Installation Guide
Tools Needed:
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips)
- Pliers
- Socket set
- Gas can with fresh gasoline
Step-by-Step Assembly
- Unpack and Inspect: Remove all packaging materials and inspect parts for any shipping damage.
- Handle Assembly: Attach the upper and lower handle sections using provided bolts and hardware.
- Install Height Adjustment Lever: Attach the cutting height adjustment lever to the deck.
- Attach Grass Bag: Connect the rear bag or side discharge chute according to your preference.
- Add Engine Oil: Fill the engine with the recommended SAE 30 motor oil to the proper level.
- Fuel Preparation: Add fresh unleaded gasoline with minimum 87 octane rating to the fuel tank.
- Final Inspection: Check all connections, ensure all hardware is tightened, and verify safety features are functional.
Specifications
| Model Series | CM250 |
| Type | Gas-Powered Push Lawn Mower |
| Engine Type | Briggs & Stratton 140cc OHV |
| Cutting Width | 21 inches |
| Cutting Height Range | 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions) |
| Fuel Capacity | 1.1 quarts |
| Oil Capacity | 20 oz |
| Weight | 65 lbs |
| Wheel Size | 8 inches (front), 10 inches (rear) |
| Starting System | Recoil Pull Start |
| Mulching Capability | Yes (kit included) |
| Warranty | 3 years limited |
Warranty Information
- Full Warranty: 3 years limited warranty on entire mower
- Engine Warranty: 3 years on Briggs & Stratton engine
- Additional Coverage: Optional extended warranty available at purchase
For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit Craftsman.com
Key Features
Briggs & Stratton Engine
140cc OHV engine provides reliable power with easy starting and efficient fuel consumption for medium to large lawns.
Triple Cutting System
Mulch, bag, or side discharge capability allows for versatile grass management based on your lawn care preferences.
6-Position Height Adjustment
Single lever adjusts all four wheels simultaneously to six different cutting heights from 1.5 to 4 inches.
Durable Steel Deck
21-inch reinforced steel cutting deck provides durability and optimal airflow for superior cutting performance.
Easy Fold Handle
Quick-fold handle system allows for compact storage in garages or sheds without requiring tools.
Washout Port
Built-in deck washout port connects to garden hose for easy cleaning after use, preventing grass buildup.
Cutting Options Explained
Mulching
Fine cuts grass clippings and returns them to lawn as natural fertilizer
Rear Bagging
Collects clippings in 2.1 bushel bag for clean lawn appearance
Side Discharge
Ejects clippings to side for quick cutting in tall or wet grass conditions
Height Adjustment
Single lever controls cutting height from 1.5" to 4" in 0.5" increments
Deck Wash
Connect garden hose to clean under deck after each use
Wheel Size
Large 8" front and 10" rear wheels for easy maneuverability
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Engine won't start | Old gasoline, clogged air filter, spark plug issue | Use fresh fuel, clean/replace air filter, check spark plug |
| Poor cutting performance | Dull blade, improper height setting, engine speed too low | Sharpen/replace blade, adjust cutting height, check throttle setting |
| Engine runs rough or stalls | Dirty carburetor, water in fuel, clogged fuel line | Clean carburetor, drain fuel tank, check fuel line |
| Excessive vibration | Unbalanced blade, loose hardware, bent crankshaft | Balance or replace blade, tighten all bolts, inspect crankshaft |
| Uneven cutting | Uneven tire pressure, bent blade, deck not level | Check tire pressure, replace blade, level mower deck |
| Hard to push | Cutting height too low, wheel bearings worn, grass too wet | Raise cutting height, lubricate wheels, wait for grass to dry |
Maintenance Schedule
- Before each use: Check oil level, inspect blade, clear debris
- Every 25 hours: Sharpen blade, clean air filter, check spark plug
- Every 50 hours: Change oil, replace air filter, inspect drive system
- Seasonal: Drain fuel for storage, clean entire mower, lubricate moving parts
- Annual: Replace spark plug, check all safety features
- As needed: Replace blade, wheels, or other worn components
Manual Downloads
Current Model Manuals
CM250
21-inch Gas Push Mower
CM250M
21-inch Mulching Mower
CM250B
21-inch Bagging Mower
CM250S
21-inch Self-Propelled
Popular Previous Models
CM220
22-inch Push Mower
CM200
20-inch Gas Mower
CM300
21-inch Electric Start
CM180
18-inch Compact Mower