Field-Verified Equipment & Replacement Hardware
Our editorial team’s recommended OEM-grade replacement parts and heavy-duty equipment selections to ensure optimal reliability and performance.
Pros
- Massive 60-inch reinforced 10-gauge steel deck enables wide efficient passes on large lawns
- 41 HP gas-equivalent power maintains full blade speed for superior cut quality
- Unique rear dump bed with hydraulic assist simplifies debris handling
- Extremely quiet operation plus LED headlights and premium padded seat enhance comfort and usability
- High total battery capacity of 5,120 Wh supports extended runtime on big properties
Cons
- Battery-only power requires planned recharging downtime unlike continuous-run gas mowers
- Large 60-inch deck and overall size may prove less maneuverable in tight spaces or heavily obstructed yards
- Slope capability limited to 15 degrees which may restrict use on steeper terrain
The Greenworks 80V 60 Inch Riding Lawn Mower stands as a robust electric alternative in the riding lawn mowers and tractors category. Built around a reinforced 10-gauge steel cutting deck and equipped with a premium high-back padded seat featuring back support and foldable armrests, it presents a durable and comfortable design aimed at serious property owners. High-intensity LED headlights further improve visibility for dawn or dusk sessions, creating an immediate impression of thoughtful engineering for extended outdoor use.
Performance centers on the 41 horsepower gas-equivalent system that maintains a constant 17,000 FPM blade tip speed through Cyclone Cut Technology, ensuring the blades never slow under load. The mower reaches up to 4 MPH while handling slopes up to 15 degrees and offers single-lever 13-position deck height adjustment from 1.5 to 4.5 inches. Included batteries totaling 5,120 Wh enable cutting up to 5.12 acres, and the industry-only rear dump bed supports a 200 lb payload with hydraulic assist for practical debris management. Operation remains 4 times quieter than gas counterparts, adding real-world neighborhood-friendly value.
Considerations include reliance on battery power, which necessitates recharging rather than continuous refueling. The substantial 60-inch deck and overall scale may reduce agility in confined or obstacle-dense areas, and the maximum 15-degree slope rating limits suitability for steeper hills.
This Greenworks 80V model delivers the strongest value for owners of expansive properties seeking gas-like power without noise, emissions, or fuel hassles. Those with multi-acre lawns who already use or plan to expand a Greenworks 80V ecosystem will appreciate the runtime, dump-bed convenience, and consistent cutting performance most.
Pros
- Commercial-grade electric performance with instant torque and no gas engine maintenance.
- Large included battery package and fast charger improve runtime and turnaround time.
- Heavy-duty 54-inch fabricated deck is built for durability and wider coverage per pass.
- Comfort-focused operator features are better than many basic riding mowers in this class.
- Backed by a 4-year limited warranty for added purchase confidence.
Cons
- At 848.78 pounds, it is very heavy and will be difficult to move manually or transport without proper equipment.
- The large footprint, with dimensions of 76.77 x 73.23 x 56.3 inches, requires substantial storage space.
- The premium feature set and battery system may be more than many small-yard owners need.
Overview & Design: The Greenworks 80V 54" MaximusZ Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower is a commercial-style electric mower built for large residential properties. Its 54-inch 10-gauge fabricated steel deck, zero-turn layout, and premium operator seat give it a serious, heavy-duty feel right away.
Performance & Key Features: This model is positioned as a 41HP gas-equivalent machine with instant torque, a constant 17,900 FPM blade speed, and SmartCut technology that adapts to changing grass conditions. The included battery kit with (2) 16.0Ah and (4) 6.0Ah batteries is designed to support up to 4+ acres per charge, while the 1.5kW fast charger helps reduce downtime.
Drawbacks & Considerations: The mower is extremely heavy at 848.78 pounds, so it is not easy to move or store in tight spaces. It is also a major investment and may be excessive for smaller yards or users who do not need the runtime and power of a large battery-electric zero-turn.
Verdict: This is a strong fit for homeowners with large lawns who want powerful, low-maintenance mowing performance and premium comfort features. Buyers who need a wide cutting deck, long runtime, and electric operation will likely get the most value from it.
Pros
- Zero-emission brushless system delivers gas-equivalent power with far less maintenance and quieter operation
- Included high-capacity battery set enables substantial runtime of up to 3.5 acres depending on conditions
- Constant high blade speed and SmartCut Technology ensure consistent cutting performance in challenging grass
- Heavy-duty 54-inch steel deck with multi-function discharge options and 300 lb towing capacity
- Premium adjustable suspension seat, LED lights, LCD, and 4-year warranty enhance comfort and reliability
Cons
- Full runtime requires managing and swapping multiple batteries from the included kit
- Best suited to expansive properties and may feel oversized or impractical for smaller residential lawns
- Actual cutting area can vary based on grass conditions, thickness, and terrain as noted in the specifications
The Greenworks 60V MaximusZ Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower is a commercial-grade electric rider built to handle large lawns with modern efficiency. It features a sturdy 10-gauge fabricated steel 54-inch deck and an intelligent brushless motor system that creates an immediate sense of durable, low-maintenance design aimed at serious yard work.
Performance centers on power equivalent to a 31HP gas engine delivered through zero-emission brushless motors that provide instant torque and quiet running. Three high-torque hub motors hold a constant 17900 FPM blade tip speed while SmartCut Technology adapts to grass density so the mower does not bog down in thick or wet conditions. The supplied battery pack of two 20.0Ah and four 8.0Ah units supports mowing up to 3.5 acres, and the deck offers 4-in-1 mulching, bagging, and discharge modes along with 300 lb towing capacity and hitch points for added utility.
Considerations include the need to manage several batteries to achieve maximum runtime, with recharging handled by the 1.5kW wall charger. As a full-size zero-turn model optimized for multi-acre properties, it may be less ideal for compact lots, and real-world coverage will depend on grass conditions and terrain as indicated in the product details.
Overall the Greenworks MaximusZ delivers strong value for homeowners or professionals who need emission-free power, consistent cutting performance, and comfort features on large properties while benefiting from a solid 4-year warranty and reduced ongoing maintenance.
Quick Answer: How to Start a Craftsman Push Mower
For gas mowers: Check fuel and oil levels, set the choke to full (cold start), move throttle to fast, prime if equipped, place one foot on the mower base, pull the starter cord with a quick firm motion, then gradually open the choke once the engine catches. For electric mowers: Ensure the battery is fully charged and simply press the power button.
Safety Checks Before Starting
Before attempting to start your Craftsman push mower, perform these essential checks to ensure safe operation and prevent damage to the engine: Before finalizing equipment decisions, refer to our comprehensive jbl partybox club 120 vs sony srs xv500 comparison.
Check the Fuel Level and Quality
Craftsman gas mowers typically require regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Most models accept fuel with up to 10% ethanol content. Check the fuel tank—it should be transparent or have a fill line. Add fresh gasoline if the tank is empty or running low. If your mower has been sitting for more than 30 days, drain old fuel and replace it with fresh gas, as stale fuel can clog the carburetor and prevent starting. Before finalizing equipment decisions, refer to our comprehensive jbl partybox club 120 vs sony srs xv500 comparison.
Verify Oil Level
Most Craftsman push mowers use SAE 30 oil during warm months or SAE 10W-30 for winter operation. Locate the oil dipstick (typically on the side of the engine) and check that the level is between the minimum and maximum marks. Low oil can cause engine damage and starting difficulties. If the level is low, add the appropriate oil until it reaches the full line.
Inspect the Spark Plug Wire
Confirm that the spark plug wire (the thick black cable) is firmly connected to the spark plug. A loose or disconnected wire is one of the most common reasons a mower won’t start. Gently tug on the wire boot to ensure it’s seated properly. For broader ecosystem context, read through our operational guide on z890 vs x870e motherboard.
Check for Visible Damage
Look for cracks in the fuel tank, bent blades visible under the deck, or debris wrapped around the blade shaft. These issues should be addressed before starting the mower.
Understanding Your Mower Type: Gas vs. Electric
Craftsman manufactures both gas-powered and battery-electric push mowers. The starting procedure differs significantly between the two. For troubleshooting and reliability insights, consult our in-depth marshall stanmore iii vs harman kardon onyx studio 8 report.
Gas-Powered Craftsman Mowers
Gas mowers are more powerful and suitable for larger lawns. They require manual starting via a pull cord and offer longer runtime without recharging. Most Craftsman gas models feature either a manual choke lever or an automatic choke system. Manual choke requires you to position the lever before pulling the cord; automatic choke adjusts itself based on engine temperature.
Electric Craftsman Mowers
Battery-powered electric mowers are quieter, require less maintenance, and start instantly with a button press. They’re ideal for smaller to medium-sized lawns. Common Craftsman electric models use 40V or 60V lithium-ion batteries shared across the Craftsman V20 or V60 platform. These mowers have no choke, throttle, or pull cord—just charge the battery, attach it, and press start. Readers comparing setup options can review our technical analysis on dyson v8 cyclone vs bissell featherweight stick.
Step-by-Step Starting Procedure for Gas Mowers
Step 1: Position the Choke
The choke restricts airflow to create a richer fuel mixture needed for cold starts. For a cold engine (first start of the day or after sitting), move the choke lever fully to the closed or “choke” position. You’ll typically see a lever on the side of the engine or a dial marked with “choke” and “run” symbols. For a warm engine (restarting after recent operation), position the choke halfway or move it to the “run” position entirely, as the engine is already warm and doesn’t need extra fuel.
Step 2: Set the Throttle to Fast
Locate the throttle lever, usually on the handle or engine body. Move it to the “fast” or “high” position. This increases fuel flow and engine speed, making starting easier. Do not attempt a cold start with the throttle in the slow position. For complementary field maintenance guidelines, examine our breakdown of bissell crosswave hydrosteam vs shark stainforce.
Step 3: Prime the Engine (If Equipped)
Many Craftsman mowers have a primer bulb—a small rubber button on the engine. This bulb draws fresh fuel into the carburetor, helping the engine start faster. Press the primer bulb firmly 3 to 5 times until you feel resistance. You may see fuel move through a transparent fuel line. Do not over-prime, as this can flood the carburetor.
Step 4: Secure Your Position
Place one foot firmly on the mower’s base or deck to prevent the mower from rolling or moving unexpectedly. Grip the handle with one or both hands for stability. This is critical for safe operation.
Step 5: Execute the Pull-Cord Start
Grip the pull-cord handle with your dominant hand. Pull the cord with a quick, firm, and continuous motion—do not jerk or pull halfway. Extend your arm fully to generate enough force. Allow the cord to rewind naturally; do not force it back. If the engine doesn’t start on the first pull, wait a few seconds before trying again.
Typical starting usually happens within 3 to 5 pulls for a well-maintained, cold engine. If the engine cranks but doesn’t fire after 10 pulls, stop and assess: check the spark plug wire connection, verify the choke position, or suspect fuel delivery issues.
Step 6: Gradually Open the Choke
Once the engine catches and begins running (you’ll hear combustion), immediately begin moving the choke lever toward the “run” position. Open it gradually over the next 10 to 15 seconds as the engine warms up. If you open the choke too quickly, the engine may stall. If you leave the choke closed too long, the engine will run rough and may flood.
Step 7: Verify Smooth Running
Listen and observe the engine. A properly started mower runs smoothly with a steady rhythm. The engine should idle without sputtering or surging. If the engine is sluggish or stalling, move the choke slightly toward closed. If it’s running well but roughly, adjust the throttle or move the choke fully open.
Step 8: Adjust Throttle and Begin Mowing
Once the engine is running steadily with the choke fully open, move the throttle to your desired speed. For mowing, most users operate at full throttle (fast position). The mower is now ready to use.
Starting an Electric Craftsman Push Mower
Prepare the Battery
Charge the Craftsman battery fully using the appropriate charger before your first use. Most 40V and 60V batteries charge in 1 to 2 hours. Insert the battery into the mower by aligning the contacts and pushing upward until you hear a click. Verify that the battery indicator lights up, showing charge status.
Press the Start Button
Grip the handle with both hands. Press and hold the start button (usually marked with a power symbol or “start”) for 1 to 2 seconds. The blade and motor will engage immediately. There is no warm-up period or choke adjustment needed.
Monitor Battery Indicator
Most Craftsman electric mowers display battery charge level via LED lights or a digital screen on the mower handle. Green indicates full or good charge; yellow indicates moderate charge; red indicates low charge. Stop mowing when the battery reaches low to avoid running out of power mid-lawn.
Troubleshooting Common Starting Problems
Engine Cranks but Won’t Start
Possible causes:
- Spark plug wire disconnected: Check that the thick black wire is firmly seated on the spark plug.
- Incorrect choke position: For a cold start, the choke must be fully closed. For a warm start, it should be fully open or halfway.
- Flooded carburetor: If you’ve pulled the cord many times, excess fuel may have accumulated. Remove the spark plug wire, allow the engine to rest for 15 minutes, then try again.
- No fuel: Verify the tank contains fresh gasoline and the fuel line isn’t kinked or blocked.
- Weak or dead spark plug: If you’ve tried multiple times without success, the spark plug may need replacement.
Engine Floods (Fuel Smell, No Ignition)
If you smell raw gasoline and the engine won’t start despite multiple pulls, the carburetor is flooded. Solution: Disconnect the spark plug wire to disable ignition. Allow the mower to sit in a well-ventilated area for 15 to 30 minutes. Do not attempt to start during this time. After the wait, reconnect the spark plug wire, move the choke to the run (open) position, and attempt a normal start pull. This allows excess fuel to evaporate.
Engine Starts but Immediately Stalls
If the engine starts and stops within a few seconds:
- Move the choke gradually: You may have opened the choke too quickly. Move it back toward closed slightly and allow the engine to warm up for 10 more seconds.
- Check throttle position: The throttle should be in the fast position. If it’s set to slow or idle, the engine may stall.
- Verify fuel flow: Ensure the fuel line is clear and the fuel tank has adequate gas.
Hard Starting When Engine Is Warm
If your mower is difficult to restart shortly after stopping:
- Move choke to run (open): A warm engine needs no choke; having it closed creates too-rich a mixture.
- Do not prime: Pressing the primer bulb when the engine is warm adds unnecessary fuel and can cause flooding.
- Use gentle pulls: Warm engines start easier than cold ones, so lighter pull-cord tension is often sufficient.
Electric Mower Won’t Turn On
For battery-powered Craftsman mowers:
- Battery not charged: Verify the battery is fully charged before attempting to start. Recharge if the battery indicator shows red or low.
- Battery not inserted properly: Remove and reinsert the battery, aligning the contacts and pushing upward until you hear a firm click.
- Power button not engaged: Ensure you’re pressing and holding the start button for at least 1 to 2 seconds.
- Safety lock engaged: Some models have a safety key or lock. Check that it’s in the “on” position.
Maintenance Tips to Ensure Easy Starting
Change Oil Regularly
Change the engine oil every 50 hours of operation or once per season. Fresh oil ensures proper lubrication and helps the engine start reliably. Drain the old oil into a container and refill with the recommended grade for your climate.
Use Fuel Stabilizer in Off-Season
If you won’t use your mower for more than 30 days, add fuel stabilizer to the gasoline before storage. This prevents the fuel from gumming up the carburetor, which is one of the leading causes of hard starting after winter storage. Run the engine for 5 to 10 minutes after adding stabilizer to circulate it through the fuel system.
Replace Air Filter Annually
A dirty air filter restricts airflow to the engine and can cause starting problems. Check the air filter (usually a foam or pleated paper element on the engine side) before each mowing season. Replace it if it’s clogged with dirt or debris. This is a simple, inexpensive maintenance task that significantly improves starting reliability.
Inspect Spark Plug Once Per Season
Remove and visually inspect the spark plug. It should have a small gap between the electrodes and a light tan or gray color. If it’s black, wet, or heavily corroded, replace it. A worn spark plug is a common cause of hard starting. Craftsman spark plugs are inexpensive and easy to install.
Store Properly Over Winter
For seasonal storage, drain the fuel tank completely or run the engine until all fuel is consumed. This prevents stale fuel from clogging the carburetor. Store the mower in a dry, sheltered location. For electric mowers, remove the battery and store it indoors in a cool location; lithium-ion batteries degrade in extreme heat or cold.
Frequently Asked Questions About How To Start A Craftsman Push Mower
Q: What if my Craftsman push mower won’t start after sitting all winter?
A: Winter storage commonly causes starting issues due to stale fuel. Drain the old fuel and replace it with fresh gasoline. Add a fuel stabilizer if you plan to store it again. Clean or replace the air filter, inspect the spark plug, and ensure the oil level is adequate. Try starting with the choke fully closed for a cold start. If it still won’t start, the carburetor may need cleaning by a professional technician.
Q: Do I need to use premium gasoline in my Craftsman mower?
A: No. Most Craftsman push mowers run on regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Premium fuel offers no benefit for lawn mowers and is unnecessary. Ensure the fuel is fresh (not more than 30 days old) and avoid fuel with more than 10% ethanol content, as high ethanol concentrations can damage some fuel systems.
Q: Can I start my Craftsman mower without priming the engine?
A: Yes, but priming makes cold starts easier. If your mower has a primer bulb and the engine is cold, prime 3 to 5 times before pulling the cord. If the engine is warm or has been recently used, priming is usually not necessary. For mowers without a primer bulb, simply position the choke correctly and pull the cord.
Q: Why does my electric Craftsman mower take time to charge?
A: Battery charging time depends on the charger and battery size. Most Craftsman 40V batteries charge in 1.5 to 2 hours, while 60V batteries may take 2 to 3 hours. Always use the manufacturer-recommended charger. Using an incorrect charger can damage the battery or create a safety hazard. Check the battery and charger documentation for specific timing.
For more detailed testing breakdowns and top recommendations, check our in-depth guide to residential zero-turn lawn mower guide.
For more hands-on benchmarks and buying recommendations, consult our guides on heavy-duty chainsaw buyer guide, as well as high-CFM commercial leaf blower guide, as well as durable ride-on lawn tractor guide, as well as automated robotic lawn mower guide.
Mechanical safety standards, operational tolerances, and protective gear guidelines align with benchmark specifications established by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
