Craftsman 24 HP Riding Mower Manual

The Craftsman 24 HP Riding Mower is a powerful lawn tractor designed for efficient mowing of medium to large yards. It features a 24-horsepower engine, hydrostatic transmission, electric start, adjustable cutting height, mulching/bagging/side discharge capabilities, and a comfortable high-back seat. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Mowing Instructions 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage & Winterization 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 24 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, Hydrostatic transmission, 42-inch cutting deck, Electric start, Adjustable seat, Headlights, Cup holder.

Feature	Description
Engine	24 HP Briggs & Stratton, single-cylinder, overhead valve
Transmission	Hydrostatic, single pedal control for speed and direction
Cutting Deck	42-inch stamped steel, 3-blade system
Cutting Options	Mulch, bag, or side discharge (kit may be required)
Starting	Electric key start with backup recoil
Seat	High-back, adjustable for operator comfort
Fuel Tank	2.5-gallon capacity
Headlights	For low-light operation
Cutting Height	Adjustable from 1.5 to 4 inches via lever
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive

Safety Information

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

Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles.
Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
Never carry passengers.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
Disengage blades before starting engine.
Refuel only when engine is cool and outdoors.

WARNING! Risk of serious injury or death from blade contact or rollover. Follow all safety guidelines.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assembly required for steering wheel, seat, and cutting deck.

Attach steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt with provided wrench.
Install seat: Place on seat post, secure with bolts.
Attach cutting deck: Lower deck under chassis, connect drive belt and linkage.
Check tire pressure: Inflate to 14 PSI (front) and 10 PSI (rear).
Add oil and fuel: Use SAE 30 oil (check dipstick) and fresh unleaded gasoline.

CAUTION! Use two people when lifting deck. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely.

Specifications

Engine: 24 HP Briggs & Stratton, OHV
Cutting Width: 42 inches
Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite speeds 0-5.5 mph
Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gallons
Oil Capacity: 1.5 quarts (SAE 30)
Cutting Height Range: 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Turning Radius: 18 inches
Weight: 450 lbs
Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Operation

Key ignition, Brake/clutch pedal, Hydrostatic drive pedal, Blade engagement lever, Cutting height adjuster, Parking brake lever.

Starting: Sit on seat, set parking brake, disengage blades, turn key to START. Driving: Release parking brake, press drive pedal forward to go forward, backward to reverse. Stopping: Release drive pedal, engage parking brake, turn key off.

Blade Engagement: Pull lever upward to engage blades for mowing. Always disengage when not mowing.

Mowing Instructions

For best results, mow when grass is dry.

Adjust cutting height: Use lever to desired setting (higher for first mow of season).
Engage blades: With engine running, pull blade engagement lever up.
Mow in overlapping passes: Overlap each pass by 2-3 inches for even cut.
Change pattern: Alternate mowing direction weekly to prevent ruts.
Dispose of clippings: Use bagger, mulch, or side discharge as needed.

Tip: Never remove more than 1/3 of grass height in a single mowing.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long life and optimal performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, inspect for debris, check oil level
Every 8 hours	Check blade condition and sharpness
Every 25 hours	Change oil (first change at 5 hours), check air filter
Every 50 hours	Replace spark plug, grease fittings
Every 100 hours	Replace air filter, check drive belt tension
Seasonally	Sharpen or replace blades, check battery

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for off-season storage to prevent damage.

Clean thoroughly: Remove grass clippings and debris from deck and engine.
Fuel treatment: Add fuel stabilizer to tank, run engine for 5 minutes, or drain tank completely.
Change oil: Replace oil while engine is warm.
Remove battery: Store in cool, dry place and charge monthly.
Store indoors: Keep in dry, covered location.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank untreated; can cause carburetor damage.

Warranty Information

2-year limited warranty for residential use. Covers defects in materials and workmanship. Does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact Craftsman at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, spark plug	Charge/replace battery; add fuel; check/replace spark plug.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed	Sharpen or replace blades; set throttle to full speed.
Mower vibrates excessively	Unbalanced blade, debris	Stop engine, inspect blade for damage or debris; balance or replace.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old fuel	Replace air filter; drain and replace with fresh fuel.
Hydrostatic transmission slips	Low oil, drive belt	Check transmission fluid level; inspect drive belt for wear.

Reset: For safety switches, ensure seat is occupied and blades are disengaged when starting.

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