Manual for Craftsman T140 Riding Mower

The Craftsman T140 is a 42-inch deck riding lawn mower powered by a Briggs & Stratton 19.5 HP engine with a 7-speed manual 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 Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Attaching Accessories 7. Mowing Operations 8. Safety Features 10. Care & Maintenance 11. Regulatory Information 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 42-inch cutting deck, 7-speed manual transmission, electric start, high-back seat, headlights, cup holder, and mulching kit compatibility.

Feature	Description
Engine	19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, single-cylinder, OHV
Cutting Width	42-inch stamped steel deck
Transmission	7-speed manual shift-on-the-go
Starting System	Electric key start with backup recoil
Seat	High-back, adjustable for operator comfort
Headlights	Dual headlights for low-light operation
Cup Holder	Integrated cup holder on dash
Fuel Capacity	2.5-gallon gas tank
Cutting Height	Adjustable 1.5 to 4 inches (lever-operated)
Mulching Capability	Compatible with optional mulching kit

Assembly Instructions

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

Install steering wheel: Align and secure with provided hardware.
Attach seat: Mount using bolts and washers; adjust position.
Install battery: Connect red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Attach cutting deck: Lower deck onto mounting points; secure with pins and belts.
Add fluids: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil (check dipstick); add gasoline.

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

First-Time Operation

Perform pre-operation checks before starting.

Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline; fill to 2.5 gallons.
Adjust seat: Position for comfortable reach to controls.
Set cutting height: Use lever to desired height (1.5-4 inches).
Start engine: Insert key, set brake, turn to START.
Engage blades: Pull PTO lever to engage cutting deck.

CAUTION! Operate only in clear, dry conditions. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Engine: 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, OHV.
Cutting Deck: 42-inch stamped steel.
Transmission: 7-speed manual, shift-on-the-go.
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).
Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gallons.
Cutting Height: Adjustable 1.5 to 4 inches.
Turning Radius: 18 inches.
Weight: 450 lbs (approx.).
Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Settings

Dashboard: Ignition key, headlight switch, cup holder. Floor: Brake pedal, clutch/brake for transmission, PTO lever.

Steering: Wheel with tilt adjustment. Cutting height: Lever on right side (1.5-4 inches). Transmission: 7-speed shift lever (1=slowest, 7=fastest).

Operation: Set parking brake before starting. Engage PTO only when ready to mow. Use headlights in low light.

Attaching Accessories

Mulching kit: Install baffles and mulching blade. Bagging system: Attach rear bagger to hitch.

Turn off engine and remove key.
Lower deck to lowest setting for access.
Follow accessory instructions for mounting.
Test operation without load first.

Tip: Ensure all accessories are securely fastened before use.

Mowing Operations

Supports standard cutting, mulching, and bagging.

Start mower: Set brake, turn key to START.
Engage blades: Pull PTO lever slowly.
Select speed: Use shift lever (2-3 for normal mowing).
Mow in patterns: Overlap passes by 2-3 inches.
Disengage blades: Push PTO lever to OFF when stopping.
Shut down: Turn key to OFF, set parking brake.
Clean deck: After use, remove grass buildup.

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

Safety Features

Blade brake: Stops blades within 3 seconds when PTO disengaged. Seat switch: Engine stops if operator leaves seat with blades engaged. Parking brake: Locks rear wheels when set.

Care & Maintenance

Perform regular maintenance for optimal performance.

Check oil: Before each use; change every 50 hours.
Air filter: Clean every 25 hours; replace yearly.
Sharpen blades: Every 25 hours or when dull.
Grease fittings: Lubricate every 10 hours.
Winterize: Drain fuel or use stabilizer if storing.

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug before servicing blades. Use only recommended fluids.

Regulatory Information

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

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, no fuel	Charge battery; add fresh fuel; check spark plug.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed	Sharpen blades; set throttle to full.
Excessive vibration	Unbalanced blade, loose deck	Balance or replace blade; tighten deck bolts.
Transmission slips	Low fluid, worn belt	Check fluid level; inspect drive belt.
Mower leaves streaks	Deck clogged, uneven tires	Clean deck; check tire pressure.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 5 minutes to reset electrical system.

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