Craftsman T130 Riding Mower Manual

The Craftsman T130 is a 30-inch riding lawn mower featuring a powerful Briggs & Stratton engine, hydrostatic transmission, 6-speed gear drive, electric start, adjustable cutting height (1.5-4 inches), mulching/bagging/side discharge capabilities, comfortable high-back seat, headlights, cup holder, and durable steel frame. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: 30-inch cutting deck, Briggs & Stratton engine, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric start, Adjustable seat, Headlights, Cup holder, Mulching kit.

Feature	Description
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 500cc OHV engine
Transmission	Hydrostatic drive with infinite speed control
Cutting Width	30-inch reinforced steel deck
Cutting Height	Adjustable 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Starting System	Electric key start with backup recoil
Seat	High-back padded seat with adjustable position
Fuel Capacity	2.5-gallon gas tank
Headlights	Dual LED headlights for low-light operation
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive with differential lock
Blade Engagement	Electric PTO clutch

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.
Install cutting deck: Align with mounting points and secure pins.
Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 (check manual for capacity).
Add gasoline: Use fresh unleaded (87 octane minimum).

WARNING! Mower is heavy; use assistance. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely.

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Pre-start checklist: Check oil, fuel, tire pressure, and clear area.
Starting: Sit on seat, set parking brake, turn key to START.
Driving: Release parking brake, use forward/reverse pedals.
Cutting: Engage PTO lever, adjust speed with throttle.
Stopping: Disengage PTO, set parking brake, turn key OFF.

CAUTION! Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Do not mow on slopes over 15 degrees.

Specifications

Model: Craftsman T130
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 500cc OHV
Horsepower: 19 HP
Cutting Width: 30 inches
Transmission: Hydrostatic
Speed: 0-5.5 mph forward, 0-2.5 mph reverse
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane)
Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gallons
Oil Capacity: 1.5 quarts (SAE 30)
Weight: 450 lbs

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, fuel, oil level, blade condition
Every 8 hours	Clean deck, check for debris
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil, check air filter
Every 50 hours	Replace spark plug, sharpen blades
Every 100 hours	Replace air filter, check drive belt
Season end	Winterize engine, stabilize fuel

Cutting System

30-inch deck with multiple cutting options.

Height adjustment: Use lever to select 1.5-4 inch height.
Mulching: Install mulching plug and blade.
Bagging: Attach grass bag to rear chute.
Side discharge: Remove plug for side discharge.
Blade sharpening: Disconnect spark plug, remove blade, sharpen at 30-degree angle.

Tip: Overlap cutting passes by 2 inches for even results.

Engine Care

Briggs & Stratton engine maintenance guidelines.

Oil change: Run engine warm, drain oil, refill with SAE 30.
Air filter: Replace paper filter every 100 hours; clean foam pre-filter every 25 hours.
Spark plug: Gap at 0.030 inches; replace annually.
Fuel system: Use fuel stabilizer if storing over 30 days.
Cooling: Keep cooling fins clean of debris.

WARNING! Engine is hot after operation. Allow to cool before maintenance.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents damage during off-season.

Clean mower thoroughly, especially underside.
Add fuel stabilizer to tank and run engine for 5 minutes.
Change oil and replace air filter.
Remove battery and store in cool, dry place.
Store in covered, dry area; elevate if possible.

CAUTION! Do not store with fuel in tank without stabilizer.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

Wear eye protection, long pants, and sturdy shoes.
Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and rocks.
Do not carry passengers.
Do not mow on steep slopes (over 15 degrees).
Disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.
Keep children and pets away during operation.

Warranty & Support

Craftsman T130 includes a 2-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials/workmanship. Not covered: normal wear, misuse, lack of maintenance. For support, contact Craftsman Customer Service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Have model and serial numbers ready (located on frame under seat).

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, clogged filter	Charge battery; add fuel; replace air filter.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blade, low engine speed	Sharpen blade; set throttle to full speed.
Vibration or noise	Loose blade, debris in deck	Tighten blade bolt; clean deck interior.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old spark plug	Clean/replace air filter; replace spark plug.
Hydrostatic transmission slips	Low fluid, worn belt	Check fluid level; inspect/replace drive belt.

Reset: For electrical issues, disconnect battery for 5 minutes then reconnect.

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