Craftsman T310 Riding Lawn Mower Manual

The Craftsman T310 is a 24-HP V-Twin gasoline-powered riding lawn mower with a 46-inch cutting deck, hydrostatic transmission, and electric start. It features a 3-in-1 discharge system (mulch, bag, side discharge), adjustable cutting height, cruise control, cup holder, and a comfortable high-back seat. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Controls & Operation 4. Specifications 5. Cutting System 6. Maintenance Schedule 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 stamped steel deck, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric PTO clutch, 3-in-1 discharge system, Adjustable seat, Cruise control.

Feature	Description
Engine	24 HP Briggs & Stratton V-Twin, gasoline-powered
Cutting Deck	46-inch stamped steel, 3-in-1 (mulch/bag/side discharge)
Transmission	Hydrostatic, single pedal control
PTO Clutch	Electric engagement for blades
Cutting Height	Adjustable from 1.5 to 4 inches (13 positions)
Fuel Capacity	3 gallons
Seat	High-back, adjustable for operator comfort
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive
Speed Range	0-5.5 mph forward, 0-2.2 mph reverse
Battery	12V, 230 CCA for electric start

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.
Install battery: Connect red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 or 10W-30, check dipstick.
Add gasoline: Use fresh unleaded (87 octane minimum).
Attach cutting deck: Align with mounting points and secure.

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

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Ignition switch: Turn key to START position (electric start).
Blade engagement: Pull PTO switch upward to engage blades.
Drive control: Press pedal forward to go forward, reverse to go backward. Release to stop.
Parking brake: Set before dismounting.
Cutting height: Adjust lever to desired position.
Discharge mode: Configure chute for mulch, bag, or side discharge.

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, OHV.
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).
Cutting Width: 46 inches.
Cutting Height Range: 1.5 to 4 inches.
Transmission: Hydrostatic, single pedal.
Deck Material: Stamped steel.
Turning Radius: 18 inches.
Wheels: Front 15x6.00-6, Rear 20x10.00-8.
Weight: Approximately 500 lbs.
Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Cutting System

The 46-inch deck offers three discharge options.

Mulching: Install mulch plug; cuts clippings finely back into lawn. Bagging: Attach grass bag to rear; collects clippings. Side Discharge: Open chute to eject clippings to side.

Adjust cutting height via lever; ensure deck is level for even cut. Sharpen blades annually or when cut quality declines.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, engine oil level, fuel level
Every 8 hours	Check deck for debris; clean if necessary
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil (first change at 8 hours)
Every 50 hours	Replace air filter; check spark plug
Every 100 hours	Replace spark plug; check drive belt tension
Seasonally	Sharpen blades; grease fittings

Engine Care

Proper engine maintenance is critical.

Oil: Check level before each use. Change every 25 hours (SAE 30 or 10W-30).
Air filter: Clean foam pre-cleaner every 25 hours; replace paper element as needed.
Fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline. Add fuel stabilizer for storage.
Spark plug: Gap at 0.030 inches; replace annually.
Cooling fins: Keep clean to prevent overheating.

Tip: Always run engine at full throttle when mowing for optimal performance.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

Add fuel stabilizer to tank and run engine for 5 minutes.
Change engine oil and filter.
Remove spark plug, add 1 oz of oil to cylinder, pull starter cord slowly, reinstall plug.
Clean underside of deck thoroughly.
Store in dry, covered location; disconnect battery.

CAUTION! Never store with gasoline in tank without stabilizer. Gasoline degrades over time.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

Read manual completely before operation.
Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles.
Do not carry passengers.
Wear sturdy shoes, eye protection, and hearing protection.
Do not mow on wet grass or steep slopes.
Disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.
Keep hands and feet away from rotating blades.

Warranty & Support

Craftsman T310 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 (CMXGRAM1130047) and serial number ready.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, clogged filter	Charge battery; add fuel; clean/replace air filter.
Poor cut quality	Dull blades, uneven deck	Sharpen blades; level deck; check tire pressure.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old fuel	Replace air filter; drain old fuel and refill with fresh.
Vibration	Loose blade, debris in deck	Tighten blade bolt; clean deck underside.
Hydrostatic transmission sluggish	Low fluid, drive belt worn	Check fluid level; inspect and replace belt if needed.
Battery not charging	Loose connections, faulty alternator	Clean and tighten terminals; test charging system.

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

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