Craftsman LT2500 Riding Lawn Mower Manual

The Craftsman LT2500 is a 25 HP Kohler Courage V-Twin engine riding lawn mower with a 46-inch fabricated steel cutting deck, 6-speed manual transmission, electric PTO engagement, and a 2.5-gallon fuel tank. It features a comfortable high-back seat, headlights, cup holder, and a durable steel frame. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting Deck Operation 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage & Winterization 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: 25 HP Kohler Courage V-Twin engine, 46-inch fabricated steel deck, 6-speed manual transmission, Electric PTO, High-back seat, Headlights, Cup holder, 2.5-gallon fuel tank.

Feature	Description
Engine	25 HP Kohler Courage V-Twin, overhead valve
Cutting Deck	46-inch fabricated steel, 3-blade system
Transmission	6-speed manual, gear-driven
PTO Engagement	Electric clutch, dash-mounted switch
Fuel Tank	2.5-gallon capacity, gasoline
Seat	High-back, adjustable suspension
Headlights	Integrated for low-light operation
Cup Holder	Convenient beverage storage
Cutting Height	Adjustable 1.5 to 4 inches, lever-operated
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive with differential lock

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety instructions before operating.

Always wear appropriate safety gear: eye protection, sturdy shoes, long pants.
Clear mowing area of debris, rocks, and toys before starting.
Never allow children or pets in the area while mowing.
Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees; mow across slopes, not up and down.
Disengage blades and set parking brake before dismounting.

WARNING! Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, a deadly gas. Never operate in enclosed spaces. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

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

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

Specifications

Engine: 25 HP Kohler Courage V-Twin, OHV
Cutting Width: 46 inches
Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4 inches (adjustable)
Transmission: 6-speed manual, gear-driven
Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gallons
Oil Capacity: 2 quarts (with filter)
Tire Size: Front 15x6.00-6, Rear 20x10.00-8
Weight: 520 lbs (approximate)
Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting engine.

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

Steering/Driving: Steering wheel, Gear shift lever (1-6), Brake pedal, Parking brake lever, Clutch pedal (if equipped).

Starting Procedure: 1. Sit on seat. 2. Set parking brake. 3. Disengage PTO. 4. Move throttle to FAST. 5. Turn key to START. 6. Release key when engine starts.

Stopping: 1. Disengage PTO. 2. Move throttle to SLOW. 3. Turn key to OFF. 4. Set parking brake.

Cutting Deck Operation

Proper deck operation ensures optimal cutting performance.

Engage PTO only when engine is at full throttle.
Adjust cutting height using deck lift lever.
Mow at steady speed; avoid overlapping more than 2 inches.
Disengage PTO when crossing driveways or non-grass areas.
Clean deck after each use to prevent grass buildup.

Tip: For best results, mow when grass is dry. Keep blades sharp and balanced.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long life and reliable operation.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, fuel level, deck for debris
First 5 hours	Change engine oil and filter
Every 25 hours	Check blade condition, sharpen if needed
Every 50 hours	Change oil, clean air filter, check spark plugs
Every 100 hours	Change transmission fluid, grease fittings
Seasonally	Replace fuel filter, check battery

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents damage during off-season.

Clean entire mower thoroughly.
Change engine oil and filter.
Add fuel stabilizer to tank and run engine for 5 minutes.
Disconnect battery and store in cool, dry place.
Store in covered, dry location; elevate if possible.

CAUTION! Never store with gasoline in tank without stabilizer. Drain fuel if storing longer than 30 days.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel tank, clogged fuel filter	Charge battery, add fuel, replace fuel filter
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed, clogged deck	Sharpen blades, adjust throttle, clean deck
Excessive vibration	Unbalanced blade, loose blade bolt, damaged spindle	Balance or replace blade, tighten bolt, inspect spindle
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old spark plug, clogged fuel line	Clean/replace air filter, replace spark plug, clear fuel line
Hydrostatic transmission issues	Low fluid, air in system, worn belt	Check fluid level, bleed system, replace belt

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

Warranty Information

Craftsman LT2500 comes with a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, improper maintenance, or commercial use. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep your receipt and model/serial numbers for service requests.