Owner's Manual for Craftsman Model M210 Mower

The Craftsman Model M210 is a 21-inch push mower featuring a 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 3-in-1 mulching/bagging/side discharge capability, single-lever height adjustment, durable steel deck, and easy-start technology. This manual covers safety, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure proper use and longevity of your mower.

1. Safety Information 2. Assembly Instructions 3. Controls and Features 4. Operation 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Storage 7. Troubleshooting 8. Specifications 9. Warranty Information

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operating. Failure to follow warnings may result in serious injury or death.

Symbol/AreaWarning/Precaution
General OperationClear mowing area of debris. Do not mow wet grass. Keep bystanders and pets away.
Blade SafetyAlways disconnect spark plug before inspecting or servicing blade. Never operate with damaged or missing blade.
Fuel SafetyRefuel outdoors only, with engine off and cool. Use fresh unleaded gasoline. Store fuel in approved container.
Personal ProtectionWear safety glasses, sturdy shoes, and long pants. Hearing protection is recommended.
Slope OperationDo not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees. Mow across slopes, not up and down.

Assembly Instructions

Unpack all parts. Assembly requires basic tools (included: wrench).

  1. Attach handle: Align lower handle with deck brackets, secure with provided bolts and knobs.
  2. Install grass bag: Attach bagger frame to rear discharge chute, hook bag onto frame.
  3. Add oil: Engine is shipped without oil. Add 20 oz. of SAE 30 detergent oil (check dipstick).
  4. Add fuel: Fill with fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).

WARNING! Do not start engine until assembly is complete and you have read the Operation section.

Controls and Features

Key components: Handle with controls, Engine, Deck, Discharge chute, Height adjustment lever.

Handle Controls: Drive control bar (must be held to propel mower), Engine throttle control, Recoil starter grip.

Deck Features: 21-inch stamped steel deck, Single-lever height adjustment (6 positions: 1-3/8" to 3-3/4"), 3-in-1 capability selector (Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge).

Engine: 140cc Briggs & Stratton 675 Series engine, Easy-start system, Primer bulb.

Operation

Starting, mowing, and stopping procedures.

  1. Pre-start: Check oil and fuel. Ensure bag is attached or discharge chute is open as desired.
  2. Starting: Set throttle to FAST. Press primer bulb 3 times. Pull recoil starter firmly.
  3. Mowing: To engage drive, hold drive control bar against handle. Release to stop movement.
  4. Stopping: Release drive control. Move throttle to STOP. Disconnect spark plug for safety.

Tip: For best cut, mow when grass is dry. Overlap each pass slightly. Change mowing pattern weekly.

Maintenance Schedule

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

Storage

End-of-season preparation prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

  1. Run engine to use up fuel in carburetor, or add fuel stabilizer to full tank and run for 5 minutes.
  2. Change oil (if due). Clean mower thoroughly, especially underside.
  3. Remove spark plug, add 1 tablespoon of oil into cylinder, pull starter slowly to coat, reinstall plug.
  4. Store in a clean, dry place, covered.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable. Store mower away from open flames, sparks, or heat sources.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, old fuel, clogged air filter, spark plug disconnectedCheck fuel level and freshness. Clean/replace air filter. Ensure spark plug wire is connected.
Engine runs poorlyDirty air filter, old gasoline, water in fuelReplace air filter. Drain fuel tank and refill with fresh gasoline.
Uneven cutDull blade, deck clogged, uneven tire pressureSharpen or balance blade. Clean deck. Check tire pressure (all tires equal).
Mower vibrates excessivelyDamaged or unbalanced blade, loose partsStop engine immediately. Inspect blade for damage and tighten. Check all bolts.
Won't driveDrive control cable loose or brokenCheck cable tension and connection at handle and transmission.

Specifications

Warranty Information

Craftsman M210 mowers are backed by a 2-year limited warranty from date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship. It does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. Proof of purchase is required. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

Note: Always register your product online to activate your warranty.

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