wrote:
Regarding checking the battery, a 7 year old battery is probably in
need of a replacement. You didn't mention how it was stored, or other
details, but it would not completely be a surprise if it does need
replaced. If it's not holding a charge, then checking it with a
multimeter probably won't help much other than to verify that it is
losing its power.

Searching on www.sears.com, I only get 3 "electic" mower choices and
each of them are corded. It is possible that the expensive cost to
replace the battery is because the product is no longer available.

If you'd like to follow up on the battery itself, one option would be
to call a battery company rather than the service center. Have the
specifications of the battery handy (including dimensions) and see what
they can do.

Another option is that since Craftsman is a Sears brand, you could call
the local store to see if they have any in stock or if you could order
one to pick up.

I would have a hard time paying $180 for just the battery. If nothing
else, if I absolutely had to have an electric mower, I would buy a
corded mower with a long extension cord rather than pay that much for a
battery on a mower that may have other problems in the near future.


I agree that paying so much for a battery raises some flags. Searching for a
better price is a good idea.

But after seven years, $180 for a new battery compares well to the cost of
annually servicing a gas engine. Sure, a corded electric mower has even
lower maintenance costs, but then you have to deal with that damn cord
that's always in the way, or is getting caught on something.

Each kind of mower has it's own best application. I'd advise someone who
needs to get a new mower to consider all the pros and cons as they relate to
their specific situation. I'd never simply say that a corded mower is better
than a cordless mower any more than I'd say a sedan is better than a coupe.
It all depends on the specific situation.

And none of them have zero maintenance costs.

To the OP: From what I've been able to find out, the mower you have probably
has a Tecumseh motor, so you may want to check with any authorized Tecumseh
repair shops in your area, as well as specialized battery stores.

--
Warren H.

==========
Disclaimer: My views reflect those of myself, and not my
employer, my friends, nor (as she often tells me) my wife.
Any resemblance to the views of anybody living or dead is
coincidental. No animals were hurt in the writing of this
response -- unless you count my dog who desperately wants
to go outside now.
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