I really like this trimmer! For around $90 you get a decent hedge trimmer, a 19.2 v battery that works in your other C3 tools, and one-hour charger.
Buy here: Purchase online, pick it up at your nearest Sears or have it shipped right to your home. Craftsman C3 19.2 Volt Cordless Hedge Trimmer
C3 Cordless Trimmer
The model Sears sent me to review came without the NiCad battery and charger. I have C3 19.2 volt Lithium-ion batteries here so there was no need for them to send me a battery and charger for this test. To simulate the exact weight and feel you would have using this trimmer I used a high capacity lithium-ion battery for my tests. (Using compact lithiums gives you the same battery life as the NiCad included with about a pound less weight)
I put together 4 quick videos using this trimmer (at the end of this article) I really don’t have a lot of bushes to trim so it only took Julie and I about 15 minutes to trim all of them. I was having a lot of fun using it, it is a lot stronger than I expected, so I decided to tackle my apple tree.
This apple tree is right in the center of my backyard and I keep it trimmed back severely so it looks somewhat like a Japanese Maple. The tree had this years new growth on it and I figured if I could break this trimmer the apple tree was the place it would break. It normally takes me about 2 hours to trim the tree by hand.
Apple Tree Before
Well I got the step ladder and 20 minutes later I was done. The trimmer handled all of the new growth easily. And then I decided to take a little more off on one side. These branches were 2 to 3 years old and about 1/2 inch in diameter. Apple branches are fairly tough and I expected the trimmer to stall out. Guess what? It didn’t. In fact, I couldn’t get this trimmer to stall. It has plenty of power to trim any branches that will fit into the 5/8 inch guard.
Apple Tree After
Here are two more before and after shots of the bushes I trimmed. All of this trimming took us less than 20 minutes to do.
Before Trimming
After Trimming
Product Description (from Sears.com)
C3 19.2 v Cordless Hedge Trimmer
Featuring cordless convenience, the C3 19.2 Volt Cordless Hedge Trimmer offers comfort and control. It features an overmolded handle that allows you to work longer, and this cordless trimmer works with both Ni-Cd and Lithium-Ion batteries for added versatility.
22″ hardened steel blades for durability
9/16″ cutting capacity
Cordless convenience
Wrap-around handle provides comfort at all angles
Dual-action blades for less vibration
Safety lock
Works on C3 platform with over 30 additional tools
Includes 1-hour charger
Works with Ni-Cd and Lithium-ion batteries
Includes Ni-Cd battery 19.2V
Weight: 6.3 lbs.
2-year limited warranty
Commercial Duty?
No, It’s not. But if I was a small landscaper I would buy a couple. Why? Most of the smaller landscapers don’t get enough use out of a commercial gas trimmer. Most of you don’t have the proper racks to hold them and they just get banged around and beat up. The high priced trimmer never pays for itself because it’s not taken care of. This trimmer is so cheap, yet the quality of the cut is great. It would be a wise investment to buy these, use them and keep the batteries for your other 19.2 volt C3 tools.
If you only trim a 100 or so properties a year I highly recommend trying these out!
You can even buy a 12 volt in-vehicle charger Model 11572 to charge your batteries in the truck.
Buy here: Purchase online, pick it up at your nearest Sears or have it shipped right to your home. Craftsman C3 19.2 Volt Cordless Hedge Trimmer
Black & Decker sent me the new NST1024 24-Volt Cordless String Trimmer/Edger last month to review. I am a gas trimmer guy and I have never found a cordless trimmer that I liked so I was very interested in putting this new trimmer/edger through it paces.
The model they sent me was a production run item in the retail box. So what I tested is what you can buy. No special souped up model for me, just the real thing.
Black & Decker NST1024
It came with all the parts, one 24 volt battery, a 24 hour charger, and a full spool of line. The manual suggested I charge the battery before use so I left it on the slow charger until the next morning.
Specs: Read the specs here at Amazon.com
Black & Decker 24-Volt Cordless Trimmer
First Time: Time for the first test. Julie had just mowed, so the timing was perfect. Off she went and less than 10 minutes later she was back. The battery was dead.
I thought, “Well a typical cordless trimmer, all hype…” I looked closer though and I saw that the turbo-boost was activated. Hmmm, I guess I’ll give it one more try.
Well we charged the battery and the next day tried it out again. This time I made sure the switch was in normal mode and Julie trimmed the entire yard without a problem.
Note to self: The Turbo mode is great for really heavy grass but it will completely discharge a battery in 10 minutes. The normal mode is strong enough for just about all tasks and the battery will last 25 minutes or so.
Using the NST1024 as an edger: All of our landscape beds are “dug” beds. The edges are basically a trench about 4 inches deep and 6 inches wide. The grass grows into those edges like it over grows on your sidewalk so about once a month we have to go around and either spade the edges clean or edge it with an edger. A gas powered edger doesn’t work well for this because the bed edges are ALL curves. My old Stihl FS-76 does not convert to a stick edger (It was made back in 1995) so it has always been a lot of work to edge these beds. The NST1024 easily converts to an edger (just twist the middle) It really works great for edging these beds. The edger has plenty of power in regular mode to cut through the over growth.
Note: If you have a lot of edging to do or you leave your edging to once or twice a year chore, a convertible string trimmer is not the best choice. The NST1024 works very well for every other week edging but the really heavy work will use line up really fast. Buy a separate steel bladed edger if you have a lot of sidewalk and driveway edging to do.
Videos:
I made four videos. I could have shown you the trimmer simply trimming a lawn or edging a sidewalk. Things the NST1024 is meant to do. Instead Julie and I trimmed weeds and grass that haven’t been mowed at all this year. Grass 2 feet tall and weeds 3 to 4 feet tall just to show you what it really can do. Some of the taller weeds you see are actually 1st year raspberry bushes. No woody stalks, but tough enough just the same.
SAFETY: I’m just a homeowner…please remember to always use safety glasses, gloves and preferably long pants when string trimming. The grass, weeds and other material flying around can easily hurt you. The NST1024 has a good debris shield, but always take safety precautions when using a string trimmer.
The first video shows the new Black & Decker NST1024 24-Volt Cordless String Trimmer/Edger in regular mode trimming heavy weeds and grass. Even with the .065 line you can see it has plenty of power to cut down tall grass, weeds and even raspberry bushes. It is light weight and the 24 v really has extra power compared to the 18 volt models. Yes, the trimmer is dirty, we use it a lot.
The second video using the new Black & Decker NST1024 24-Volt Cordless String Trimmer/Edger in heavy grass and weeds. As you can see this trimmer has no problems cutting down this heavy grass. I am really impressed that it does this well with only .065 line. This part of the video was taken with the trimmer in regular mode. There is a turbo boost mode I’ll show you in the next video.
Here is the new Black & Decker NST1024 24-Volt Cordless String Trimmer/Edger in turbo mode. You can hear the extra power when it is switched over. I like the turbo mode, but it does go through the battery quickly. In regular mode you can easily trim a normal sized lawn. In turbo boost the battery only last about 9 minutes. I highly recommend buying a second battery and quick charger if you have a lot of heavy grass to trim and you want to use the Turbo mode.
One last video showing the new Black & Decker NST1024 24-Volt Cordless String Trimmer/Edger cutting heavy grass and weeds. This trimmer really does an incredible job and is cordless!
Summary: I really like this trimmer. In normal mode it has more power than any cordless trimmer I have used. In turbo boost it has as much power as the current crop of gas powered consumer string trimmers (No, really, it does!).
I highly recommend this trimmer/edger. It is well worth the extra $20 over the 18 volt model currently on the shelves in most retail store.
If you have more than a normal city sized lawn, buy an extra battery and quick charger. The spool is easy to rewind, but an extra three pack of spools is cheap. Might as well have a few extra spools laying around and rewind them at your leisure. You can buy the spools, battery and charger through Amazon.com
Buy Here: Sears.com
Buy Here: Amazon.com
Black & Decker NHT524 24-Volt 24-Inch Cordless Electric Dual-Action Hedge Trimmer
If you decide to get an extra battery a good way is to buy the Black & Decker NHT524 24-Volt 24-Inch Cordless Electric Dual-Action Hedge Trimmer. Basically you get the Hedger trimmer for $50 this way.
Here is the link for the Hedge trimmer at Amazon.com
Stand in any Sears Store in the Lawn & Garden Department for ten minutes this time of year and you will see at least one or two people in for parts. Blades, filters, oil, steering pinion. Stand around long enough though and you will hear a customer scream, “What do you mean you don’t have the carb rebuild kit for my Eager One!”
A lot of people are confused about how to get parts for their Craftsman Tractors, Mowers, Yard Equipment and Tools.
It’s actually very easy…………
Here is a quick review of what you can do and what you need.
Before I show you how though, let’s review what is a part and what is a consumable. A consumable is a belt, oil, oil filter, mower blades, sanding paper, string trimmer line, premix fuel, chainsaw chain, etc. These are readily available at your local Sears full-line stores, Sears Hardware, Sears Repair Centers and online at Sears.comand Sears PartsDirect.
How To Find Parts For Your Craftsman
Parts on the other hand are not usually carried at the store level. Don’t expect your local Sears or Sears.com to carry a frame for an 1990 LT 2000 or a lift control spring for a 48 inch deck. They are housed at one central location and shipped out as needed. Most all companies work this way today. Caterpillar, John Deere Ag, Chrysler, DeWalt, Milwaukee, etc. all have centralized parts warehouses. It just makes smart business sense for companies to have 500 pieces of one part at one central location instead of six pieces of one part at 1500 locations. It makes even more sense when the part doesn’t break often and nationwide they only sell a few each year. Why keep 1500 or more on hand when they only sell 6 or 10 a year.
1. Find the Model Number:
Tractors: Go to your Tractor and lift the seat. Under the seat is a nameplate. You need the Model Number. It looks like 917.123456 or 536.123456 etc. Write this number down. It is the secret to finding the right part for your machine.
Mowers: On the mower deck itself there is a nameplate. Most of the time it is in the back, right hand corner….but not always. Trust me, it’s on the mower somewhere. You need the Model Number. It looks like 917.123456 or 536.123456 etc. Write this number down. It is the secret to finding the right part for your machine.
Yard Equipment: If it is gas powered, the nameplate is usually on the motor. If it’s not there, find it somewhere on the rest of the machine. You need the Model Number. It looks like 917.123456 or 536.123456 etc. Write this number down. It is the secret to finding the right part for your machine.
Tools: All electrically powered tools, i.e., drills, planers, saws, air tools etc. all have a nameplate on them somewhere. Find it (you may need a magnifying glass to read it!) You need the Model Number. It looks like 917.123456 or 536.123456 etc. Write this number down. It is the secret to finding the right part for your machine.
2. Finding the right part:
Now that you have the model number there are two things you can do with it. Drive into your local Sears and have them order the part for you. The sales associate will be very helpful, she gets commission form your order. You get to spend a pleasant afternoon ordering parts. Yes, you will pay the cost of the part plus shipping. (By the way: You pay shipping costs on all parts you order from anyplace you go. It may not be listed as a separate cost on your receipt, but you pay.)
Or… You can order the parts yourself online. Ordering online is easy, fast, and costs the same for the part as going into your local Sears. No wait! I can give you a 10% discount. The stores can’t do that!
How to find and order your part. Go to Sears PartsDirect. Click on this link or click on the banner at the end of this article.
Type in the model number that you found in Step 1. If there are parts available a page will pop up with exploded diagrams and parts listings of your mower, snow thrower or sander. Go through the diagrams and find the part you need to replace. Write the number listed next to the part down. Use that number to find the part in the parts listings. Click the item check box and change the quantity if you need more than one. Find the next part and repeat. When you have all the parts you need, go through the checkout process. You can pay with most debit and credit cards, bank transfer, bank check and even have the bill mailed to your home.
When you order parts be sure to use the 10% discount code. It will help offset the shipping costs. The code is: 90055
The part comes right to the address you gave. No need to make another trip into town to get your part.
I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing riding lawn mowers this year and not much time showing you some other great time saving tools for outdoors. This article is a summary of the 19.2 volt C3 Craftsman cordless tools that can save you a lot of time.
The Craftsman 19.2 volt C3 is a growing line of cordless tools designed specifically for the homeowner. These tools are rugged and quality made, but they don’t carry the huge price tag of the contractor grade cordless tools. They will last you and me a long time.
One of the features I really like about these tools is they all use the same NiCad or Lithium-ion battery. One battery powers over 30 different tools. One charger sitting on your shelf or hanging on your wall is all you need.
You most likely have not seen these tools at your local Sears. Only about 125 stores have them in stock. The rest of us have to order them through Sears.com. Yes, You can get these cordless tools. Order them online and pick them up at your nearest stores or have them shipped to your home.
I picked seven of these tools that can really help outside your home.
Click on the underlined words or the pictures to visit Sears.com and read more:
C3 Chainsaw
This chainsaw has a 10 inch bar with manual push-button oiler and safety chain brake. The saw will cut for about 30 minutes with the DieHard NiCad battery and close to an hour with the high capacity Li-ion.
C3 Hedge Trimmer
The Craftsman C3 Hedge Trimmer features 22-inch, dual-action blades and a full, 9/16 inch-cut capacity. This size of trimmer provides the power, length and clean cutting capability needed by most homeowners. The Hedge Trimmer comes with an ergonomic handle and trigger grip as well as a contoured front handle and front handle guard. It also has a trigger lock and battery charge indicator. When used with a 19.2-volt DieHard Ni-Cd battery, the hedge trimmer has approximately 30 minutes of run time, and if used with a 19.2-volt DieHard Lithium-Ion battery, run time can increase up to 20 percent.
It does come with one 19.2 battery and universal charger.
C3 Leaf Blower
I like this blower. It’s small, easy to use and yet strong enough to clean your driveway and sidewalks.
It has a high velocity end nozzle to increase speed and produces air output up to 140 MPH
It comes with one Diehard NiCad battery and charger.
C3 Chemical Sprayer
Brass wand and nozzle for spray or stream
C3 add-on tools require C3 battery and chargers sold separately
Battery indicator in handle
I have put at least 15 gallons of weed, bug and total kill mixes through this sprayer already this year and I really like the convenience of a cordless sprayer.
I gave this Sprayer a complete review about a month ago over on ToolBoxhero. Chem Sprayer Review
No dilution necessary
3 spray patterns
C3 add-on tools require C3 battery and chargers sold separately
Ergo handle/battery level
I gave this Sprayer a first review about a month ago over on ToolBoxhero. Paint Sprayer Review
C3 String Trimmer/Edger
Doubling as an edger, this cordless C3 19.2 Volt Line Trimmer adds exceptional convenience and durability. It features an overmold handle for ultimate comfort, and it works with both Ni-Cd and Lithium-ion batteries, making it versatile and easy to use.
12″ cut swath
Cordless convenience
Auto line feed head
2-in-1 shaft rotates for edging
Adjustable shaft fits user height
Tooless line replacement
Safety lock
Straight shaft design
Overmold handle for comfort
Works on C3 platform with over 30 additional tools
Includes 1-hour charge
Includes 19.2V Ni-Cd battery
C3 Recip Saw
Why a recip saw? Put a good wood blade or pruning blade in this saw and you have a great pruning saw. The variable speed allows you to start your cut easily and it is powerfull enough to cut through anything you have to cut outdoors. I used a recip saw to cut down a 10 inch pine tree a few years ago. With the right blade it works just fine.
Think about it…this may be the only outdoor saw you need.
One-hand Ergo Grip
Tool-free blade changes
Smooth 0-3500 spm
Here is a short review I did a few months ago. One Hand Recip Saw Review at Toolboxhero
Additional Craftsman C3 tools powered by the 19.2-volt DieHard batteries include the C3 1/2 inch Hammer Drill/Driver, C3 19.2-volt Impact Driver, C3 19.2-volt DieHard Reciprocating Saw with LED, C3 19.2-volt Pad Sander, C3 Hedge Trimmer, C3 Blower/Sweeper and many more.
Dixon 46 In. Deck 22 HP Kohler Twin Hydrostatic Riding Lawn Mower Review
The D26KH54 is a good choice and one of the best values for a Yard Tractor. It has a nice sized 22 hp Kohler motor and 46 inch deck. This Yard Tractor is designed to mow 1/2 to 3 acres quickly and efficiently. It will pull all of the ground engaging attachments Home Depot and Sears offers.
This review covers the Dixon D22KH46 with a twin cylinder Kohler motor, 46 inch deck, and foot control hydro. It will handle a snow thrower. If you want a larger deck look at the different Dixon models. This is the smallest tractor in the Dixon line-up.
Home Depot Item 202018740
Dixon D22KH46
Listed on HomeDepot.com as: Dixon 46 In. Deck 22 HP Kohler Twin Hydrostatic Riding Lawn Mower
I personally like the D22KH46. It is a good size for 1/2 to 3 acres of lawn. This model is a great mower if you plan on using a snowthrower or have really tough grass. The 22 hp Kohler will give you dependable service. Along with the comparable Craftsman 28928 I am rating this mower as a “Best Buy” and it is a “great mower for about $1600.” Even though this mower is new to the Dixon brand, this will quickly become be the best Dixon for value, cut, durability and overall satisfaction. I have mowed with this 46 deck and it cuts as well or better than any other mid-sized deck. The fully vented deck has good lift for poor lawns and gets rid of the grass evenly and quickly for well kept lawns. With premium mulching blades and a mulch cover it mulches well. With hi-lift blades it bags very well.
Please read my reviews of all the mid-sized models so you can find the best mower for you.
Specs from Home Depot:
The Dixon 22HP Kohler yard tractor comes fully featured. Features such as hydrostatic pedal control transmission, electric push button blade engagement, cruise control and deluxe comfort features from seat to steering wheel. Dixon yard tractors offer premium performance with excellent results.
- Kohler 22HP V-Twin engine
- Hydrostatic foot pedal transmisison
- Tight 16 inch turning radius leaves less grass uncut
- Complete comfort package
- ROS Reverse operating system
- Wide step through frame
- Front Bumper
- MFG Brand Name : Dixon
- MFG Model # : D22KH46
- MFG Part # : 960460012
My Review:
This model is a lot of mower for the money. This model features the new the step through operator’s platform, 22 hp Kohler engine with oil filter, electric blade engagement, and a well designed 46 inch deck.
The D22KH46 has the foot control hydro. For most first time buyers the foot control is the best way to go. It drives like your car. If you are replacing your old mower that had fender controls this mower may not be for you.
If you want a mower that will mow 1/2 to 3 acres well, handle a snow blade, snow thrower, and all the non-ground engaging attachments this is the mower will do the job for you. This tractor is heavy enough to handle hilly and rough lawns. There are other mowers in the Dixon lineup that will mow faster, or pull more, but this is a great all around mowing machine.
I like the mid-size D22KH46 series. I think it represents a good value and a machine that if taken care of properly will last you a long time. The Dixon brand has been around since 1974 and this tractor is a good addition to the famous Dixon zero-turn line-up.
Compare this tractor to the Craftsman YT4000 Model 28928. The Dixon has an electric blade engage, front bumper, and 22 hp Kohler where the Craftsman 28928 has a manual blade engage, and 24 hp Briggs & Stratton.
Cons:
I really don’t have any concerns with the D22KH46. I personally wish they would put a better looking hood on it, but that’s about it.
You may not need this much power. 22 hp on a 46 inch deck is plenty ……… but you get a nice, quiet, smooth running v -twin motor with this model that will handle a snow thrower well.
Final Thoughts:
There are very few negatives with this mower as long as you understand that it is a good quality, mid-sized mower designed to mow lawns well. It is not a garden tractor and not designed to pull ground-engaging equipment like a plow, disk, or tiller. I like this lawn mower for what it is designed for. At around $1600 on sale it is a very good value.
Ask a question, leave a comment, tell us about your mower below:
Needed Accessories:
This tractor is part of the AYP/Husqvarna line. Many of the Huqvarna, Craftsman accessories and attachments will fit on it. If Home Depot does not carry what you need please visit Sears.com to see a full line of items for it.
These yard tractors are capable of pulling all the non-ground engaging attachments Sears offers including a snow thrower. Click here to see the full line of Sears attachments.
Hauling Equipment: Yes
Lawn Care Attach: Yes
Craftsman 2 bin bagger: 24891
Craftsman 3 bin bagger: 24892
Snow Blade: 24441 This blade will mount to your tractor WITHOUT removing the deck.
Dixon 54 In. Deck 26 HP Kawasaki Twin Hydrostatic Riding Lawn Mower Review
The D26KH54 is a good choice and one of the best values for a Garden Tractor. It has a big 26 hp Kawasaki Motor and 54 inch deck. This Garden Tractor is designed to mow 2 to 5 acres quickly and efficiently. It will pull all of the ground engaging attachments Home Depot and Sears offers.
This review covers the D26KH54 with a twin cylinder Kawasaki motor, 54 inch deck, and foot control hydro. It will handle a snow thrower. If you want a smaller deck look at the different Dixon models. This is the largest tractor in the Dixon line-up.
Home Depot Item 202018741
Dixon D26KH54
Listed on HomeDepot.com as: 54 In. Deck 26 HP Kawasaki Twin Hydrostatic Riding Lawn Mower
Click on the link above to check prices and read more.
Buy Online – Pick Up At Your Nearest Home Depot
Specs:
The Dixon 26HP Kawasaki GT is a true garden tractor. Built with nothing held back the Dixon is loaded with features. A factory mounted sleeve hitch allows for ground engaging attachments to be used with ease and no hassle. Raise and lower your cutting deck at the touch of a button with an electric deck lift system. Premium gauges and controls give the operator total comfort unmatched by the competition.
- Kawasaki 26HP V-Twin engine
- 14 gauge welded steel frame built for long life
- Tight 16 inch turning radius leaves less grass uncut
- Complete comfort package
- Sleeve hitch pre-mounted for ground engaging attachments
- ROS Reverse operating system
- Wide step through frame
- Heavy duty front bumper
- Raise and lower your cutting deck at the touch of a button with an electric deck lift system
- MFG Brand Name : Dixon
- MFG Model # : D26KH54
- MFG Part # : 960460013
Compare with:
Compare this tractor to the 2009 Craftsman Professional PGT 9000 28 HP 54 Inch Model 28974, the 2010 Craftsman GT5000 Model 28947, the Cub Cadet Model 14WK94AK010, and the John Deere Model LA175 BG20449 . The D26KH54 has an advantage over all these other tractors of coming standard with a sleeve hitch and electric lift.
My Review:
For about 2999 dollars this is a very good value if you need to mow large areas. This model features the new Dixon/Husqvarna/Craftsman style step through operator’s platform, Kawasaki oil pump lube engine with oil filter, and a 54 inch 3 blade deck.
The D26KH54 has the foot control hydro. It is very easy to drive and has a “cruise control” for mowing the large open areas.
If you want a mower that will mow 2 to 5 acres well, handle a snow blade, snow thrower, and all the attachments Home Depot or Sears has to offer, this is the mower in the Dixon lineup that will do the job for you. This tractor is heavy enough to handle hilly and rough lawns. There is only one mower in the Craftsman lineup that will mow faster (The GT 5000 Excellerator). In my opinion there is no other mower that will pull more. I would have no concerns pulling a boat, light camping trailer, or 1500 lbs of dirt around your yard. This is a great all around workhorse.
I would have no concerns hooking up an AcrEase commercial wing mower from Kunz Engineering or two to this Garden tractor and mowing 10 feet or 15 feet at a time. I mention the AcrEase because this is the only pull-behind mower that can mow at the speeds the D26KH54 can mow at. These wing mowers will easily mow at 8 mph. With two of these behind the D26KH54 you can easily mow 7 acres or more an hour. The AcrEase mower has a unique hitch that works so well you don’t even know the wing mower is there. (I don’t make a commission if you buy an AcrEase)
This Garden Tractor will also pull the AcrEase rough cut mower.
To give you an example of the toughness of this tractor. A typical hydrostatic transmission in a lawn or yard tractor weighs about 20 lbs. This transmission in the D26KH54 weighs THREE TIMES as much. This is one rugged tractor for the price.
I like the D26KH54 series. I think it represents a good value and a machine that if taken care of properly will last you a long, long time. Click here to see the full line of Sears attachments. (Home Depot does not carry a large line of attachments for this tractor)
Cons:
The D26KH54 is good mower, but there are two items you need to be aware of. These items are not faults, but if you are moving up from a smaller mower you need to be aware of them.
First with this large of deck you will not get the consistent, even cut you get with say a 42 inch 28922. If your lawn is rough and uneven you will have some scalping and areas where the deck mows unevenly compared to a smaller mower. The deck has 5 anti-scalp wheels (gauge wheels) and rounded edges so the unevenness is minimum compared to other mower brands. Just be aware of the difference if you are moving up from a smaller mower. If you want a more even and consistent cut and still mow large areas look at the 2010 Husqvarna MZ6128ZT Zero-turn.
Second, you can buy a mulch kit for this deck but be aware of the negatives of using a mulch plug on this large of a deck. The problem is called “Blow-By.” To understand the negatives I will explain a little about deck design first.
Most of these large decks are built in a triangle. The middle blade is in front of the other two. This allows the blades to “overlap” so you never leave a stripe when turning or backing up. This design also has smooth edges under the deck designed to get the grass out from under it quickly and spread the grass evenly when discharged. In addition this Craftsman deck has “vented spindles” that allow a lot of air into the deck. All that air helps the blades lift the grass and cut it evenly and then helps the blades quickly throw the grass out the discharge.
The problem occurs when you plug the discharge with a mulch plug. All that air has to go somewhere and it ends up blowing down and out the underside of the mower deck. Most of the time when you are mulching good green grass everything works fine and you don’t notice this blow-by. It’s when you try to mulch dry, poor grass that this blow-by blows grass everywhere. It blows it mainly out the right front of the mower. Wind, mowing speed, etc., causes all this grass to go everywhere. On top of the deck, on top of the tractor, and all over you! The only way you can fix this is to remove the mulch plug when you are mowing in dry, dusty conditions.
Yes, all of these large decks will do this, it doesn’t matter if it is a Craftsman/Dixon or any other brand. Be aware before you purchase one of these large deck machines of blow-by and be ready to live with taking a shower after you mow.
Final Thoughts:
I like this mower and I feel it is one of the best values available for a mid-priced Garden Tractor. There are very few negatives with this mower as long as you understand that it is a good quality Garden Tractor designed to mow large lawns well. These Garden Tractors hold up well and have a great maintenance record. I like this lawn mower for what it is designed for. At around $2999 on sale it is a very good value.
Buy Here: 54 In. Deck 26 HP Kawasaki Twin Hydrostatic Riding Lawn Mower
Accessories:
Hauling Equipment: Anything Home Depot or Sears Sells
Lawn Care Attach: Anything Home Depot or Sears Sells
Ask a question, leave a comment, tell us about your mower below:
As you know from reading these reviews I know Craftsman Tractors, but most of you don’t know I know Dixon mowers just as well.
I have owned or used Dixon zero-turn mowers for years. Dixon’s are fun to drive and last and last. In fact between my father and I we currently own 4 of them (1 late 70′s model, 1 80′s model, a 2003 30 inch and a 2008 50 inch) They have always been one of the best values in residential zero turns and now they offer tractors!
Dixon 1984 Model 424
If you are not familiar with the Dixon brand here is a little history.
In 1973, Dixon purchased a unique, patented zero-turn transaxle which delivered independent drive power to the rear wheels for ultimate control. (I affectionately call this the cone-drive) In 1974, Dixon ZTR® was born when the first model rolled off the assembly line. Homeowners could now experience the maneuverability of a zero-turn mower at an affordable price.
Dixon was primarily marketed through farm equipment dealers here in the Midwest. The mowers were affordable and easy to use. They were so much faster than lawn tractors that once you bought one…you never considered a lawn tractor again.
Around 2005 Husqvarana bought Dixon and has been quietly taking the best of their zero-turn technology and applying it to the Husqvarna line. Conversely in 2010, Dixon introduced 3 conventional riding and garden tractors loaded with features to satisfy even the most discerning homeowner.
Dixon 54 inch Garden Tractor
Today, Dixon offers a well rounded line of zero-turn models and conventional lawn tractors that suit both the homeowner and the professional landscaper.
Over the next few weeks I will review some of the best models for homeowners.
2010 SpeedZTR 42 inch
Tags: Dixon Garden Tractor, Dixon Lawn Tractor, Dixon Tractor, Dixon ZTR
I know…what does this have to do with Lawn Tractors? Water filters are sooo expensive that I just had to pass this deal on to you!
Click either link below and type in the part number of your water filter (or search for it by the model number of your frig) and get free shipping!
Water filters when you want them, get free shipping today
Black & Decker sent me this new string trimmer/edger two weeks ago to try out. As you all know I like to actually use these items before I write a review. I still have to get better pictures and videos. My wife keeps using the trimmer and trimming all the areas before I can get them taken!
- NEW Black & Decker 24 Volt Cordless String Trimmer/ Edger with PowerCommand
Who this is for:
This trimmer is not for everyone, but it is a great trimmer for…someone with a normal size city lot, (up to 1/2 acre), someone who has a problem starting a gas powered trimmer, and someone who trims their lawn every-time they mow.
Pros:
Boost Mode: The boost mode is great for heavy, thick grass and weeds to trim. If you have a patch of weeds to knock down or an area the thick, tall grass throw the power switch to boost and hang on. In this mode the 24 volt trimmer has as much power as any consumer gas string trimmer.
Extra Power: This trimmer has a high performance 24 volt battery pack, a new 9,000 RPM motor and a patented gear drive transmission that dramatically increases power output over all other cordless trimmer designs on the market today. I have to say of the dozen or so electric trimmers I have used this is by far the best one.
Edging: We have a lot of landscape beds with “dug” edges. In other words we dig a 6 inch deep trench around the beds. We let the mulch flow into those trenches and it gives a nice clean transition from the bed to the lawn. The problem though is you have to trim the grass back every time you mow. We really liked the edging ability of this trimmer. You just push a button and turn the head to vertical. Using the built-in edging guide it is very easy to trim the dug beds. After trying to use a conventional gas powered string trimmer to do this for years we quickly fell in love with the edging feature of this Black & Decker trimmer. The extra power of the 24 volt system really makes this work well.
Cons:
.065 line: I’m used to a commercial gas powered string trimmer with .110 line so going to this “normal” line took a little re-adjust ment. If you are “downsizing” to an electric trimmer the .065 line will take a little getting used to. The high speed/geared head has plenty of power, but .065 line doesn’t cut as quickly as the heavier line. It also doesn’t tear up as much though. If you have a lot of tender, young trees and shrubs, wooden fence, and vinyl siding the small line is a lot easier on your stuff.
Battery Life: As with any cordless string trimmer the battery is really the limiting factor. The 24 volt battery has plenty of capacity to do an average size city yard but….. if you have more trimming than your neighbor be prepared to buy an extra battery and quick charger.
Easy to change battery
Battery Life On Boost: On boost mode there is only about 15 minutes of battery per charge. If you normally trim heavy grasses or weeds and you plan on using the boost mode a lot buy and extra battery and quick charger right away. Amazon.com
I will be giving away one of these new trimmers on August 1, 2010 but if you can’t wait you can buy now from Black & Decker, Sears.com and Amazon.com
You buy from Black & Decker Online here: https://www.trimmer24.com/Buy.aspx?utm_source=bdcorp
If you purchase from the above link you can get three free spools using the coupon code TRIM355
In order to redeem your coupon code, use this URL - https://www.trimmer24.com/convertamericaalliance/
Or buy on sale from:
Sears.com 24 volt B&D Trimmer Edger Find out more and buy
Amazon.com Black & Decker NST1024 24-Volt Cordless String Trimmer/Edger
Specs from Black & Decker:
High Performance 24V String Trimmer with PowerCommand Model # NST1024
-PowerCommand– Switch to boost mode for extra power to tackle tough jobs – Twice the power of 18V
-Patented Gear Drive transmission cuts more grass per charge than any other competing string trimmer brand
Trimmer and Edger in one tool.
-9000 rpm Motor and gear drive deliver up to TWICE the power of 18V trimmers.
-High Performance 24V Battery and PowerCommand cut up to 2.5X more grass per charge than 18V
-Automatic Feed System automatically advances the line without bumping.
-13″ Cut Swath cuts more area per pass.
-Trimmer extends for the optimal cutting position for the user. Large bale handle offers many operating positions.
-Weighs only 8.5 lbs.
- Energy Star Rated
Includes:
24V Cordless Trimmer / Edger
24V Battery Charger
(1) 24V Battery
Auxiliary Handle
Guard
Sears.com 24 volt B&D Trimmer Edger Find out more and buy
Amazon.com Black & Decker NST1024 24-Volt Cordless String Trimmer/Edger
Tags: Black & Decker NST1024 24-Volt Cordless String Trimmer/Edger Review
In Viewpoints.com’s most recent survey, They asked users about their favorite lawn mowers. How do some of the biggest names in lawn care — John Deere, Craftsman, Toro, Black & Decker and more — stack up in direct competition?
According to the hundreds of responses they received, Craftsman makes the best lawn mowers, drawing 37% of the vote. John Deere finished second with 17.5%, with Toro (13%) and Black & Decker (11.5%) close behind.
More than a dozen other brands also received votes, led by Lawn-Boy, Honda, Yard-Man, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, MTD, Snapper and Neuton.
Want to take the next Battle of the Brands poll? Join the Viewpoints community to receive your next newsletter and survey.
Picture From ViewPoints.com
