Craftsman T100 Riding Mower Manual

The Craftsman T100 is a versatile 42-inch riding lawn mower designed for residential use, featuring a 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 6-speed manual transmission, electric start, adjustable cutting height (1.5" to 4"), mulching/bagging/side discharge capabilities, and a comfortable high-back seat. Below are key sections covering safety, operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Mowing Instructions 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage & Winterization 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 42-inch steel deck, 6-speed manual transmission, electric start, adjustable seat, mulching kit included.

Feature	Description
Engine	19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, single-cylinder, OHV
Cutting Width	42 inches
Transmission	6-speed manual, gear-driven
Starting System	Electric key start
Cutting Height	Adjustable 1.5" to 4" (6 positions)
Deck Material	12-gauge steel
Fuel Capacity	2.5 gallons
Seat	High-back, adjustable
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive
Battery	12V, 230 CCA

Safety Information

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

Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles.
Never carry passengers; keep bystanders away.
Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
Disengage blades before starting engine.
Stop engine and remove key before performing maintenance.

WARNING! Risk of blade contact and rollover. Operate with extreme caution on slopes. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Install steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Attach seat: Mount using provided bolts and washers.
Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 (approx. 48 oz).
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane min).
Check tire pressure: Front 14 PSI, Rear 10 PSI.

CAUTION! Ensure all bolts are tightened to specification. Do not overfill oil or fuel.

Specifications

Model: Craftsman T100
Engine: 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, OHV
Cutting Deck: 42-inch, 12-gauge steel
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum)
Oil Type: SAE 30 (above 32°F), 10W-30 (below 32°F)
Cutting Height Range: 1.5" to 4" (6 positions)
Weight: 450 lbs (approx.)
Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Dashboard: Ignition key, throttle control, choke, blade engagement lever, parking brake.

Operation Steps: 1. Sit firmly in seat. 2. Set parking brake. 3. Disengage blade control. 4. Move throttle to "FAST" position. 5. Turn ignition key to start. 6. Release parking brake, select gear, and begin mowing.

Stopping: Move throttle to "SLOW," turn key to "OFF," engage parking brake, remove key.

Mowing Instructions

For best results, mow when grass is dry.

Adjust cutting height based on grass type and season.
Mow in straight, overlapping passes.
Change mowing pattern weekly to avoid ruts.
On slopes, mow up and down (not across) if under 15 degrees.
Empty grass catcher frequently to maintain airflow.

Tip: Keep blades sharp for clean cuts and healthier grass.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long life and optimal performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, fuel level, and for loose parts
Every 8 hours	Check engine oil level
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil (first 5 hours for break-in)
Every 50 hours	Replace air filter; check spark plug
Every 100 hours	Replace spark plug; sharpen/replace blades
Seasonally	Lubricate moving parts; check battery

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before servicing blades.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

Run engine to warm oil, then drain and refill.
Add fuel stabilizer to tank and run engine for 5 minutes.
Disconnect battery and store in cool, dry place.
Clean underside of deck thoroughly.
Store in dry, covered location.

CAUTION! Do not store with fuel in tank without stabilizer. Gasoline can degrade and damage engine.

Warranty Information

Craftsman T100 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact Craftsman 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, clogged filter	Charge/replace battery; add fuel; clean/replace air filter.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed	Sharpen/replace blades; set throttle to "FAST."
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, unbalanced blade	Tighten blade bolt; balance or replace blade.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old fuel	Replace air filter; drain and refill with fresh fuel.
Battery not charging	Faulty alternator, loose connections	Check alternator output; clean and tighten battery terminals.

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