Craftsman T140 Riding Lawn Mower Manual

The Craftsman T140 is a 42-inch riding lawn mower featuring a powerful Briggs & Stratton engine, hydrostatic transmission for smooth speed control, a 42-inch triple-blade cutting deck, electric PTO (Power Take-Off) engagement, adjustable cutting height, and a comfortable high-back seat. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton Engine, Hydrostatic Transmission, 42-inch Cutting Deck, Electric PTO, High-Back Seat, Headlights, Cup Holder.

Feature	Description
Engine	Briggs & Stratton, 540cc, OHV, 19.5 HP
Transmission	Hydrostatic, single pedal forward/reverse control
Cutting Deck	42-inch, triple-blade, fabricated steel
Cutting Height	Adjustable 1.5 to 4 inches in 0.25-inch increments
PTO Engagement	Electric switch for blade engagement
Fuel Capacity	2.5 gallons
Seat	High-back, adjustable for operator comfort
Headlights	Integrated for low-light operation
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive
Speed Range	0-5.5 mph forward, 0-2.5 mph reverse

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Install Steering Wheel: Align and secure with provided hardware.
Attach Seat: Mount seat onto frame using bolts and washers.
Connect Battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) cables to battery terminals.
Install Cutting Deck: Lower deck onto mounting points and secure with pins.
Add Fluids: Fill engine with oil (SAE 30) and fuel tank with fresh gasoline.

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

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Starting: Sit on seat, set parking brake, move PTO to OFF, turn key to START.
Driving: Release parking brake, press forward pedal to move forward, reverse pedal to back up.
Cutting: Engage PTO switch to activate blades. Adjust speed to match grass conditions.
Stopping: Disengage PTO, set parking brake, turn key to OFF.

CAUTION! Always engage parking brake before dismounting. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Engine: Briggs & Stratton, 540cc, 19.5 HP, OHV.
Transmission: Hydrostatic, single pedal control.
Cutting Width: 42 inches.
Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4 inches (adjustable).
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).
Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gallons.
Oil Capacity: 1.5 quarts (SAE 30).
Turning Radius: 18 inches.
Weight: 450 lbs (approx.).
Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Cutting Deck Operation

The 42-inch deck provides even cutting. Adjust height as needed.

Height Adjustment: Use deck lift lever to raise/lower deck to desired height.
Blade Engagement: Ensure area is clear, then engage PTO switch.
Even Cutting: Overlap passes by 2-3 inches for uniform results.
Deck Cleaning: Disengage PTO, turn off engine, and clean underside after use.

Tip: Mow when grass is dry for best results. Avoid mowing in wet conditions.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, fuel level, and for debris under deck.
Every 8 hours	Check engine oil level.
Every 25 hours	Clean air filter; check battery terminals.
Every 50 hours	Change engine oil; sharpen blades.
Every 100 hours	Replace air filter; check spark plug.
Seasonally	Lubricate pivot points; check belt tension.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents damage during off-season.

Fuel: Add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes, or drain tank completely.
Battery: Disconnect and store in a cool, dry place; charge monthly.
Deck: Clean thoroughly and apply light oil to prevent rust.
Tires: Inflate to recommended pressure and store on blocks if long-term.

WARNING! Store in a dry, covered area away from children and pets.

Safety Features

Operator Presence System (OPS): Engine stops if operator leaves seat with PTO engaged. Parking Brake: Must be engaged to start engine. Blade Brake Clutch: Stops blades within 3 seconds of PTO disengagement.

Care & Cleaning

Allow engine to cool before cleaning. Use damp cloth for surfaces; hose for deck (avoid electrical components).

CAUTION! Do not use high-pressure water on engine or electrical parts. Never clean while engine is running.

Warranty Information

Craftsman T140 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Parking brake not engaged; dead battery; empty fuel tank	Engage parking brake; charge/replace battery; add fuel.
Uneven cutting	Dull blades; uneven tire pressure; deck not level	Sharpen blades; inflate tires evenly; level deck.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter; old fuel; dirty spark plug	Clean/replace air filter; use fresh fuel; clean/replace spark plug.
Blades won't engage	PTO switch faulty; seat switch not engaged; blown fuse	Check PTO switch; ensure operator is seated; replace fuse.
Excessive vibration	Damaged blade; loose blade bolt; debris in deck	Inspect and replace blade if damaged; tighten bolt; clean deck.

Reset: Turn key to OFF, wait 30 seconds, then restart.

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