Craftsman M230 163cc 7.25 Manual

The Craftsman M230 is a 163cc, 7.25-inch gas-powered lawn mower designed for residential use. It features a Briggs & Stratton engine, single-lever height adjustment, 3-in-1 capability (mulch, bag, side discharge), easy-start system, durable steel deck, and rear-wheel drive. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 163cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 7.25-inch steel cutting deck, single-lever height adjustment, 3-in-1 system, rear bag, easy-start technology.

Assembly Instructions

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

1. Attach handle: Insert lower handle into deck brackets, secure with provided bolts and wing nuts.
2. Install grass bag: Attach bag support frame to rear deck, hook bag onto frame.
3. Attach side discharge chute (if not mulching): Snap into place on deck opening.
4. Add engine oil: Remove oil fill cap/dipstick, add 20 oz of SAE 30 detergent oil (check manual for exact type).
5. Add gasoline: Use fresh unleaded gasoline with minimum 87 octane. Fill tank to indicated level.

WARNING! Do not add oil to gasoline. Keep assembly area clear of ignition sources.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operation. Always wear appropriate safety gear.

1. Clear mowing area of stones, toys, and other objects that could be thrown.
2. Do not operate on steep slopes (over 15 degrees). Mow across slopes, not up and down.
3. Keep hands and feet away from rotating blades. Disconnect spark plug before maintenance.
4. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary, and always look behind you.
5. Never allow children to operate the mower.

CAUTION! Gasoline is flammable. Store in approved container away from heat and sparks.

Specifications

• Model: Craftsman M230
• Engine Type: 4-cycle, single cylinder, air-cooled
• Displacement: 163 cc
• Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (min 87 octane)
• Oil Type: SAE 30 detergent oil (summer), check manual for multi-viscosity alternatives
• Cutting System: 3-in-1 (mulch, bag, side discharge)
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty
• Compliance: Meets ANSI B71.1-2017 safety standards

Controls and Operation

Handle Controls: Drive control lever (bail), height adjustment lever, engine control (combination lever).

Drive Control Lever (Bail): Pull towards handle to engage drive wheels; release to stop. Height Adjustment Lever: Single lever adjusts all four wheels simultaneously (1.25" to 3.75"). Engine Control Lever: Combination lever for starting (CHOKE/RUN) and stopping (STOP). Must be held against handle to run engine.

Operation: Check oil and fuel levels. Set cutting height. Clear area. Start engine. Engage drive control to move.

Starting & Stopping

Starting Cold Engine:

1. Move engine control lever to CHOKE position.
2. Prime engine (if equipped) by pressing primer bulb 3 times.
3. Pull starter cord briskly until engine starts.
4. Move control lever to RUN after engine starts.

Starting Warm Engine: Move control lever to RUN. Pull starter cord.

Stopping: Release drive control bail. Move engine control lever to STOP. Wait for all moving parts to stop.

Tip: If engine does not start after 3 pulls, wait 2 minutes to avoid flooding.

Cutting & Height Adjustment

Select cutting mode: Install appropriate accessory (mulching plug, bag, or side discharge chute).

1. Adjust height: Move single lever to desired position (1-6). Ensure all wheels lock at same height.
2. Mowing pattern: Overlap each pass by 2-3 inches for even cut.
3. Bagging: Empty bag when it is 2/3 full to maintain performance and airflow.
4. Mulching: Requires dry grass and sharp blade for best results.

WARNING! Always stop engine and disconnect spark plug before changing cutting mode or height.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long life and safe operation.

Blade Sharpening: Remove blade, sharpen at original angle (use blade balancer).

Storage

Prepare mower for off-season storage to prevent damage.

1. Run engine to burn remaining fuel in carburetor, or add fuel stabilizer to full tank and run for 5 minutes.
2. Change engine oil.
3. Clean mower thoroughly, especially underside of deck.
4. Remove spark plug, add 1 tablespoon of oil into cylinder, pull starter cord slowly to distribute, reinstall plug.
5. Store in a clean, dry place, covered.

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

Warranty Information

Craftsman M230 is covered by a 2-year limited warranty from date of purchase. Warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship under normal residential use. It does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, commercial use, or normal wear (blades, belts, etc.). For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep your receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs not covered in manual, contact authorized Craftsman service center.

Support: 1-888-331-4569; www.craftsman.com