Craftsman M220 Engine Manual

The Craftsman M220 is a 4-cycle, single-cylinder, air-cooled gasoline engine commonly used in lawn mowers and other outdoor power equipment. This manual covers safety precautions, specifications, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and storage procedures. Below are key sections for proper use and care of your M220 engine.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Oil Change Procedure 8. Air Filter Service 9. Spark Plug Replacement 10. Storage Guidelines 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 4-cycle engine, recoil starter, air filter, muffler, fuel tank, oil fill/drain, and control panel.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	4-cycle, single-cylinder, air-cooled
Displacement	Approx. 140cc (varies by model)
Ignition System	Solid-state electronic ignition
Fuel Tank Capacity	Approx. 0.5 gallons (1.9 liters)
Oil Capacity	Approx. 20 oz (0.6 liters)
Starter Type	Recoil (pull-start)
Air Filter	Foam or paper element
Muffler	Spark-arresting type
Governor	Mechanical type for speed control
Fuel Type	Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum)

Installation

Install engine on equipment according to manufacturer instructions.

Mounting: Secure engine to equipment using provided hardware and torque to specification.
Fuel Line: Connect fuel line from tank to carburetor; ensure clamps are tight.
Throttle Linkage: Connect throttle cable to governor arm and carburetor.
Check Oil: Ensure oil is at proper level before starting.

WARNING! Engine is heavy; use proper lifting techniques. Ensure all fasteners are tightened securely.

First-Time Setup

Prepare engine for initial use.

Add Oil: Fill with SAE 30 detergent oil (or as recommended for temperature) to full mark on dipstick.
Add Fuel: Fill tank with fresh unleaded gasoline. Do not overfill.
Check Air Filter: Ensure filter is clean and properly installed.
Starting: Set choke, pull starter cord smoothly until engine starts.

CAUTION! Operate engine outdoors only. Keep area clear of debris and flammable materials.

Specifications

Engine Model: Craftsman M220.
Bore x Stroke: Approx. 2.56 in x 1.97 in (65mm x 50mm).
Max Power: Approx. 5.5 HP at 3600 RPM.
Fuel System: Float-type carburetor with primer bulb (if equipped).
Oil Type: SAE 30 detergent oil (above 40°F/4°C). Use SAE 10W-30 for varying temperatures.
Spark Plug: Champion RC12YC or equivalent, gap 0.030 in (0.76mm).
Air Filter: Serviceable foam or replaceable paper element.
Weight: Approx. 35 lbs (15.9 kg).

Controls and Operation

Controls include throttle, choke, primer (if equipped), and stop switch.

Starting Procedure:

Check oil and fuel levels.
Move throttle to FAST or START position.
Engage choke (COLD start) or leave off (WARM start).
Press primer bulb 3 times if equipped.
Pull starter cord briskly until engine starts.
Gradually move choke to OFF after engine warms.

Stopping: Move throttle to SLOW, then turn ignition switch to OFF.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long engine life.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level; inspect for leaks; check air filter
Every 25 hours	Clean air filter; check spark plug
Every 50 hours	Change oil; clean cooling fins; check muffler
Every 100 hours	Replace air filter; replace spark plug
Seasonally	Drain fuel or add stabilizer; check all fasteners

Oil Change Procedure

Change oil when engine is warm for complete drainage.

Run engine 2-3 minutes to warm oil.
Stop engine and disconnect spark plug wire.
Place drain pan under drain plug.
Remove drain plug and oil fill cap; drain completely.
Reinstall drain plug; fill with recommended oil to full mark.
Reinstall oil fill cap; wipe spills; reconnect spark plug wire.

Tip: Dispose of used oil at approved recycling center.

Air Filter Service

Clean or replace air filter regularly.

Remove filter cover and filter.
Foam Filter: Wash in warm soapy water, rinse, dry, and lightly oil.
Paper Filter: Tap gently to remove dust; replace if dirty or damaged.
Reinstall filter and cover securely.

WARNING! Do not run engine without air filter; dust can cause rapid wear.

Spark Plug Replacement

Replace spark plug annually or every 100 hours.

Disconnect spark plug wire.
Clean area around plug.
Remove plug with socket wrench.
Check gap (0.030 in); adjust if necessary.
Install new plug; torque to 18-22 ft-lb.
Reconnect spark plug wire.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare engine for storage if not used for 30+ days.

Drain fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer and run engine 5 minutes.
Change oil and filter.
Remove spark plug; add 1 teaspoon oil to cylinder; pull starter slowly to coat; reinstall plug.
Clean exterior; store in dry, covered area.

CAUTION! Gasoline left in carburetor can form varnish; drain or use stabilizer.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, bad spark, clogged filter	Check fuel; check spark plug; clean air filter; ensure choke set properly.
Hard starting	Dirty air filter, old fuel	Clean/replace air filter; use fresh fuel; check primer operation.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty fuel system, bad plug	Clean carburetor; replace fuel filter; check spark plug gap.
Excessive vibration	Loose mounting, bent blade	Tighten mounting bolts; check and balance blade.
Overheating	Dirty cooling fins, low oil	Clean cooling fins; check oil level; ensure proper airflow.

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