Craftsman T140 Riding Mower Manual

The Craftsman T140 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" to 4"), tight-turn radius, ergonomic high-back seat, cup holder, and LED headlights. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 19.5 HP engine, Hydrostatic transmission, 42-inch steel deck, Electric start, High-back seat, Cup holder, LED headlights.

Feature	Description
Engine	19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, single-cylinder, OHV
Transmission	Hydrostatic, infinite forward/reverse speeds
Cutting Width	42 inches
Cutting Height	Adjustable 1.5" to 4" (6 positions)
Discharge System	3-in-1 (mulch, bag, side discharge)
Starting System	Electric key start
Seat	Ergonomic high-back, adjustable
Fuel Tank	2.5 gallons
Tires	Front: 15x6.00-6, Rear: 20x10.00-8
Headlights	LED for low-light operation

Safety Information

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. Disengage blades before starting engine.
5. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable; refuel outdoors with engine off and cool. Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning; never operate in enclosed spaces.

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. Install cutting deck: Align with mounting points and secure.
5. Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 (approx. 48 oz).
6. Add gasoline: Use fresh unleaded (87 octane minimum).

CAUTION! Ensure all bolts are tightened to specification. Check tire pressure (front: 14 PSI, rear: 10 PSI).

Specifications

• Model: Craftsman T140
• Engine: 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, OHV
• Transmission: Hydrostatic
• Cutting Width: 42 inches
• Cutting Height Range: 1.5" - 4"
• Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gallons
• Oil Capacity: 48 oz (SAE 30)
• Weight: 498 lbs
• Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Dashboard: Ignition key, Choke, Throttle, Blade engagement lever, Parking brake, Headlight switch.

Steering & Speed: Steering wheel, Hydrostatic pedal (forward/reverse).

Starting Procedure:

1. Set parking brake.
2. Disengage blades.
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 blades.
2. Set parking brake.
3. Turn key to OFF.
4. Remove key.

Cutting & Mowing

For best results, mow when grass is dry.

1. Adjust cutting height: Use lever beside seat.
2. Select discharge mode: Install mulch plug, bagger, or side chute.
3. Engage blades: Pull lever upward slowly.
4. Mow in overlapping passes for even cut.
5. Empty bagger frequently to maintain airflow.

Tip: Sharpen blades every 25 hours for clean cuts. Never remove more than 1/3 of grass height at once.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, fluid levels, clear deck
Every 8 hours	Check engine oil level
Every 25 hours	Sharpen/replace blades, check battery
Every 50 hours	Change engine oil, replace air filter
Every 100 hours	Replace spark plug, check belts
Seasonally	Grease fittings, inspect deck for damage

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

1. Add fuel stabilizer to tank; run engine 5 minutes.
2. Change engine oil and filter.
3. Remove spark plug; add 1 oz oil to cylinder; pull starter cord slowly.
4. Clean underside of deck thoroughly.
5. Store in dry, covered location; charge battery monthly.

CAUTION! Never store with gasoline in tank without stabilizer. Drain fuel if storing longer than 30 days.

Warranty Information

Craftsman T140 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials/workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. Keep original receipt for proof of purchase. For warranty service, contact Craftsman at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

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 blades, low engine speed	Sharpen blades; set throttle to fast.
Excessive vibration	Damaged blade, loose bolts	Inspect and replace blade; tighten deck bolts.
Hydrostatic transmission slips	Low fluid, stretched belt	Check fluid level; inspect and replace drive belt.
Mower leaves uncut strips	Deck misaligned, overlapping insufficient	Level deck; mow with overlapping passes.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 5 minutes to reset electrical system.

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