Craftsman LT2000 Riding Lawn Mower Manual

The Craftsman LT2000 is a 20HP, 46-inch deck riding lawn mower designed for residential use. It features a Briggs & Stratton engine, hydrostatic transmission, electric start, adjustable cutting height, mulching capability, 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. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting & Mowing 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage & Winterization 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 20HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 46-inch cutting deck, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric start, High-back seat, Mulching kit, Headlights, Cup holder.

Feature	Description
Engine	20HP Briggs & Stratton, single-cylinder, OHV
Cutting Width	46-inch stamped steel deck
Transmission	Hydrostatic, single-speed forward/reverse
Starting	Electric key start with backup recoil
Cutting Height	Adjustable 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Fuel Capacity	3.5 gallons
Seat	High-back, adjustable suspension
Mulching	Optional mulching kit (included)
Headlights	Two front headlights for low-light operation
Warranty	2-year limited warranty

Safety Information

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

Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles.
Never carry passengers; operator only.
Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
Disengage blades before starting engine.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable; refuel outdoors with engine off and cool. Keep children and pets away during operation.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assembly requires basic tools.

Attach steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Install seat: Mount with provided bolts and washers.
Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 (approx. 2 quarts).
Add gasoline: Use unleaded 87 octane or higher.
Check tire pressure: Inflate to 14 PSI (front), 10 PSI (rear).

CAUTION! Ensure all bolts are tightened to specified torque. Check for loose parts before operation.

Specifications

Engine: 20HP Briggs & Stratton, OHV.
Cutting Deck: 46-inch, stamped steel.
Transmission: Hydrostatic, single-speed.
Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions).
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).
Fuel Capacity: 3.5 gallons.
Oil Capacity: 2 quarts (SAE 30).
Tire Size: Front 15x6.00-6, Rear 20x10.00-8.
Weight: 450 lbs (approximate).
Warranty: 2-year limited.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Dashboard: Ignition key, Headlight switch, Blade engagement lever, Parking brake, Throttle, Choke.

Operation: 1. Sit on seat. 2. Set parking brake. 3. Disengage blades. 4. Move throttle to fast. 5. Turn key to start. 6. Release parking brake. 7. Use forward/reverse pedals to move. 8. Engage blades to mow.

Stopping: 1. Disengage blades. 2. Move throttle to slow. 3. Set parking brake. 4. Turn key to off.

Cutting & Mowing

For best results, mow when grass is dry.

Adjust cutting height: Use lever beside seat.
Engage blades: Pull lever upward slowly.
Mow in overlapping passes: For even cut.
Change direction: Alternate mowing patterns weekly.
Mulching: Install mulching plug; do not bag.

Tip: Never remove more than 1/3 of grass height in a single mowing. Keep blades sharp for clean cuts.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long life and performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, fuel level, clear deck of debris
Every 8 hours	Check engine oil level
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil (first 5 hours), sharpen blades
Every 50 hours	Replace air filter, check spark plug
Every 100 hours	Change oil filter, check transmission fluid
Seasonally	Lubricate pivot points, check belt tension

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for long-term storage, especially winter.

Drain or stabilize fuel: Run engine dry or add fuel stabilizer.
Change oil: Replace with fresh oil.
Remove battery: Store in cool, dry place; charge monthly.
Clean deck: Remove grass and debris; spray with silicone.
Store indoors: In dry, covered location.

CAUTION! Do not store with gasoline in tank without stabilizer. Gasoline can degrade and damage engine.

Warranty Information

Craftsman LT2000 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact Craftsman at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep your receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, dead battery, clogged filter	Check fuel level; charge battery; replace air filter.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed	Sharpen or replace blades; set throttle to fast.
Vibration or noise	Loose blade, debris in deck	Tighten blade bolt; clean underside of deck.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old spark plug	Replace air filter; clean or replace spark plug.
Hydrostatic transmission slips	Low fluid, worn belt	Check fluid level; inspect and replace drive belt.

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

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