Craftsman 42 Inch Riding Mower Manual

The Craftsman 42 Inch Riding Mower is a robust lawn tractor featuring a 42-inch cutting deck, powerful engine options (e.g., 19 HP OHV), hydrostatic transmission, electric start, adjustable cutting height, mulching/bagging/side discharge capabilities, cruise control, cup holder, and ergonomic high-back seat. Designed for residential use on medium to large lawns. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

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: 42-inch stamped steel cutting deck, Hydrostatic transmission, Engine (model varies), Electric PTO (Power Take-Off), Adjustable seat, Headlights, Cup holder, Fuel tank, Battery, and Mulching kit (optional).

Feature	Description
Cutting Deck	42-inch wide, stamped steel construction
Transmission	Hydrostatic, single-pedal control
Engine	19 HP OHV gasoline engine (example)
PTO	Electric clutch engagement
Cutting Height	Adjustable 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Speed	Forward: 0-5.5 mph; Reverse: 0-2.5 mph
Fuel Capacity	2.5 gallons
Battery	12V, 230 CCA
Seat	High-back, adjustable for operator comfort
Headlights	Two front lights for low-light operation

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Install steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Attach seat: Mount using provided bolts and washers.
Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) cables.
Install cutting deck: Lower deck lift, align with pins, secure with belt.
Add engine oil and fuel: Use SAE 30 oil (check manual) and unleaded gasoline.
Check tire pressure: Inflate to 10-12 PSI.

WARNING! Do not attempt assembly alone. Keep hands clear of moving parts during setup.

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Ignition: Insert key, turn to ON, set parking brake.
Starting: Press brake, set PTO to OFF, turn key to START.
Driving: Release parking brake, press forward pedal to go forward, reverse pedal to reverse.
Cutting: Engage PTO lever to activate blades.
Height adjustment: Use deck lift lever while stationary.
Shutdown: Disengage PTO, engage parking brake, turn key to OFF.

CAUTION! Always sit in seat when starting; engine will stop if you leave seat with PTO engaged.

Specifications

Model: Craftsman 42-inch Riding Mower (example: 247.203831)
Cutting Width: 42 inches
Engine: 19 HP Briggs & Stratton OHV (or similar)
Transmission: Hydrostatic
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher)
Oil Capacity: 1.5 quarts (SAE 30)
Cutting Height Range: 1.5 - 4 inches
Turning Radius: 18 inches
Weight: Approx. 450 lbs
Warranty: 2-year limited

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, oil level, fuel
Every 8 hours	Check deck for debris, inspect blades
Every 25 hours	Change oil (first 5 hours for break-in), check air filter
Every 50 hours	Replace air filter, check spark plug
Every 100 hours	Replace spark plug, check drive belt
Seasonally	Sharpen/replace blades, grease fittings

Tip: Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Cutting Deck Operation

The 42-inch deck offers multiple cutting options.

Engagement: Start engine, set throttle to full, pull PTO lever.
Height adjustment: Use lever to raise/lower deck.
Mulching: Install mulching plug and mulching blades.
Bagging: Attach grass bagger to rear chute.
Side discharge: Remove plug for side discharge.
Belt tension: Check periodically for wear; replace if frayed.

WARNING! Never engage PTO on paved surfaces; avoid mowing on slopes greater than 15 degrees.

Engine Care

Proper engine maintenance is critical.

Oil change: Drain when warm, refill with SAE 30 (check manual).
Air filter: Clean foam pre-cleaner; replace paper element if dirty.
Spark plug: Gap at 0.030 inches; replace annually.
Fuel: Use fresh gasoline; add stabilizer for storage.
Cooling fins: Keep clean to prevent overheating.

CAUTION! Engine is hot after operation; allow to cool before servicing.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

Fuel: Add stabilizer, run engine 5 minutes, or drain tank completely.
Battery: Disconnect, store in cool dry place, charge monthly.
Deck: Clean thoroughly, apply light oil to prevent rust.
Tires: Inflate to proper pressure, store on blocks if long-term.
Cover: Use breathable cover to protect from elements.

Tip: Store in a dry, covered area away from children and pets.

Safety Information

Read and follow all safety instructions.

Wear eye protection, long pants, and sturdy shoes.
Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and rocks.
Never carry passengers.
Do not mow on steep slopes; mow across slopes, not up/down.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
Disengage PTO and engage parking brake before dismounting.
Never leave mower unattended with engine running.

DANGER! Rotating blades can cause severe injury; always ensure blades have stopped before crossing driveways or adjusting deck.

Warranty & Support

Craftsman offers a 2-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials/workmanship; does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For support, contact Craftsman Customer Service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Have model and serial numbers ready (located on frame under seat).

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, no fuel, safety switch	Charge battery; add fuel; ensure brake depressed and PTO off.
Poor cut quality	Dull blades, deck clogged	Sharpen/replace blades; clean deck underside.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old fuel	Replace air filter; drain and refill with fresh gas.
Vibration	Unbalanced blade, loose parts	Check blade balance and tightness; tighten bolts.
Hydrostatic transmission sluggish	Low oil, drive belt worn	Check transmission fluid; inspect/replace drive belt.
Battery not charging	Faulty alternator, bad connections	Test alternator output; clean battery terminals.

Reset: For safety switch issues, ensure all switches (seat, brake, PTO) are functioning.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized Craftsman service center.