of the cut, I was hooked. I scalped the lawn a bit because I started cutting with the deck too low....I would recommend starting at the highest position if you're new to riding mowers - you can always make another pass right? I agree with the other reviewer that the 24HP V-Twin has plenty of power (the title says 22HP, but the description is correct, it's a 24HP B&S Platinum V-Twin). Speed/power are good, control is great, cut is wonderful. Yes, the mower is less than a week old as I write this, but I'm not expecting any problems and will update this review if warranted.

Craftsman 42&#34 24hp V-Twin Briggs & Stratton Yard Tractor - 49 state

is recommended by Anonymous
Posted on Jun 01, 2009
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