Craftsman LT 2000 Riding Mower Owners Manual

The Craftsman LT 2000 is a 20HP, 42-inch deck riding lawn tractor designed for residential use. It features a Briggs & Stratton engine, hydrostatic transmission, electric PTO clutch, adjustable cutting height, and a comfortable high-back seat. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Controls & Operation 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Engine Care 7. Deck & Blade Maintenance 8. Storage & Winterization 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 20HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 42-inch stamped steel cutting deck, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric PTO clutch, 6-position cutting height adjustment, High-back seat, Headlights, Cup holder.

Feature	Description
Engine	20HP Briggs & Stratton, single-cylinder, OHV
Cutting Deck	42-inch, stamped steel, side discharge
Transmission	Hydrostatic, single-speed forward/reverse
PTO Clutch	Electric engagement for blades
Cutting Height	Adjustable 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Fuel Capacity	2.5 gallons (gasoline)
Seat	High-back, adjustable suspension
Headlights	For low-light operation
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive
Battery	12V, 230 CCA

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assembly required for steering wheel, seat, and battery.

Install steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Install seat: Mount to frame with provided bolts.
Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) cables.
Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 (check manual for capacity).
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

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

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Ignition switch: Turn key to start.
Brake pedal: Press to stop; must be engaged to start.
PTO lever: Engage/disengage cutting blades.
Throttle control: Set engine speed (fast for mowing).
Choke control: Use for cold starts.
Height adjustment lever: Set cutting height (1.5-4 inches).
Hydrostatic drive pedal: Forward/reverse speed control.

CAUTION! Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.

Specifications

Model: Craftsman LT 2000.
Engine: 20HP Briggs & Stratton, OHV.
Cutting Width: 42 inches.
Transmission: Hydrostatic.
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane).
Oil Type: SAE 30 (above 32°F) or 10W-30 (multi-viscosity).
Cutting Height Range: 1.5 to 4 inches.
Tire Size (Front): 15 x 6.00-6.
Tire Size (Rear): 20 x 10.00-8.
Weight: Approximately 450 lbs.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, tire pressure, and for debris.
Every 8 hours	Check battery terminals and clean deck.
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil (first change at 5 hours).
Every 50 hours	Replace air filter; check spark plug.
Every 100 hours	Replace spark plug; check drive belt.
Seasonally	Sharpen blades; lubricate moving parts.

Engine Care

Proper engine maintenance is critical.

Oil change: Drain when warm; refill with SAE 30 (approx. 2 quarts).
Air filter: Replace paper element; clean pre-cleaner if equipped.
Spark plug: Gap at 0.030 inches; replace annually.
Fuel filter: Replace if clogged or annually.
Cooling fins: Keep clean to prevent overheating.

Tip: Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Deck & Blade Maintenance

Maintain deck for optimal cutting performance.

Blade sharpening: Remove blade; sharpen at 25-degree angle; balance.
Deck cleaning: Remove grass buildup after each use.
Belt inspection: Check for cracks/wear; replace if damaged.
Deck leveling: Adjust to ensure even cut (front 1/4" lower than rear).
Spindle lubrication: Grease fittings every 25 hours.

WARNING! Wear gloves when handling blades. Ensure mower is off and key removed.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

Add fuel stabilizer: Run engine for 5 minutes to circulate.
Change oil: Replace with fresh oil.
Remove battery: Store in cool, dry place; charge monthly.
Clean deck: Remove all grass and debris.
Store indoors: In dry, covered location.

CAUTION! Do not store with fuel in tank without stabilizer. Gasoline can degrade and damage engine.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

Read manual before operating.
Wear eye protection, long pants, and sturdy shoes.
Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and rocks.
Do not carry passengers.
Do not mow on steep slopes or wet grass.
Disengage blades before crossing driveways or gravel.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
Never leave mower unattended with engine running.

Warranty Information

Craftsman LT 2000 includes a limited warranty. For residential use, engine warranty provided by Briggs & Stratton; frame and deck warranty provided by Craftsman. Retain proof of purchase. For warranty claims, contact Craftsman customer service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, bad spark plug, dead battery	Check fuel level; inspect spark plug; charge/replace battery.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed, clogged deck	Sharpen blades; set throttle to fast; clean deck underside.
Vibration or shaking	Unbalanced blade, loose parts	Balance or replace blade; tighten bolts and fittings.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old fuel, clogged fuel filter	Replace air filter; drain old fuel; replace fuel filter.
Blades won't engage	PTO switch faulty, blown fuse, loose connection	Check PTO switch; replace 20A fuse; check wiring.
Hydrostatic transmission slips	Low fluid, worn drive belt	Check fluid level; inspect and replace drive belt if worn.

Reset: Check all safety interlock switches (seat, brake, PTO).

Service: For technical support, call 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.