Craftsman 42 Inch Riding Mower Owner's Manual

The Craftsman 42 Inch Riding Mower is a robust lawn tractor designed for efficient mowing of medium to large yards. It features a 42-inch cutting deck, a powerful engine, hydrostatic transmission, adjustable cutting height, electric start, cup holder, and a comfortable high-back seat. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42-inch reinforced steel cutting deck, Engine, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric PTO (Power Take-Off), High-back seat, Headlights, Cup holder, Fuel tank.

Feature	Description
Cutting Deck	42-inch, 3-blade system for wide cutting path
Engine	Powerful gasoline engine (specific HP model dependent)
Transmission	Hydrostatic drive for smooth speed control
PTO Engagement	Electric switch for easy blade engagement
Cutting Height Adjustment	Lever for 6 positions (1.5" to 4")
Seat	Adjustable high-back seat for operator comfort
Fuel Tank	Large capacity for extended operation
Headlights	For early morning or evening mowing
Deck Wash Port	Connect hose to clean under deck
Battery	12V for electric start

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 gasoline: Use type specified in manual.

WARNING! Mower is heavy; use assistance. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely before operation.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Pre-start check: Oil level, fuel, tire pressure, clear area of debris.
Starting: Sit on seat, set parking brake, engage PTO off, turn key.
Driving: Release parking brake, use forward/reverse pedals.
Mowing: Engage PTO switch, adjust speed with pedal.
Stopping: Disengage PTO, set parking brake, turn key off.

CAUTION! Always engage parking brake on slopes. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Cutting Width: 42 inches.
Engine: Gasoline, HP varies by model (e.g., 19.5 HP).
Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite forward/reverse speeds.
Cutting Height: 6 positions, 1.5" to 4".
Fuel Capacity: Typically 2-3 gallons.
Battery: 12V, maintenance-free.
Tires: Front: 15x6.00-6, Rear: 20x10.00-8.
Weight: Approximately 500 lbs.
Warranty: Limited warranty (see manual).

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

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

Tip: Use only recommended oil and filters. Disconnect spark plug before blade maintenance.

Cutting Deck Adjustment

Proper adjustment ensures even cut and deck longevity.

Park on level surface, engage parking brake.
Set cutting height lever to desired position.
Check deck level: Measure blade tips to ground front and rear.
Adjust leveling rods if necessary (see manual for specifics).
Check belt tension and alignment.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before adjusting or servicing deck.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

Clean mower thoroughly, especially under deck.
Add fuel stabilizer to tank, run engine 5 minutes.
Change engine oil and filter.
Remove battery, store fully charged in cool, dry place.
Store in dry, covered area, preferably on blocks to relieve tire pressure.

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

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety labels on mower.

Always wear sturdy shoes and eye protection.
Clear mowing area of sticks, stones, and debris.
Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
Never carry passengers.
Keep children and pets away during operation.
Stop engine before unclogging deck or making adjustments.

DANGER! Rotating blades can cause severe injury. Always ensure blades have stopped and spark plug is disconnected before servicing.

Warranty & Support

Craftsman offers a limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty period varies by component (e.g., frame, engine). Proof of purchase required. For support, visit www.craftsman.com or contact 1-888-331-4569. Keep this manual for future reference.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Parking brake not set, PTO engaged, dead battery	Ensure brake set, PTO off, charge/replace battery.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed, clogged deck	Sharpen/replace blades, check throttle, clean deck.
Vibration or unusual noise	Damaged blade, loose bolt, debris	Stop engine, inspect blades and deck, tighten hardware.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old fuel, clogged fuel filter	Replace air/fuel filters, use fresh gasoline.
Hydrostatic transmission issues	Low fluid, drive belt loose	Check fluid level, inspect and adjust belt tension.

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

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