Craftsman YT4500 Reviews

Craftsman Crap
Model Year: 2005

The tractor had a 24 month warranty. Twenty two months the crankshaft broke (50 hours of use). Sears replaced it at no charge. Service was slow, but reliable and professional. Now 200 hours, the transmission is slipping and I have bought a new TUFF TORQ IK46. Before installing it I will drain the 10 W 30 oil and fill with 5 W 50 synthetic from reading your forums. The 54 inch deck hangs up on uneven ground, slowing down cutting. I have three acres to cut, on uneven ground I use my 48" tractor, on flat ground I use the 54" tractor.

Pros: Bagging system works good.
Cons: Durability poor. 50 hour motor failure, 200 hour transmission quits.

25 hp Kohler Issues
Model Year: 2003

Just out rebuilt the engine after 530 hrs it blew the right connecting rod, seemed it was run with out any oil in the engine. Had to change the lower engine seal 2 times as it was leaking oil all over the electric PTO for the mower deck. Overall a lot of maintenance for that few hrs. of running.

Pros: Cheap money for the horsepower.
Cons: Too many issues with engine.

PTO Clutch
Model Year: 2001

Shuts off engine.

Pros: Good.
Cons: Bad.

Good Tractor
Model Year: 2006

This tractor is well-built. The only thing I wish was different is the rear tires. Not enough traction on hilly ground or damp areas.

Pros: Powerful & heavy.
Cons: Not enough traction.