Craftsman Riding Mower Manual

The Craftsman Riding Mower is a versatile lawn maintenance machine designed for efficient grass cutting on medium to large properties. It features a powerful engine, durable cutting deck, ergonomic operator controls, and various safety systems. Below are key sections covering 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. Cutting Deck Adjustment 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Guidelines 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, Cutting Deck, Operator Seat, Steering Wheel, Control Panel, Fuel Tank, Battery, and Drive System.

Feature	Description
Engine	Powerful gasoline engine with electric start
Cutting Deck	Steel deck with multiple cutting heights
Operator Seat	Adjustable padded seat with safety switch
Steering Wheel	Tilt-adjustable for operator comfort
Control Panel	Includes ignition, throttle, blade engage, and parking brake
Fuel Tank	Large capacity for extended operation
Battery	12V battery for electric start
Drive System	Hydrostatic transmission for smooth speed control
Safety Features	Blade brake clutch, seat safety switch, parking brake
Mulching Capability	Optional mulching kit for fine grass clippings

Safety Information

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

Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles.
Never allow children or pets near mower during operation.
Do not operate on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
Always engage parking brake before dismounting.
Disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

WARNING! Rotating blades can cause severe injury. Keep hands and feet away from cutting deck. Never operate without safety guards in place.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Attach steering wheel: Align and tighten with provided hardware.
Install seat: Mount seat onto frame and secure bolts.
Connect battery: Attach cables (red positive, black negative).
Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 or manufacturer-recommended oil.
Fill fuel tank: Use fresh unleaded gasoline only.
Check tire pressure: Inflate to recommended PSI (printed on sidewall).

CAUTION! Ensure all bolts are tightened securely. Test all controls before first use.

Specifications

Engine: 20 HP OHV gasoline engine.
Cutting Width: 42 inches.
Cutting Heights: 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions).
Transmission: Hydrostatic, single pedal control.
Fuel Capacity: 3.5 gallons.
Battery: 12V, 280 CCA.
Tires: Front 15x6.00-6, Rear 20x10.00-8.
Weight: Approximately 500 lbs.
Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Operation

Control Panel: Ignition Switch, Throttle Control, Blade Engage Lever, Choke, Parking Brake Lever.

Starting Procedure: 1. Sit on seat. 2. Engage parking brake. 3. Set throttle to mid-position. 4. Turn ignition key to START. 5. Release key when engine starts.

Driving: Release parking brake. Press forward pedal to move forward, reverse pedal to back up. Speed controlled by pedal pressure.

Mowing: Engage blade lever only when engine is at full throttle. Mow in overlapping passes for even cut.

Cutting Deck Adjustment

Adjust cutting height before mowing. Always stop engine and engage parking brake.

Locate height adjustment lever near seat.
Move lever to desired position (1=lowest, 6=highest).
Check level: Measure blade height from ground on both sides.
Adjust deck leveling rods if uneven.

Tip: For first mow of season, set to highest setting. Gradually lower for subsequent mows.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Before each use: Check tire pressure, fuel level, and deck for debris.
Every 8 hours: Check engine oil level.
Every 25 hours: Clean underside of deck, sharpen blades.
Every 50 hours: Change engine oil, replace oil filter.
Every 100 hours: Replace air filter, spark plug.
Seasonal: Grease fittings, check battery charge, inspect belts.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug before servicing blades or deck.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

Clean mower thoroughly, especially underside of deck.
Add fuel stabilizer to tank and run engine for 5 minutes.
Change oil and filter if due.
Remove battery and store in cool, dry place on trickle charger.
Store in dry, covered location, preferably on level surface.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days without stabilizer.

Warranty Information

Craftsman Riding Mowers come with a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, improper maintenance, or commercial use. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel tank, safety switch engaged	Charge battery; add fuel; ensure sitting fully in seat with parking brake engaged.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed, clogged deck	Sharpen blades; run at full throttle; clean deck underside.
Uneven cut	Uneven tire pressure, deck not level	Check and adjust tire pressure; level cutting deck.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old fuel, clogged fuel filter	Replace air filter; drain old fuel; replace fuel filter.
Vibration during operation	Unbalanced blade, loose blade bolt	Stop engine immediately. Check blade balance and tighten bolt to specification.

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