You might expect a low-cost push mower to also be low-key when it comes to added features, but the Troy-Bilt TB542 gasoline-powered push mower may just take you by surprise. For starters, this mower is powered by a 160cc Honda GCV Series engine with an AutoChoke Release System (ACRS), which prevents engine flooding and makes priming a thing of the past. The low-emission, 4-cycle engine delivers premium power to the heavy-duty hi-lift cutting blade. The engine also delivers when it comes to easy starting, quiet operation, high efficiency and durability.

For an affordably priced mower, this 3-in-1 model offers amazing flexibility as you can easily switch cutting modes in seconds to mulch, rear bag or side discharge your grass clippings. Should you decide to bag your clippings, the 2.3-bushel grass catcher holds a bit more clippings than most push mowers. On a positive note, that means the bag needs emptying less often, although the bag is easy to remove and drop back into place. On the downside, it is a push mower and the added weight means more muscle power may be needed to mow as the bag fills with clippings. But Troy-Bilt has equipped this model with 12-inch semi-pneumatic rubber high rear wheels (larger than most), making this mower easier to maneuver than mowers with smaller rear wheels--especially over bumpy terrain.

Other noteworthy features include a 21-inch steel deep-dome mulching deck, adjustable handles and individual cutting height adjustments that you can set to one of nine positions, from 1.25 to 3.50 inches high -- a range that easily accommodates a variety of mowing conditions. We especially like the somewhat flattened, deluxe-bail control feature -- a rod that must be held against the handlebar for the mower to operate -- and found the blade control to be easy to hold and easy on the hands.

We did find the pull cord for the recoil starter to be just a bit harder to pull than on other mowers. And while the cutting height adjustment lever on each back wheel was easy to maneuver, we had difficulty moving the lever to different heights on the front wheels. The location of the adjustment lever on each front wheel -- situated low and in-between the wheel and cutting deck -- is inconveniently placed and makes it difficult to depress the lever, especially if you have weak hands or any repetitive use injuries. But that may only prove a problem if you adjust your cutting height more than once a season.

This mower offers the perfect balance of performance and durability for the cost-conscience consumer. For a 3-in-1 push mower with eco-friendly features and easy maneuverability, we recommend the Troy-Bilt TB542 gasoline-powered push mower.


Pros: 3-in-1 mower, AutoChoke Release System (ACRS), eco-friendly engine, 4-stroke fuel efficient power, easy on/off grass bag, 12-inch rear wheels
Cons: Cutting height adjustment lever hard to maneuver for front wheels, 2-year limited warranty

Warranty
2 years, limited