Craftsman M100 Push Mower Manual

The Craftsman M100 is a 21-inch push lawn mower featuring a 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 3-in-1 cutting system (mulch, bag, side discharge), single-lever height adjustment, durable steel deck, and easy-start technology. This manual covers safety instructions, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure proper use and longevity of your mower.

1. Safety Information 2. Assembly Instructions 3. Controls and Features 4. Specifications 5. Operation 6. Cutting System Setup 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operating. Key safety components: Engine stop lever, blade control handle, protective deflector shield.

Hazard	Precaution
Rotating blade	Keep hands and feet away from deck; never mow with safety devices removed
Fuel handling	Refuel outdoors only when engine is cool; use approved container
Debris ejection	Clear mowing area of stones, toys, and other objects
Slope operation	Mow across slopes, not up and down; use caution on inclines over 15°
Children and pets	Keep bystanders at least 50 feet away during operation

Assembly Instructions

Unpack all parts and inspect for damage. Assembly requires adjustable wrench and screwdriver.

Attach handle: Align lower handle with deck brackets, secure with provided bolts and wing nuts.
Install upper handle: Connect to lower handle, tighten knobs.
Attach grass bag: Hook bag frame onto rear deck mounts; ensure secure latch.
Add oil: Remove oil fill cap, add 20 oz SAE 30 detergent oil (check dipstick).
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum), fill to ¾ tank.

WARNING! Do not start engine until assembly is complete and all fasteners are tight.

Controls and Features

Front Panel: Engine stop lever, primer bulb, recoil starter grip. Handle: Blade control handle (deadman switch), height adjustment lever, drive control (if equipped).

Key Functions: Blade control must be held to keep engine and blade running. Height adjustment: Single lever adjusts all four wheels (1-4 inch range). 3-in-1 system: Select mulch plug, bag, or side discharge chute.

Specifications

Engine: Briggs & Stratton 140cc, 4-cycle, OHV
Cutting Width: 21 inches
Deck Material: Steel
Cutting Height: 1 to 4 inches (8 positions)
Wheels: 8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Fuel Tank Capacity: 1.0 quart
Oil Capacity: 20 oz
Weight: 65 lbs (approx.)
Warranty: 2-year limited

Operation

Starting and operating procedures for normal conditions.

Pre-start check: Verify oil and fuel levels; clear mowing area.
Starting cold engine: Set throttle to FAST, press primer bulb 3 times, pull recoil starter firmly.
Engaging blade: Hold blade control handle against handlebar.
Mowing: Walk at steady pace; overlap passes slightly for even cut.
Stopping: Release blade control handle; engine and blade will stop. Move throttle to STOP.

Tip: Mow when grass is dry for best results. Avoid cutting more than 1/3 of grass height at once.

Cutting System Setup

Configure for mulching, bagging, or side discharge.

Mulching: Install mulch plug; keep blade sharp for fine clippings.
Bagging: Attach grass bag; empty when bag is ¾ full.
Side Discharge: Remove mulch plug and bag; attach discharge chute.

WARNING! Always stop engine and disconnect spark plug before changing cutting configuration.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures performance and safety.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level; inspect blade for damage; clear deck of debris
Every 25 hours	Change oil (more frequently in dusty conditions)
Every season	Replace air filter; sharpen or replace blade; check spark plug
As needed	Clean underside of deck; lubricate wheel axles; tighten fasteners

Storage

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

Run engine to use up fuel or add fuel stabilizer.
Change oil and replace air filter.
Clean deck thoroughly; apply light oil to blade to prevent rust.
Store in dry, covered location; cover mower to keep dust-free.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank indoors or near open flame.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, stale fuel, clogged air filter, spark plug issue	Check fuel; use fresh gas; clean/replace air filter; check spark plug gap/connection
Poor cutting performance	Dull blade, low engine speed, wet grass	Sharpen/replace blade; set throttle to FAST; mow when grass is dry
Excessive vibration	Damaged or unbalanced blade, loose fasteners	Stop engine immediately; inspect blade; tighten all bolts
Engine runs unevenly	Dirty carburetor, old fuel, clogged fuel line	Clean carburetor; drain fuel tank and lines; use fresh fuel
Wheels not turning freely	Debris in axles, lack of lubrication	Clean wheel axles; apply light lubricant

Warranty Information

Craftsman M100 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal residential use. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, commercial use, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.