Manual for Craftsman Lawn Mower

The Craftsman Lawn Mower is a reliable and efficient lawn care tool designed for residential use. It features a powerful engine, adjustable cutting heights, mulching and bagging capabilities, easy-start technology, and durable steel deck construction. 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 the Mower 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Guidelines 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty & Support 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, cutting deck, height adjustment lever, grass bag, mulching plug, starter handle, fuel tank, and wheels.

Feature	Description
Engine	Powerful 140cc OHV engine for reliable performance
Cutting Deck	21-inch steel deck for durable cutting
Height Adjustment	Single-lever adjustment for 6 cutting positions (1.5-3.5 inches)
Grass Bag	2.1 bushel capacity bag for easy collection
Mulching Capability	Includes mulching plug for nutrient recycling
Easy-Start Technology	Primer bulb and recoil starter for quick ignition
Fuel Tank	1-quart capacity for extended operation
Wheels	8-inch rear wheels for smooth maneuverability
Safety Key	Removable key to prevent unauthorized use
Handle	Adjustable folding handle for compact storage

Assembly Instructions

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

Attach the handle: Align handle brackets with deck mounts, insert bolts, and tighten securely.
Install the grass bag: Hook bag onto rear deck brackets and secure with provided clips.
Attach wheels: Insert axle through wheel hubs and secure with retaining clips.
Install mulching plug (if desired): Insert plug into rear discharge chute.
Add engine oil: Fill with SAE 30 motor oil to indicated level on dipstick.

WARNING! Do not add fuel during assembly. Ensure all bolts are tightened to prevent instability.

First-Time Setup

Prepare mower for initial use after assembly.

Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline with minimum 87 octane. Do not overfill.
Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position based on grass type.
Inspect area: Clear lawn of debris, rocks, and toys before mowing.
Insert safety key: Place key into ignition slot before starting.

CAUTION! Operate mower only in well-ventilated outdoor areas. Keep children and pets away.

Specifications

Engine Type: 140cc 4-cycle OHV
Cutting Width: 21 inches
Cutting Heights: 6 positions, 1.5 to 3.5 inches
Deck Material: Steel
Grass Bag Capacity: 2.1 bushels
Fuel Capacity: 1 quart
Oil Type: SAE 30 (20 oz capacity)
Wheel Size: 8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Weight: 55 lbs (approx.)
Warranty: 2-year limited warranty

Controls and Settings

Primary controls located on handle and engine.

Handle Controls: Drive control lever (engages self-propulsion if equipped), height adjustment lever, starter handle.

Engine Controls: Throttle control, choke lever, primer bulb, ignition key slot, fuel valve.

Settings: Cutting height adjustment (1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 inches), bagging/mulching selection, throttle speed (fast/slow).

Operating the Mower

Starting and mowing procedures for optimal results.

Starting: Insert key, move throttle to FAST, press primer bulb 3 times, pull starter handle firmly.
Mowing: Engage drive lever (if equipped), walk at steady pace, overlap passes slightly.
Stopping: Release drive lever, move throttle to STOP, remove safety key.
Bagging: Ensure grass bag is properly attached and empty when full.
Mulching: Install mulching plug and mow when grass is dry for best results.

Tip: Mow in different patterns each time to prevent grass from leaning.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, inspect for damage, clear deck of debris
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil, check air filter, inspect spark plug
Every season	Sharpen or replace blade, clean under deck, lubricate wheels
As needed	Replace air filter, spark plug, fuel filter

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents damage and extends mower life.

Short-term: Clean deck, empty grass bag, store in dry location.
Long-term (winter): Add fuel stabilizer, run engine 5 minutes, drain or run tank dry, change oil, remove spark plug and add oil to cylinder, store in cool, dry place.
Blade care: Sharpen blade before storage to prevent rust.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank in enclosed spaces due to fire risk.

Safety Information

Critical safety rules for operation.

Always wear sturdy shoes and eye protection.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
Never mow wet grass or on steep slopes.
Clear mowing area of objects that could be thrown.
Do not allow children to operate mower.
Stop engine and remove key before unclogging or adjusting.
Use extreme caution when reversing or pulling mower backward.

DANGER! Gasoline is flammable; refuel outdoors with engine off and cool.

Warranty & Support

Craftsman 2-year limited warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For support, visit www.craftsman.com or contact 1-888-331-4569. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, old gas, clogged filter	Add fresh fuel, replace fuel filter, check spark plug.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter, bad gas	Clean/replace air filter, drain and refill with fresh gas.
Uneven cutting	Dull blade, uneven tire pressure	Sharpen or replace blade, check tire pressure.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, debris under deck	Tighten blade bolt, clean deck underside.
Grass not bagging	Wet grass, full bag, clogged chute	Mow when dry, empty bag, clear discharge chute.
Self-propel not working	Drive belt loose or broken	Adjust or replace drive belt (refer to manual).

Service: For repairs not covered here, contact authorized Craftsman service center.

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