Common Issues
Safety First:
- Always disconnect spark plug before troubleshooting
- Allow engine to cool completely before inspection
- Work on level ground with parking brake engaged
- Wear protective gloves and eyewear
- Keep hands and feet away from moving parts
Quick Troubleshooting Steps
- Mower Won't Start: Check fuel level, battery connections, and safety switches
- Poor Performance: Inspect air filter, spark plug, and fuel quality
- Uneven Cutting: Check blade sharpness, tire pressure, and deck leveling
- Excessive Vibration: Inspect blades for damage or imbalance
- Loss of Power: Check fuel filter, carburetor, and drive belt
- Electrical Issues: Test battery, fuses, and wiring connections
- Transmission Problems: Check fluid level and drive belt tension
Engine Problems
| Engine Type | Briggs & Stratton / Kohler |
| Engine Displacement | 540cc - 724cc |
| Cylinders | Single or Twin Cylinder |
| Fuel Type | Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Minimum) |
| Oil Type | SAE 30 (Above 40°F) / 10W-30 (Variable Temp) |
| Oil Capacity | 48 oz - 64 oz |
| Spark Plug Gap | 0.030 inches |
| Air Filter Type | Dual Element (Foam & Paper) |
Engine Troubleshooting Guide
- Engine Won't Crank: Check battery, safety switches, starter solenoid, ignition switch
- Engine Cranks But Won't Start: Check fuel supply, spark plug, carburetor, choke position
- Engine Runs Rough: Clean carburetor, replace fuel filter, check spark plug gap
- Engine Overheats: Clean cooling fins, check oil level, ensure proper airflow
- Engine Loses Power Under Load: Check air filter, fuel filter, governor adjustment
- Excessive Smoke: Blue smoke indicates oil burning, black smoke indicates rich fuel mixture
- Engine Backfires: Check valve clearance, carburetor adjustment, ignition timing
Electrical Issues
Battery Problems
Check battery voltage (should be 12.6V+), clean terminals, ensure proper charging system operation. Replace if voltage drops below 12.4V.
Starting System
Test starter motor, solenoid, and ignition switch. Check all safety interlock switches including seat switch, brake switch, and PTO switch.
Charging System
Test alternator/stator output, voltage regulator, and wiring connections. Charging system should maintain 13.5-14.5V while engine runs.
Safety Switches
All Craftsman riding mowers have multiple safety switches that must be engaged for starting. Test each switch for proper operation.
Wiring Issues
Inspect wiring harness for damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Check all ground connections for clean, tight contact.
PTO Clutch
Test PTO clutch engagement, check wiring and switch operation. Listen for click when engaging blades.
Electrical System Specifications
Battery
12V, 230-300 CCA, Group U1
Starter
12V DC, 0.8-1.2 HP
Alternator
12V, 9-16 Amp output
Fuses
20A blade fuse (main), 10A (PTO circuit)
Safety Switches
Seat, Brake, PTO, Neutral
Ignition
Key switch with start/run/off positions
Cutting Problems
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Uneven cutting pattern | Deck not level, uneven tire pressure, worn blades | Level mower deck, check tire pressure, sharpen or replace blades |
| Scalping or digging in | Deck too low, uneven terrain, speed too fast | Raise cutting height, slow down on uneven areas |
| Poor grass discharge | Wet grass, clogged deck, dull blades | Mow when dry, clean deck underside, sharpen blades |
| Blades won't engage | PTO switch faulty, belt loose/broken, safety switch issue | Test PTO switch, inspect belt, check safety switches |
| Excessive vibration | Bent blade, unbalanced blade, loose spindle | Replace bent blades, balance blades, tighten spindle bolts |
| Belt slipping or breaking | Worn belt, misaligned pulleys, debris in sheaves | Replace belt, align pulleys, clean sheaves |
Deck Maintenance Specifications
- Blade Sharpening: Sharpen every 25 hours of use, maintain original angle
- Deck Leveling: Front should be 1/8" to 1/4" lower than rear
- Belt Tension: 1/2" deflection at midpoint between pulleys
- Spindle Lubrication: Grease every 50 hours or seasonally
- Deck Cleaning: Clean after each use to prevent corrosion
- Tire Pressure: 12-14 PSI (front), 10-12 PSI (rear)
Manual Downloads
Current Model Manuals
CMXGRAM1130037
42" 22HP Riding Mower
CMXGRAM1130041
46" 24HP V-Twin
CMXGRAM1130045
54" 26HP Zero Turn
CMXGRAM1130049
42" Electric Start
Popular Previous Models
247.203830
42" 19.5HP Lawn Tractor
247.28864
46" 22HP GT Model
247.28990
54" 24HP Zero Turn
917.273011
42" 17.5HP Classic