Craftsman LT1000 Owners Manual

The Craftsman LT1000 is a 42-inch riding lawn tractor designed for residential use, featuring a 17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 6-speed manual transmission, electric start, cutting height adjustment, mulching capability, and a 2.5-gallon fuel tank. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Attaching Implements 7. Mowing Operation 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Storage & Winterization 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 17.5 HP engine, 42-inch mower deck, 6-speed transmission, electric start, cutting height adjustment lever, cup holder, headlights.

Feature	Description
Engine	17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton single-cylinder OHV
Cutting Width	42-inch stamped steel deck
Transmission	6-speed manual shift-on-the-go
Starting System	Electric key start with backup recoil
Fuel Capacity	2.5-gallon plastic tank
Cutting Height	1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive with differential lock
Seat	High-back with armrests
Headlights	Two front headlights for low-light operation
Mulching Capability	Optional mulching kit (sold separately)

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Install steering wheel: Align splines and secure with provided bolt.
Attach seat: Place seat on bracket and secure with bolts.
Install battery: Connect red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Attach mower deck: Lower deck onto mounting pins and secure with retaining clips.
Connect drive belt: Route belt according to diagram on deck.
Check tire pressure: Inflate to 10 PSI (front) and 12 PSI (rear).

WARNING! Tractor is heavy; use assistance. Ensure all bolts are tightened to specified torque.

First-Time Operation

Perform pre-operation checks before starting engine.

Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).
Adjust seat: Position for full control of pedals and steering.
Set cutting height: Use lever to select desired height.
Start engine: Insert key, set parking brake, turn to START.
Engage mower: Pull PTO (Power Take-Off) lever to engage blades.

CAUTION! Operate only in clear, dry conditions. Keep bystanders away.

Specifications

Engine: 17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, OHV, single-cylinder.
Cutting Deck: 42-inch stamped steel, 3-blade system.
Transmission: 6-speed manual, shift-on-the-go.
Fuel: Unleaded gasoline, 2.5-gallon capacity.
Cutting Height Range: 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions).
Turning Radius: 18 inches.
Weight: 450 lbs (without attachments).
Tire Size: Front 15x6.00-6, Rear 20x10.00-8.
Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Settings

Dashboard: Ignition switch, headlight switch, hour meter. Floor: Brake pedal, clutch/brake pedal, forward/reverse pedal. Deck controls: PTO lever, cutting height lever.

Steering: Tilt steering wheel with locking lever. Seat: Adjustable fore/aft with suspension. Transmission: Gear selector (1-6, R). Parking brake: Engage lever located under dashboard.

Settings: Cutting height (lever), throttle control (choke for cold starts), headlights (on/off switch).

Attaching Implements

Supports bagger, mulcher, and tow-behind attachments.

Turn off engine and remove key.
Attach bagger: Alize chute with deck outlet, secure with pins.
Connect tow hitch: Insert hitch pin through drawbar.
Check attachment manual for specific instructions.

Tip: Ensure attachment is securely fastened before operation.

Mowing Operation

For best results, mow when grass is dry.

Start engine: Set parking brake, turn key.
Engage blades: Pull PTO lever slowly.
Select gear: Start in 1st or 2nd gear for thick grass.
Mow in straight lines: Overlap passes by 2-3 inches.
Disengage blades: Push PTO lever to OFF before stopping.
Empty bagger: Stop engine before removing grass bag.

WARNING! Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Watch for obstacles.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long life and performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil, tire pressure, fuel level
Every 8 hours	Check blade sharpness and condition
Every 25 hours	Change oil (first change at 5 hours)
Every 50 hours	Replace air filter, spark plug
Every 100 hours	Replace fuel filter, check belts
Seasonally	Sharpen blades, lubricate fittings

Storage & Winterization

Prepare tractor for off-season storage.

Clean deck: Remove grass clippings and debris.
Stabilize fuel: Add fuel stabilizer or drain tank.
Change oil: Replace with fresh oil.
Remove battery: Store in cool, dry place.
Cover tractor: Use breathable cover to protect from elements.

CAUTION! Store in dry location. Do not store near open flame.

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety labels on machine.

Wear eye protection, sturdy shoes, and long pants.
Do not carry passengers.
Keep children and pets away from mowing area.
Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
Disengage blades when not mowing.
Use parking brake when stopped on incline.

Refer to safety decals on tractor for specific warnings.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel tank	Charge battery; add fuel; check spark plug.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed	Sharpen blades; set throttle to full.
Excessive vibration	Unbalanced blade, loose parts	Balance or replace blade; tighten bolts.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old fuel	Replace air filter; drain old fuel.
Transmission slips	Low oil, worn belt	Check transmission oil level; inspect drive belt.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Craftsman service center or call 1-888-331-4569.