The Craftsman 36 Inch Gas Riding Lawn Mower has developed a consistent following from homeowners and lawn enthusiasts who have medium-sized lawns and a preference for petrol-fuelled machines. As a compact residential ride-on mower, it is supposed to provide a practical balance between performance, maneuverability, and price.
Powered by an 11.5 HP* single-cylinder Briggs & Stratton engine and 36-inch cutting deck, this mower positions itself as a serious workhorse for those who want to maintain their lawn in order without upgrading to a larger commercial unit.
Price Guides
Generally priced between $1800 and $2300, the mower can be easily found online at retailers like Amazon, where it enjoys healthy sales and a multitude of positive reviews. With that being said, would-be buyers should be aware that there have been a few complaints registered by owners regarding certain aspects of its performance and build.
This review is an in-depth look at what the Craftsman 36" Gas Riding Mower has to offer, not just in terms of features, but also from a customer experience, reliability, and how appropriate it is for different types of users.
Key Features
Power for this mower comes from a reliable 11.5 HP* single-cylinder Briggs and Stratton engine, a name highly respected in the manufacture of small engines. The engine is known for its easy starting and consistent output and has the power to take on grassy areas up to two acres in size. While not ideal for steep slopes or dense brush, it has plenty of power for the typical suburban or semi-rural lawn environments.
Cutting Deck
The mowing deck itself is heavy-duty stamped steel, engineered to be strong without being overly heavy. Its 36-inch width is mid-range: wide enough to mow a good swath with each pass yet narrow enough to squeeze through most backyard shed doors or garden gates, a practical feature not shared by many larger mowers. The deck supports seven variable cutting heights, allowing users to adjust the length of the grass based on seasonal needs or personal preference.
Turning Radius
Maneuverability is another strong point. With an 18-inch turning radius and large Turf Saver wheels, the Craftsman 36” mower can navigate around trees, garden beds, and other obstacles with relative ease. Its 7-speed manual transmission lets users select the right speed for the terrain or job at hand, though it does require some familiarity with gear-shifting if you’re used to hydrostatic or automatic drive systems.
Seating Comfort
Comfort is not neglected, either. The mower has a contoured low-back seat, designed to prevent fatigue on longer mowing tasks. It's not luxury-grade, but the ergonomics are excellent for this price range, and the ride is comfortable enough for many customers to use for hours.
Positive Reviews
Most owners of the Craftsman 36‑inch gas riding mower single out its affordability, ease of setup, and consistent performance. Both on retailer websites and in enthusiast forums, the same pattern appears: this mower offers dependable performance at an affordable price.
Consistent Performance and Power
Consumers routinely praise the 11.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine as being dependable and easy to start. Lowe's product specs call out its steady performance and quick ignition. On Amazon, one reviewer wrote, "Our local delivery guy put it right into our yard … assembly was easy … I recommend this mower. I'm glad I got it!" Another said, "Put gas in it and cranked right up, easy to use."
Excellent Value
Business Insider rated the Craftsman T100 (same base model) the "best budget" riding mower on the market for under $2,000. Customers concur many write that the machine is a "good bargain", featuring what's usually found in more expensive models. As one reviewer penned, "Good bargain. … No complaints whatsoever."
Easy Assembly and Smooth Delivery
Many compliments mention easy assembly. One buyer called uncrating the "hardest thing" with assembly involving simple bolt-on steps. Several others say the seat and steering take only minutes to attach. Delivery also exceeded expectations: one purchaser said the driver "nearly jack-knifed the truck" to safely deliver it into the yard.
Comfortable and Maneuverable Ride
Buyers report that the 18‑inch turning radius and grass-friendly tires make navigation around trees and flowerbeds a snap. Ride comfort is also good: Popular Mechanics praised the "nicely padded seat" for a smooth ride. Amazon reviews describe mowing 0.75 to 2 acres as "perfect" and "smooth driving."
Practical Cutting Deck Design
Reviewers appreciate the 36‑inch stamped-steel deck for its width and size balance, especially for being able to fit through standard gates. One buyer noted in particular that the blade cut is within its tire track straight mowing and aligning are easier. Another mentioned that the mulching kit included gives a professional finish.
Mixed Reviews
While the majority of customers are satisfied with the Craftsman 36-inch riding mower, a several of the negative or mixed reviews discuss quality control issues and frustrating customer service particularly in the instance of box-store purchasing that can complicate returns and support.
Factory Defects and Setup Mishaps
One owner complained of a belt-burning issue after approximately 15 minutes of mowing. In response to the smoke, a technician discovered that the drive belt was installed incorrectly sitting outside the pulley groove, which was causing friction and heat. Following adjustment, the mower ran well, but not without hassle and cost to the buyer. This serves as a reminder that mistakes in assembly or pre-delivery inspection can transform an otherwise sound engine into a fire hazard.
Damaged or Non-functional Parts
A few buyers received mowers with essential parts missing or damaged. One reported a leaking battery that wouldn't start the engine, and indifferent Amazon support. Another buyer found things like the grass guard missing entirely and reported leaking gasoline upon delivery. These sorts of early-failure issues are indicative of inadequate quality control in shipping or packaging.
Engine and Drive System Failures
Some customers have noticed a change from zero to problems within a few weeks. One reviewer bemoaned an engine that died several times during 20 minutes of mowing, misfiring and engaging/disengaging blade controls randomly, calling it the "worst" riding mower they've owned. A few users mention backfiring or smoking on engaging the cutting deck pointing to potential engine or carburettor issues, not uncommon in MTD-made Craftsman models.
Customer Support Issues
Besides mechanical problems, owners complain of slow or unresponsive support channels. One owner spent weeks being bounced between Craftsman and Amazon with no ability to arrange returns or replacements. Another was told "hazardous material" rules prohibited return, despite receiving a damaged unit. These service issues contribute to frustration, particularly given the mower's $1,800–$2,300 price range.
Support & Reliability Pain Points - Dealer vs Box-store vs DIY Repair
Criticisms often contrast box-store purchases with dealer-level service. Reddit users note that Craftsman models sold via big-box retailers like Lowe’s or Amazon may use cheaper parts and receive minimal support, contrary to more robust dealer-only versions. Longevity is also questioned some homeowners report that component failures (transmissions, belts, wheels) surface after one to three years.
Maintenance Requirements
Recurring issues are typical with belt maintenance, deck-level alignment, and battery or charging system maintenance. Lack of an oil filter (as noted as a pro) requires frequent oil changes. Similarly, MTD-made transaxles can also need more attention than other brands a few users report DIY replacements for idler pulleys and deck spindles.
For Some, a Budget Upgrade, For Others, a Regret
On the online forums, the opinions are highly polarized. One Redditor summed it up nicely… "Craftsman mowers are absolute shit." Others point out that if used as economy gear with rigorous maintenance schedules and low expectations it will do just fine for years - "It worked great for 2 years… nothing but a deck belt."
Who It Is For
The Craftsman 36-inch Gas Riding Lawn Mower is ideal for homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns, typically between half an acre and two acres in size. Its smaller 36-inch cutting deck allows it to pass through narrow gates and around landscaping features more easily than wider-deck or heavier zero-turn machines. It's ideal for a backyard in the suburbs or a property that has a mix of open lawn and tighter turns.
It's a good option for shoppers in the market for a no-frills, straightforward riding mower that can perform without needing a learning curve. The 11.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine is constructed for reliable use for frequent grass mowing, and the manual 7-speed transmission leaves enough room for the weekend warrior cutters. If you've been using a push mower and are ready to step up to a riding mower without paying several thousand dollars more, this could be a comfortable, affordable step up.
This mower could also be a good fit for someone who is reasonably handy. Some owners view DIY maintenance or small-scale repairs like belt adjustments or replacing parts as within their skill set. If you're willing to do or manage light maintenance yourself, the value proposition becomes even more attractive.
Who It Is Not For
This mower is maybe not the ideal option for owners who have more than two acres of larger spaces to cut, or those with very bumpy or sloping terrain. Its 11.5 HP engine, while suitable for level or gently sloping grass, can be underpowered on steeper inclines or with prolonged mowing sessions. Similarly, the 36-inch deck, while compact and easy to handle, means longer cutting times for bigger spaces than 42 or 48-inch models.
Anyone who desires high-end features like hydrostatic transmission, functional cruise control, electric PTO engagement, or a more padded high-back seat will likely find this model too bare-bones. It's designed more for functionality than comfort or high-dollar refinement.
Buyers who rely heavily on brand reputation alone without reading reviews may also be disappointed. While Craftsman is a well-known name, the current manufacturing is handled by MTD, and quality can vary between models and batches. Additionally, if you’re not comfortable handling minor mechanical issues yourself and prefer instant, responsive customer service, then frustrations may outweigh the mower’s affordability.
Lastly, buyers who expect to be able to exchange or return a unit easily in the event of a problem should beware. Because of hazardous contents like fuel and batteries, most sellers treat this product as non-returnable once it's been shipped, adding an element of risk to the buying process.
Biggest Criticisms
For all its strengths, the Craftsman 36‑inch gas riding mower also draws a range of repeated criticisms. These are not merely the sort of wear-and-tear complaints one would expect, they often indicate manufacturing flaws or design failings that can really affect user experience.
Belts Overheating, Smoking & Grinding
More frequently mentioned problems include overheating belts under load. Owners describe "smelling belt burning. then it started smoking" after less than 20 minutes of mowing. This is not unusual when a belt is misaligned, worn, or not properly installed sometimes because of factory defects. The belt was running outside the pulley track and rubbing directly against it, wearing and smoking but once adjusted, the mower functioned normally.
Blade Engagement Causing Stalls
Some users complain of the engine stalling or backfiring when engaging the blades. Online technical forums routinely blame this on problematic safety switches, deck belt tension, or pulley issues. Experts suggest that binding belts, frozen spindles, or sticky blades can strain the deck, leading to engine shutdown and smoke.
Repeated Backfiring & Misfires
A second issue appears on startup or throttle transition: abrupt backfiring and sputtering. A reddit user explained, "Backfire is almost always a valve issue. Intake not sealing correctly allowing combustion to find its way to the carburettor.". Lawn care forum mechanics concur, recommending valve lash adjustments or carb cleaning.
Bearing Failures and Deck Whining
Underdeck noise and smoke are sometimes caused by worn spindle bearings or idler pulley bearings that are bad. As one small-engine technician explained, "If the unit is smoking from the mower deck, you may actually have a bad bearing in one of the idler pulleys or even in one of the deck blade spindles.". This appears to be a surprise to consumers who expect no-deal mechanical components.
Electrical & Valve-Related Issues
Problems with electrical shorts or wiring faults have also been noted. These vary from faulty safety-switch wiring that cuts off the ignition circuit when the deck is engaged, to carburettor problems that cause the engine to stall.
Voices from Do-it-Yourself Owners & Mechanics
Small-engine owners and mechanics offering solutions reflect the troubleshooting community of the mower but also suggest the prevalence of significant problems:
"If the unit is smoking… you can actually have a bad bearing in one of the idler pulleys or even one of the deck blade spindles." / "Backfire is nearly always a valve problem. Intake not sealing fully…"
These comments reflect how mechanical, alignment, or tuning adjustments sometimes unexpected can be necessary early in ownership.
What This Means for Buyers
- First Inspection is essential. Inspect belt alignment, engine idle, blade-engagement smoothness, and underdeck bearings upon delivery and assembly to catch issues before they become severe.
- Do-it-yourself troubleshooting likely required. The majority of repairs are belt adjustments, pulley adjustments, carburettor adjustments, or safety-switch wiring replacement some mechanical comfort is needed.
- Plan for additional short-term costs. A new belt or pulley may be €30–€60, plus workshop labor or your time and effort.
- Quality control inconsistency. Not universal but some reports of defective assemblies or missing components indicate manufacturing defects not limited to this model.
- Most important is warranty/service experience. Some owners cite unhelpful or slow manufacturer/retailer response for non-mechanical issues.
Craftsman 36" Gas Riding Lawn Mower Pros
1, Compact Size, Big Capability - This mower's 36-inch cutting deck provides an excellent compromise between walk-behind mowers and large riding mowers. It fits through most gates and is ideal for small to medium-sized properties up to 1.5 to 2 acres especially where manoeuvrability is important.
2, Strong Brand Reputation - Craftsman has been equated with low-cost, DIYer-friendly mowers and tools for many years. This model benefits from that brand loyalty and a large support infrastructure of material, tutorials, and third-party replacement parts.
3, Reliable Starting and Operation (If Properly Installed) - Owners rave about the 11.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine starting reliably and delivering consistent power. Once any start-up problems (belt alignment or battery issues, for instance) are sorted out, the mower typically operates well and cuts cleanly.
4, Easy Assembly and Setup - Despite being shipped crated, most buyers report the mower is simple to assemble. Most have the seat, battery, and steering wheel assembled in under an hour.
5, Smooth, Comfortable Ride for Smaller Users - The 7-speed manual transmission provides decent control over mowing speed, and the contoured low-back seat is comfortable for short to medium-length mowing sessions. Many find the handling surprisingly smooth for a smaller riding mower.
6, Affordable Entry into a Riding Mower - Compared to dealer-bought or zero-turn mowers, the Craftsman T100 series offers a significantly lower price typically in the $1800 to $2300 range, making it an attractive option for homeowners stepping up from push mowers.
7, Mulching Kit Included - The product includes a mulching kit, providing a greater quality finish without the extra expense of accessories. The deck cut quality is typically good for its class.
8, Easy to Service (For the DIY Comfortable) - Lack of complicated electronics or hydrostatic components makes this mower easier to repair or service yourself, especially if you have experience with small engine repair.
Cons for the Craftsman 36" Gas Riding Lawn Mower
1, Quality Control Issues and Missing Parts - A few reviews cite missing hardware, improperly mounted belts, or minor flaws straight out of the box. Not universal, but common enough to suggest inconsistent quality control in the manufacturing or packaging process.
2, Alignment Problems Causing smoke or burnout - One of the most concerning ongoing issues is the drive or deck belt being out of alignment on setup causing smoke, overheating, or breakdown. Buyers who are not familiar with mower mechanics may not be aware of this until the moment of breakdown.
3, Limited Dealer Support / complex returns - Since the mower is typically retailed via Amazon or big-box retailers, warranty service can be cumbersome. Some owners have reported challenges in working with manufacturer support, wait times, or getting a service centre to address a claim.
4, Not ideal for tall operators - The compact frame and low-back seat are a squeeze for taller operators. Several reviews mention the discomfort for operators over 6 feet tall, particularly for extended mowing periods.
5, No oil filter- There is no oil filter on this engine, so more frequent oil changes are recommended to promote engine longevity. It's a minor extra cost but adds to ongoing maintenance requirements.
6, Electrical and Starting issues in a few units - A few customers experience defective batteries, starting delay, or electrical issues with switches or safety circuits. These issues often occur in the first few uses and can be frustrating if support is slow to respond.
7, Smaller Fuel Tank & battery size - The battery is smaller than the majority of riding mowers, which can be harder to replace locally. Fuel tank capacity is also small, so frequent refills are needed for properties over an acre in size.
8, Not Designed for Steep Slopes or heavy duty use - With only 11.5 HP and turf tires, this mower will be best suited for flat or gently sloping lawns. It is not designed to handle hills, thick brush, or heavily compacted grass.
Final Verdict - A Good Performer with a Couple of Caveats
The Craftsman 36-Inch Gas Riding Lawn Mower is a solid deal for small- to medium-sized homeowners looking to move up from a push mower or older riding model. With its reliable Briggs & Stratton engine, compact and maneuverable chassis, and very competitive pricing (typically between $1800 and $2300), it's a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers who aren't willing to compromise on performance and comfort.
Yard Size
For the majority of users, especially those with flat terrain and less than 2 acres of land, this mower ticks all the boxes. It starts easily, cuts consistently, and navigates garden beds, fences, and sharp turns without any issues. The fact that it includes a mulching kit, 7-speed manual transmission, and a contoured seat only adds to its appeal for weekly yard maintenance.
Some Drawbacks…
But it's not all roses. Reports of shoddy build quality, missing parts, misaligned belts, and aggravating customer service experiences are red flags that call for caution. Some mechanical know-how or access to a mechanically inclined friend can go a long way in making for an issue-free ownership experience. It's not a set-it-and-forget-it machine for everyone.
Buy or Not to Buy
In short, if you are willing to double-check the setup and possibly do a little minor troubleshooting in the start, the Craftsman 36-Inch mower can serve you beautifully for years to come. But if you are expecting dealer-type support or turnkey operation with zero effort whatsoever, you might want to consider buying through a local dealer.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4 out of 5 stars)
An affordable, feature-laden lawn tractor ideal for small lawns, just be prepared for minor issues in setup and ownership.
Recent Comments