Craftsman T1400 Owners Manual

The Craftsman T1400 is a 42-inch riding lawn tractor designed for residential use, featuring a 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 6-speed manual transmission, electric blade engagement, adjustable cutting height (1.5-4 inches), 3-gallon fuel tank, and a comfortable high-back seat. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 6-speed manual transmission, 42-inch stamped steel cutting deck, electric PTO clutch, adjustable high-back seat, headlights, cup holder.

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

1. Install steering wheel: Align and secure with provided hardware.
2. Attach seat: Mount to frame using bolts and washers.
3. Install battery: Connect red (+) then black (-) terminals.
4. Attach cutting deck: Align with mounting points and secure with pins.
5. Add fluids: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil (check dipstick) and fuel tank with unleaded gasoline.

WARNING! Tractor is heavy; use assistance during assembly. Ensure all bolts are tightened to specification.

First-Time Operation

Perform pre-operation checks before starting.

1. Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
2. Check fuel: Fill tank with fresh unleaded gasoline.
3. Adjust seat: Position for comfortable reach to all controls.
4. Set cutting height: Use lever to desired position (1.5-4 inches).
5. Start engine: Insert key, set parking brake, engage clutch, turn key to START.
6. Engage blades: Press PTO switch only when seated and in neutral.

CAUTION! Never operate without proper training. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

• Engine: 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, single-cylinder, OHV.
• Transmission: 6-speed manual, gear drive.
• Cutting Deck: 42-inch stamped steel, 3-blade.
• Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions).
• Fuel Capacity: 3 gallons.
• Oil Capacity: 1.5 quarts (SAE 30).
• Dimensions: 72" L x 42" W x 46" H.
• Weight: 500 lbs (approximate).
• Tire Size: Front 15x6.00-6, Rear 20x10.00-8.

Controls and Settings

Dashboard: Ignition key, PTO switch, throttle, choke, hour meter. Floor: Clutch/brake pedal, gear shift lever, cutting height lever.

Steering: Wheel with turning radius of 18 inches. Seat: Adjustable fore/aft with suspension.

Operation: Start with parking brake engaged, clutch depressed. Shift through gears 1-6. Engage PTO only when seated. Adjust cutting height via lever. Use headlights for visibility.

Attaching Accessories

Compatible with Craftsman lawn cart, grass catcher, and snow blade (sold separately).

1. Turn off engine and remove key.
2. Align accessory with mounting points on tractor frame.
3. Secure with provided pins and locking clips.
4. Check all connections before operation.

Tip: Refer to accessory manual for specific installation instructions.

Mowing Operation

Designed for efficient cutting of medium to large lawns.

1. Inspect area: Remove debris, rocks, and toys.
2. Set cutting height: Adjust lever based on grass condition.
3. Start mowing: Engage blades, drive at steady pace.
4. Overlap passes: Ensure even cutting by overlapping slightly.
5. Disengage blades: Turn off PTO when stopping or turning.
6. Clean deck: After use, raise deck and clean underside.

WARNING! Never mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees. Always mow across slopes, not up and down.

Safety Features

Operator Presence System: Engine shuts off if operator leaves seat with blades engaged. Parking Brake: Must be engaged to start engine. Blade Brake Clutch: Stops blades within 7 seconds of disengagement.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

After first 5 hours: Change engine oil. Every 25 hours: Check air filter, tire pressure. Every 50 hours: Change oil, sharpen blades, check spark plug. Every 100 hours: Replace air filter, check belts.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance. Use only recommended fluids and parts.

Warranty Information

Craftsman T1400 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact Sears Customer Service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Storage: For winter, add fuel stabilizer, run engine 5 minutes, disconnect battery, store in dry place.

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