Craftsman M220 Mower Manual

The Craftsman M220 is a 22-inch push lawn mower featuring a 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 3-in-1 capability (mulch, bag, side discharge), single-lever height adjustment, durable steel deck, easy-start system, and ergonomic handle with soft-grip. This manual covers safety, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure proper and safe use of your mower.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 22-inch steel cutting deck, 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, single-lever height adjustment, 3-in-1 system, rear bag, mulch plug, side discharge chute, ergonomic handle, and easy-start technology.

Assembly Instructions

Unpack all parts and inspect for damage. Assembly requires basic tools (included).

1. Attach handle: Align lower handle with deck brackets, secure with provided bolts and wing nuts.
2. Install upper handle: Connect to lower handle, secure with knobs or bolts.
3. Attach grass bag: Hook bag frame onto rear deck brackets; ensure bag is properly seated.
4. Install side discharge chute (if needed): Attach to side port with provided hardware.
5. Insert mulch plug (for mulching): Place into rear discharge opening.
6. Check wheel installation: Ensure all wheels are securely attached and spin freely.
7. Add oil and fuel: Refer to engine manual for correct oil type; fill with fresh unleaded gasoline.

WARNING! Wear gloves during assembly. Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation.

Safety Information

Read all safety instructions before operating. Always wear appropriate protective equipment.

1. Clear mowing area: Remove stones, sticks, wire, and other debris.
2. Check fuel: Fill outdoors, away from ignition sources; wipe spills immediately.
3. Inspect mower: Ensure blades are sharp and undamaged; check for loose parts.
4. Start safely: Stand behind mower, engage safety handle, pull starter cord firmly.
5. Operate carefully: Mow across slopes, not up and down; keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
6. Stop engine: Release safety handle to stop blade; wait for all parts to stop before maintenance.
7. Store safely: Allow engine to cool before storing; store fuel in approved container.

CAUTION! Never operate without grass bag, mulch plug, or discharge chute properly installed. Keep children and pets away.

Specifications

• Model: Craftsman M220
• Engine: Briggs & Stratton 140cc, 4-cycle OHV
• Cutting Width: 22 inches
• Cutting Height Range: 1.25 to 3.75 inches (7 positions)
• Deck: 22-inch steel, 3-in-1 capability
• Wheels: 8-inch rear, 7-inch front
• Start Type: Recoil with easy-start
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 0.95 quarts
• Oil Capacity: 20 oz (SAE 30 recommended)
• Weight: 65 lbs (approx.)
• Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Operation

Main controls: Safety handle, throttle control, primer bulb, starter grip, height adjustment lever.

Starting Procedure:

1. Check oil and fuel levels.
2. Push primer bulb 3 times (cold engine).
3. Set throttle to FAST position.
4. Hold safety handle against handlebar.
5. Pull starter grip firmly until engine starts.

Stopping: Release safety handle; engine and blade will stop. Set throttle to STOP.

Operating Tips: Mow at steady pace; overlap passes slightly for even cut. Avoid mowing wet grass.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Single-lever adjustment for all four wheels simultaneously.

1. Stop engine and wait for blade to stop.
2. Locate adjustment lever on left side of deck.
3. Move lever to desired height setting (1-7).
4. Test mower on flat surface to ensure even cut.

Recommended Heights: 2.5-3 inches for most grasses; higher in hot/dry conditions.

3-in-1 Function Setup

Configure mower for mulching, bagging, or side discharge.

1. Mulching: Install mulch plug in rear discharge opening. Blade circulates clippings for fine mulch.
2. Bagging: Remove mulch plug; attach grass bag to rear brackets.
3. Side Discharge: Remove mulch plug and bag; attach side discharge chute to side port.

Tip: For best mulching, mow when grass is dry and not too tall. Empty bag frequently when bagging.

Maintenance Schedule

Blade Sharpening: Disconnect spark plug wire. Remove blade; sharpen at original angle (balance after sharpening).

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage extends mower life.

1. Clean mower thoroughly, especially under deck.
2. Drain fuel or add fuel stabilizer; run engine 2 minutes to circulate.
3. Change oil if near due.
4. Remove spark plug; add teaspoon of oil to cylinder; pull starter slowly to coat.
5. Store in dry, covered area; cover mower to keep dust-free.
6. Store battery (if electric start) in cool, dry place; charge periodically.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank indoors unless stabilized. Keep away from open flames.

Warranty Information

Craftsman M220 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. Keep original receipt for warranty claims. For service, contact Craftsman customer service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized Craftsman service center at 1-888-331-4569.