Craftsman T1000 Lawn Tractor Manual

The Craftsman T1000 is a 17.5 HP, 42-inch cutting width lawn tractor designed for residential use. It features a Briggs & Stratton engine, hydrostatic transmission, single-lever cutting height adjustment, electric PTO, and a 2-gallon fuel tank. This manual covers safety, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure proper use and longevity of your tractor.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Controls & Operation 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Engine Care 7. Mower Deck Maintenance 8. Storage & Winterization 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty & Support 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 42-inch stamped steel mower deck, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric PTO, Single-lever height adjustment, 2-gallon fuel tank.

Feature	Description
Engine	17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, single-cylinder, OHV
Cutting Width	42 inches
Transmission	Hydrostatic, infinite forward/reverse speeds
PTO	Electric clutch engagement
Height Adjustment	Single lever, 1-4 inch range
Fuel Tank	2-gallon capacity
Seat	High-back, adjustable
Tires	Front: 15x6.00-6, Rear: 20x10.00-8
Battery	12V, 280 CCA
Weight	Approx. 450 lbs

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble on level surface.

Install steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Attach seat: Mount using provided hardware.
Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 (approx. 1.5 quarts).
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane min).

WARNING! Tractor is heavy; use assistance. Ensure all bolts are tightened to specified torque.

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before operation.

Starting: Set parking brake, PTO off, sit on seat, turn key.
Driving: Release parking brake, use forward/reverse pedals.
Mowing: Engage PTO lever, adjust speed with throttle.
Height adjustment: Use lever to set cutting height (1-4 inches).
Shutdown: Disengage PTO, set parking brake, turn key off.

CAUTION! Always sit in seat when starting. Keep hands/feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Engine: 17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, OHV.
Cutting Width: 42 inches.
Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite speeds.
Fuel Capacity: 2 gallons.
Cutting Heights: 1 to 4 inches (single lever).
Dimensions: 68" L x 42" W x 42" H.
Weight: 450 lbs.
Battery: 12V, 280 CCA.
Warranty: 2-year limited.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures performance and safety.

Before each use: Check oil level, tire pressure, fuel level.

Every 25 hours: Change oil, check air filter, inspect blades.

Every 50 hours: Replace air filter, check spark plug.

Every 100 hours: Change transmission fluid, replace fuel filter.

Seasonally: Sharpen blades, lubricate fittings, check battery.

Engine Care

Oil: Check level before each use; change every 25 hours (SAE 30). Air Filter: Clean every 25 hours; replace every 50 hours. Spark Plug: Gap 0.030 inches; replace annually. Fuel: Use fresh unleaded; add stabilizer for storage.

Change oil: Warm engine, drain plug, refill 1.5 quarts.
Air filter: Remove cover, clean/replace foam element.
Spark plug: Disconnect wire, remove, gap, install.

Tip: Always disconnect spark plug wire before maintenance.

Mower Deck Maintenance

Supports efficient cutting and longevity.

Blade sharpening: Remove deck, secure blade, sharpen evenly.
Belt inspection: Check for cracks/wear; replace if damaged.
Deck cleaning: Remove debris after each use.
Pulley lubrication: Apply grease to spindles annually.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug before blade work. Wear gloves.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare tractor for off-season storage.

Drain fuel or add stabilizer. Change oil. Remove battery; store charged. Clean deck/lubricate. Store in dry, covered area.

Safety Information

Read manual before operation. Wear eye/hearing protection. Clear area of debris. Do not mow on slopes >15°. Keep children away. Use parking brake on inclines.

CAUTION! Never remove safety devices. Stop engine before adjustments.

Warranty & Support

2-year limited warranty for residential use. Proof of purchase required. For support, visit www.craftsman.com or contact 1-888-331-4569. Keep manual for reference.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, dead battery, safety switch	Check fuel/battery; ensure PTO off and seat occupied.
Poor cutting	Dull blades, low speed	Sharpen blades; adjust throttle to full.
Vibration	Unbalanced blade, debris	Stop engine, inspect blade for damage/balance.
Loss of power	Clogged filter, old fuel	Replace air/fuel filter; use fresh gasoline.
Hydrostatic issues	Low fluid, linkage	Check fluid level; inspect control linkage.

Reset: Check all safety switches; disconnect battery for 5 minutes if electrical issues.

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