Craftsman T2500 Riding Mower Manual

The Craftsman T2500 is a 24 HP V-Twin Hydrostatic Riding Lawn Mower featuring a 46-inch cutting deck, electric start, automatic transmission, cruise control, cup holder, and ergonomic high-back seat. 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. Controls & Operation 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Cutting Deck Adjustment 7. Engine Care 8. Storage & Winterization 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty & Support 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 24 HP Briggs & Stratton V-Twin engine, 46-inch reinforced steel cutting deck, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric PTO (Power Take-Off), Cruise Control, High-back seat, Cup holder, Headlights.

Feature	Description
Engine	24 HP Briggs & Stratton V-Twin, electric start
Cutting Deck	46-inch, 3-blade, reinforced steel
Transmission	Hydrostatic, single pedal control
PTO	Electric clutch engagement
Cutting Height	Adjustable 1.5 to 4 inches
Fuel Capacity	2.5 gallons
Seat	Ergonomic high-back with armrests
Speed	Forward: 0-5.5 mph, Reverse: 0-2.5 mph
Headlights	Integrated for low-light operation
Warranty	2-year limited

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

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

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before assembly or maintenance. Ensure mower is on level ground.

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before operation.

Starting: Sit on seat, set parking brake, engage PTO disengaged, turn key to START.
Driving: Release parking brake, press forward pedal to move forward, reverse pedal to back up.
Cutting: Engage PTO lever to activate blades; adjust speed with pedal.
Cruise Control: Engage at desired speed for consistent mowing.
Stopping: Disengage PTO, set parking brake, turn key to OFF.

CAUTION! Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.

Specifications

Engine: 24 HP Briggs & Stratton V-Twin, 724cc.
Cutting Width: 46 inches.
Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite speeds.
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).
Oil Capacity: 48 oz SAE 30 (check dipstick).
Turning Radius: 18 inches.
Weight: 520 lbs.
Dimensions: 72" L x 54" W x 42" H.
Battery: 12V, 280 CCA.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures performance and safety.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, tire pressure, fuel level, inspect blades
Every 8 hours	Clean cutting deck, check for debris
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil, check air filter
Every 50 hours	Replace air filter, check spark plug
Every 100 hours	Replace spark plug, check drive belt tension
Season end	Winterize engine, stabilize fuel, clean thoroughly

Cutting Deck Adjustment

Adjust cutting height for desired lawn length.

Park on level surface, disengage PTO, set parking brake.
Locate adjustment lever (left side of deck).
Move lever to desired setting (1.5 to 4 inches).
Ensure all wheels are at same height for even cut.

Tip: For best results, never cut more than 1/3 of grass blade length at once.

Engine Care

Proper engine maintenance extends life.

Oil Change: Run engine to warm oil, drain via plug, refill with SAE 30.
Air Filter: Replace paper filter every 50 hours; clean foam pre-filter every 25 hours.
Spark Plug: Gap at 0.030 inches; replace annually.
Fuel System: Use fuel stabilizer if storing over 30 days.

WARNING! Engine and exhaust become hot; allow to cool before servicing.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

Clean entire mower, especially under deck.
Change oil and replace filter.
Add fuel stabilizer and run engine 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 without stabilizer; drain if storing over 90 days.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

Read manual thoroughly before operation.
Wear eye protection, long pants, and sturdy shoes.
Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles.
Never carry passengers.
Do not mow on wet grass or steep slopes.
Disengage blades when not cutting.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
Turn off engine before adjusting or servicing.

Warranty & Support

Craftsman T2500 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For support, contact Craftsman Customer Service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Have model number (247.289520) and serial number ready.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, safety switch	Charge battery; add fuel; ensure seat is occupied and PTO disengaged.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed	Sharpen or replace blades; set throttle to full speed.
Vibration or shaking	Unbalanced blade, debris	Stop engine, inspect and clean deck; balance or replace blade.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old fuel	Replace air filter; drain and refill with fresh fuel.
Hydrostatic transmission issues	Low fluid, linkage	Check fluid level; inspect control linkage for obstruction.

Reset: For electrical issues, disconnect battery for 5 minutes then reconnect.

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