Craftsman LT 2000 Manual

The Craftsman LT 2000 is a 20-horsepower lawn tractor designed for residential use, featuring a Kohler Courage SV591 engine, 42-inch cutting deck, 6-speed manual transmission, electric PTO clutch, and hydrostatic power steering. It includes a mulching kit, cup holder, and headlights. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 20 HP Kohler Courage engine, 42-inch stamped steel deck, 6-speed manual transmission, electric PTO clutch, hydrostatic steering, mulching capability.

Feature	Description
Engine	20 HP Kohler Courage SV591, 4-cycle, air-cooled
Cutting Width	42 inches
Transmission	6-speed manual, gear-driven
Steering	Hydrostatic power steering
PTO Clutch	Electric engagement
Deck Material	Stamped steel, 3-blade system
Fuel Capacity	2.5 gallons
Cutting Heights	1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Mulching Kit	Included (optional side-discharge)
Headlights	Two 35-watt halogen lights

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

1. Install steering wheel: Align splines and secure with provided bolt.
2. Attach seat: Place on mounting brackets and secure with bolts.
3. Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) cables.
4. Install cutting deck: Lower deck lift, align with pins, and secure with belt.
5. Add fluids: Fill engine with SAE 10W-30 oil (check dipstick). Add unleaded gasoline to tank.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire during assembly to prevent accidental starting.

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before operation.

1. Starting: Set parking brake, ensure PTO is off, turn key to START.
2. Driving: Depress clutch, select gear (1-6), release clutch slowly.
3. Mowing: Engage PTO switch, adjust throttle to full, begin mowing.
4. Stopping: Disengage PTO, set parking brake, turn key to OFF.

CAUTION! Never operate on slopes greater than 15 degrees. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

• Engine: Kohler Courage SV591, 20 HP, 4-cycle, air-cooled.
• Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).
• Transmission: 6-speed manual, gear-driven.
• Cutting Deck: 42-inch stamped steel, 3 blades.
• Cutting Height Range: 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions).
• Turning Radius: 18 inches.
• Weight: 480 lbs (without attachments).
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

After first 5 hours: Change engine oil, check tire pressure.

Every 25 hours: Check air filter, inspect blades, lubricate fittings.

Every 50 hours: Change oil, replace air filter, check spark plug.

Every 100 hours: Replace fuel filter, check drive belt tension.

Seasonally: Sharpen blades, clean deck, check battery.

Engine Care

Proper engine maintenance is critical.

1. Oil change: Drain oil while warm, refill with 1.5 quarts SAE 10W-30.
2. Air filter: Replace paper element every 50 hours; clean foam pre-cleaner.
3. Spark plug: Gap at 0.030 inches; replace annually.
4. Fuel system: Use fresh gasoline; add stabilizer for storage.

Tip: Always check oil level before each use.

Cutting Deck Adjustment

Adjust deck for even cutting.

1. Park on level surface, set cutting height lever.
2. Measure blade height at all four corners; adjust lift links as needed.
3. Check belt tension: 1/2 inch deflection at midpoint.
4. Sharpen blades: Remove, sharpen at 30-degree angle, balance before reinstalling.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug before servicing deck or blades.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare tractor for off-season storage.

1. Add fuel stabilizer, run engine for 5 minutes.
2. Change oil and filter.
3. Remove battery, store in cool dry place, charge monthly.
4. Clean deck thoroughly, apply light oil to bare metal surfaces.
5. Store in dry, covered location.

CAUTION! Never store with gasoline in tank without stabilizer.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines.

• Read manual completely before operation.
• Wear eye protection, sturdy shoes, and long pants.
• Clear mowing area of debris before starting.
• Never carry passengers.
• Disengage PTO before crossing drives or roads.
• Shut off engine and remove key before servicing.

DANGER! Keep hands and feet away from rotating blades. Do not mow on steep slopes.

Warranty & Support

Craftsman LT 2000 includes 2-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials/workmanship; does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For support, contact Craftsman Customer Service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Have model number (917.273643) and serial number ready.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, clogged fuel filter	Charge/replace battery; replace fuel filter; check spark plug.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed	Sharpen/replace blades; set throttle to full speed.
Excessive vibration	Unbalanced blade, loose parts	Balance or replace blade; tighten deck bolts and fittings.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old gasoline	Replace air filter; drain and refill with fresh fuel.
Belt slips or breaks	Worn belt, improper tension	Replace belt; adjust tension to 1/2 inch deflection.

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

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