Craftsman 24 HP 54 Inch Riding Mower Manual

The Craftsman 24 HP 54 Inch Riding Mower is a powerful lawn tractor featuring a 24-horsepower engine, a 54-inch heavy-duty cutting deck, hydrostatic transmission, electric PTO engagement, adjustable cutting height, comfortable high-back seat, headlights, cup holder, and a large capacity fuel tank. This manual covers safety, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your mower.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: 24 HP OHV engine, 54-inch fabricated steel cutting deck, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric PTO clutch, Adjustable seat, Headlights, Cup holder, Fuel gauge, Hour meter.

FeatureDescription
Engine24 HP Briggs & Stratton or Kohler OHV engine
Cutting Deck54-inch heavy-duty fabricated steel, 3-blade system
TransmissionHydrostatic, single-pedal control for speed and direction
PTO EngagementElectric switch for easy blade engagement
Cutting HeightAdjustable from 1.5 to 4.5 inches in 0.5-inch increments
SeatHigh-back, adjustable for operator comfort
Fuel Tank3.5-gallon capacity
HeadlightsIntegrated for low-light operation
Drive SystemRear-wheel drive with automotive-style steering
Mulching CapabilityOptional mulching kit available (sold separately)

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

  1. Install steering wheel: Align and secure with provided hardware.
  2. Attach seat: Mount seat onto frame using bolts and washers.
  3. Connect battery: Attach cables (red positive, black negative).
  4. Install cutting deck: Lower deck onto mounting points and secure with pins.
  5. Check tire pressure: Inflate to 14 PSI (front) and 10 PSI (rear).
  6. Add engine oil and fuel: Use SAE 30 oil (summer) and unleaded gasoline.

WARNING! Mower is heavy; use assistance during assembly. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely.

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before operation.

  1. Ignition: Insert key and turn to start.
  2. Blade Engagement: Pull PTO switch upward to engage blades.
  3. Speed Control: Use foot pedal—press forward to go forward, release to slow, press reverse for backward motion.
  4. Parking Brake: Engage before dismounting.
  5. Cutting Height Lever: Adjust located near seat.
  6. Choke: Use for cold starts.

CAUTION! Always engage parking brake before starting. Keep feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures peak performance.

Before Each Use: Check oil level, tire pressure, and fuel. Inspect blades for damage.

Every 8 Hours: Clean cutting deck, check battery connections.

Every 50 Hours: Change engine oil, replace oil filter, check air filter.

Every 100 Hours: Replace spark plug, lubricate steering and deck linkages.

Seasonally: Sharpen or replace blades, check belt tension, clean or replace air filter.

Cutting Deck Operation

Proper deck use ensures even cutting and longevity.

  1. Adjust cutting height: Use lever to set desired height.
  2. Engage blades: Only when engine is at full throttle.
  3. Mow in overlapping passes: For even cut.
  4. Avoid scalping: On uneven terrain, raise cutting height.
  5. Clean after use: Remove grass clippings to prevent rust.

Tip: For best results, mow when grass is dry. Alternate mowing patterns.

Engine Care

Engine maintenance is critical for reliable operation.

  1. Oil Change: Drain oil when warm, refill with SAE 30 (check manual for alternatives).
  2. Air Filter: Clean foam pre-cleaner every 25 hours; replace paper element annually.
  3. Spark Plug: Gap at 0.030 inches; replace yearly.
  4. Fuel System: Use fresh unleaded gasoline; add fuel stabilizer for storage.
  5. Cooling Fins: Keep clean to prevent overheating.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

  1. Add fuel stabilizer: Run engine for 5 minutes to circulate.
  2. Change oil: Remove old oil to prevent acid buildup.
  3. Remove battery: Store in cool, dry place; charge monthly.
  4. Clean thoroughly: Remove debris from deck, engine, and chassis.
  5. Store indoors: In a dry, covered location.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank without stabilizer. Keep away from open flames.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

DANGER! Never attempt to unclog deck or adjust blades with engine running.

Warranty & Support

Craftsman offers a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact an authorized service center with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.craftsman.com or call 1-888-331-4569. Keep this manual and receipt for reference.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startDead battery, empty fuel, faulty spark plugCharge/replace battery; add fuel; check/replace spark plug.
Poor cutting performanceDull blades, low engine speed, clogged deckSharpen/replace blades; run at full throttle; clean deck.
Excessive vibrationUnbalanced blade, loose bolts, damaged spindleBalance or replace blade; tighten all bolts; inspect spindle.
Loss of powerDirty air filter, old fuel, clogged fuel filterClean/replace air filter; drain old fuel; replace fuel filter.
Hydrostatic transmission sluggishLow fluid, air in system, worn beltCheck fluid level; bleed if necessary; inspect drive belt.

Reset: For electrical issues, disconnect battery for 5 minutes then reconnect.

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

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