Craftsman T1400 Riding Mower Manual

The Craftsman T1400 is a 42-inch deck riding lawn mower powered by a Briggs & Stratton 16.5 HP engine, featuring a 6-speed manual transmission, electric start, cruise control, and a comfortable high-back seat. This manual covers essential information for safe operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and storage of your riding mower. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 16.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 42-inch cutting deck, 6-speed manual transmission, electric start, cruise control, high-back seat, cup holder, headlights.

Feature	Description
Engine	16.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, single-cylinder, OHV
Cutting Deck	42-inch stamped steel, 3-blade system
Transmission	6-speed manual, gear-driven
Starting System	Electric key start with recoil backup
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive
Seat	Adjustable high-back with armrests
Fuel Capacity	2.5 gallons
Cutting Height	1.5 to 4 inches, 7 positions
Turning Radius	18 inches
Headlights	Integrated 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 before starting.
2. Never allow children or pets in area while mowing.
3. Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees; mow across slopes, not up and down.
4. Always engage parking brake before dismounting.
5. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts, especially the cutting deck.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable; refuel outdoors with engine off and cool. Do not smoke near fuel.

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: Lower deck lift, align with pins, secure with retaining clips.
5. Check tire pressure: Inflate to 14 PSI (front) and 10 PSI (rear).
6. Add oil and fuel: Use SAE 30 oil (check dipstick) and unleaded gasoline.

CAUTION! Ensure all bolts are tightened securely before operation.

Specifications

• Model: Craftsman T1400
• Engine: 16.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, 500cc
• Cutting Width: 42 inches
• Transmission: 6-speed manual
• Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher)
• Oil Type: SAE 30 (above 40°F) or 10W-30 (below 40°F)
• Oil Capacity: 48 oz (1.5 quarts)
• Dimensions: 68" L x 54" W x 42" H
• Weight: 450 lbs
• Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Dashboard: Ignition key, headlight switch, hour meter, choke control.

Steering/Drive: Steering wheel, gear shift lever (1-6, R), clutch/brake pedal, parking brake lever.

Cutting Controls: Deck lift lever, PTO (blade engage) switch.

Starting Procedure:

1. Set parking brake.
2. Move gear shift to NEUTRAL.
3. Press clutch/brake pedal.
4. Turn key to START (use choke if cold).
5. Release key to ON position once started.

Mowing: Engage PTO switch to start blades. Adjust speed with gear shift. Use cruise control on straight paths.

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	Change engine oil, check air filter, grease fittings
Every 50 hours	Replace air filter, check spark plug, inspect blades
Every 100 hours	Change oil filter, check transmission fluid
Seasonally	Sharpen/replace blades, check battery, clean deck

Blade Care & Replacement

Sharp blades provide cleaner cuts and reduce engine strain.

1. Disconnect spark plug wire for safety.
2. Raise deck to highest position and block securely.
3. Remove blade bolt (turn counterclockwise) using socket wrench.
4. Sharpen blade evenly with file or grinder; balance by hanging on nail.
5. Reinstall with bolt tightened to 450 in-lbs (37.5 ft-lbs).
6. Replace if cracked, bent, or excessively worn.

WARNING! Always wear heavy gloves when handling blades.

Engine Maintenance

Follow engine manual for detailed procedures.

Oil Change:

1. Run engine briefly to warm oil.
2. Place drain pan under oil drain plug.
3. Remove plug and drain completely.
4. Replace plug and refill with SAE 30 (48 oz).
5. Check dipstick; level should be between marks.

Air Filter: Replace paper element every 50 hours; clean foam pre-filter every 25 hours with soapy water. Spark Plug: Gap at 0.030 inches; replace annually.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

1. Add fuel stabilizer to tank and run engine for 5 minutes.
2. Change oil and filter.
3. Remove spark plug, add 1 tablespoon of oil to cylinder, crank engine, reinstall plug.
4. Clean underside of deck thoroughly.
5. Store in dry, covered area; inflate tires to recommended pressure.
6. Disconnect battery negative terminal if storing over 30 days.

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

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. Keep your receipt as proof of purchase. For warranty service, contact an authorized Craftsman service center or call 1-888-331-4569. Visit www.craftsman.com for full warranty terms and conditions.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, clogged filter	Charge/replace battery; add fuel; replace fuel filter.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed	Sharpen/replace blades; set throttle to full speed.
Excessive vibration	Unbalanced blade, loose parts	Balance or replace blade; tighten deck bolts.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old spark plug	Clean/replace air filter; replace spark plug.
Hard to shift gears	Low transmission fluid	Check fluid level; add if low.

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