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Browse 798 expert reviews and buying guides covering riding lawn mowers and lawn tractors of every type. Whether you are comparing John Deere models, shopping for the smallest riding mower for a compact yard, exploring zero-turn options, or weighing new versus used machines, this category brings together detailed, hands-on guidance to help you choose with confidence. Each guide breaks down performance, cutting width, engine power, and value so you can match the right machine to your lawn size and budget.
Most Craftsman push mowers use SAE 30 or 10W-30 oil, while riding mowers typically require 10W-30. Oil specifications vary by engine type, climate, and model age. Always check your owner's manual for your specific Craftsman model to ensure proper lubrication and engine performance.
Lawn mowing start times are regulated by local noise ordinances, which typically permit mowing between 7-9 AM on weekdays and restrict it before dawn or after dusk. Rules vary significantly by jurisdiction, so check your municipal code. Beyond legal requirements, early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) are ideal for lawn health and neighbor relations.
Start mowing your lawn in spring when grass reaches 1/3 higher than your target mowing height and soil temperature consistently reaches 40-50°F for cool-season grasses or 60-70°F for warm-season grasses. Learn the key indicators and regional timing for your climate zone.
Wait 3-4 weeks after overseeding before mowing your lawn. New grass must be 3-4 inches tall and firmly rooted. Use the highest blade setting (3-4 inches) on your first cut to avoid damaging young seedlings. Timing varies by grass type, soil conditions, and visible growth indicators.
Stop mowing when grass growth slows dramatically and soil temperature drops below 40°F, typically in late fall. The exact timing depends on your USDA hardiness zone and grass type, generally October to November in northern regions, November to December in temperate zones, and December to January in warm climates.
Disposing of a lawn mower safely requires understanding your options, from free municipal bulk pickup to donations, recycling, and scrap yards. Learn how to choose the right method based on your mower's condition and prepare it for disposal.
A lawn mower won't start due to fuel system issues, spark plug problems, battery failures, or mechanical blockages. This guide walks through step-by-step diagnostics, from checking fuel presence to testing electrical components, helping you identify and fix the issue.
The right lawn mower depends on your lawn size, terrain, budget, and physical capability. Push mowers work for small lawns under ¼ acre; self-propelled mowers suit medium lawns with slopes; riding mowers handle large properties over ½ acre; robotic mowers offer automation for well-maintained medium lawns. Learn how to choose based on your specific needs.
Lawn mower smoke typically results from oil leaks, incorrect fuel mixture, engine overheating, clogged air filters, or worn seals. The smoke color, white, blue, or black, indicates the specific problem. Learn how to diagnose and fix smoking issues before they require professional repair.
A Toro lawn mower that won't start is usually caused by stale fuel, a fouled spark plug, a clogged carburetor, a dead battery, or corroded ignition components. Follow this systematic troubleshooting guide to diagnose and fix the problem without professional help.
