Craftsman T1400 Riding Mower Manual

The Craftsman T1400 is a 42-inch riding lawn mower powered by a Briggs & Stratton engine, featuring a 6-speed manual transmission, electric start, adjustable cutting height, and a comfortable high-back seat. This manual covers essential safety information, operation instructions, maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure safe and efficient use of your mower.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting & Mowing 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage & Winterization 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42-inch steel cutting deck, Briggs & Stratton engine, 6-speed manual transmission, electric start, high-back seat, cup holder, and headlights.

Feature	Description
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 540cc OHV engine
Cutting Width	42-inch reinforced steel deck
Transmission	6-speed manual gear drive
Starting System	Electric key start with backup recoil
Cutting Height	Adjustable 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Fuel Capacity	2.5-gallon gas tank
Seat	High-back, padded seat with armrests
Turning Radius	18 inches
Headlights	Integrated LED headlights for low-light operation
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive

Safety Information

Read all safety instructions before operating. Always wear appropriate safety gear.

Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles before starting.
Never allow children or pets near the mower during operation.
Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees; mow across slopes, not up and down.
Always engage parking brake when dismounting.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts, especially the cutting deck.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable. Refuel outdoors only when engine is cool. Do not smoke near fuel.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools (included).

Attach steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Install seat: Place seat on mounting plate and secure with bolts.
Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 (approx. 48 oz). Check dipstick.
Add gasoline: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).
Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (test on flat surface).

CAUTION! Ensure all bolts are tightened securely. Test brakes and controls before first use.

Specifications

Model: Craftsman T1400
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 540cc OHV, 19 HP
Cutting Deck: 42-inch steel, 3-blade system
Transmission: 6-speed manual shift-on-the-go
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum)
Oil Capacity: 48 oz (SAE 30)
Max Speed: 5.5 mph forward, 2.2 mph reverse
Tire Size: Front 15x6.00-6, Rear 20x10.00-8
Weight: 480 lbs (approx.)
Warranty: 2-year limited warranty

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Dashboard: Ignition key, headlight switch, hour meter, choke (if equipped).

Steering/Driving: Steering wheel, gear shift lever (1-6, R), brake pedal, clutch/brake pedal (combined), parking brake lever.

Cutting Controls: Deck engagement lever, cutting height adjustment lever.

Starting Procedure: 1. Sit on seat. 2. Engage parking brake. 3. Set gear to Neutral. 4. Pull choke (cold start). 5. Turn key to START. Release key when engine starts.

Cutting & Mowing

For best results, mow when grass is dry.

Adjust cutting height based on grass type and season.
Engage mower deck at full throttle in an open area.
Overlap each pass by 2-3 inches for even cutting.
Change mowing pattern weekly to avoid ruts.
Disengage deck before stopping or reversing.

Tip: Sharpen blades every 25 hours of use for a clean cut. Check for debris under deck after each use.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, fuel level, oil level, and for loose parts.
Every 8 hours	Clean underside of deck, check blade condition.
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil, sharpen/replace blades, check air filter.
Every 50 hours	Replace spark plug, check battery terminals, lubricate pivot points.
Every 100 hours	Replace air filter, check drive belt tension, inspect transmission.
Seasonally	Change oil, stabilize fuel, clean entire mower, check tire wear.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for storage if not used for more than 30 days.

Add fuel stabilizer to gas tank and run engine for 5 minutes.
Change engine oil and replace oil filter.
Remove spark plug, add 1 tablespoon of oil into cylinder, and pull starter cord slowly to coat cylinder wall.
Clean entire mower, especially underside of deck.
Store in a dry, covered area. Disconnect battery if storing long-term.

CAUTION! Never store mower with gasoline in tank for more than 30 days without stabilizer.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, clogged filter	Charge/replace battery; add fuel; replace air filter; check spark plug.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed, clogged deck	Sharpen/replace blades; run at full throttle; clean deck underside.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, unbalanced blade, debris	Tighten blade bolt; balance or replace blade; remove debris.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old fuel, clogged fuel line	Replace air filter; drain old fuel; clean fuel line and carburetor.
Hard to steer	Low tire pressure, worn steering linkage	Inflate tires to 12 PSI (front) and 10 PSI (rear); lubricate linkage.
Battery not charging	Loose connections, faulty alternator	Clean and tighten battery terminals; test alternator output.

Reset: For electrical issues, disconnect battery for 5 minutes then reconnect.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized Craftsman service center at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

Warranty Information

The Craftsman T1400 is covered by a 2-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. It does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. Keep your receipt as proof of purchase. For warranty claims, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com/warranty.