Craftsman Lawn Mower Owners Manual

The Craftsman Lawn Mower is a reliable outdoor power tool designed for efficient grass cutting and lawn maintenance. It features a powerful engine, adjustable cutting heights, mulching/bagging/side discharge capabilities, easy-start system, durable steel deck, ergonomic handle, and safety features like blade control and engine kill switch. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and warranty information.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. Safety Precautions 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting Height Adjustment 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Guidelines 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, Cutting Deck, Handle, Height Adjustment Lever, Bagging/Mulching Attachment, Starter Grip, Fuel Tank, Oil Fill Cap.

Feature	Description
Engine	Powerful Briggs & Stratton engine with easy-start system
Cutting Deck	21-inch durable steel deck for wide cutting path
Height Adjustment	Single-lever adjustment for 6 cutting positions (1.5-4 inches)
Discharge Options	Mulch, bag, or side discharge for versatile lawn care
Handle	Ergonomic foldable handle with cushioned grips
Safety Features	Blade control system, engine kill switch, and safety key
Fuel Tank	1-quart capacity for extended runtime
Wheels	10-inch rear wheels for easy maneuverability
Starter	Recoil starter with primer bulb for quick engine starts
Warranty	Limited 2-year warranty on engine and parts

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a flat, clear surface.

Attach handle: Align handle brackets with deck mounts, secure with provided bolts and wrench.
Install bagger/mulcher: Attach discharge chute or mulching plug as per desired mode.
Adjust cutting height: Set lever to highest position before first use.
Add oil and fuel: Fill engine oil to recommended level (SAE 30); add fresh unleaded gasoline.

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

Safety Precautions

Read all safety instructions before operating the mower.

Clear area: Remove stones, toys, and debris from lawn.
Wear protection: Use safety glasses, hearing protection, and sturdy shoes.
Check controls: Ensure blade control and kill switch function properly.
Refuel safely: Allow engine to cool before adding fuel; no smoking.
Keep bystanders away: Especially children and pets.

DANGER! Never operate without grass bag or discharge chute properly installed. Keep hands and feet away from rotating blade.

Specifications

Engine: Briggs & Stratton 140cc, 4-cycle OHV.
Cutting Width: 21 inches.
Cutting Heights: 6 positions, 1.5 to 4 inches.
Deck Material: Powder-coated steel.
Discharge Options: Mulch, bag, side discharge.
Wheels: 8-inch front, 10-inch rear.
Fuel Capacity: 1 quart (0.95 liters).
Oil Type: SAE 30 detergent oil (20 oz capacity).
Weight: 65 lbs (assembled).
Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Operation

Handle Controls: Blade control lever, Engine kill switch, Height adjustment lever, Starter grip.

Starting Procedure:

Check oil and fuel levels.
Prime engine (press primer bulb 3 times for cold starts).
Set throttle to FAST position.
Pull starter grip firmly until engine starts.
Engage blade control lever to begin cutting.

Stopping: Release blade control lever, move throttle to STOP, wait for blade to stop completely.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Single-lever system adjusts all four wheels simultaneously.

Stop engine and wait for blade to stop.
Pull height adjustment lever outward.
Move lever to desired position (1-6).
Release lever to lock in position.

Tip: For first mow of season, set to highest setting. Never remove more than 1/3 of grass blade length at once.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Frequency	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, inspect blade for damage, clear deck of debris
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil, clean/replace air filter, check spark plug
Every season	Sharpen or replace blade, clean underside of deck, lubricate wheels
Storage	Drain fuel or add stabilizer, clean entire mower, store in dry place

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents corrosion and starting issues.

Clean mower thoroughly, removing all grass and debris.
Drain fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer for off-season storage.
Change oil if near service interval.
Store in cool, dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight.
Cover with breathable fabric to prevent dust accumulation.

WARNING! Never store mower with fuel in tank near open flames or heat sources.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Empty fuel tank, old gasoline, clogged air filter	Add fresh fuel, clean/replace air filter, check spark plug
Poor cutting performance	Dull blade, low engine speed, wet grass	Sharpen/replace blade, adjust throttle to FAST, wait for dry conditions
Excessive vibration	Damaged blade, loose bolts, debris in deck	Inspect and balance blade, tighten all fasteners, clean deck
Engine stalls during operation	Clogged fuel line, dirty carburetor, low oil	Clean fuel system, check oil level, service carburetor
Uneven cutting pattern	Uneven tire pressure, worn blade, incorrect height setting	Check tire pressure, sharpen blade, adjust cutting height evenly

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

Warranty Information

Craftsman Lawn Mowers come with a limited 2-year warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, improper maintenance, or commercial use. To make a warranty claim, contact Craftsman Customer Service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep your original receipt as proof of purchase.