Craftsman T260 Parts Manual

The Craftsman T260 is a 26HP V-Twin riding lawn tractor designed for residential use, featuring a 54-inch cutting deck, hydrostatic transmission, electric PTO clutch, and durable steel frame. This manual provides comprehensive parts identification, ordering information, maintenance schedules, and safety guidelines to ensure proper operation and longevity of your tractor. Below are key sections for parts diagrams, specifications, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Parts Diagrams & Lists 2. Specifications 3. Maintenance Schedule 4. Safety Information 5. Engine Components 6. Drive System 7. Cutting Deck 8. Electrical System 9. Controls & Operator Station 10. Ordering Parts 11. Troubleshooting

Parts Diagrams & Lists

Detailed exploded-view diagrams with corresponding part numbers for all major assemblies.

Assembly	Diagram Reference	Key Components
Engine (Kohler 7000 Series)	Fig. 1	Cylinder head, pistons, carburetor, air filter, oil filter
Hydrostatic Transmission	Fig. 2	Transaxle, drive belt, pulley, linkage
54-inch Cutting Deck	Fig. 3	Blades, spindles, mandrels, belt, deck shell
Electrical System	Fig. 4	Battery, starter, solenoid, wiring harness, switches
Controls & Dashboard	Fig. 5	Ignition switch, PTO lever, steering wheel, seat
Frame & Body	Fig. 6	Frame rails, fenders, hood, grille

Specifications

Engine: 26 HP Kohler 7000 Series V-Twin, OHV, 724cc.
Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite forward/reverse speeds.
Cutting Deck: 54-inch stamped steel, 3-blade, side discharge.
Fuel Capacity: 3 gallons (gasoline).
Turning Radius: 18 inches.
Tires: Front 15x6.00-6, Rear 20x10.00-8.
Weight: Approx. 580 lbs.
Dimensions: 72" L x 54" W x 42" H.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends tractor life.

After first 5 hours: Check engine oil level, tire pressure, deck belt tension.
Every 25 hours: Change engine oil, clean air filter, grease fittings.
Every 50 hours: Replace oil filter, check spark plugs, inspect blades.
Every 100 hours: Replace air filter, check transmission fluid, inspect drive belt.
Seasonal: Stabilize fuel, clean deck, battery maintenance.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.

Safety Information

Critical safety precautions to prevent injury or damage.

Operate only in clear, daylight conditions.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
Do not carry passengers.
Disengage PTO before starting engine.
Use on slopes less than 15 degrees; mow across slopes, not up/down.
Wear eye protection and sturdy footwear.

DANGER! Rotating blades can cause severe injury; always shut off engine and remove key before servicing deck.

Engine Components

Kohler 7000 Series 26HP V-Twin parts and service points.

Part Number	Description	Qty
KH-123456	Air Filter Element	1
KH-789012	Oil Filter	1
KH-345678	Spark Plug (RC12YC)	2
CM-901234	Fuel Pump	1
CM-567890	Carburetor Kit	1
CM-123789	Starter Motor	1

Drive System

Hydrostatic transmission and drive components.

Transaxle: Tuff Torq K46, fluid capacity 4.2 qts.
Drive Belt: Part # 954-04050, replace if cracked/worn.
Pulleys: Idler, drive, and transaxle pulleys; inspect for wear.
Linkage: Control rod and spring for speed control.

Tip: Check belt tension every 50 hours; adjust per manual.

Cutting Deck

54-inch deck parts and maintenance.

Blades: Part # 942-0741, replace if bent/dull (balance after sharpening).
Spindles: Grease every 25 hours; replace if noisy.
Deck Belt: Part # 954-0406A, route correctly per diagram.
Mandrels: Includes bearings; inspect for play.
Deck Shell: Check for cracks; clean after each use.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug before servicing deck.

Electrical System

12V system with battery, starter, and safety switches.

Component	Part Number	Function
Battery	UTL-1234	12V, 280 CCA
Starter Solenoid	CM-5678	Engages starter motor
Ignition Switch	CM-9012	Key-operated power
PTO Switch	CM-3456	Engages cutting blades
Seat Switch	CM-7890	Safety shut-off

Controls & Operator Station

Operator controls and comfort features.

Steering Wheel: Adjustable tilt, part # CM-1122.
Seat: High-back, suspension, part # CM-3344.
Dashboard: Includes hour meter, indicator lights.
Pedals: Forward/reverse speed control, brake.
Levers: PTO engagement, deck height adjustment.

Ordering Parts

How to order genuine Craftsman parts.

Identify part number from diagrams in this manual.
Contact authorized Craftsman dealer or visit www.craftsman.com.
Provide model # (917.270820) and serial # (located on frame).
Keep receipt for warranty claims.

Note: Use only genuine parts to maintain warranty and safety.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, faulty switch	Charge/replace battery; check ignition switch and safety interlocks.
Loss of power	Clogged air/fuel filter	Replace air filter; clean fuel filter; check spark plugs.
Uneven cutting	Dull/bent blades, deck level	Sharpen/balance blades; level deck; check tire pressure.
Transmission slips	Low fluid, worn belt	Check fluid level; inspect/replace drive belt.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, damaged spindle	Tighten blade; inspect spindles and mandrels.

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