Craftsman LT 2000 Riding Mower Manual

The Craftsman LT 2000 is a 20HP, 42-inch deck riding lawn tractor designed for residential use. It features a Briggs & Stratton engine, hydrostatic transmission, electric PTO clutch, adjustable cutting height, and a comfortable high-back seat. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Controls and Operation 5. Specifications 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Engine Care 8. Deck & Blade Maintenance 9. Storage & Winterization 10. Parts & Accessories 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 20HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 42-inch stamped steel cutting deck, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric PTO clutch, High-back seat, 6-speed gear drive (varies by model), Headlights, Cup holder.

FeatureDescription
Engine20HP Briggs & Stratton, single-cylinder, OHV
Cutting Width42-inch stamped steel deck
TransmissionHydrostatic (or 6-speed manual on some models)
PTO ClutchElectric engagement for blades
Cutting HeightAdjustable 1.5 to 4 inches in 0.5-inch increments
Fuel Capacity2.5 gallons
SeatHigh-back, adjustable suspension
Turning RadiusApproximately 18 inches
HeadlightsFor low-light operation
Drive SystemRear-wheel drive

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operating. Always wear appropriate safety gear.

  1. Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles.
  2. Never carry passengers.
  3. Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
  4. Disengage blades before crossing driveways or gravel.
  5. Stop engine and remove key before performing maintenance.

WARNING! Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Never leave mower unattended with engine running.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

  1. Attach steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
  2. Install seat: Mount using provided bolts and washers.
  3. Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) cables.
  4. Check tire pressure: Inflate to 10-12 PSI.
  5. Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 or 10W-30, fill to dipstick mark.
  6. Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

CAUTION! Ensure all bolts are tightened securely. Check for loose parts before first use.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Control Panel: Ignition key, PTO switch, Choke, Throttle, Hour meter, Headlight switch.

Operation: Sit on seat, set parking brake, disengage PTO, turn key to start. Engage PTO to activate blades. Use foot pedal (hydrostatic) or gear lever to control speed and direction.

Cutting Height Adjustment: Lever on each wheel; set all to same height.

Stopping: Disengage PTO, set parking brake, turn key to OFF.

Specifications

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

IntervalTask
Before each useCheck tire pressure, fuel level, oil level
Every 8 hoursCheck deck for debris, inspect blades
Every 25 hoursChange engine oil, check air filter
Every 50 hoursReplace air filter, check spark plug
Every 100 hoursChange transmission fluid (if applicable), lubricate fittings
SeasonallySharpen blades, check battery, clean deck

Engine Care

Proper engine maintenance is critical for reliable operation.

  1. Oil Change: Run engine to warm oil, drain via plug, refill with 1.5 quarts SAE 30 or 10W-30.
  2. Air Filter: Replace paper element every 50 hours; clean foam pre-cleaner if equipped.
  3. Spark Plug: Gap at 0.030 inches; replace annually or every 100 hours.
  4. Fuel System: Use fuel stabilizer if storing over 30 days; replace fuel filter annually.
  5. Cooling Fins: Keep clean to prevent overheating.

Tip: Always use genuine Briggs & Stratton parts for best performance.

Deck & Blade Maintenance

Keep cutting deck clean and blades sharp for optimal cut quality.

  1. Disconnect spark plug wire before servicing deck.
  2. Remove deck: Lower to flat surface, disconnect drive belt, remove retaining pins.
  3. Sharpen blades: Balance after sharpening; replace if cracked or excessively worn.
  4. Clean underside: Remove grass clippings and debris after each use.
  5. Check belt tension: Replace if frayed or cracked.

WARNING! Wear heavy gloves when handling blades. Ensure blades are properly tightened (torque to 40-50 ft-lbs).

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for off-season storage to prevent damage.

  1. Clean entire mower, especially underside of deck.
  2. Change engine oil and replace filter.
  3. Add fuel stabilizer to tank and run engine for 5 minutes.
  4. Disconnect battery and store in cool, dry place.
  5. Store in dry, covered area; cover with breathable fabric.

CAUTION! Do not store with fuel in carburetor without stabilizer; drain fuel if storing over 6 months.

Parts & Accessories

Genuine Craftsman parts ensure proper fit and function.

For parts, visit www.craftsman.com or contact 1-888-331-4569.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startDead battery, empty fuel, bad spark plugCharge/replace battery; add fuel; check/replace spark plug.
Poor cutting performanceDull blades, low engine speedSharpen/replace blades; set throttle to full speed.
Vibration or shakingUnbalanced blade, loose partsBalance or replace blade; tighten deck bolts.
Loss of powerClogged air filter, old fuelReplace air filter; drain and add fresh fuel.
Blades won't engageFaulty PTO switch, blown fuseCheck PTO switch; replace 20-amp fuse.
Hydrostatic transmission slipsLow fluid, worn drive beltCheck fluid level; replace drive belt.

Service: For technical support, call 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

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