Craftsman Mower Owner's Manual

The Craftsman Mower is a reliable lawn maintenance machine designed for residential use. It features a powerful engine, adjustable cutting heights, mulching and bagging capabilities, easy-start system, durable steel deck, ergonomic handles, and safety features like blade brake clutch. Powered by gasoline, it requires regular maintenance for optimal performance. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Operating the Mower 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Guidelines 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty & Support 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, Cutting Deck, Handle Assembly, Height Adjustment Lever, Bagging/Mulching System, Safety Key, and Fuel Tank.

FeatureDescription
EnginePowerful Briggs & Stratton engine with easy-start technology
Cutting Deck21-inch steel deck with mulching and side-discharge capability
Height AdjustmentSingle-lever adjustment for 6 cutting positions (1.5" to 4")
Drive SystemSelf-propelled rear-wheel drive with variable speed control
Bagging System2-bushel grass catcher with easy-empty feature
Safety FeaturesBlade brake clutch, safety key, and operator presence control
HandleErgonomic folding handle with adjustable height
Fuel Tank1-quart capacity with easy-fill spout
Wheels10-inch rear wheels with turf-friendly tread
Warranty2-year limited warranty on mower, 3-year on engine

Assembly Instructions

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

  1. Attach handle: Align handle brackets with deck mounts, secure with provided bolts and wrench.
  2. Install grass bag: Attach bag support frame to deck rear, hook bag onto frame.
  3. Connect drive cable: Route cable from handle to transmission, adjust tension per manual.
  4. Add engine oil: Fill with SAE 30 detergent oil (check dipstick for level).
  5. Add gasoline: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum), fill tank.

WARNING! Keep hands clear of cutting blade during assembly. Wear protective gloves.

First-Time Setup

Before first use, complete pre-operation checks.

  1. Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
  2. Inspect blade: Verify blade is sharp and securely fastened.
  3. Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (start at 3" for first mow).
  4. Test safety features: Insert safety key, verify engine stops when handle is released.
  5. Start engine: Follow starting procedure (prime, choke, pull cord).

CAUTION! Operate only in clear daylight conditions. Clear lawn of debris first.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Handle Controls: Drive Control Lever, Speed Selector, Height Adjustment Lever, Blade Engage Lever.

Engine Controls: Throttle/Choke Control, Primer Bulb, Recoil Starter, Fuel Valve, Safety Key.

Operation: Insert safety key, set throttle to FAST, engage blade control, pull starter. Adjust speed with drive lever. Use height lever to change cutting height. Bagging/Mulching: Install bag for collection, remove for mulching or side discharge.

Operating the Mower

Starting: Insert key, set throttle to FAST, prime 3 times, pull starter cord. Mowing: Engage blade, adjust speed. Stopping: Release blade control, set throttle to STOP, remove key.

  1. Clear area of stones, toys, and other objects.
  2. Mow in straight lines, overlapping slightly for even cut.
  3. For slopes, mow across (not up and down) to prevent tipping.
  4. Empty bag when full to maintain performance.
  5. Allow engine to cool before refueling.

Tip: Mow when grass is dry for best results. Avoid mowing in wet conditions.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long life and safe operation.

  1. Before each use: Check oil, inspect blade, clear deck of debris.
  2. Every 25 hours: Change engine oil, clean air filter, check spark plug.
  3. Every season: Sharpen or replace blade, lubricate wheel bearings and cables.
  4. Storage: Drain fuel or add stabilizer, clean entire mower, store in dry place.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare mower for off-season storage to prevent damage.

  1. Drain fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes.
  2. Change engine oil.
  3. Clean underside of deck thoroughly.
  4. Remove spark plug, add 1 tablespoon of oil to cylinder, pull starter slowly.
  5. Store in cool, dry place, covered to protect from dust.

CAUTION! Gasoline is flammable. Store mower away from heat sources.

Safety Information

Read and follow all safety rules in manual.

For detailed safety instructions, refer to the manual.

Warranty & Support

Craftsman Mowers are backed by a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Engine has separate 3-year warranty. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact authorized service center. For support, visit www.craftsman.com or call 1-888-331-4569. Keep this manual for future reference.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, bad spark plug, safety key not insertedCheck fuel level, inspect spark plug, ensure safety key is inserted.
Engine runs poorlyDirty air filter, old gasolineClean or replace air filter, drain and refill with fresh gas.
Uneven cuttingDull blade, uneven tire pressureSharpen or replace blade, inflate tires to equal pressure (12 PSI).
Mower vibrates excessivelyLoose or damaged bladeStop engine, disconnect spark plug, tighten or replace blade.
Self-propel not workingDrive cable loose or brokenAdjust drive cable tension or replace if broken.
Grass bag not fillingClogged deck, wet grassClean underside of deck, mow when grass is dry.

Reset: For safety system issues, ensure all controls are in proper start position.

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

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