Craftsman T310 Riding Mower Manual

The Craftsman T310 is a 24 HP V-Twin gasoline-powered riding lawn mower with a 46-inch stamped steel cutting deck, hydrostatic transmission, 6-speed shift-on-the-go gear drive, electric start, and a 2.5-gallon fuel tank. It features a comfortable high-back seat, cup holder, headlights, and a mulching/bagging/discharge capability. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Instructions 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting Deck Operation 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage & Winterization 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: 24 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 46-inch cutting deck, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric start, High-back seat, Headlights, Cup holder, Mulching kit compatibility.

Feature	Description
Engine	24 HP Briggs & Stratton V-Twin, gasoline-powered
Cutting Width	46-inch stamped steel deck
Transmission	Hydrostatic, single pedal control
Speed	Forward: 0-5.5 mph, Reverse: 0-2.5 mph
Fuel Capacity	2.5 gallons
Starting System	Electric key start
Seat	Adjustable high-back seat
Headlights	Integrated for low-light operation
Cutting Options	Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge
Warranty	2-year limited warranty

Safety Instructions

Read and understand all safety instructions before operating.

Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles.
Do not carry passengers; operator only.
Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
Wear sturdy footwear, eye protection, and hearing protection.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable; refuel outdoors with engine off and cool. Do not smoke near fuel.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assembly required for steering wheel, seat, and cutting deck.

Attach steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Install seat: Place on bracket and secure with provided bolts.
Attach cutting deck: Lower deck lift lever, align with pins, and secure with deck belt.
Check tire pressure: Inflate to 10-12 PSI.
Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 or 10W-30, fill to dipstick mark.
Add gasoline: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

CAUTION! Use two people when lifting or attaching heavy components like the cutting deck.

Specifications

Engine: 24 HP Briggs & Stratton V-Twin, gasoline.
Cutting Deck: 46-inch stamped steel, 3-blade.
Transmission: Hydrostatic, single pedal control.
Speed: Forward: 0-5.5 mph, Reverse: 0-2.5 mph.
Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gallons.
Starting: Electric key start with 12V battery.
Seat: Adjustable high-back seat.
Headlights: Yes, for low-light operation.
Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4 inches, 6 positions.
Weight: Approximately 500 lbs.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Dashboard: Ignition key, Headlight switch, Hour meter, Cup holder.

Control Levers: Deck lift lever, Parking brake lever, PTO (Blade Engage) lever.

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

Starting Procedure: Sit on seat, set parking brake, PTO off, press brake, turn key to start. Stopping: Release drive pedal, engage parking brake, turn key off, remove key.

Cutting Deck Operation

Adjust cutting height, engage blades, and select discharge option.

Set cutting height: Use deck lift lever to desired position (1.5-4 inches).
Engage blades: With engine running, slowly pull up PTO lever.
Select discharge: Install mulch plug, bagger, or leave chute open for side discharge.
Mow in overlapping passes for even cut.
Disengage blades: Push PTO lever down before stopping or reversing.

Tip: Mow when grass is dry for best results. Keep blades sharp for clean cut.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long life and optimal performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, fuel level, and for debris under deck.
Every 8 hours	Check engine oil level; top up if needed.
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 or replace blades; grease fittings.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance on blades or deck.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for long-term storage, especially over winter.

Clean mower thoroughly, especially under deck.
Change engine oil and replace filter.
Add fuel stabilizer to gas tank and run engine for 5 minutes.
Disconnect battery and store in cool, dry place.
Store in dry, covered area; cover mower if outdoors.

CAUTION! Do not store with gasoline in tank without stabilizer; it can damage engine.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, clogged filter	Charge battery; add fuel; replace air filter; check spark plug.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed	Sharpen or replace blades; set throttle to full speed.
Vibration or shaking	Unbalanced blade, loose parts	Stop engine, check blade for damage and balance; tighten bolts.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old fuel	Replace air filter; drain old gasoline and refill with fresh fuel.
Hydrostatic transmission slips	Low fluid, worn belt	Check fluid level; inspect drive belt for wear and replace if needed.

Reset: For safety switches, ensure you are seated, parking brake set, and PTO disengaged.

Warranty Information

Craftsman T310 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal residential use. Warranty does not cover wear items (blades, belts, tires), damage from misuse, lack of maintenance, or commercial use. For warranty service, contact Craftsman customer service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep your receipt and model/serial number (located on frame under seat) for service requests.