Craftsman T3500 Riding Mower Manual

The Craftsman T3500 is a powerful riding lawn mower featuring a 24 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 46-inch cutting deck, hydrostatic transmission, electric start, adjustable cutting height, and a comfortable high-back seat. This manual provides essential information for safe operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and storage to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your mower. Below are key sections covering safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Cutting Deck Adjustment 8. Storage & Winterization 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 24 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 46-inch triple-blade cutting deck, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric start system, Adjustable cutting height (1.5-4 inches), High-back seat, 2.5-gallon fuel tank, Headlights, Cup holder.

Feature	Description
Engine	24 HP Briggs & Stratton, single-cylinder, OHV
Cutting Deck	46-inch stamped steel, triple blade
Transmission	Hydrostatic, single pedal control
Starting System	Electric key start with backup recoil
Cutting Height	Adjustable via lever (1.5 to 4 inches)
Seat	High-back, adjustable for operator comfort
Fuel Capacity	2.5 gallons (unleaded gasoline only)
Headlights	Integrated for low-light operation
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive
Warranty	2-year limited warranty

Safety Information

Read all safety instructions before operating. Always wear appropriate protective gear.

Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles before starting.
Never allow children or pets in the area while mowing.
Do not operate on slopes greater than 15 degrees; mow across slopes, not up and down.
Always engage parking brake before dismounting.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts, especially the cutting deck.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable; refuel outdoors only when engine is cool. Do not smoke near fuel.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools (included).

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: Use SAE 30 (approx. 48 oz) as per dipstick.
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).

CAUTION! Ensure all bolts are tightened securely. Test all controls before first use.

Specifications

Engine: 24 HP Briggs & Stratton, OHV, single-cylinder.
Cutting Width: 46 inches.
Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite forward/reverse speeds.
Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions).
Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gallons.
Oil Capacity: 48 oz (SAE 30).
Tire Size: Front 15x6.00-6, Rear 20x10.00-8.
Weight: 540 lbs (approx.).
Warranty: 2-year limited.

Controls and Operation

Dashboard: Ignition key, Headlight switch, Hour meter, Cup holder. Floor: Hydrostatic drive pedal (forward/reverse), Brake pedal, Parking brake lever.

Starting Procedure: 1. Sit on seat. 2. Engage parking brake. 3. Set cutting height lever to desired position. 4. Move PTO (blade engage) lever to OFF. 5. Turn ignition key to START. 6. Release key to RUN position.

Mowing: Engage PTO lever to activate blades. Use drive pedal to control speed. For turns, reduce speed.

Shutdown: Disengage PTO, engage parking brake, turn key to OFF, remove key.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures performance and safety.

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 blade sharpness.
Seasonally: Grease fittings, check battery charge, sharpen/replace blades.

Tip: Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

Cutting Deck Adjustment

Adjust cutting height for desired grass length.

Park on level surface, engage parking brake, turn off engine.
Locate cutting height lever (right side of deck).
Move lever to desired position (1.5 to 4 inches).
Ensure all wheels are at same height for even cut.
Test mow a small area to verify height.

WARNING! Never adjust cutting height while engine is running or blades are engaged.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents damage during off-season.

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

CAUTION! Do not store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days without stabilizer.

Regulatory Information

This equipment complies with ANSI/OPEI B71.1-2017 safety standards. Engine meets EPA Phase 3 emissions requirements. Copyright © 2023 Craftsman; trademarks of Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. For support, visit www.craftsman.com or contact 1-888-331-4569.

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 is off.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed	Sharpen/replace blades; check throttle is at full speed.
Excessive vibration	Damaged/debris on blade, loose parts	Stop engine, inspect blades for damage/balance, tighten bolts.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old fuel	Replace air filter; drain and refill with fresh gasoline.
Hydrostatic transmission sluggish	Low fluid, drive belt worn	Check fluid level; inspect drive belt for wear and tension.

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

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