"Don" wrote in message
By the way I bought some blades that say mulching/discharge blades
from Sears for this mower. Should I make a plate to block the
clippings from being "shot" out? So the mulching blades will chop them
up finer? Any help is appreciated!

I can't speak for Craftsman, but my John Deere has a block when using the
mulching blade. Keeps cuttings under the deck so they can get chopped up
into smaller pieces.

Don't mow too short. If you keep the grass longer, say 2 1/2 to 3", it
will be healthier, less weed, easier to care for.
Ed