Craftsman M230 163cc Lawn Mower Manual

The Craftsman M230 is a 21-inch push lawn mower powered by a 163cc Briggs & Stratton engine, featuring a single-lever height adjustment system, 3-in-1 capability (mulch, bag, side discharge), durable steel deck, easy-start technology, and a 2-year limited warranty. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. Safety Precautions 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting Height Adjustment 7. 3-in-1 Functionality 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Storage Guidelines 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 163cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, single-lever height adjuster, rear bag, mulch plug, side discharge chute, and recoil starter.

Feature	Description
Engine	163cc Briggs & Stratton 675 Series, OHV
Cutting Width	21 inches
Cutting Deck	Durable steel construction
Height Adjustment	Single-lever, 6 positions (1.25-3.75 inches)
3-in-1 Function	Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge
Starting System	Recoil starter with Easy-Spin™ technology
Warranty	2-year limited
Fuel Tank	0.95 gallons
Bag Capacity	2.1 bushels
Weight	Approximately 65 lbs

Assembly Instructions

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

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 brackets.
Install mulch plug (if mulching): Insert into rear discharge opening.
Add oil and gasoline: Use SAE 30 detergent oil (20 oz) and unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

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

Safety Precautions

Read all instructions before operating. Failure to follow safety rules may result in serious injury.

Clear mowing area of stones, toys, and other objects that could be thrown.
Always wear sturdy footwear and eye protection.
Do not mow wet grass or in poor lighting conditions.
Never allow children to operate the mower.
Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.
Do not put hands or feet near rotating blades.
Use extreme caution when mowing on slopes.

DANGER! Gasoline is flammable. Refuel outdoors only, with engine off and cool.

Specifications

Model: Craftsman M230
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 675 Series, 163cc, OHV
Cutting Width: 21 inches
Cutting Heights: 6 positions, 1.25" to 3.75"
Deck Material: Steel
Starting System: Recoil
Fuel Capacity: 0.95 gallons
Oil Capacity: 20 oz (SAE 30)
Bag Capacity: 2.1 bushels
Product Dimensions: 64" L x 22" W x 43" H (assembled)
Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Operation

Handle controls: Drive control bar (must be held to propel mower), height adjustment lever, recoil starter grip.

Starting Procedure:

Check oil and fuel levels.
Push primer bulb 3 times (cold engine).
Set throttle control to FAST position.
Pull recoil starter handle firmly.

Stopping: Release drive control bar, move throttle to STOP position.

Operating Tips: Mow at steady pace, overlap passes slightly for even cut. Avoid mowing in reverse.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Single-lever adjustment for all four wheels simultaneously.

Stop engine and wait for blades to stop completely.
Pull height adjustment lever outward.
Move lever to desired position (1-6, lowest to highest).
Release lever to lock in position.

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

3-in-1 Functionality

Configure mower for mulching, bagging, or side discharge.

Mulching: Install mulch plug in rear discharge opening. Cuts clippings finely and returns them to lawn.
Bagging: Attach grass bag to rear brackets. Collects clippings for disposal.
Side Discharge: Remove mulch plug and bag. Install side discharge chute (optional accessory).

Tip: For best mulching results, mow when grass is dry and don't cut more than 1/3 of blade length.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Maintenance	Frequency
Check oil level	Before each use
Check blade condition	Before each use
Clean underside of deck	After each use
Replace air filter	Every season or 25 hours
Change oil	First 5 hours, then every season or 50 hours
Replace spark plug	Every season or 100 hours
Sharpen/replace blade	As needed, typically every 25 hours
Lubricate wheels	Every season

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents damage and extends mower life.

Drain fuel or add fuel stabilizer for long-term storage.
Change oil at end of season.
Clean mower thoroughly, especially underside of deck.
Store in dry, covered area away from moisture.
Remove spark plug and add 1 tablespoon of oil to cylinder, then pull starter slowly to coat.
Cover mower to protect from dust.

WARNING! Gasoline left in tank can deteriorate and damage fuel system. Always use fresh fuel.

Warranty Information

Craftsman M230 comes with a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, improper maintenance, or commercial use. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Care at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, old gasoline, clogged air filter	Add fresh fuel; clean/replace air filter; check spark plug.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter, old fuel	Clean/replace air filter; drain and add fresh gasoline.
Uneven cutting	Dull blade, uneven tire pressure	Sharpen or replace blade; check tire pressure.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, bent blade, debris in deck	Tighten blade bolt; replace bent blade; clean deck.
Mower doesn't propel	Drive cable needs adjustment	Adjust drive cable tension per manual instructions.
Grass not discharging	Wet grass, deck clogged, dull blade	Mow when dry; clean deck; sharpen blade.

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