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  • Push Mower Comparison
  • From "DIY Tools & Techniques"
    episode DIT-206


    Host David Thiel and author Steve Ettlinger discuss different kinds of push lawn mowers. The two cover features such as wheel size, mulching capability, and ease of operation, and even show a specialty mower that runs on a battery.

    The first mower in the comparison is a Craftsman with big wheels in the back (figure A) for going over rough terrain.

    • This model is an inexpensive option (about $300), but has individually adjustable wheels, which can be troublesome (figure B).
      Photo

      Figure A

      Photo

      Figure B


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    • The powerful 6.75 motor cuts through heavy, wet grass, and glass clippings are collected in a removable bag (figure C) at the back of the unit (or can be mulched).

    • The blade (figure D) and housing are designed to cut the grass several times to create a very fine mulch.

    • The OPC (Operator Presence Control) causes the lawn mower to stop when you let go. The second, lower bar is the throttle.
    Photo

    Figure C

    Photo

    Figure D


    The second push lawn mower we look at is another Craftsman, which is about twice the price of the first.

    • This model has a smaller and lighter motor and one lever to change the height of the mower deck (figure E).

    • With this model, you can choose to mulch, use the side discharge (figure F), or collect clippings in the grass bag.
      Photo

      Figure E

      Photo

      Figure F


    • The throttle on this model can be adjusted as on an automobile (figure G). The lawn mower also has an OPC bar (figure H).
    Photo

    Figure G

    Photo

    Figure H



    The next model is a 14" wide electric mower from Neuton.

    • The Neuton mower is a lightweight model offering simple operation and ease-of-use for about $450. Its smaller width makes it a good choice for smaller lawns.

    • This model includes a lever to adjust the deck height (figure I) and offers a mulch or bag collection option.

    • The mower comes with two batteries (figure J) and requires a key for operation (figure K).
      Photo

      Figure I

      Photo

      Figure J

      Photo

      Figure K


    • A screen trimmer (figure L) allows the operator to use the unit to trim and edge (figure M).
    Photo

    Figure L

    Photo

    Figure M



    RESOURCES :
    Craftsman Mowers
    Visit local Sears store or go to www.sears.com/craftsman for more information.

    Neuton Mowers
    Customer Service: 800-687-6575
    Web site: www.countryhomeproducts.com

    The Complete Illustrated Guide to Everything Sold in Hardware Stores and Garden Centers
    by Steve Ettlinger
    ISDN: 0762414936


    GUESTS :
    Steve Ettlinger
    Author
    225 East 28th Street, Suite 1
    New York, NY 10016

  • ALSO IN THIS EPISODE: