Craftsman LT 1000 Manuals

The Craftsman LT 1000 is a popular lawn tractor designed for residential use, featuring a powerful engine, hydrostatic transmission, and a durable cutting deck. This manual provides essential information for safe operation, routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your tractor. Below are key sections covering safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton engine, Hydrostatic transmission, 42-inch cutting deck, Electric PTO clutch, Adjustable seat, Headlights, Cup holder.

Feature	Description
Engine	Briggs & Stratton, 19.5 HP, OHV, single cylinder
Transmission	Hydrostatic, infinite forward/reverse speeds
Cutting Deck	42-inch, side discharge, 3-blade system
PTO Clutch	Electric engagement for blades
Steering	Manual, rack and pinion
Fuel Tank	2.5-gallon capacity
Seat	High-back, adjustable for operator comfort
Headlights	Integrated for low-light operation
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive with differential lock
Deck Lift	Manual lever for cutting height adjustment

Safety Instructions

Read and understand all safety instructions before operating.

1. Always wear appropriate safety gear: eye protection, sturdy shoes, and hearing protection.
2. Clear mowing area of debris, rocks, and toys before starting.
3. Never allow children or pets in the area during operation.
4. Do not operate on slopes greater than 15 degrees; mow across slopes, not up and down.
5. Disengage blades, set parking brake, and turn off engine before dismounting.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable; refuel outdoors with engine off and cool. Avoid hot surfaces.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

1. Install steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt securely.
2. Attach seat: Mount using provided bolts and washers.
3. Connect battery: Positive (red) first, then negative (black).
4. Install cutting deck: Align with front and rear brackets, secure with pins and belts.
5. Check tire pressure: Inflate to 14 PSI (front) and 10 PSI (rear).
6. Add oil and fuel: Use SAE 30 oil (check dipstick) and unleaded gasoline.

CAUTION! Ensure all bolts are tightened to specified torque. Keep hands clear of moving parts during assembly.

Specifications

• Engine: Briggs & Stratton, 19.5 HP, 540cc, OHV.
• Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite speeds forward/reverse.
• Cutting Width: 42 inches.
• Cutting Heights: 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions).
• Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gallons.
• Oil Capacity: 1.5 quarts (with filter).
• Tire Size: Front 15x6.00-6, Rear 20x10.00-8.
• Weight: Approximately 450 lbs.
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting engine.

Dashboard: Ignition key, PTO switch, Choke, Throttle, Hour meter.

Pedals & Levers: Forward/reverse pedal (hydrostatic), Brake pedal, Deck lift lever, Parking brake lever.

Starting Procedure: Sit on seat, set parking brake, disengage PTO, move throttle to choke, turn key. Warm up engine for 1-2 minutes before engaging blades. Mowing: Engage PTO, adjust speed with pedal, use deck lift to set cutting height. Stopping: Disengage PTO, move throttle to slow, turn key off, set parking brake.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures reliability and extends tractor life.

1. Before each use: Check oil level, tire pressure, and fuel. Inspect for loose parts.
2. Every 8 hours: Clean cutting deck, check blade condition.
3. Every 50 hours: Change oil and oil filter (or annually).
4. Every 100 hours: Replace air filter, spark plug. Check transmission fluid.
5. Seasonally: Sharpen or replace blades, lubricate pivot points, check battery.

Tip: Refer to engine manual for specific engine maintenance intervals.

Engine Care

Proper engine maintenance is critical for performance.

1. Oil Change: Run engine to warm oil, drain via plug, refill with SAE 30 (above 32°F) or 5W-30 (below 32°F).
2. Air Filter: Replace paper element; clean foam pre-cleaner if equipped.
3. Spark Plug: Gap at 0.030 inches; replace annually.
4. Fuel System: Use fresh gasoline; add fuel stabilizer for storage. Replace fuel filter annually.
5. Cooling Fins: Keep clean of debris to prevent overheating.

WARNING! Engine is hot after operation. Allow to cool before performing maintenance.

Cutting Deck Maintenance

Maintain deck for optimal cutting performance and longevity.

1. Blade Sharpening: Remove deck, secure blade, sharpen at 25-degree angle (balance after sharpening).
2. Belt Inspection: Check for cracks/wear; adjust tension or replace if needed.
3. Deck Cleaning: Wash underside after each use to prevent grass buildup and corrosion.
4. Spindle Lubrication: Grease fittings every 25 hours of operation.
5. Deck Leveling: Adjust side-to-side and front-to-rear for even cut.

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug wire before working on deck or blades.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare tractor for off-season storage to prevent damage.

1. Fuel: Add fuel stabilizer, run engine for 5 minutes, then either drain tank or fill completely.
2. Battery: Disconnect, clean terminals, store in cool, dry place. Charge monthly.
3. Engine: Change oil, remove spark plug, add 1 oz of oil into cylinder, pull starter slowly to coat.
4. Tires: Inflate to proper pressure, store on blocks to relieve weight.
5. Cover: Use breathable cover to protect from dust and moisture.

CAUTION! Store in a dry, well-ventilated area away from open flames or sparks.

Warranty Information

Craftsman LT 1000 includes a 2-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Not covered: normal wear, misuse, lack of maintenance, commercial use. Keep receipt as proof of purchase. For warranty service, contact an authorized service center or call 1-888-331-4569. Register your product online at www.craftsman.com for faster service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, bad spark plug	Charge/replace battery; add fuel; check/replace spark plug.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, deck not level, low engine speed	Sharpen/replace blades; level deck; set throttle to full.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old fuel, dirty cooling fins	Replace air filter; drain old fuel; clean cooling fins.
Vibration	Unbalanced blade, loose blade, damaged spindle	Balance or replace blade; tighten bolt; inspect spindle.
Hydrostatic transmission sluggish	Low fluid, drive belt worn	Check fluid level; inspect and replace drive belt if needed.

Reset: For electrical issues, disconnect battery for 5 minutes to reset system.

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