Craftsman M220 Review

M220 review

Our take on the Craftsman M220

The Craftsman M220 is a 21-inch self-propelled mower with front-wheel drive. It uses a 140 cc Briggs & Stratton engine and a steel 3-in-1 deck. It drives at one fixed speed. That makes it simpler than the M230, which has variable speed. The M220 is aimed at small yards where you want help pushing but do not need extras.

If you are comparing it with the push-only M110, the M220 is the same basic mower with a drive system added. Below we cover the engine, drive, deck, owner feedback and who should buy it.

Engine and drive

The engine is a Briggs & Stratton 550EX. Craftsman lists it at 140 cc. Some Lowe’s pages show 150 cc for the same model family, so confirm the label on your unit. It has one-step starting with no priming. You pull the cord to start it.

The M220 pulls itself with front-wheel drive. The speed is single and fixed. You squeeze a bail and the mower moves at its set pace. If you walk slower, you need to release the bail. Variable speed on the M230 avoids that problem.

Deck and height settings

The deck is 21 inches wide and made of steel. It is a 3-in-1 design. You can side discharge, mulch or bag. A rear bag is included. Cutting height runs from 1.25 to 3.75 inches. A dual-lever system sets six positions.

The deck has a single blade. A single blade is common in mowers of this size. It cuts well when sharp. Replace or sharpen it at least once per season.

Wheels and handling

Wheels are 8 inches on the front and 8 inches on the rear. Small wheels can be harder to push through thick grass or over bumps. They also make the mower easier to store. The M230 uses 11-inch rear wheels for better handling on rough ground.

Front-wheel drive helps on slight slopes. It pulls the mower forward when you turn. On steep ground you will still want to be careful.

What owners say

Most owners like the price and the easy start. Reviewers call it a cheap way to get a self-propelled mower. Some report trouble with the traction cable or carburetor over time. Others say the drive is weak on hills. Keep the cable adjusted and use fresh fuel. These steps prevent many common problems.

Limits to know about

The M220 has no variable speed. It has small wheels and no blade stop. It is rated for yards under a quarter acre. It is not a good match for large or hilly lawns.

How it compares

The M110 costs less and has no drive. The M230 costs a little more and adds variable speed, larger rear wheels and a dust-blocking bag. If you value a smoother walk and better handling, the M230 is worth the small extra cost. If you want the lowest price with drive, the M220 fits.

Who should buy it

Buy the M220 if you have a small yard and want self-propelled drive on a budget. It suits older owners and anyone with minor slopes. Skip it if your yard is large.

Price and warranty

Ace Hardware lists the M220 at about $420. Prices vary by retailer. The mower has a 2-year limited warranty. A CARB-compliant version is sold for states that require it.

Quick specs at a glance

The deck is 21 inches and steel. The engine is 140 cc. Drive is single-speed front-wheel. Wheels are 8 inches front and rear. Cutting height runs from 1.25 to 3.75 inches. A rear bag is included. The mower starts with a pull cord. The warranty is two years.

Tips to get the most from it

If the mower stops pulling itself, check the drive cable first. A loose cable is the most common cause. Adjust it so the wheels engage when you squeeze the bail. Add oil before the first start and check it every few mows. Use fresh fuel. Sharpen the blade every season. In tall grass, raise the deck and take a second, lower pass. That lets the engine and drive work less.

Store the mower with the handle folded and the fuel level low. Run it until it is nearly empty before long storage, or add a fuel stabilizer.

Verdict

The M220 is a basic self-propelled mower at a modest price. It does the job on small, mostly flat lawns. Step up to the M230 for variable speed and better wheels.