Craftsman 42 Inch Riding Mower Parts Manual

The Craftsman 42 Inch Riding Mower is a robust lawn maintenance machine designed for efficiency and durability. This manual provides comprehensive information on identifying, ordering, and replacing parts for your specific model. It includes detailed diagrams, part numbers, specifications, and maintenance guidelines to ensure safe operation and longevity of your mower. Below are key sections covering parts identification, diagrams, specifications, ordering, installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Parts Identification & Diagrams

Key components: Engine Assembly, Cutting Deck, Drive System, Control Panel, Seat, Wheels.

Component Group	Description
Engine Assembly	Includes engine block, air filter, spark plug, fuel system, and muffler
Cutting Deck (42")	Housing, spindle assemblies, blades, belt, and deck lift mechanism
Drive System	Transmission, drive belt, pulleys, and axle
Control Panel	Ignition switch, throttle/choke controls, PTO lever, hour meter
Seat & Frame	Operator seat, seat switch, frame structure, and mounting points
Wheels & Tires	Front and rear wheels, tires, and steering linkage
Electrical System	Battery, starter, wiring harness, fuses, and safety switches
Fuel System	Fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filter, and carburetor
Safety Features	Blade brake clutch (PTO), seat safety switch, parking brake
Fasteners & Hardware	Bolts, nuts, washers, pins, and clips specific to the model

Engine Components

Refer to the engine model number (located on the engine shroud) for exact parts.

1. Air Filter: Part #XXXXXX. Replace annually or every 100 hours.
2. Spark Plug: Part #XXXXXX. Gap: 0.030 inches. Replace every season.
3. Oil Filter: Part #XXXXXX. Replace with every oil change.
4. Fuel Filter: Part #XXXXXX. Inline filter; replace yearly.
5. Muffler: Part #XXXXXX. Inspect for cracks or rust.
6. Starter Motor: Part #XXXXXX. 12V system.
7. Carburetor Kit: Part #XXXXXX. Includes gaskets and needle valve.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any engine maintenance to prevent accidental starting.

Cutting Deck & Blade System

The 42-inch stamped or fabricated deck houses three blades.

1. Blade (Standard): Part #XXXXXX. Length: 18 inches. Replace if bent, cracked, or dull.
2. Blade Spindle Assembly: Part #XXXXXX. Includes bearing housing and pulley.
3. Deck Belt: Part #XXXXXX. ½ inch x 96 inches. Inspect for wear/cracks.
4. Deck Wash Port Plug: Part #XXXXXX. For cleaning deck interior.
5. Deck Lift Linkage: Part #XXXXXX. Adjusts cutting height (1.5-4 inches).
6. Mandrel Kit: Part #XXXXXX. Complete spindle rebuild kit.

CAUTION! Ensure the mower is on a level surface, engine is off, and key removed before servicing the deck or blades.

Drive & Transmission System

• Transmission Type: Hydrostatic (Model #XXXXXX) or Gear Drive.
• Drive Belt: Part #XXXXXX. Connects engine to transmission.
• Pulleys: Idler Pulley (Part #XXXXXX), Drive Pulley (Part #XXXXXX).
• Axle & Hub: Rear Axle (Part #XXXXXX), Wheel Hub (Part #XXXXXX).
• Brake Pad: Part #XXXXXX. For parking/emergency brake.
• Hydrostatic Fluid: Specify type and capacity (e.g., 20W-50, 2 qts).

Electrical System

12-Volt negative ground system. Battery: 12V, 230 CCA minimum.

Key Parts: Battery (Part #XXXXXX), Starter Solenoid (Part #XXXXXX), Ignition Switch (Part #XXXXXX), Wiring Harness (Part #XXXXXX), Fuse (20A, Part #XXXXXX), Seat Safety Switch (Part #XXXXXX), PTO Switch (Part #XXXXXX).

Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on the electrical system.

Controls & Safety Features

Standard controls located on dash and steering column.

1. Turn off engine and remove key before inspecting or replacing any control parts.
2. Identify the specific part number from the diagram for your model variant.
3. Common parts: Throttle Control Cable (Part #XXXXXX), Brake Pedal Return Spring (Part #XXXXXX), PTO Engagement Cable (Part #XXXXXX), Key Switch (Part #XXXXXX).

Tip: Lubricate control linkages periodically with light oil for smooth operation.

Wheels, Tires & Steering

Front: 15x6.00-6 NHS tires. Rear: 20x10.00-8 NHS tires.

1. Front Tire & Wheel Assembly: Part #XXXXXX.
2. Rear Tire & Wheel Assembly: Part #XXXXXX.
3. Front Wheel Bearing Kit: Part #XXXXXX.
4. Tie Rod End: Part #XXXXXX. For steering linkage.
5. Spindle (Front): Part #XXXXXX.
6. Valve Stem: Standard TR-87. Inflate to 12 PSI (front), 10 PSI (rear).

WARNING! Securely block the mower and use jack stands if lifting. Do not rely on the hydraulic lift or jack alone.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance part numbers and intervals.

Service	Interval (Hours/Season)	Recommended Part #
Engine Oil Change	First 5 hrs, then every 50 hrs	Oil (SAE 30): N/A; Filter: #XXXXXX
Air Filter	Every 100 hrs / Annually	#XXXXXX
Spark Plug	Every 100 hrs / Season	#XXXXXX
Blade Sharpening/Replacement	Every 25 hrs / As needed	Blade: #XXXXXX
Deck Belt Inspection	Every 50 hrs	Belt: #XXXXXX
Fuel Filter	Every 100 hrs / Season	#XXXXXX
Grease Fittings (Spindles, linkages)	Every 10 hrs	General Purpose Grease
Battery Check/Clean Terminals	Every 25 hrs	Battery: #XXXXXX

Parts Ordering Information

Always have your mower Model Number and Serial Number ready. Find them on the frame under the seat or on the engine.

Ordering Methods:

1. Online: Visit www.craftsman.com/parts. Enter your model number.
2. Phone: Call Craftsman Parts Support at 1-888-331-4569.
3. Retail: Visit an authorized Craftsman service center or retailer.

Return Policy: Parts must be in original packaging. Proof of purchase required.

Safety Precautions

Always follow these safety rules when handling parts or performing maintenance.

• Disconnect spark plug wire and battery before ANY service.
• Use correct tools and replacement parts specified in this manual.
• Never run engine in an enclosed area due to carbon monoxide risk.
• Allow engine and muffler to cool completely before touching.
• Replace safety devices (guards, switches) immediately if damaged.
• Securely support the mower with jack stands; wheels blocked.

CAUTION! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Parts/Corrective Action
Engine won't crank	Dead battery, faulty solenoid, bad ignition switch	Check/Replace Battery (#XXXXXX), Solenoid (#XXXXXX), or Ignition Switch (#XXXXXX).
Engine cranks but won't start	Bad spark plug, clogged fuel filter, empty fuel tank	Replace Spark Plug (#XXXXXX), Fuel Filter (#XXXXXX). Ensure fuel is present.
Poor cutting performance	Dull/bent blades, worn deck belt	Replace Blade(s) (#XXXXXX) and/or Deck Belt (#XXXXXX).
Vibration or unusual noise	Loose/damaged blade, worn spindle bearing	Inspect and tighten blade. Replace Spindle Assembly (#XXXXXX) if bearing is bad.
Mower won't move or drive is weak	Worn drive belt, low transmission fluid	Replace Drive Belt (#XXXXXX). Check hydrostatic fluid level and condition.
PTO (blades) won't engage	Faulty PTO switch, seat switch, or clutch	Test and replace PTO Switch (#XXXXXX), Seat Switch (#XXXXXX), or PTO Clutch Assembly (#XXXXXX).

Technical Support: 1-888-331-4569; www.craftsman.com/support