Craftsman Lawn Mower LT1000 Owners Manual

The Craftsman LT1000 is a 19.5 HP Kohler Courage single-cylinder engine riding lawn tractor with a 42-inch stamped steel cutting deck, 6-speed manual shift-on-the-go transmission, and a 2.5-gallon fuel tank. It features a manual PTO engagement, a 3-in-1 discharge system (mulch/bag/side discharge), a comfortable high-back seat, and a tight 18-inch turning radius. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 19.5 HP Kohler Courage engine, 42-inch cutting deck, 6-speed manual transmission, manual PTO lever, 3-in-1 discharge system, high-back seat, headlights, cup holder.

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools (wrenches, screwdriver).

1. Install steering wheel: Align and secure with provided bolt and washer.
2. Attach seat: Mount seat onto frame using four bolts and washers.
3. Install battery: Connect red (+) cable first, then black (-) cable.
4. Attach cutting deck: Lower deck lift lever, slide deck under tractor, secure with pins and belt.
5. Add engine oil and fuel: Use SAE 30 or 10W-30 oil; fill with fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing any assembly or maintenance to prevent accidental starting.

First-Time Setup & Operation

Before first use, complete pre-operation checks.

1. Check engine oil: Ensure oil level is between "Full" and "Add" marks on dipstick.
2. Check tire pressure: Inflate all tires to 14 PSI (front) and 10 PSI (rear).
3. Adjust cutting height: Set deck height lever to desired position (1.5 to 4 inches).
4. Start engine: Sit on seat, set parking brake, set throttle to fast, turn key to start.
5. Engage blades: Move PTO lever to "Engage" position to start cutting.

CAUTION! Never operate mower without the discharge chute or bagger properly installed. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

• Engine: 19.5 HP Kohler Courage single-cylinder OHV.
• Cutting Width: 42 inches.
• Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4 inches (adjustable in 0.5-inch increments).
• Transmission: 6-speed manual shift-on-the-go.
• Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gallons.
• Oil Capacity: 1.5 quarts (SAE 30 or 10W-30).
• Dimensions (LxWxH): 68 x 54 x 42 inches.
• Weight: 450 lbs (approximate).
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty on tractor; lifetime warranty on deck.

Controls and Settings

Dashboard: Ignition key, throttle/choke control, headlight switch, hour meter, cup holder.

Steering Column: Gear shift lever (1-6), parking brake lever, PTO engagement lever, deck lift lever.

Operation: Start engine with key (must be in seat). Set parking brake before dismounting. Use gear shift to select speed (1=slowest, 6=fastest). Engage PTO lever to start blades. Adjust cutting height with deck lift lever. Use throttle to control engine speed (fast for cutting, slow for transport).

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. Before each use: Check oil level, tire pressure, and for loose bolts.
2. Every 8 hours: Check tire pressure; clean deck underside.
3. Every 25 hours: Change engine oil (first change at 8 hours).
4. Every 50 hours: Replace air filter; check spark plug.
5. Every 100 hours: Replace spark plug; check blade sharpness.
6. Seasonal: Sharpen/replace blades; lubricate pivot points; check battery.

Tip: Always refer to the engine manual for specific engine maintenance procedures.

Cutting Deck Operation

The 42-inch deck offers three discharge options.

1. Mulching: Install mulch plug and mulching blades. Cuts clippings finely and returns them to lawn.
2. Bagging: Attach grass bagger to rear discharge chute. Collects clippings for disposal.
3. Side Discharge: Remove mulch plug and attach side discharge chute. Ejects clippings to the side.
4. Height Adjustment: Use deck lift lever to raise/lower deck. Mow at highest setting for first cut of season.
5. Deck Leveling: Adjust deck leveling rods to ensure even cut (front slightly lower than rear).

WARNING! Always shut off engine and wait for blades to stop before changing discharge mode or clearing clogs.

Safety Features

Operator Presence System: Engine stops if operator leaves seat with PTO engaged. Parking Brake: Must be engaged to start engine. Blade Brake Clutch: Stops blades within 3 seconds when PTO is disengaged.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for long-term storage (especially winter).

1. Clean thoroughly: Remove grass clippings from deck, engine, and chassis.
2. Fuel system: Add fuel stabilizer to tank and run engine for 5 minutes, or drain fuel completely.
3. Battery: Disconnect and store in a cool, dry place; charge monthly.
4. Engine oil: Change oil and filter before storage.
5. Store indoors: Keep in a dry, covered location; elevate deck off ground.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank in an enclosed area due to fire risk. Use stabilizer or drain completely.

Warranty Information

Craftsman LT1000 includes a 2-year limited warranty on the tractor frame and components, and a lifetime warranty on the cutting deck (against corrosion). Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal residential use. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep this manual and purchase receipt for warranty claims.

Troubleshooting

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

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