Manual for Craftsman Riding Mower

The Craftsman Riding Mower is a robust and reliable lawn care machine designed for efficient cutting of medium to large yards. It features a powerful engine, variable speed control, mulching and bagging capabilities, ergonomic seating, and easy-to-use controls. Below are key sections covering safety, features, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and warranty information.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Powerful OHV engine, cutting deck with adjustable height, ergonomic high-back seat, cup holder, headlights, electric start, and easy-turn steering.

Feature	Description
Engine	Powerful OHV engine for reliable performance
Cutting Width	42-inch cutting deck for efficient mowing
Cutting Height Adjustment	Lever for quick height changes (1.5" to 4")
Speed Control	Variable speed with forward and reverse
Mulching/Bagging	3-in-1 capability: mulch, bag, or side discharge
Seat	Ergonomic high-back seat with armrests
Headlights	Integrated headlights for low-light operation
Electric Start	Key-start ignition for easy operation
Fuel Tank	Large capacity for extended mowing sessions
Cup Holder	Convenient holder for beverages

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before operation. Always wear appropriate safety gear.

Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles before starting.
Never allow children or pets near mower during operation.
Always sit in the seat when starting engine or operating mower.
Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees; mow across slopes, not up and down.
Disengage blades and set parking brake before dismounting.

WARNING! Risk of serious injury or death. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Never operate without guards in place.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Attach steering wheel: Align and secure with provided hardware.
Install seat: Position on frame and bolt securely.
Connect battery: Attach cables (red to positive, black to negative).
Attach cutting deck: Align with mounting points and secure with pins.
Check tire pressure: Inflate to recommended PSI (front: 14 psi, rear: 10 psi).
Add engine oil and fuel: Use SAE 30 oil (check dipstick) and fresh unleaded gasoline.

CAUTION! Ensure all bolts are tightened securely. Do not overfill oil or fuel.

Specifications

Engine: 20 HP OHV, single cylinder.
Cutting Width: 42 inches.
Cutting Height: 6 positions, 1.5" to 4".
Transmission: Hydrostatic, variable speed.
Fuel Capacity: 3 gallons.
Oil Capacity: 1.5 quarts (SAE 30).
Tire Size: Front 15x6.00-6, Rear 20x10.00-8.
Weight: 500 lbs (approx.).
Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Dashboard: Ignition key, throttle control, choke, hour meter, headlight switch.

Steering & Speed: Steering wheel, forward/reverse pedals, brake pedal, parking brake lever.

Cutting Controls: Blade engagement lever, cutting height adjustment lever, deck lift lever.

Starting Procedure: 1. Sit in seat. 2. Set parking brake. 3. Disengage blades. 4. Move throttle to "Fast". 5. Turn key to start. Stopping: 1. Disengage blades. 2. Move throttle to "Slow". 3. Turn key to "Off". 4. Set parking brake.

Cutting & Mowing

For best results, mow when grass is dry.

Adjust cutting height: Use lever to set desired height.
Engage blades: Pull lever slowly while engine is running.
Select speed: Use foot pedals to control forward/reverse speed.
Overlap passes: Overlap each pass by 2-3 inches for even cut.
Change pattern: Alternate mowing direction weekly to prevent ruts.
Empty bag: Stop engine and disengage blades before emptying grass bag.

Tip: Keep blades sharp for clean cuts and healthier grass.

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.
Every 25 hours	Clean cutting deck, sharpen blades, check battery terminals.
Every 50 hours	Change engine oil, replace oil filter, check air filter.
Every 100 hours	Replace spark plug, check drive belt tension.
Seasonally	Lubricate moving parts, check tire wear.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Storage

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

Clean thoroughly: Remove grass clippings and debris from deck and engine.
Fuel system: Add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes, or drain fuel tank and carburetor.
Battery: Disconnect and store in cool, dry place; charge monthly.
Tires: Inflate to proper pressure and store on blocks to relieve weight.
Cover: Use weather-resistant cover to protect from dust and moisture.

WARNING! Store fuel in approved container away from heat sources.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, clogged filter	Charge/replace battery; add fuel; replace air filter.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed	Sharpen/replace blades; adjust throttle to "Fast".
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, unbalanced deck	Tighten blade bolt; check deck for damage.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old fuel	Clean/replace air filter; drain and refill with fresh fuel.
Uneven cut	Uneven tire pressure, worn blades	Adjust tire pressure; sharpen or replace blades.

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

Service: Contact authorized Craftsman service center for complex repairs.

Warranty & Support

Craftsman Riding 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. Keep original receipt for warranty claims.

For support, visit www.craftsman.com or call 1-888-331-4569. Have model and serial numbers ready (located on frame near rear axle).