Craftsman T210 Lawn Mower Manual

The Craftsman T210 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 (1.5-4 inches), comfortable high-back seat, LED headlights, and a durable steel deck. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. Safety Precautions 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting System 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Guidelines 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42-inch steel cutting deck, 19.5 HP engine, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric start, 3-in-1 discharge system, Adjustable seat, LED headlights.

FeatureDescription
Engine19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, single-cylinder, OHV
Cutting Width42 inches
TransmissionHydrostatic, infinite forward/reverse speeds
Cutting HeightAdjustable from 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Discharge System3-in-1 (mulch, bag, side discharge)
Starting SystemElectric key start
Fuel Capacity2.5 gallons
SeatHigh-back, adjustable
HeadlightsLED for low-light operation
Deck Material12-gauge steel

Assembly Instructions

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. Install battery: Connect red (+) then black (-) terminals.
  4. Attach cutting deck: Align with mounting points and secure pins.
  5. Add fluids: Fill engine with oil (SAE 30); add gasoline (unleaded).

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire during assembly. Use two people for heavy parts.

Safety Precautions

Read all instructions before operation.

  1. Wear protective gear: Safety glasses, sturdy shoes, hearing protection.
  2. Clear mowing area: Remove stones, toys, debris.
  3. Never carry passengers.
  4. Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
  5. Disengage blades before starting engine.
  6. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

CAUTION! Gasoline is flammable; refuel outdoors with engine off and cool.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Dashboard: Ignition key, throttle, choke, blade engage lever, parking brake.

Operation Steps:

  1. Park on level surface; set parking brake.
  2. Disengage blades; move throttle to FAST.
  3. Turn key to START; release when engine starts.
  4. Adjust cutting height lever to desired setting.
  5. Engage blades slowly; begin mowing.
  6. Use pedal: Forward (press), Reverse (lift toe).

Shutdown: Disengage blades, move throttle to SLOW, turn key OFF, remove key.

Cutting System

3-in-1 discharge: Configure for mulching, bagging, or side discharge.

  1. Mulching: Install mulch plug; blades recut clippings.
  2. Bagging: Attach bagger to rear chute.
  3. Side Discharge: Remove plug; attach deflector.

Adjusting Height: Use lever to select 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, or 4 inches.

Tip: For best results, mow when grass is dry and never cut more than 1/3 of blade height.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity.

IntervalTask
Before each useCheck tire pressure, inspect blades, clear deck
Every 8 hoursCheck oil level, inspect air filter
Every 25 hoursChange oil, sharpen blades, check battery
Every 100 hoursReplace air filter, spark plug, check belts
Season endDrain fuel or add stabilizer, clean thoroughly

Blade Sharpening: Disconnect spark plug, remove blade, sharpen at 22-degree angle, balance.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

  1. Clean deck and underside thoroughly.
  2. Change oil and filter.
  3. Add fuel stabilizer or drain tank completely.
  4. Remove battery; store in cool, dry place.
  5. Store in covered, dry location.

CAUTION! Never store with gasoline in tank without stabilizer.

Warranty Information

Craftsman T210 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials/workmanship. Proof of purchase required. Does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact Craftsman at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startDead battery, empty fuel, clogged filterCharge battery; add fuel; replace air filter.
Poor cutting qualityDull blades, low engine speedSharpen blades; set throttle to FAST.
Vibration/excessive noiseLoose blade, damaged spindleTighten blade bolt; inspect spindle.
Loss of powerDirty air filter, old spark plugClean/replace air filter; replace spark plug.
Hydrostatic transmission slipsLow fluid, loose drive beltCheck fluid level; adjust/replace belt.

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

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