Craftsman M230 Engine Manual

The Craftsman M230 is a 163cc Briggs & Stratton-powered walk-behind lawn mower featuring a 21-inch steel deck, 3-in-1 mulching/bagging/side-discharge capability, single-lever height adjustment (6 positions), easy-start system, and durable construction. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Starting & Stopping 7. Cutting Height Adjustment 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Storage & Winterization 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 163cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel deck, 3-in-1 function, single-lever height adjustment, rear bagger, easy-start system.

Feature	Description
Engine	163cc Briggs & Stratton 675 Series, OHV
Deck	21-inch steel, 3-in-1 (mulch/bag/side-discharge)
Cutting Height	Single-lever adjustment, 6 positions (1.5-3.75 inches)
Starting	Easy-start system with primer bulb
Drive	Push-powered (non-self-propelled)
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Fuel Tank	0.95 gallon capacity
Oil Capacity	20 oz (0.6L), SAE 30 detergent oil
Weight	Approximately 65 lbs
Warranty	Limited 2-year warranty

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operation. Wear appropriate safety gear.

Clear mowing area of debris, stones, and toys.
Never operate without guards or safety devices in place.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
Do not mow on steep slopes or wet grass.
Stop engine before unclogging or adjusting.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable; store in approved container away from ignition sources. Engine becomes hot during operation; allow to cool before refueling or servicing.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble handle and attach bagger.

Attach handle: Secure with provided bolts and wing nuts.
Install rear bag: Connect bag frame to deck hooks; attach bag.
Check oil: Ensure oil level is at full mark on dipstick.
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).
Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position.

CAUTION! Tighten all fasteners securely. Do not over-tighten plastic components.

Specifications

Engine: Briggs & Stratton 675 Series, 163cc, OHV.
Power: 5.0 ft-lbs gross torque.
Cutting Width: 21 inches.
Cutting Height: 1.5 to 3.75 inches (6 positions).
Deck Material: Powder-coated steel.
Fuel Capacity: 0.95 gallon.
Oil Type: SAE 30 detergent (above 40°F).
Starting System: Recoil with primer bulb.
Warranty: 2-year limited.
Compliance: Meets ANSI B71.1 safety standards.

Controls and Operation

Handle Controls: Drive bail (safety handle), throttle control, height adjustment lever.

Operation: Engage drive bail to start engine; release to stop blade and engine. Throttle control sets engine speed (FAST for cutting, SLOW for idle). Height lever adjusts cutting height.

3-in-1 Function: Install mulch plug for mulching; attach bag for collection; remove both for side discharge. Always stop engine before changing function.

Starting & Stopping

Starting Procedure:

Check oil and fuel levels.
Move throttle to FAST position.
Press primer bulb 3 times (cold engine).
Engage drive bail against handle.
Pull starter rope briskly.

Stopping: Release drive bail to stop blade and engine. Move throttle to STOP position. For emergency stop, release drive bail immediately.

Tip: If engine doesn't start after 3 pulls, wait 2 minutes and repeat priming.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Single-lever system adjusts all four wheels simultaneously.

Stop engine and ensure blade has stopped.
Pull height lever toward wheel.
Move lever to desired notch (1=lowest, 6=highest).
Release lever to lock in position.
Test adjustment by pushing mower slightly.

WARNING! Never adjust height while engine is running. Always check clearance under deck.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, inspect blade, clear debris
Every 25 hours	Change oil (first change after 5 hours)
Every season	Replace air filter, spark plug
As needed	Sharpen blade, check tire pressure
Storage	Drain fuel or add stabilizer

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues.

Drain fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer.
Run engine 5 minutes to circulate stabilized fuel.
Change oil and replace air filter.
Clean underside of deck thoroughly.
Store in dry, covered area.

Tip: Remove spark plug and add 1 tablespoon of oil to cylinder; pull starter slowly to coat cylinder wall.

Warranty Information

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

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, old gas, clogged filter	Add fresh fuel; clean/replace filter; check spark plug.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter, bad gas	Replace air filter; drain and refill with fresh gas.
Uneven cutting	Dull blade, uneven height	Sharpen blade; adjust cutting height evenly.
Vibration	Bent blade, loose parts	Inspect and replace blade; tighten all fasteners.
Bag not filling	Wet grass, clogged deck	Mow when grass is dry; clean underside of deck.

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