The Craftsman LTS 1500 is a 42-inch riding lawn tractor designed for residential use, featuring a 15.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 6-speed manual transmission, electric PTO, and a durable steel deck. This manual provides comprehensive parts identification, diagrams, ordering information, and maintenance guidance to ensure proper assembly, operation, and longevity of your tractor. Below are key sections covering parts lists, diagrams, specifications, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Key components: Engine Assembly, Mower Deck, Transmission, Drive Belt, Pulleys, Spindles, Blades, Wheels, Seat, Control Panel, Battery, and Electrical Harness.
| Part Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Engine Assembly | 15.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine with air filter, carburetor, spark plug |
| Mower Deck | 42-inch stamped steel deck with blade spindle assemblies |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual gearbox with shift linkage |
| Drive Belt | Main drive belt connecting engine to transmission |
| Pulleys | Idler pulleys and deck drive pulleys |
| Spindles | Blade spindles with bearings and housings |
| Blades | High-lift mulching blades (part # 134149) |
| Wheels | Front (15x6.00-6) and rear (20x10.00-8) tires with rims |
| Seat | Padded seat with suspension and mounting bracket |
| Control Panel | Ignition switch, throttle, choke, PTO engagement lever |
15.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine (model 28N707) parts list and diagram.
WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before servicing engine. Use correct oil (SAE 30 above 40°F).
42-inch mower deck assembly with parts diagram.
CAUTION! Ensure blades are balanced after sharpening. Tighten spindle bolts to 35-40 ft-lbs.
12V electrical system with battery, starter, alternator, switches, and wiring harness.
Battery: 12V, 280 CCA, group U1 size. Starter Solenoid: Part # 725-0456. Ignition Switch: 3-position (off, run, start). Safety Switches: Seat switch, brake switch, PTO switch. Wiring Harness: Main harness part # 132158.
Fuses: 20A fuse for PTO clutch circuit. Lights: Optional headlight kit (part # 134028).
Steering wheel, seat, pedals, levers, and instrument panel.
Tip: Lubricate control linkages annually with light oil.
Frame, fenders, hood, grille, and decals.
WARNING! Inspect frame for cracks or damage annually. Tighten all bolts to specified torque.
Regular maintenance parts and intervals.
| Interval | Part/Service | Part Number |
|---|---|---|
| Every 25 hours | Engine oil change (48 oz SAE 30) | N/A |
| Every 50 hours | Air filter replacement | 492456S |
| Every 100 hours | Spark plug replacement | Champion RC12YC |
| Annually | Transmission fluid (20 oz 20W-50) | N/A |
| As needed | Blade sharpening/replacement | 134149 |
| Seasonally | Battery check/charge | U1 battery |
Key assembly steps for new or repaired units.
CAUTION! Use torque wrench for critical fasteners. Refer to diagram for belt routing.
Safety parts and precautions.
Safety Switches: Seat switch prevents operation when rider is absent. Blade Brake Clutch: Stops blades when PTO disengaged. Rollover Protection: Not included; avoid slopes over 15 degrees. Shields: Deck shields and deflectors must be in place.
WARNING! Never bypass safety switches. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Part Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Engine won't start | Bad spark plug, clogged fuel filter | Spark plug RC12YC, fuel filter |
| Poor cutting performance | Dull blades, worn deck belt | Blades 134149, belt 144959 |
| Deck vibration | Unbalanced blades, worn spindle | Spindle assembly, blades |
| Transmission slips | Low fluid, worn drive belt | Transmission fluid, belt 144958 |
| Battery not charging | Faulty alternator, bad connections | Alternator, battery cables |
Ordering Parts: Use part numbers from this manual. Contact Craftsman at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.
Service: Authorized service centers; refer to model number 917.273643.