Craftsman 21HP 42" Lawn Tractor - 917.28922

by Lori Morales
(Crowly, Louisiana)

I recently purchased a new 2009 Sears craftsman lawn tractor, model number 917.28922. Its a 21 horse power, 42in deck mower. I have not had this item long enough to write an accurate review so I will write one on my previous craftsman mower. As stated above my new mower was purchased in August of 2009. My first craftsamn mower was purchased in August of 1995. Yes, it lasted for fourteen years. I believe if you take care of things they will last.

The craftsman mower had a 15 Horsepower Briggs & Stratton engine and a 42 inch deck. I used this mower on a lot that was about 3/4 of an acre. For two years the lot was bare, which meant the whole area was to be cut. After we built, the lot was still 3/4 covered with grass.

During the fourteen years, I don't recall any major mechanical problems. Here in Crowly, Louisiana the grass grows very fast due to the humidity. This requires cutting almost all year round. During the summer months the lawn needs cutting twice a week, so its easy to see that this mower had alot of hours of service.

The deck bottom, under side was repainted twice. The frame was never painted. The mower was kept indoors its entire life. The seat cover and hood are in great shape. The mower is almost completely free of rust. You might ask why did I buy a new one then.

After fourteen years things do wear out. The front axle's ball joint had broken and was repairable, but I didn't want to do that. The deck, after years of being ruffed up somewhat was beyond repair. I actually only had to replace the housing mandril once. This part holds and turns the blades. The bearings were damaged.

Besides the usual changing of the battery, spark plug and belts, that was the only other part that was replaced. This mower did a good job of cutting the grass evenly. I would have to say over the last few years it began to cut uneven. I believe this was due to the deck being bent and possibly the shaft being bent too. The tires were original with moderate wear on the treads.

The steering began to have excessive play in it due to the wearing out of the shaft and gears. The brakes also began to wear out due to the disks wearing down. The paint job held up very well. I guess as stated before keeping it inside helped that. The mowers lights still work even though the cover was knocked off by running into my brick corner of the house.

My overall rating for this mower would have to be that this is a very good mower for the price of around $1000. Previously I had purchased cheaper off brand mowers that would only last about five years. Obviously I was satisfied with the Sears Craftsman brand, I purchased another one without hesitation.