Craftsman 2000 Riding Mower Manual

The Craftsman 2000 Riding Mower is a durable and efficient lawn tractor designed for residential use, featuring a powerful engine, hydrostatic transmission, adjustable cutting deck, comfortable high-back seat, and easy-to-use controls. This manual covers essential information for safe operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your mower.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Hydrostatic transmission, adjustable cutting deck (38" to 42"), Briggs & Stratton engine, electric start, comfortable seat, cup holder, headlights, and bagging/mulching side discharge options.

FeatureDescription
EngineBriggs & Stratton, 15.5 HP, single-cylinder, OHV
TransmissionHydrostatic, foot-pedal controlled
Cutting WidthAdjustable, 38" to 42"
Cutting Height1.5" to 4" (adjustable via lever)
Fuel Tank2.5 gallons (gasoline)
SeatHigh-back, adjustable
StartingElectric key start with backup pull cord
DriveRear-wheel drive
Blades2 or 3 blades (depending on deck size)
Mulching CapabilityYes, with optional kit

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before operating. Always wear appropriate safety gear.

  1. Clear mowing area of debris, rocks, and toys.
  2. Never carry passengers; operator only.
  3. Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
  4. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts, especially the cutting deck.
  5. Always turn off engine and remove key before performing maintenance.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable; refuel outdoors with engine off and cool. Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning; never operate in enclosed spaces.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

  1. Attach steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
  2. Install seat: Place on bracket, secure with provided bolts.
  3. Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) terminals.
  4. Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 (check manual for capacity).
  5. Add gasoline: Use fresh, unleaded gasoline.
  6. Check tire pressure: Inflate to 12-15 PSI.

CAUTION! Ensure all bolts are tightened securely. Test brakes and steering before first use.

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Dashboard: Ignition key, headlight switch, hour meter, choke (if equipped).

Pedals: Left pedal for brake, right pedal for speed (hydrostatic).

Levers: Cutting height adjustment, PTO (blade engagement), parking brake.

Starting Procedure: 1. Sit on seat. 2. Set parking brake. 3. Disengage PTO. 4. Turn key to START. 5. Adjust throttle to desired speed.

Stopping: 1. Disengage PTO. 2. Move speed pedal to neutral. 3. Engage parking brake. 4. Turn key to OFF.

Specifications

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures performance and safety.

IntervalTask
Before each useCheck tire pressure, fuel level, oil level, and for loose parts
Every 8 hoursCheck battery terminals, clean deck
Every 25 hoursChange engine oil, check air filter, sharpen blades
Every 50 hoursReplace spark plug, check drive belt tension
Every 100 hoursChange transmission fluid, grease fittings
Season endWinterize (drain fuel or add stabilizer)

Engine Care

Proper engine maintenance is critical for reliability.

  1. Oil Change: Run engine to warm oil, drain via plug, refill with SAE 30.
  2. Air Filter: Replace paper filter or clean foam pre-filter regularly.
  3. Spark Plug: Gap at 0.030", replace annually.
  4. Fuel System: Use fresh gasoline; add stabilizer for storage.
  5. Cooling Fins: Keep clean to prevent overheating.

Tip: Always check oil level with dipstick on level ground.

Cutting Deck Adjustment

Adjust cutting height for desired lawn appearance.

  1. Park on level surface, turn off engine.
  2. Locate height adjustment lever (left side of deck).
  3. Move lever to desired setting (1=lowest, 6=highest).
  4. Ensure deck is level side-to-side (measure blade tips).
  5. For bagging/mulching: Install appropriate attachment.

WARNING! Always disengage PTO and ensure blades have stopped before adjusting deck.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

  1. Clean entire mower, especially under deck.
  2. Change engine oil and filter.
  3. Add fuel stabilizer or drain fuel tank and carburetor.
  4. Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon oil to cylinder, pull starter slowly.
  5. Store in dry, covered area; charge battery monthly or remove.

CAUTION! Never store with gasoline in tank without stabilizer; it can damage fuel system.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startDead battery, empty fuel, bad spark plugCharge battery, add fuel, check/replace spark plug
Poor cutting performanceDull blades, low engine speed, clogged deckSharpen blades, set throttle to full, clean deck
Vibration or noiseLoose blade, damaged spindle, debrisTighten blade bolt, inspect spindle, remove debris
Loss of powerDirty air filter, old gasoline, clogged fuel filterClean/replace air filter, drain old gas, replace fuel filter
Hydrostatic transmission issuesLow fluid, drive belt looseCheck fluid level, adjust/replace drive belt

Reset: For safety switches, ensure seat is occupied and PTO disengaged.

Warranty & Support

Craftsman 2000 Riding Mower includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For technical support, parts, or service, contact:

Always consult this manual before attempting repairs. Unauthorized modifications may void warranty.

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