Manual for Craftsman Convertible Mower

The Craftsman Convertible Mower is a versatile lawn care machine featuring a powerful engine, multiple cutting modes (mulching, bagging, side discharge), adjustable cutting heights, easy-start system, durable steel deck, and ergonomic handles. Designed for residential use, it offers reliable performance for various lawn conditions. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Operating Modes 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Safety Features 9. Storage & Winterization 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Steel cutting deck, Briggs & Stratton engine, height adjustment lever, grass bag, mulching plug, discharge chute, ergonomic handle with controls.

Feature	Description
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 190cc OHV engine with easy-start system
Cutting Width	21-inch steel cutting deck
Cutting Modes	Mulching, bagging, and side discharge
Height Adjustment	Single-lever adjustment for 6 cutting positions (1.5-4 inches)
Drive System	Front-wheel drive with variable speed control
Grass Bag Capacity	2.5 bushels
Handle	Foldable ergonomic handle with padded grips
Safety Features	Blade brake clutch system, safety key
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front wheels
Fuel Tank	1-quart capacity

Assembly Instructions

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

Attach handle: Align handle brackets with deck mounts, secure with bolts and washers.
Install grass bag: Hook bag onto rear deck brackets, ensure secure attachment.
Attach discharge chute: Slide chute into side port, secure with wing nut.
Install mulching plug: Insert plug into discharge opening when mulching.
Add engine oil: Fill with SAE 30 oil to full mark on dipstick (check manual for exact amount).
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

WARNING! Wear gloves during assembly. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely.

First-Time Setup

Before first use, complete pre-operation checks.

Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
Check fuel: Fill tank with fresh unleaded gasoline.
Inspect blade: Ensure blade is sharp and securely fastened.
Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (recommend 3 inches for first mow).
Select mode: Install mulching plug, bag, or discharge chute based on desired operation.
Test safety features: Verify blade brake clutch stops blade when handle is released.

CAUTION! Never operate without oil or with dull blade. Clear mowing area of debris.

Specifications

Engine: Briggs & Stratton 190cc OHV, 4-cycle
Cutting Width: 21 inches
Cutting Heights: 6 positions, 1.5 to 4 inches
Drive: Front-wheel drive, variable speed
Deck Material: Powder-coated steel
Wheels: 8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Bag Capacity: 2.5 bushels
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum)
Oil Type: SAE 30 detergent oil (API service classification SJ or higher)
Weight: 65 lbs (approx.)

Controls and Settings

Handle controls: Drive control lever, blade engagement lever, height adjustment lever.

Operation: Insert safety key, pull recoil starter, engage blade lever, squeeze drive lever to move.

Height Adjustment: Single lever adjusts all four wheels simultaneously. Settings: Position 1 (1.5") to 6 (4"). Drive Control: Variable speed - squeeze lever further for faster movement. Blade Engagement: Pull lever against handle to engage blade; release to stop blade (blade brake clutch). Mulching/Bagging/Discharge: Install appropriate attachment for desired mode.

Operating Modes

Three convertible modes for different lawn conditions.

Mulching Mode: Install mulching plug. Cuts clippings finely and returns them to lawn as fertilizer.
Bagging Mode: Attach grass bag. Collects clippings for disposal.
Side Discharge Mode: Install discharge chute. Ejects clippings to side for faster cutting in tall/wet grass.

Tip: For best results, mow when grass is dry. Overlap passes by 2-3 inches.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, inspect blade, clear deck of debris
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil, check air filter, inspect spark plug
Every season	Sharpen or replace blade, clean underside of deck
As needed	Check tire pressure, lubricate wheel bearings
Storage	Drain fuel or add stabilizer, clean thoroughly

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.

Safety Features

Blade Brake Clutch: Stops blade within 3 seconds when handle is released. Safety Key: Must be inserted to start engine. Recoil Starter: Manual pull-start system. Warning Labels: Read and understand all labels on mower.

Safety Rules: Wear eye protection and sturdy shoes. Keep children and pets away. Mow across slopes, not up and down. Never remove safety devices.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents damage during off-season.

Clean thoroughly: Remove grass clippings from deck, wheels, and engine.
Fuel management: Either drain tank completely or add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes.
Oil change: Change oil at end of season (optional but recommended).
Blade care: Sharpen blade before storage.
Storage location: Store in dry, covered area. Fold handle for compact storage.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank without stabilizer. Fuel can degrade and damage engine.

Warranty Information

Craftsman Convertible Mower comes with a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, old gas, safety key missing	Add fresh fuel, insert safety key, check spark plug
Poor cutting performance	Dull blade, low engine speed	Sharpen or replace blade, check throttle setting
Uneven cut	Uneven tire pressure, worn blade	Check tire pressure, balance or replace blade
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, bent blade	Tighten blade bolt, replace bent blade
Grass not discharging	Wet grass, clogged deck	Mow when dry, clean underside of deck
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old oil	Clean/replace air filter, change oil

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