Craftsman T240 Owner's Manual

The Craftsman T240 is a 24-horsepower lawn tractor featuring a 46-inch cutting deck, hydrostatic transmission, electric PTO engagement, cruise control, cup holder, and headlights. Powered by a Briggs & Stratton engine with 724cc displacement. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and warranty information.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Attaching Accessories 7. Mowing Operation 8. Safety Features 9. Maintenance Schedule 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 24 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 46-inch stamped steel cutting deck, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric PTO, Cruise control, Headlights, Cup holder, Hour meter.

Feature	Description
Engine	24 HP Briggs & Stratton, 724cc displacement
Cutting Deck	46-inch stamped steel, 3-blade system
Transmission	Hydrostatic, single pedal control
PTO Engagement	Electric switch on dashboard
Cruise Control	Maintains constant speed without holding pedal
Headlights	Integrated for low-light operation
Cup Holder	Convenient beverage storage
Hour Meter	Tracks engine hours for maintenance
Fuel Tank	3.5-gallon capacity
Seat	High-back with armrests

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Requires basic tools.

Install steering wheel: Align splines and secure with nut.
Attach seat: Mount using provided bolts and washers.
Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) cables.
Install cutting deck: Lower deck lift, align with pins, secure with retaining clips.
Check tire pressure: Inflate to 14 PSI (front) and 10 PSI (rear).

WARNING! Tractor is heavy; use assistance during assembly. Ensure all fasteners are tightened securely.

First-Time Operation

Perform pre-operation checks before starting engine.

Check engine oil: Ensure level is between marks on dipstick.
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).
Adjust seat: Position for full control of pedals and steering.
Start engine: Insert key, set parking brake, turn to START.
Test controls: Verify steering, brakes, and PTO engagement.

CAUTION! Operate only in well-ventilated areas. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Engine: 24 HP Briggs & Stratton, 724cc, OHV.
Cutting Width: 46 inches.
Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite forward/reverse speeds.
Fuel Capacity: 3.5 gallons.
Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4 inches (12 positions).
Turning Radius: 18 inches.
Weight: 540 lbs (approximate).
Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Settings

Dashboard: Ignition switch, PTO switch, Cruise control, Headlight switch, Hour meter.

Pedals: Hydrostatic drive pedal (forward/reverse), Brake pedal.

Cutting height: Adjust lever beside seat (1.5 to 4 inches). Throttle: Engine speed control on dashboard. Choke: Used for cold starts. Parking brake: Engage lever before dismounting.

Attaching Accessories

Compatible with Craftsman bagger, mulcher, and tow-behind spreader.

Turn off engine and remove key.
Attach bagger: Connect to rear hitch, secure chute to deck.
Install mulching kit: Replace standard blades with mulching blades.
Connect spreader: Attach to hitch pin, adjust spread rate.

Tip: Refer to accessory manual for specific installation instructions.

Mowing Operation

Designed for residential lawns up to 3 acres.

Engage PTO: Move switch to ON position.
Adjust cutting height: Set lever based on grass conditions.
Begin mowing: Use drive pedal to control speed.
Use cruise control: Engage on straight paths for consistent speed.
Empty bagger: Stop engine when bag is full.
Clean deck: After mowing, remove grass buildup.

WARNING! Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees. Watch for obstacles and debris.

Safety Features

Operator Presence System: Engine stops if operator leaves seat with PTO engaged. Blade Brake Clutch: Stops blades within 3 seconds of disengagement. Parking Brake: Prevents accidental movement.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

After first 5 hours: Change engine oil. Every 25 hours: Check tire pressure, inspect blades. Every 50 hours: Change oil and filter, lubricate fittings. Every 100 hours: Replace air filter, spark plug.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Warranty Information

2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty 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. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Empty fuel tank, dead battery	Add fuel, charge or replace battery.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed	Sharpen or replace blades, adjust throttle.
Excessive vibration	Unbalanced blade, loose parts	Balance blade, tighten deck bolts.
Hydrostatic transmission slips	Low fluid, drive belt worn	Check fluid level, inspect belt.
PTO won't engage	Blown fuse, faulty switch	Replace 20-amp fuse, check switch.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 5 minutes to reset electrical system.

Service: 1-888-331-4569; www.craftsman.com