Craftsman LT2000 User Manual

The Craftsman LT2000 is a 20 HP Kohler V-twin engine riding lawn tractor with a 42-inch cutting deck, hydrostatic transmission, electric PTO, and 6-speed manual gear drive. It features a comfortable high-back seat, cup holder, headlights, and a durable steel frame. 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. Safety Features 10. Care & Maintenance 11. Regulatory Information 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 20 HP Kohler V-twin engine, 42-inch cutting deck, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric PTO, High-back seat, Headlights, Cup holder, Steel frame construction.

Feature	Description
Engine	20 HP Kohler V-twin, air-cooled, overhead valve
Cutting Deck	42-inch stamped steel, 3-blade system
Transmission	Hydrostatic, infinite forward/reverse speeds
PTO	Electric clutch engagement
Seat	High-back, adjustable for operator comfort
Headlights	Integrated for low-light operation
Cup Holder	Convenient beverage storage
Frame	Heavy-duty steel construction
Fuel Tank	2.5-gallon capacity
Battery	12V, maintenance-free

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a flat, stable surface.

Install steering wheel: Align and secure with provided hardware.
Attach seat: Mount seat bracket and secure with bolts.
Install battery: Connect positive (red) then negative (black) terminals.
Attach cutting deck: Lower deck lift lever, align with mounting points, and secure.
Add fluids: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil (check dipstick) and fuel tank with unleaded gasoline.

WARNING! Tractor is heavy; use assistance during assembly. 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.
Check fuel: Fill tank with fresh unleaded gasoline.
Check tire pressure: Inflate to 15 PSI (front) and 10 PSI (rear).
Adjust seat: Position for comfortable reach to all controls.
Start engine: Set parking brake, move PTO to OFF, turn key to START.
Test controls: Practice forward/reverse motion and steering in an open area.

CAUTION! Never operate without proper training. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Engine: 20 HP Kohler V-twin, air-cooled, OHV.
Cutting Width: 42 inches.
Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite speeds.
Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4 inches (adjustable lever).
Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gallons.
Oil Capacity: 2 quarts (SAE 30).
Battery: 12V, 230 CCA.
Weight: 450 lbs (approximate).
Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Settings

Operator station includes ignition key, steering wheel, brake pedal, forward/reverse pedals, PTO switch, cutting height lever, and parking brake.

Dashboard: Ignition switch, PTO engagement button, headlight switch, hour meter.

Cutting Height: Adjust lever to desired setting (1.5 to 4 inches). Speed Control: Hydrostatic pedals - press forward to go forward, reverse to go backward. Parking Brake: Engage before dismounting. PTO: Electric switch engages mower blades.

Attaching Implements

Compatible with Craftsman bagger, mulcher, and tow-behind spreader.

Turn off engine and remove key.
Lower cutting deck to lowest position.
Align implement with hitch or mounting points.
Secure with pins or bolts as specified in implement manual.
Test attachment operation at low speed before full use.

Tip: Always refer to implement manual for specific installation instructions.

Mowing Operation

For optimal cutting performance and lawn health.

Clear area: Remove rocks, toys, and debris from mowing path.
Set cutting height: Adjust lever based on grass type and season.
Start mower: Engage parking brake, start engine, then engage PTO.
Mow in patterns: Overlap passes by 2-3 inches for even cut.
Avoid wet grass: Mow when grass is dry for best results.
Clean deck: After mowing, disengage PTO and clean underside of deck.

WARNING! Never mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees. Always mow across slopes, not up and down.

Safety Features

Operator Presence Control: Engine stops if operator leaves seat with PTO engaged. Parking Brake: Must be engaged to start engine. Blade Brake Clutch: Stops blades within 3 seconds of PTO disengagement.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures long life and optimal performance.

Daily: Check oil level, clean deck, inspect blades.
Every 25 hours: Change oil, check air filter.
Every 100 hours: Replace spark plug, check belt tension.
Seasonal: Stabilize fuel, store in dry place.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance. Allow engine to cool before servicing.

Regulatory Information

EPA Tier 4 compliant engine. Meets ANSI/OPEI B71.1 safety standards for riding mowers. Copyright © 2025 Craftsman; trademarks of Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. For support, visit www.craftsman.com or contact 1-888-331-4569.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, safety switch	Charge battery; add fuel; ensure parking brake engaged and seat occupied.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, clogged deck	Sharpen or replace blades; clean deck underside.
Excessive vibration	Unbalanced blade, loose parts	Check blade balance; tighten all bolts and mounting hardware.
Hydrostatic transmission sluggish	Low fluid, air in system	Check fluid level; bleed air from system per manual.
Battery not charging	Faulty alternator, loose connections	Test alternator output; clean and tighten battery terminals.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 5 minutes to reset electrical system.

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