Craftsman Lawn Mower M210 Manual

The Craftsman M210 is a 21-inch push lawn mower featuring a 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 3-in-1 cutting system (mulch, bag, side discharge), single-lever height adjustment for six cutting positions (1.25-3.75 inches), durable steel deck, easy-start technology, and a 2.1-bushel rear bag. This manual covers safety, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure proper use and longevity of your mower.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting System Setup 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Safety Features 9. Storage & Winterization 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 21-inch steel cutting deck, 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 3-in-1 discharge system, single-lever height adjuster, rear grass bag, and push handle with controls.

Feature	Description
Engine	140cc Briggs & Stratton 675 Series, 4-cycle
Cutting Width	21 inches
Cutting Height	6 positions (1.25-3.75 inches)
Cutting System	3-in-1 (Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge)
Deck Material	Durable steel
Grass Bag Capacity	2.1 bushels
Starting System	Recoil start with Easy-Spin™ technology
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Weight	Approximately 60 lbs
Warranty	2-year limited

Assembly Instructions

Unpack all parts from the box. Verify contents against the parts list in the manual.

Attach the handle: Align lower handle with deck brackets, secure with provided bolts and wing nuts.
Install the upper handle: Connect to lower handle, tighten knobs.
Attach the grass bag: Hook bag frame onto rear deck mounts; ensure it clicks into place.
Install the discharge chute: For side discharge, attach to deck opening with provided hardware.
Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 detergent oil (approx. 20 oz). Check dipstick.
Add gasoline: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum). Do not overfill.

WARNING! Wear gloves during assembly. Ensure all bolts are tight before operation.

First-Time Setup

Before first mow, complete these steps.

Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
Fill fuel tank: Use fresh gasoline; avoid spills.
Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (recommend 3 inches for first mow).
Select discharge mode: Install appropriate chute or plug for mulch/bag/side discharge.
Start engine: Pull recoil starter firmly. Allow engine to warm up 30 seconds.

CAUTION! Operate outdoors only. Clear mowing area of debris.

Specifications

Model: Craftsman M210
Engine: 140cc Briggs & Stratton 675 Series, 4-cycle
Cutting Width: 21 inches
Cutting Height Range: 1.25 - 3.75 inches (6 positions)
Deck: 21-inch steel, 3-in-1 capability
Bag Capacity: 2.1 bushels
Wheels: 8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Fuel Tank Capacity: 1.1 quarts
Oil Capacity: 20 oz (SAE 30)
Weight: Approx. 60 lbs

Controls and Operation

Handle Controls: Throttle lever, drive control bar (if self-propelled model), and height adjust lever.

Starting: Set throttle to FAST, pull recoil starter. Stopping: Release drive control, set throttle to STOP. Height Adjustment: Single lever adjusts all four wheels simultaneously. Bagging: Attach bag, ensure chute is closed. Mulching: Install mulch plug. Side Discharge: Attach discharge chute.

Cutting System Setup

Configure for your desired grass handling method.

Mulching: Install mulch plug over discharge opening. Blade circulates clippings.
Bagging: Attach grass bag to rear hooks. Ensure chute directs clippings into bag.
Side Discharge: Attach discharge chute to side opening. Direct clippings away from area.

Tip: For best mulching, mow when grass is dry and not too tall.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures performance and safety.

Before each use: Check oil level, inspect blade for damage, clear deck of debris.
Every 25 hours: Change engine oil (or annually).
Every season: Replace air filter, spark plug. Sharpen or replace blade.
As needed: Clean underside of deck, check wheel bolts, lubricate height adjust mechanism.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

Safety Features

Blade Brake Clutch: Stops blade within 3 seconds when handle is released. Safety Key: Prevents unauthorized operation. Discharge Guard: Shields discharge opening.

Storage & Winterization

At season end, prepare mower for storage.

Drain or stabilize fuel: Run engine dry or add fuel stabilizer.
Change oil: Replace with fresh SAE 30 oil.
Clean deck: Remove grass and debris; dry thoroughly.
Remove spark plug: Add a teaspoon of oil into cylinder, pull starter slowly, reinstall plug.
Store indoors: In a dry, covered area.

CAUTION! Never store with gasoline in tank indoors.

Warranty Information

Craftsman M210 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, old gas, clogged air filter	Add fresh fuel, replace air filter, check spark plug.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter, old gasoline	Clean/replace air filter, drain and refill with fresh gas.
Uneven cutting	Dull blade, uneven tire pressure	Sharpen or replace blade, check tire pressure.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, bent blade, debris	Tighten blade bolt, replace bent blade, clean deck.
Grass not discharging	Wet grass, clogged deck	Mow when dry, stop engine and clear clogs.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized service center. Use genuine Craftsman parts.

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