Product Review: Craftsman 36" Gas Riding Lawn Mower with 11.5 HP* Briggs and Stratton Single-Cylinder Engine, Gas Lawn Tractor with 7-Speed Transmission, Red/Black (13AC77XYA93)
Introduction
Looking to buy Craftsman riding mower that balances power, size, and value? The Craftsman 36" Gas Riding Lawn Mower with an 11.5 HP* Briggs and Stratton single-cylinder engine is positioned as a compact but powerful option for homeowners with small to medium yards. In this review I’ll cover what makes this Craftsman lawn tractor stand out, who should consider it, and how it compares to other gas riding mower options on the market.
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What is this product?
This is a compact 36 inch riding mower for small yards built by Craftsman — model 13AC77XYA93. It’s a gas lawn tractor with a 36" reinforced stamped steel deck, powered by a reliable single-cylinder Briggs and Stratton 11.5 HP engine. The design targets homeowners who need the convenience and speed of a gas riding mower but don’t have acreage that requires a full-size tractor.
Key Features
From the Manufacturer (About This Item)
- 36" GAS RIDE ON MOWER: Optimized power and performance to reduce time and labor.
- HIGH-PERFORMANCE ENGINE: 11.5 HP* Briggs and Stratton single-cylinder engine for easy starting and reliable performance.
- DURABLE AND EFFICIENT: 36" reinforced stamped steel deck that cuts up to 2 acres and includes a mulching kit.
- EASY MANEUVERABILITY: 18" turning radius and heavy-duty Turf Saver wheels to navigate obstacles.
- RIDE IN COMFORT: 7-speed manual transmission and contoured low-back seat for a comfortable ride.
Detailed Description
The Craftsman 36-inch riding lawn mower is designed for homeowners who want the convenience of a riding machine without the footprint of a large tractor. The gas engine is a single-cylinder Briggs and Stratton 11.5 HP* unit that provides dependable starting and consistent cutting performance. The 36" reinforced stamped steel deck delivers a clean cut and, with the included mulching kit, offers professional-looking finishing options.
Performance
The 7-speed manual transmission gives you control over speed and torque for different mowing conditions — whether you’re cruising over a flat lawn or powering through slightly taller grass. This Craftsman lawn tractor’s maneuverability (18" turning radius) helps it operate around landscaping features and fit through many gates, making it a practical 36-inch riding mower choice for suburban yards.
Build & Comfort
The contoured low-back seat and Turf Saver wheels are tuned for comfort and reduced turf damage. The overall package — from the Briggs and Stratton engine to the reinforced deck — positions this as a solid gas riding mower for users who want a balance of performance and affordability.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Compact but capable: Cuts up to 2 acres and fits through most gates.
- Reliable engine: Briggs and Stratton 11.5 HP* single-cylinder for dependable starts.
- Cost-effective: Typically lower Craftsman riding mower price compared to full-size tractors.
- Multifunctional deck: Mulching kit included for improved finish.
- Easy to maneuver: 18" turning radius for tight spaces.
Cons
- Manual 7-speed transmission may have a learning curve for some users compared to hydrostatic drives.
- Single-cylinder engines can be a bit louder and have more vibration than multi-cylinder units.
- Not intended for very large properties or heavy towing tasks.
Who Should Buy This Product
This model is ideal if you:
- Have a small to medium yard and want a compact 36" riding mower that fits through gates.
- Are looking to buy Craftsman riding mower with a trusted Briggs and Stratton engine.
- Prefer a durable stamped steel deck and need a machine that can maintain up to approximately 2 acres.
- Want to compare Craftsman 36-inch mower for sale options before making a purchase decision.
Comparison with Similar Products
Compared to larger Craftsman lawn tractor models and other brands’ hydrostatic mowers, this Craftsman 36" gas riding mower offers a lower initial Craftsman riding mower price while still delivering respectable cutting performance. If you need a smoother, variable-speed hydrostatic drive for large properties, you may consider higher-end Craftsman lawn tractors or other Briggs and Stratton riding mower models. However, for buyers looking to purchase gas riding mower with a good balance of value and capability, the 13AC77XYA93 is a competitive option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a good choice for small yards?
Yes. This compact 36 inch riding lawn mower is optimized for small-to-medium yards and fits through many gates, making it a great choice for suburban homeowners.
Can this Craftsman riding mower tow attachments?
Light towing for small carts and spreaders is generally possible, but it’s not intended for heavy-duty towing like large trailers — this is a compact gas lawn tractor designed primarily for mowing tasks.
What are the specifications? (Quick)
- Model: 13AC77XYA93
- Engine: Briggs and Stratton single-cylinder, 11.5 HP*
- Deck Size: 36" reinforced stamped steel
- Transmission: 7-speed manual
- Turning Radius: 18"
Final Verdict
For homeowners searching for a reliable, compact, and affordable ride-on solution — whether you search for “Craftsman lawn tractor near me” or compare Craftsman 36-inch riding lawn mower with 11.5 HP Briggs and Stratton engine options — this Craftsman 13AC77XYA93 is a compelling choice. It blends a trusted Briggs and Stratton riding mower engine with a practical 36" deck, solid maneuverability, and features like a mulching kit and comfortable seating. If you want to buy Craftsman riding mower that hits the sweet spot between performance and price, this model is worth considering.