Craftsman T130 Engine Manual

The Craftsman T130 is a riding lawn mower powered by a Briggs & Stratton engine, featuring a 13.5 HP (420cc) OHV engine, electric start, 30-inch cutting deck, 6-speed manual transmission, and mulching/bagging/side discharge capabilities. This manual covers safety, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications for the T130 engine system. Below are key sections for safe operation, features, maintenance procedures, and engine-specific troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton 13.5 HP OHV engine, Electric starter with key, 30-inch steel cutting deck, 6-speed manual transmission, Mulching plug, Grass bagger attachment, Side discharge chute.

Safety Precautions

Read all instructions before operation. Wear appropriate safety gear.

1. Clear mowing area of debris, rocks, and toys.
2. Check engine oil level before each use.
3. Ensure all guards and shields are in place.
4. Never operate without proper seating or with bypassed safety switches.
5. Allow engine to cool before refueling or maintenance.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable; refuel outdoors only with engine off. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Engine Specifications

• Model: Briggs & Stratton 31P777-0007-G1
• Displacement: 420cc (25.7 cu. in.)
• Horsepower: 13.5 HP at 3600 RPM
• Bore x Stroke: 3.12 in. x 2.68 in.
• Compression Ratio: 8.5:1
• Oil Type: SAE 30 (above 32°F) or 10W-30 (all temperatures)
• Fuel: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum)
• Ignition: Solid-state magneto
• Air Cleaner: Dual-element (foam pre-cleaner and paper cartridge)
• Governor: Mechanical

Operation Instructions

Starting, running, and stopping procedures.

1. Pre-start: Check oil, fuel, and air filter. Engage parking brake.
2. Starting: Insert key, set choke (cold engine), turn to START. Release key when engine starts.
3. Running: Allow 30-second warm-up. Adjust throttle to desired speed.
4. Blade Engagement: Engage PTO lever slowly while engine is at full throttle.
5. Stopping: Disengage blade, set throttle to SLOW, turn key to OFF. Remove key.

CAUTION! Do not operate on slopes greater than 15 degrees. Always mow across slopes, not up and down.

Maintenance Schedule

Note: More frequent maintenance may be required under dusty or heavy-use conditions.

Engine Oil & Filter

Oil type: SAE 30 (above 32°F) or 10W-30 (all temperatures). Capacity: 48 oz.

1. Run engine briefly to warm oil (for draining).
2. Place drain pan under oil drain plug (rear of engine).
3. Remove drain plug and allow oil to drain completely.
4. Replace drain plug and refill with fresh oil to proper level on dipstick.
5. Oil filter: Replace every 100 hours or seasonally. Use Briggs & Stratton 492932S.

WARNING! Dispose of used oil properly at a recycling center.

Air Filter System

Dual-element filter: foam pre-cleaner and paper cartridge.

1. Remove air filter cover (two wing nuts).
2. Remove foam pre-cleaner; wash in warm soapy water, dry, and re-oil lightly.
3. Tap paper cartridge to remove dust; replace if dirty or damaged.
4. Reassemble in correct order: foam first, then paper cartridge.

Tip: Check air filter more often in dusty conditions. Never run engine without filter.

Spark Plug & Ignition

Spark plug: Champion RC12YC. Gap: 0.030 inch.

1. Disconnect spark plug wire.
2. Clean around plug base to prevent debris from entering cylinder.
3. Remove plug with 13/16-inch socket.
4. Check electrode gap; adjust if necessary.
5. Install and tighten to 18 ft-lb. Reconnect wire.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing any engine maintenance.

Fuel System

Fuel type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum). Add fuel stabilizer for storage.

1. Fuel tank capacity: 1.5 gallons.
2. Fuel filter: Located in fuel line between tank and carburetor. Replace if clogged.
3. Carburetor adjustment: Factory set; do not adjust unless necessary.
4. Storage: Run engine dry or add stabilizer for long-term storage.

WARNING! No smoking near fuel. Store gasoline in approved container only.

Cooling & Exhaust

Engine cooling: Air-cooled with fins around cylinder. Keep fins clean.

1. Regularly remove grass clippings and debris from cooling fins.
2. Check muffler and exhaust shield for damage or loose bolts.
3. Ensure engine area is free of obstructions for proper airflow.

CAUTION! Muffler becomes extremely hot during operation. Allow to cool before touching.

Troubleshooting

Reset: For safety switch issues, ensure all switches are engaged properly.

Service: For Briggs & Stratton engine service, contact 1-800-444-7774 or visit www.briggsandstratton.com