Manual for Craftsman LT2000 Riding Lawn Mower

The Craftsman LT2000 is a 20HP V-Twin riding lawn mower with a 42-inch cutting deck, hydrostatic transmission, electric start, and mulching capability. It features a comfortable high-back seat, headlights, cup holder, and a durable steel frame. 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 Operation 6. Cutting Deck Setup 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Guidelines 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 20HP Briggs & Stratton V-Twin engine, 42-inch cutting deck, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric start, Mulching kit, High-back seat, Headlights, Cup holder.

Feature	Description
Engine	20HP Briggs & Stratton V-Twin, OHV
Cutting Deck	42-inch stamped steel, 3-blade system
Transmission	Hydrostatic, single pedal control
Starting System	Electric key start with backup recoil
Cutting Options	Side discharge, mulching, bagging (optional)
Seat	High-back, adjustable suspension
Headlights	Dual halogen for low-light operation
Fuel Capacity	3.5 gallons
Cutting Height	1.5 to 4 inches, 7 positions
Warranty	2-year limited

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Install steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Attach seat: Mount using provided bolts and washers.
Install cutting deck: Lower deck, attach lift linkage and belt.
Connect battery: Attach cables (red positive, black negative).
Add fluids: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil (check dipstick). Add gasoline (87 octane minimum).

WARNING! Mower is heavy; use assistance. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely.

First-Time Setup

Before first use, complete pre-operation checks.

Check tire pressure: Front 14 PSI, Rear 10 PSI.
Adjust seat position: Loosen knob, slide to comfortable position.
Set cutting height: Move lever to desired position (test on flat area).
Practice operation: In open area, practice starting, stopping, and maneuvering.

CAUTION! Never operate without reading safety section. Keep bystanders away.

Specifications

Engine: 20HP Briggs & Stratton V-Twin, OHV.
Cutting Width: 42 inches.
Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite speeds 0-5.5 mph.
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).
Oil Capacity: 2 quarts (SAE 30, 10W-30 for varying temps).
Cutting Height Range: 1.5 to 4 inches (7 positions).
Turning Radius: 18 inches.
Weight: 500 lbs (approx.).
Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Operation

Key controls: Ignition switch, Brake pedal, Hydrostatic drive pedal, Cutting height lever, PTO (Power Take-Off) engagement lever.

Starting Procedure: Sit on seat, set parking brake, disengage PTO, turn key to START. Stopping: Release drive pedal, engage parking brake, turn key to OFF. Driving: Release brake, press drive pedal forward to go forward, backward to reverse (ensure no obstructions).

Cutting: Engage PTO lever to spin blades. Adjust speed based on grass conditions. Avoid mowing when grass is wet.

Cutting Deck Setup

Proper deck leveling ensures even cut.

Park on level surface, set cutting height to middle position.
Measure blade tip height at all four corners of deck.
Adjust deck hangers to level (front slightly lower than rear for best performance).
Check belt tension: Should have 1/2 inch deflection at midpoint.

Tip: Sharpen blades every 25 hours for clean cut. Disconnect spark plug before servicing.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, tire pressure, fuel level
Every 8 hours	Check deck for debris, inspect blades
Every 25 hours	Change oil, sharpen blades, check air filter
Every 50 hours	Replace air filter, check spark plug
Every 100 hours	Change transmission fluid, replace fuel filter
Season end	Drain fuel or add stabilizer, clean thoroughly

Storage Guidelines

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

Clean mower: Remove grass, dirt from deck and engine.
Fuel: Either drain tank completely or add fuel stabilizer and run for 5 minutes.
Battery: Disconnect and store in cool, dry place (charge monthly).
Cover: Use breathable cover to protect from dust.

CAUTION! Store in dry, well-ventilated area away from open flames.

Safety Information

Read and follow all safety instructions.

Always wear eye protection and sturdy shoes.
Never carry passengers.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
Clear mowing area of debris before starting.
Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
Disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.
Never leave mower unattended with engine running.

DANGER! Rotating blades can cause severe injury. Always engage parking brake before dismounting.

Warranty Information

Craftsman LT2000 includes 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, improper maintenance, or commercial use. For warranty service, contact authorized service center with proof of purchase. Keep this manual and receipt for warranty claims.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, safety switch	Check battery charge, fuel level, ensure seat is occupied and PTO disengaged.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, deck not level	Sharpen blades, level deck, check belt tension.
Vibration during operation	Damaged blade, debris in deck	Stop engine, inspect blades for damage, clean deck interior.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old fuel	Replace air filter, drain old fuel and refill with fresh.
Hydrostatic transmission sluggish	Low fluid, air in system	Check fluid level, purge air according to manual.

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