Craftsman Lawn Mower Repair Manual

Complete Service & Maintenance Guide

Gas & Electric Models

Installation Guide

Tools Needed:

  • Socket wrench set
  • Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips)
  • Pliers
  • Spark plug wrench
  • Oil drain pan
  • Air compressor

Step-by-Step Assembly

  1. Unpack and Inspect: Remove all packaging materials and inspect for any shipping damage or missing parts.
  2. Handle Assembly: Attach the upper and lower handle sections using provided bolts and washers.
  3. Wheel Installation: Mount all wheels onto the axle, ensuring proper alignment and secure fastening.
  4. Deck Height Adjustment: Set the cutting height adjustment lever to desired position and secure.
  5. Battery Installation (Electric Models): Insert battery into compartment, ensuring proper polarity and secure connection.
  6. Oil and Fuel (Gas Models): Add recommended engine oil and fuel before first use.
  7. Blade Installation: Install cutting blade with proper orientation and torque to manufacturer specifications.
  8. Safety Check: Verify all safety features are functioning properly before operation.
Warning: Always wear appropriate safety gear including eye protection and gloves during assembly and maintenance.

Specifications

Model Series CMXGRAM1130037
Type Gas-Powered Push Mower
Engine Type Briggs & Stratton 140cc OHV
Cutting Width 21 inches
Cutting Height Range 1.5 - 4 inches
Fuel Capacity 1.1 gallons
Oil Capacity 20 oz
Weight 68 lbs
Wheel Size 8 inches front, 10 inches rear
Starting System Recoil with ReadyStart®
Deck Material Steel with corrosion-resistant coating
Mulching Capability Yes (mulching kit included)

Warranty Information

  • Full Warranty: 2 years limited warranty
  • Engine Warranty: 3 years on Briggs & Stratton engine
  • Additional Coverage: Optional extended protection plan available

For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit Craftsman.com

Key Features

Briggs & Stratton Engine

Reliable 140cc OHV engine with ReadyStart® no-prime starting system for easy operation and consistent performance.

Triple-Blade Cutting System

Three cutting surfaces provide superior mulching, bagging, and side discharge performance with clean, even cuts.

Single-Point Height Adjustment

Quickly adjust all four wheels simultaneously with one lever for precise cutting height control from 1.5 to 4 inches.

Dura-Drive® Transmission

Smooth variable speed control with all-wheel drive capability for better traction on hills and uneven terrain.

FLEX Technology

Convert easily between bagging, mulching, and side discharge without tools for versatile lawn care.

Personal Pace® System

Self-propelled system automatically matches your walking speed for comfortable operation with less effort.

Maintenance Schedule

After Each Use

Clean underside of deck, check blade condition, wipe down surfaces

Every 25 Hours

Check air filter, inspect spark plug, lubricate moving parts

Every 50 Hours

Change engine oil, sharpen/replace blade, check drive system

Seasonal

Winterize fuel system, store properly, battery maintenance

Annual

Replace air filter, spark plug, check all safety features

As Needed

Replace belts, cables, wheels, and other wear components

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Solution
Engine won't start Empty fuel tank, stale fuel, clogged air filter Add fresh fuel, clean/replace air filter, check spark plug
Poor cutting performance Dull blade, clogged deck, incorrect height setting Sharpen/replace blade, clean deck, adjust cutting height
Engine runs rough or stalls Dirty carburetor, water in fuel, fouled spark plug Clean carburetor, drain fuel tank, replace spark plug
Uneven cutting pattern Uneven tire pressure, bent blade, worn deck Check tire pressure, replace blade, inspect deck
Excessive vibration Unbalanced blade, loose components, bent crankshaft Balance blade, tighten all bolts, check crankshaft
Self-propel not working Broken drive belt, damaged cable, worn wheels Replace drive belt, adjust/replace cable, check wheels

Common Error Indicators

  • Oil Light: Low oil level - Check and add oil immediately
  • Hard Starting: Choke position incorrect - Adjust choke setting
  • Smoking Engine: Overfilled oil - Drain excess oil to proper level
  • Loss of Power: Clogged fuel line - Clean fuel system components
  • Grinding Noise: Damaged blade or deck - Inspect and replace parts
  • Won't Stay Running: Dirty carburetor - Clean or rebuild carburetor

Manual Downloads

Current Model Manuals

CMXGRAM1130037

21" Gas Push Mower

CMEMW212B6

21" Electric Mower

CMXGRAM1150047

22" Self-Propelled

CMEMW213B6

20" Battery Mower

Popular Previous Models

CMXGRAM1130022

21" Classic Mower

CMEMW211B6

19" Electric Mower

CMXGRAM1100022

21" Rear Bag Mower

CMEMW214B6

21" Corded Mower

Note: For models not listed here, please visit the Craftsman Support Website for complete documentation.