Craftsman M270 Lawn Mower Manual

The Craftsman M270 is a 21-inch, 163cc gas-powered push lawn mower featuring a Briggs & Stratton 725EXi engine, 3-in-1 mulching/bagging/side-discharge capability, single-lever height adjustment (6 positions: 1.25"-3.75"), durable steel deck, easy-start system, and rear-wheel drive. This manual covers safety, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure proper use and longevity of your mower.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: 21-inch steel cutting deck, Briggs & Stratton 725EXi engine, single-lever height adjuster, rear bagger, mulching plug, side-discharge chute, and easy-grip handle.

FeatureDescription
EngineBriggs & Stratton 725EXi, 163cc, OHV
Cutting Width21 inches
Cutting Height6 positions (1.25" to 3.75")
Deck MaterialPowder-coated steel
Drive SystemRear-wheel drive
3-in-1 FunctionMulch, Bag, Side-Discharge
Starting SystemRecoil start with Easy-Spin™ technology
Fuel Tank Capacity0.95 gallons
Wheel Size8-inch rear, 7-inch front
WeightApprox. 65 lbs (unassembled)

Assembly Instructions

Unpack all parts from box. Verify contents against parts list in manual.

  1. Attach handle: Align lower handle with deck brackets, secure with provided bolts and washers.
  2. Install upper handle: Connect to lower handle, tighten knobs or bolts.
  3. Attach grass bag: Hook bag frame onto rear deck brackets; ensure secure fit.
  4. Install side-discharge chute: Slide into slot on right side of deck; secure with wing nut.
  5. Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 detergent oil (approx. 20 oz). Check dipstick.
  6. Add gasoline: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher). Do not overfill.

WARNING! Wear gloves during assembly. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely before operation.

Safety Information

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

  1. Clear mowing area: Remove stones, toys, wire, and other debris.
  2. Check fuel: Fill outdoors, away from ignition sources. Wipe spills immediately.
  3. Inspect mower: Ensure blade is sharp and secure; check for loose parts.
  4. Start safely: Stand behind mower, feet away from deck. Pull recoil starter firmly.
  5. Operate carefully: Do not mow wet grass. Push, do not pull mower. Watch for slopes.
  6. Keep bystanders away: Especially children and pets.
  7. Stop engine: Before unclogging deck, adjusting height, or leaving mower unattended.

CAUTION! Gasoline is flammable. Store fuel in approved container only.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Handle Controls: Drive control bar (squeeze to engage wheels), height adjustment lever, engine stop lever.

Starting Procedure:

  1. Check oil and fuel levels.
  2. Prime engine (3-5 presses on primer bulb).
  3. Set throttle to FAST position.
  4. Pull recoil starter firmly until engine starts.

Stopping: Release drive control bar, move throttle to STOP, wait for blade to stop completely.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Single-lever adjustment for all four wheels.

  1. Stop engine and wait for blade to stop.
  2. Pull height adjustment lever outward.
  3. Move lever to desired position (1-6, lowest to highest).
  4. Release lever; ensure it locks into place.

Tip: For first mow of season, set to highest setting. Never remove more than 1/3 of grass blade length.

3-in-1 Deck Function

Configure for mulching, bagging, or side-discharge.

  1. Mulching: Install mulching plug in rear discharge opening. Blade recuts clippings.
  2. Bagging: Attach grass bag to rear brackets. Ensure chute is closed.
  3. Side-Discharge: Install side-discharge chute. Remove mulching plug and bag.

WARNING! Always stop engine before changing deck configuration.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends mower life.

TaskFrequency
Check engine oil levelBefore each use
Clean under deckAfter each use
Check/replace air filterEvery 25 hours
Sharpen/replace bladeEvery season or when dull
Change engine oilFirst 5 hours, then every 50 hours
Replace spark plugEvery 100 hours
Lubricate wheels & height adjusterEvery season

Storage Guidelines

Prepare mower for off-season storage to prevent damage.

  1. Run engine to warm oil, then drain completely.
  2. Remove spark plug, add 1 oz oil to cylinder, pull starter slowly to coat.
  3. Drain or add fuel stabilizer to full tank; run engine 2 minutes.
  4. Clean entire mower, especially under deck.
  5. Store in dry, covered area, preferably off concrete floor.

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

Warranty Information

Craftsman M270 comes with a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal residential use. Warranty does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, commercial use, or improper maintenance. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep this manual and receipt for reference.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, old gas, clogged filterAdd fresh fuel; check/choke; clean/replace air filter.
Engine runs poorlyDirty air filter, old fuelReplace air filter; drain and refill with fresh gas.
Uneven cuttingDull blade, uneven tire pressureSharpen or replace blade; check tire pressure.
Mower vibrates excessivelyLoose or damaged bladeStop engine, check blade balance and tightness.
Wheels not drivingDrive cable loose or brokenAdjust or replace drive control cable.
Grass not dischargingWet grass, clogged deckMow when grass is dry; clean under deck.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Craftsman service center. Use only genuine Craftsman parts.

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