Craftsman T210 Mower Manual

The Craftsman T210 is a 42-inch riding lawn mower featuring a 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 6-speed manual transmission, electric start, mulching capability, adjustable cutting height (1.5-4 inches), and a 2.5-gallon fuel tank. Designed for residential use on up to 2 acres. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Controls & Operation 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Blade Care & Sharpening 7. Storage & Winterization 8. Safety Guidelines 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42-inch stamped steel deck, 19.5 HP engine, 6-speed manual transmission, electric start, adjustable seat, cup holder, and mulching kit compatibility.

Feature	Description
Engine	19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton Single Cylinder OHV
Cutting Width	42 inches
Transmission	6-Speed Manual Gear Drive
Starting System	Electric Key Start
Fuel Capacity	2.5 Gallons
Cutting Height	Adjustable 1.5-4 inches (6 positions)
Deck Material	Stamped Steel
Drive System	Rear-Wheel Drive
Mulching Capability	Yes (kit included)
Max Recommended Area	Up to 2 acres

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Install steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Attach seat: Mount using provided bolts and washers.
Install battery: Connect red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Attach cutting deck: Lower deck lift, align with mounting points, secure with pins.
Check tire pressure: Inflate to 10 PSI (front) and 12 PSI (rear).
Add oil and fuel: Use SAE 30 oil (48 oz) and unleaded gasoline.

WARNING! Wear gloves during assembly. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely.

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Pre-start checklist: Check oil, fuel, tire pressure, and clear mowing area.
Starting: Insert key, set parking brake, engage clutch, turn key to START.
Driving: Release parking brake, press clutch, select gear (1-6), slowly release clutch.
Mowing: Engage PTO lever to activate blades; adjust speed based on grass conditions.
Stopping: Disengage PTO, set parking brake, turn key to OFF.

CAUTION! Never operate on slopes greater than 15 degrees. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Model: Craftsman T210
Engine: 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, OHV
Cutting Deck: 42-inch stamped steel
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)
Cutting Height Range: 1.5 to 4 inches
Wheel Size: Front 15", Rear 20"
Weight: 450 lbs
Warranty: 2-year limited

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, tire pressure, fuel level
Every 8 hours	Check blade condition, clean deck
Every 50 hours	Change oil, check air filter
Every 100 hours	Replace air filter, spark plug
Every season	Sharpen blades, grease fittings, check belts
Storage	Winterize fuel system, remove battery

Tip: Always disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.

Blade Care & Sharpening

Sharp blades ensure clean cuts and healthy grass.

Safety first: Disconnect spark plug wire, wear gloves.
Remove deck: Lower deck, remove pins, slide deck out.
Remove blade: Use block to prevent turning, loosen bolt.
Sharpen: Use file or grinder at original angle (balance after sharpening).
Reinstall: Tighten blade bolt to 45-55 ft-lbs torque.

WARNING! Never sharpen blades while attached to mower. Replace if cracked or bent.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents fuel system damage.

Clean mower: Remove grass clippings and debris.
Fuel treatment: Add fuel stabilizer, run engine 5 minutes, or drain tank completely.
Oil change: Replace oil at end of season.
Battery: Remove, clean terminals, store in cool dry place.
Cover: Use breathable cover to protect from dust.

CAUTION! Store in dry, well-ventilated area away from open flames.

Safety Guidelines

Always prioritize safety when operating machinery.

Wear sturdy shoes, eye protection, and hearing protection.
Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles.
Never carry passengers.
Do not mow on wet grass or steep slopes.
Keep hands and feet away from rotating blades.
Turn off engine before unclogging deck or adjusting blades.
Use reflective markings if mowing near roadways.

DANGER! Carbon monoxide poisoning risk—never operate in enclosed spaces.

Warranty Information

Craftsman T210 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. To make a claim, contact Craftsman Customer Service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep your receipt as proof of purchase.

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 quality	Dull blades, low engine speed	Sharpen blades, check throttle setting
Excessive vibration	Unbalanced blade, loose parts	Balance or replace blade, tighten bolts
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old spark plug	Clean/replace air filter, install new spark plug
Deck won't engage	Faulty PTO switch, broken belt	Check switch wiring, inspect and replace belt
Hard steering	Low tire pressure, lack of lubrication	Inflate tires, grease steering components

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