Craftsman M110 Engine Manual

The Craftsman M110 is a 173cc Briggs & Stratton-powered walk-behind lawn mower engine, featuring a single-cylinder, 4-stroke OHV design with recoil start, 21-inch steel deck, 2-in-1 side discharge/mulching capability, 6-position cutting height adjustment, and a 2-gallon fuel tank. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 173cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, recoil starter, 2-in-1 discharge system, 6-position height adjustment lever, 2-gallon fuel tank with gauge, washout port, and durable 10-inch rear wheels.

Installation & Assembly

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

1. Attach handle: Secure upper and lower handle sections with provided bolts and wing nuts.
2. Install wheels: Slide wheels onto axles and secure with push pins or washers.
3. Connect control cables: Attach throttle and drive cables to engine and handle controls.
4. Install battery (if electric start model): Connect red (+) then black (-) terminals.
5. Add oil and fuel: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil (check dipstick). Add fresh unleaded gasoline.

WARNING! Wear gloves during assembly. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely.

First-Time Setup

Before first use, complete initial setup steps.

1. Check oil level: Ensure oil is at FULL mark on dipstick.
2. Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher). Do not overfill.
3. Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (recommend 2.5-3 inches for first mow).
4. Test controls: Verify throttle, drive, and blade engagement operate smoothly.
5. Break-in period: Run engine at half throttle for first 5 hours of operation.

CAUTION! Never add fuel while engine is hot. Allow to cool for 30 minutes.

Specifications

• Engine: Briggs & Stratton 675 Series, 173cc, 4-stroke OHV.
• Power: 5.5 ft-lbs torque.
• Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).
• Oil Type: SAE 30 (above 40°F), 10W-30 (32°F to 104°F), 5W-30 (below 32°F).
• Oil Capacity: 20 oz (0.6 L).
• Cutting Width: 21 inches.
• Cutting Heights: 1.25, 1.75, 2.25, 2.75, 3.25, 3.75 inches.
• Deck: 21-inch steel, powder-coated.
• Wheels: 10-inch rear, 8-inch front.
• Weight: 65 lbs (approx.).

Controls and Settings

Handle Controls: Throttle lever, drive control bar, blade engagement lever. Deck Controls: Height adjustment lever (6 positions). Engine Controls: Choke, primer bulb (if equipped), recoil starter.

Operation: Throttle lever (Turtle/Rabbit symbols) controls engine speed. Drive control bar engages self-propulsion. Blade engagement lever starts/stops blade rotation. Height adjustment lever changes cutting height.

Settings: Choke for cold starts. Primer bulb (3 presses max) for fuel priming. Oil drain plug for oil changes. Washout port for deck cleaning.

Starting & Operation

Starting procedure for recoil start models:

1. Check oil and fuel levels.
2. Move throttle to FAST (Rabbit) position.
3. Engage choke (cold engine only).
4. Press primer bulb 3 times (if equipped).
5. Pull recoil starter firmly until engine starts.
6. Disengage choke after 30 seconds.

Mowing Tips: Mow when grass is dry. Overlap passes by 2 inches. Change mowing pattern weekly. Never remove more than 1/3 of grass height at once.

Tip: Allow engine to warm up 1-2 minutes before engaging blade.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

Blade Care & Sharpening

A sharp blade ensures clean cuts and healthy grass.

1. Disconnect spark plug wire.
2. Tip mower on side (carburetor side up).
3. Secure blade with block of wood.
4. Remove blade bolt (clockwise to loosen).
5. Sharpen with file or grinder at original angle (typically 30°).
6. Balance blade (use blade balancer or nail).
7. Reinstall with bolt torqued to 40-50 ft-lbs.

CAUTION! Wear heavy gloves when handling blades. Replace if cracked or badly worn.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

1. Drain or stabilize fuel: Run engine dry or add fuel stabilizer.
2. Change oil: Replace with fresh oil to remove contaminants.
3. Clean deck: Remove grass clippings and debris.
4. Remove battery (if equipped): Store in cool, dry place.
5. Store indoors: Keep in dry, covered location.

Tip: Lubricate control cables and pivot points before storage.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

• Wear safety glasses, long pants, and sturdy shoes.
• Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles.
• Never mow wet grass or in poor visibility.
• Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
• Disconnect spark plug before maintenance.
• Never leave mower unattended while running.
• Keep children and pets away from mowing area.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable. Store in approved container away from heat sources.

Troubleshooting

Reset: For safety switches, ensure all controls are in proper positions.

Service: For technical support, contact Craftsman at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com