Craftsman LT 1500 Manual

The Craftsman LT 1500 is a 15.5 HP, 42-inch riding lawn tractor designed for residential lawn care. It features a Briggs & Stratton engine, hydrostatic transmission, electric start, 6-speed gear drive, manual PTO engagement, and a stamped steel cutting deck. Below are key sections for safety, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 15.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 42-inch cutting deck, hydrostatic transmission, electric start, manual PTO, cup holder, headlights.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before operating. Wear appropriate safety gear.

1. Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles.
2. Do not carry passengers; operator only.
3. Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
4. Disengage PTO and set parking brake before dismounting.
5. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable; refuel outdoors with engine off and cool. Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning; never operate in enclosed spaces.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assembly requires basic tools.

1. Install steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
2. Attach seat: Position on frame and secure with provided bolts.
3. Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) cables.
4. Install cutting deck: Align with front brackets and attach with pins.
5. Check tire pressure: Inflate to 14 PSI (front) and 10 PSI (rear).
6. Add oil and gasoline: Use SAE 30 oil (48 oz) and unleaded gasoline.

CAUTION! Use two people when lifting deck; ensure all bolts are tightened securely.

Specifications

• Engine: 15.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, OHV, 540cc.
• Cutting Deck: 42-inch, stamped steel, 3-blade.
• Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite speeds.
• Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).
• Oil Capacity: 48 oz, SAE 30 (above 32°F).
• Cutting Height Range: 1.5 to 4 inches.
• Turning Radius: 18 inches.
• Weight: 450 lbs (approx).
• Warranty: 2-year limited.

Controls and Operation

Dashboard: Ignition key, throttle/choke, PTO lever, hour meter. Floor: Brake pedal, forward/reverse pedals.

Starting: Sit on seat, set parking brake, disengage PTO, turn key to START. Mowing: Engage PTO lever, adjust throttle to full, release parking brake, press forward pedal. Stopping: Release forward pedal, engage parking brake, disengage PTO, turn key off.

Cutting height: Adjust lever beside seat (positions 1-6). Speed: Control with forward/reverse pedals (light pressure for slow, more for faster).

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

1. Before each use: Check oil level, tire pressure, and for loose parts.
2. Every 8 hours: Check deck for debris; inspect blades.
3. Every 50 hours: Change oil, replace oil filter, check air filter.
4. Every 100 hours: Replace spark plug, check battery terminals.
5. Seasonally: Sharpen/replace blades, lubricate pivot points, check belts.

Tip: Refer to engine manual for specific Briggs & Stratton maintenance.

Cutting Deck Adjustment

Ensure deck is level for even cutting.

1. Park on level surface, set cutting height to middle position.
2. Measure distance from blade tips to ground on both sides.
3. Adjust lift links (turn clockwise to raise, counterclockwise to lower).
4. Re-measure until both sides are equal (within 1/4 inch).
5. Check front-to-back level (front should be 1/4 inch lower than rear).

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before adjusting or servicing deck.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare tractor for off-season storage.

1. Add fuel stabilizer to gas tank and run engine for 5 minutes.
2. Change oil and filter.
3. Remove spark plug, add 1 tablespoon of oil to cylinder, crank engine, reinstall plug.
4. Clean deck thoroughly; sharpen blades.
5. Store in dry, covered area; disconnect battery.

CAUTION! Do not store with gasoline in tank without stabilizer; it may clog carburetor.

Parts & Accessories

Genuine Craftsman parts ensure optimal performance.

Order from www.craftsman.com or authorized dealers.

Warranty Information

Craftsman LT 1500 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials/workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com/warranty.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized service center at 1-888-331-4569.