Craftsman 2000 LT Riding-Mower Manual

The Craftsman 2000 LT is a rear-engine riding lawn mower designed for residential use, featuring a durable steel frame, Briggs & Stratton engine, 30-inch cutting deck, 5-speed manual transmission, adjustable cutting height, electric start, and mulching/bagging/side-discharge capabilities. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Controls & Operation 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Engine Care 7. Cutting Deck Maintenance 8. Storage & Winterization 9. Safety Guidelines 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Steel frame, Briggs & Stratton engine, 30-inch cutting deck, 5-speed transmission, electric start, adjustable seat, and mulching kit.

Feature	Description
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 500cc OHV engine
Cutting Width	30-inch triple-blade deck
Transmission	5-speed manual gear drive
Starting System	Electric key start with backup recoil
Cutting Height	1.5 to 4 inches, 6-position adjustment
Fuel Capacity	1.5-gallon tank
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive
Seat	Padded, adjustable fore/aft
Discharge Options	Mulch, bag, or side discharge
Warranty	2-year limited warranty

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Attach steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Install seat: Slide onto brackets and secure with pins.
Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 (check manual for capacity).
Fill fuel tank: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane).

WARNING! Do not add fuel while engine is hot. Ensure mower is on level surface during assembly.

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Pre-start checklist: Check oil, fuel, tire pressure, and cutting height.
Starting: Insert key, set parking brake, engage blade clutch, turn key.
Driving: Release parking brake, select gear (1-5), press pedal.
Cutting: Engage blade control lever; adjust speed for conditions.
Stopping: Disengage blade, set parking brake, turn key off.

CAUTION! Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Do not mow on slopes over 15 degrees.

Specifications

Model: Craftsman 2000 LT
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 500cc, OHV
Cutting Deck: 30-inch, stamped steel
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Speed Range: 1-5 mph
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane)
Oil Type: SAE 30 (summer), 5W-30 (winter)
Tire Size: Front 13x5.00-6, Rear 16x6.50-8
Weight: 250 lbs
Dimensions: 64" L x 30" W x 42" H

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, tire pressure, blade condition
Every 8 hours	Clean deck, check for debris
Every 25 hours	Change oil, check air filter
Every 50 hours	Replace spark plug, sharpen blades
Every 100 hours	Change transmission fluid, inspect belts
Seasonally	Lubricate moving parts, check battery

Engine Care

Proper engine maintenance is critical for reliable operation.

Oil change: Drain when warm; refill with SAE 30 (20 oz capacity).
Air filter: Clean foam filter every 25 hours; replace if damaged.
Spark plug: Gap at 0.030 inches; replace annually.
Fuel system: Use fuel stabilizer if storing over 30 days.
Cooling fins: Keep clean to prevent overheating.

Tip: Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Cutting Deck Maintenance

Maintain cutting deck for optimal performance.

Blade sharpening: Remove deck; sharpen blades evenly.
Deck cleaning: Remove grass buildup after each use.
Belt inspection: Check for cracks/wear every 50 hours.
Deck leveling: Adjust to ensure even cut (check manual).
Spindle lubrication: Grease fittings every 25 hours.

WARNING! Ensure blades have stopped completely before servicing deck.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for extended storage.

Fuel system: Add stabilizer; run engine 5 minutes; drain or fill tank.
Battery: Disconnect and store in cool, dry place; charge monthly.
Engine: Change oil; remove spark plug; add 1 oz oil to cylinder.
Clean: Thoroughly clean deck and undercarriage.
Store: Keep in dry, covered area; cover mower.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank without stabilizer.

Safety Guidelines

Always follow safety precautions to prevent injury.

Wear eye protection, long pants, and sturdy shoes.
Clear mowing area of debris before operation.
Do not carry passengers.
Do not mow on steep slopes or wet grass.
Keep children and pets away during operation.
Disengage blades when not cutting.
Never leave mower unattended with engine running.

Warranty Information

Craftsman 2000 LT includes 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials/workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or improper maintenance. For warranty service, contact authorized service center with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.craftsman.com or call 1-888-331-4569.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, bad spark plug, dead battery	Check fuel level; inspect spark plug; charge battery.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, clogged deck, wrong height	Sharpen blades; clean deck; adjust cutting height.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, unbalanced blade, damaged spindle	Tighten blade; balance or replace blade; inspect spindle.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old fuel, clogged fuel line	Clean/replace air filter; drain old fuel; clear fuel line.
Transmission issues	Low fluid, worn belt, improper adjustment	Check fluid level; inspect drive belt; adjust linkage.

Service: 1-888-331-4569; www.craftsman.com