manual for craftsman t100 riding mower

The Craftsman T100 Riding Mower is a versatile lawn tractor designed for residential use, featuring a Briggs & Stratton engine, 42-inch cutting deck, 6-speed manual transmission, electric start, adjustable cutting height, and ergonomic controls. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton engine, 42-inch cutting deck, 6-speed manual transmission, Electric Start, Adjustable seat, Cup holder, Headlights.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a flat, stable surface.

1. Install steering wheel: Align and secure with provided hardware.
2. Attach seat: Mount using bolts and adjust tension.
3. Install cutting deck: Lower deck, attach linkage and belt.
4. Connect battery: For electric start models, connect positive and negative terminals.
5. Add fluids: Fill engine with oil (SAE 30) and fuel (unleaded gasoline).

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

First-Time Operation

Perform pre-operation checks before starting.

1. Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
2. Check fuel: Fill tank with fresh unleaded gasoline.
3. Adjust seat: Set for comfortable reach to controls.
4. Adjust cutting height: Set deck to desired height (1.5-4 inches).
5. Start engine: Insert key, set parking brake, engage choke (if cold), turn key to start.

CAUTION! Always operate on level ground. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

• Engine: Briggs & Stratton 540cc OHV.
• Cutting Width: 42 inches.
• Transmission: 6-speed manual gear drive.
• Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gallons.
• Cutting Height: Adjustable 1.5 to 4 inches.
• Tires: Front 15x6.00-6, Rear 20x10.00-8.
• Weight: Approximately 450 lbs.
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Settings

Operator station includes ignition, throttle, choke, gear shift, blade engagement, and parking brake.

Dashboard: Ignition switch, Headlight switch, Hour meter, Cup holder.

Cutting Height: Adjust lever to desired setting (1.5-4 inches). Throttle: Set to FAST for mowing, SLOW for idling. Choke: Use for cold starts. Gear Shift: 6 forward speeds, 1 reverse. Blade Engagement: Pull lever to engage blades. Parking Brake: Engage before dismounting.

Attachments & Accessories

Compatible with bagger, mulching kit, and tow-behind spreader.

1. Turn off engine and remove key before attaching accessories.
2. Follow accessory manual for installation steps.
3. Ensure attachments are securely fastened before operation.

Tip: Use genuine Craftsman attachments for optimal performance.

Mowing Operation

Designed for efficient lawn cutting with adjustable patterns.

1. Start mower: Engage parking brake, start engine, release brake.
2. Engage blades: Pull PTO lever to spin cutting blades.
3. Select gear: Start in 1st gear, shift up as needed.
4. Mow in overlapping passes: For even cut, overlap each pass by 2-3 inches.
5. Disengage blades: Push PTO lever to stop blades when not cutting.
6. Shut down: Engage parking brake, turn key to OFF, remove key.

WARNING! Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees. Watch for obstacles.

Safety Features

Blade Brake Clutch (BBC): Stops blades when PTO disengaged. Parking Brake: Prevents rolling. Seat Safety Switch: Stops engine if operator leaves seat with blades engaged.

Maintenance & Storage

Perform regular maintenance for optimal performance.

Daily: Check oil, fuel, tire pressure. Clean deck after use. Monthly: Sharpen blades, check belt tension. Seasonal: Change oil, replace air filter, store with fuel stabilizer.

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance. Store in dry, covered area.

Regulatory Information

EPA Certified: Engine meets emission standards. Copyright © 2025 Craftsman; trademarks of Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. For support, visit www.craftsman.com or contact 1-888-331-4569.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Refer to engine manual for reset procedures.

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