Craftsman T2400 Riding Mower Manual

The Craftsman T2400 is a 24-horsepower riding lawn mower featuring a Briggs & Stratton engine, 46-inch cutting deck, hydrostatic transmission, electric start, cruise control, cup holder, and ergonomic high-back seat. Designed for residential use on medium to large lawns. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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. Care & Maintenance 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 start with key, Cruise control, Cup holder, High-back seat, Headlights.

FeatureDescription
Engine24 HP Briggs & Stratton, single-cylinder, air-cooled
Cutting Deck46-inch stamped steel, 3-blade system
TransmissionHydrostatic, foot-pedal controlled
Starting SystemElectric key start with 12V battery
Speed ControlVariable speed with cruise control
SeatErgonomic high-back, adjustable
Fuel Tank3-gallon capacity
Cutting HeightAdjustable 1.5 to 4 inches
HeadlightsFor low-light operation
Blade EngagementElectric PTO switch

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a flat, stable surface.

  1. Install steering wheel: Align and tighten with provided hardware.
  2. Attach seat: Mount seat onto frame using bolts and washers.
  3. Install battery: Connect red (+) then black (-) terminals.
  4. Attach cutting deck: Lower deck onto mounting points and secure with pins.
  5. Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

WARNING! Mower is heavy; use assistance for lifting. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely.

First-Time Operation

Perform pre-operation checks before starting.

  1. Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
  2. Check tire pressure: Inflate to 15 PSI (front) and 10 PSI (rear).
  3. Adjust seat: Position for comfortable reach to all controls.
  4. Start engine: Insert key, set parking brake, turn to START.
  5. Test controls: Practice forward/reverse motion without blades engaged.

CAUTION! Always operate on level ground. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Dashboard: Ignition key, PTO switch, headlight switch, hour meter. Foot pedals: Forward/reverse speed control. Steering wheel: Adjustable tilt. Seat: Adjustable fore/aft.

Operation: Set parking brake before starting. Engage blades with PTO switch only when seated. Use cruise control for consistent speed on straight paths.

Cutting height: Adjust lever beside each wheel. Fuel gauge: Located on tank cap. Hour meter: Tracks engine hours for maintenance scheduling.

Attaching Accessories

Compatible with Craftsman bagger, mulching kit, and tow-behind spreader.

  1. Turn off engine and remove key.
  2. Attach bagger: Alize chute with deck outlet, secure with pins.
  3. Install mulching kit: Replace standard blades with mulching blades.
  4. Connect spreader: Hitch to rear tow bar, secure safety chain.

Tip: Ensure accessories are securely attached before operation.

Mowing Operation

For optimal cutting performance and safety.

  1. Clear area: Remove stones, toys, and debris.
  2. Start mower: Engage parking brake, start engine.
  3. Engage blades: Move to cutting area, engage PTO switch.
  4. Mow patterns: Overlap passes by 2-3 inches for even cut.
  5. Adjust speed: Slow down for thick or wet grass.
  6. Disengage blades: Turn off PTO when crossing driveways or roads.
  7. Empty bagger: Stop engine before removing grass clippings.

WARNING! Never mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees. Always mow across slopes, not up and down.

Safety Features

Operator Presence System: Engine stops if operator leaves seat with blades engaged. Parking brake: Must be engaged to start engine. Blade brake clutch: Stops blades within 3 seconds of disengagement.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures long life and safe operation.

Daily: Check tire pressure, clean deck after use. Monthly: Sharpen blades, check battery terminals. Seasonally: Change oil, replace air filter, check spark plug.

Storage: Drain fuel or add stabilizer for winter storage. Store in dry, covered area.

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any 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

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startDead battery, empty fuel tankCharge battery; add fuel; check spark plug.
Poor cutting performanceDull blades, low engine speedSharpen blades; set throttle to full speed.
Vibration during operationUnbalanced blade, loose deckStop engine, check blade balance and deck bolts.
Loss of powerClogged air filter, old fuelReplace air filter; drain and refill with fresh fuel.
Hydrostatic transmission slipsLow fluid, drive belt wornCheck fluid level; inspect and replace belt if needed.

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

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

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