Craftsman T2200 Service Manual

The Craftsman T2200 is a 22 HP V-Twin riding lawn tractor designed for residential use. This manual provides essential information for maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair. It covers key systems including the engine, transmission, electrical, cutting deck, and safety features. Below are the primary sections for specifications, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and repair procedures.

1. Specifications 2. Safety Precautions 3. Maintenance Schedule 4. Engine Service 5. Transmission & Drive System 6. Electrical System 7. Cutting Deck Service 8. Controls & Adjustments 9. Lubrication Points 10. Storage & Winterization 11. Troubleshooting

Specifications

Key technical data for the Craftsman T2200 riding lawn tractor.

Component	Specification
Engine	22 HP Briggs & Stratton V-Twin, OHV
Displacement	44 cu. in. (724 cc)
Fuel Type	Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum)
Fuel Capacity	3.5 gallons
Transmission	Hydrostatic, infinite forward/reverse speeds
Cutting Width	46 inches (3-blade deck)
Cutting Height	1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Turning Radius	18 inches
Tire Size (Front)	15 x 6.00-6
Tire Size (Rear)	20 x 10.00-8
Overall Dimensions	72" L x 54" W x 42" H
Weight	Approx. 550 lbs

Safety Precautions

Always follow these safety rules before performing any service.

Disconnect spark plug wire(s) before working on engine or cutting deck.
Allow engine to cool completely before servicing.
Engage parking brake and block wheels when working underneath.
Use jack stands if lifting; never rely solely on hydraulic jack.
Wear safety glasses and gloves during maintenance.
Work in a well-ventilated area when handling fuel or batteries.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety precautions may result in serious injury or death. Always refer to the original manual for complete safety information.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Interval (Hours/Season)	Service Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, engine oil level, fuel level, and for loose hardware.
First 5 hours	Change engine oil (break-in period).
Every 8 hours or daily	Clean cutting deck underside; check blade condition.
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil; clean/replace air filter; check battery terminals.
Every 50 hours	Replace spark plugs; check drive belt tension; lubricate all fittings.
Every 100 hours	Change transmission fluid; replace fuel filter; inspect brake pads.
Seasonally (Storage)	Stabilize fuel or drain tank; remove battery for storage.

Engine Service

Procedures for maintaining the 22 HP V-Twin engine.

Oil Change: Run engine to warm oil. Place drain pan under drain plug. Remove plug and drain. Refill with SAE 30 or 10W-30 (approx. 2 quarts). Check dipstick.
Air Filter: Remove cover. Clean foam pre-cleaner (if equipped) with soapy water. Replace paper element if dirty.
Spark Plugs: Gap at 0.030 inches. Install and torque to 18 ft-lbs.
Fuel System: Replace inline fuel filter annually. Clean sediment cup if present.
Cooling System: Regularly clean cooling fins and blower housing of debris.

CAUTION! Dispose of used oil and filters properly at a recycling center.

Transmission & Drive System

Service for the hydrostatic transmission and drive components.

Fluid Change: Use only specified hydrostatic fluid (approx. 4 quarts). Drain via pump drain plug. Refill through fill port until fluid reaches check plug opening.
Drive Belt: Inspect for cracks/wear. Adjust tension per manual specification. Replace if damaged.
Brake Adjustment: Adjust parking brake cable if tractor rolls when engaged. Check service brake pedal free play.
Tire Pressure: Maintain 12 PSI (front) and 10 PSI (rear) for optimal traction and deck leveling.

Electrical System

Battery, starting, and charging system maintenance.

Battery: Keep terminals clean and tight. Test voltage (should be >12.6V). Charge if low.
Starting Circuit: Check solenoid and safety interlock switches for continuity if starter does not engage.
Charging System: Test alternator output (approx. 13.5-14.5V at high idle).
Fuses: Locate fuse panel (under dash). Replace blown fuses with same amperage rating.
Headlights/Indicator Lights: Replace bulbs by accessing rear of light housing.

Cutting Deck Service

Maintenance for the 46-inch cutting deck.

Blade Removal/Sharpening: Block deck securely. Remove blade bolt (usually left-hand thread). Sharpen blade evenly; balance before reinstalling.
Belt Replacement: Release deck tension idler. Route new belt per diagram on deck housing.
Deck Leveling: Place tractor on level surface. Adjust lift links to ensure all three blades are within 1/4 inch height difference.
Spindle Service: Grease spindles regularly. Replace if bearing noise or excessive play is present.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug before servicing blades.

Controls & Adjustments

Operator controls and their adjustment procedures.

Control	Function & Adjustment
Throttle/Choke	Ensure smooth operation from dash lever to carburetor linkage.
Hydrostatic Pedal	Adjust neutral position via linkage rod if tractor creeps.
Cutting Height Lever	Lubricate pivot points; adjust stop for full range of motion.
Steering Wheel	Tighten column bolt if loose; check tie rod ends for wear.
Seat Safety Switch	Test: engine should only start with operator in seat.

Lubrication Points

Locations requiring periodic greasing.

Front axle pivot (2 fittings)
Steering spindle (2 fittings)
Deck lift linkage (3 fittings)
Brake pedal pivot (1 fitting)
Spindle bearings (3 fittings on deck)
Use a multipurpose lithium-based grease.

Tip: Grease all fittings at every 50-hour service interval.

Storage & Winterization

Steps to prepare tractor for extended non-use.

Add fuel stabilizer to tank and run engine for 5 minutes, or drain fuel completely.
Change engine oil and filter.
Remove battery, clean terminals, and store in a cool, dry place on a trickle charger.
Clean entire tractor, especially underside of cutting deck.
Store in a dry, covered location. Inflate tires to recommended pressure.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't crank	Dead battery, blown fuse, faulty safety switch, bad solenoid	Check battery voltage; test safety switches; jump solenoid terminals.
Engine cranks but won't start	No fuel, bad spark, clogged carburetor, choked air filter	Check fuel flow; test for spark; clean carburetor jets; replace air filter.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old spark plugs, clogged fuel filter, weak compression	Service air filter & plugs; replace fuel filter; perform compression test.
Tractor moves slowly or lacks power	Low transmission fluid, slipping drive belt, brake dragging	Check fluid level; adjust/replace drive belt; adjust brakes.
Uneven cutting	Deck not level, dull/bent blades, incorrect tire pressure	Level deck; sharpen/balance blades; adjust tire pressure.
Excessive vibration	Unbalanced blade, damaged spindle, loose pulley	Balance or replace blade; check spindle bearings; tighten hardware.

For Technical Support: Contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.