Craftsman T130 Riding Lawn Mower Manual

The Craftsman T130 is a 42-inch riding lawn mower featuring a 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, hydrostatic transmission, 6-speed gear drive, electric start, 3-in-1 discharge system (mulch/bag/side discharge), adjustable cutting height (1.5-4 inches), comfortable high-back seat, cup holder, and LED headlights. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 19.5 HP engine, 42-inch reinforced steel deck, hydrostatic transmission, electric PTO clutch, high-back seat, cup holder, LED headlights, hour meter.

Feature	Description
Engine	19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton Intek single-cylinder OHV
Cutting Width	42-inch reinforced steel deck
Transmission	Hydrostatic (T130) / 6-Speed Gear (T130 variant)
Cutting Height	Adjustable 1.5 to 4 inches (13 positions)
Discharge System	3-in-1 (Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge)
Starting System	Electric key start
Seat	High-back, adjustable
Fuel Capacity	2 gallons
Headlights	LED for low-light operation
Warranty	2-year limited

Safety Instructions

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

1. Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles.
2. Never carry passengers; operator only.
3. Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
4. Engage parking brake before dismounting.
5. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable; refuel outdoors with engine off and cool. Keep children and pets away during operation.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

1. Install steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
2. Attach seat: Mount using provided bolts and washers.
3. Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) terminals.
4. Check tire pressure: Inflate to 10 PSI (front) and 12 PSI (rear).
5. Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 (approx. 48 oz) to full mark on dipstick.
6. Add gasoline: Use unleaded 87 octane minimum.

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

Specifications

• Model: Craftsman T130
• Engine: 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton Intek OHV
• Cutting Deck: 42-inch, 12-gauge steel
• Transmission: Hydrostatic infinite forward/reverse speeds
• Speed: Up to 5.5 mph forward, 2.2 mph reverse
• Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher)
• Fuel Capacity: 2 gallons
• Oil Capacity: 48 oz (SAE 30)
• Cutting Height Range: 1.5 - 4 inches
• Weight: 498 lbs
• Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Control Panel: Ignition key, PTO engagement lever, throttle/choke, hour meter, headlight switch.

Pedals & Levers: Forward/reverse speed pedal (hydrostatic), brake pedal, parking brake lever, deck lift lever.

Starting Procedure:

1. Set parking brake.
2. Move PTO to OFF.
3. Set throttle to FAST.
4. Turn key to START; release when engine starts.
5. Allow engine to warm up 30 seconds.

Stopping Procedure:

1. Disengage PTO.
2. Set throttle to SLOW.
3. Turn key to OFF.
4. Engage parking brake.

Cutting System

The 42-inch deck offers three discharge options.

1. Mulching: Install mulch plug; cut grass into fine clippings.
2. Bagging: Attach grass bagger; collect clippings.
3. Side Discharge: Remove plug and bagger; discharge to side.

Cutting Height Adjustment:

1. Stop engine and disengage PTO.
2. Pull deck lift lever to desired position (1-13).
3. Test height on level ground before mowing.

Tip: Overlap cutting passes by 2-3 inches for even results. Sharpen blades every 25 hours.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, inspect for damage, clear deck of debris
Every 8 hours	Check engine oil level
Every 25 hours	Sharpen/replace blades, check battery terminals
Every 50 hours	Change engine oil, replace oil filter, clean air filter
Every 100 hours	Replace spark plug, check drive belt tension
Seasonally	Grease fittings, check tire wear

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for extended storage (especially winter).

1. Run engine to warm oil; drain and refill with fresh oil.
2. Add fuel stabilizer to tank; run engine 5 minutes to circulate.
3. Disconnect battery; store in cool, dry place.
4. Clean underside of deck thoroughly.
5. Store in dry, covered location; cover mower.

WARNING! Never store with gasoline in tank without stabilizer. Gasoline can degrade and damage fuel system.

Warranty Information

Craftsman T130 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase. For warranty service, contact Craftsman customer service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, safety switch engaged	Charge/replace battery; add fuel; ensure PTO is off and seat occupied.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed, wet grass	Sharpen/replace blades; set throttle to FAST; wait for grass to dry.
Excessive vibration	Damaged/debris-clogged blade, loose parts	Stop engine; inspect and clean blade; tighten all bolts.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old gasoline, dirty spark plug	Clean/replace air filter; drain old gas; clean/replace spark plug.
Hydrostatic transmission slips	Low fluid, drive belt worn	Check fluid level; inspect and replace drive belt if necessary.

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