Craftsman T210 Riding 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, tight-turn radius, mulching capability, and a durable steel deck. This manual covers essential safety guidelines, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and storage procedures to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your mower.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Safety Guidelines 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Cutting Deck Adjustment 8. Engine Care 9. Storage & Winterization 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42-inch steel cutting deck, 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 6-speed manual transmission, electric start, tight-turn front axle, mulching kit compatibility, and ergonomic high-back seat.

Feature	Description
Engine	19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, single-cylinder, overhead valve
Cutting Width	42 inches
Transmission	6-speed manual, gear-driven
Starting System	Electric key start with backup recoil
Deck Material	12-gauge steel
Turning Radius	Tight-turn technology for maneuverability
Seat	Ergonomic, high-back with armrests
Fuel Capacity	2.5 gallons
Cutting Height	1.5 to 4 inches, adjustable in 0.5-inch increments
Mulching Capability	Optional mulching kit available

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools (included).

Install steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Attach seat: Mount using provided hardware.
Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Install cutting deck: Align with mounting points and secure.
Add engine oil and fuel: Use SAE 30 oil (check dipstick) and unleaded gasoline.

WARNING! Do not attempt assembly alone. Keep hands clear of moving parts during initial tests.

Safety Guidelines

Always follow safety procedures to prevent injury.

Read manual thoroughly before operation.
Wear appropriate clothing: sturdy shoes, eye protection, long pants.
Clear mowing area of debris, rocks, and toys.
Never carry passengers.
Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
Disengage blades before starting engine.
Shut off engine and remove key before servicing.

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

Specifications

Model: Craftsman T210
Engine: 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, OHV
Cutting Deck: 42-inch, 12-gauge steel
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher)
Oil Capacity: 48 oz. SAE 30 (summer), 10W-30 (winter)
Cutting Height Range: 1.5 to 4 inches
Wheel Size: Front 15", Rear 20"
Weight: 450 lbs (approx.)
Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

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

Operation Steps:

Check oil and fuel levels.
Set parking brake.
Disengage blades.
Adjust throttle to halfway.
Turn key to start (electric) or use recoil.
Engage blades only when ready to mow.
Use gear shift to select speed (1-6).

Tip: Always mow at full throttle for best cut and engine performance.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures reliability.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, inspect blades, check oil
Every 8 hours	Clean deck, check for loose bolts
Every 25 hours	Change oil, check air filter, grease fittings
Every 50 hours	Replace spark plug, sharpen blades
Every 100 hours	Replace air filter, check belt tension
Season end	Winterize (see Storage section)

Cutting Deck Adjustment

Proper deck leveling ensures even cut.

Park on level surface.
Set cutting height lever to desired position.
Measure blade tip height at all four corners.
Adjust deck hangers to level (front-to-back and side-to-side within 1/4").
Check belt tension; adjust if loose.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before adjusting deck or blades.

Engine Care

Briggs & Stratton engine requires specific care.

Oil Change: Use SAE 30 above 40°F, 10W-30 below. Drain when warm.
Air Filter: Clean foam pre-filter every 25 hours; replace paper element yearly.
Spark Plug: Gap at 0.030"; replace annually.
Fuel System: Use fuel stabilizer if storing over 30 days.
Cooling Fins: Keep clean to prevent overheating.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents damage during off-season.

Clean entire mower, especially underside of deck.
Change oil and run engine briefly to circulate.
Add fuel stabilizer and run for 5 minutes.
Disconnect battery and store in cool, dry place.
Store in covered, dry area; elevate if possible.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank beyond 30 days without stabilizer.

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. Keep original receipt for proof of purchase. For warranty claims, contact Craftsman Customer Service 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; clean/replace air filter.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, uneven deck	Sharpen blades; level deck; check belt.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, damaged spindle	Tighten blade bolt; inspect spindle bearings.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old spark plug	Clean air filter; replace spark plug.
Transmission slips	Low oil, worn gears	Check transmission oil level; consult dealer.

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