Manual for Craftsman Lawn Mower

User Manual & Maintenance Guide

21-inch Self-Propelled

Installation Guide

Tools Needed:

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips)
  • Pliers
  • Socket set
  • Oil funnel

Step-by-Step Assembly

  1. Unpack and Inspect: Remove all packaging materials and inspect parts for any damage during shipping.
  2. Handle Assembly: Attach the upper and lower handle sections using provided bolts and washers.
  3. Install Height Adjustment Lever: Connect the cutting height adjustment lever to the deck.
  4. Attach Grass Bag: Install the grass collection bag or mulching plug according to your preference.
  5. Add Engine Oil: Fill the engine with the recommended SAE 30 oil to the proper level on the dipstick.
  6. Add Fuel: Fill the fuel tank with fresh unleaded gasoline (minimum 87 octane).
  7. Final Check: Ensure all bolts are tightened, and all safety features are functioning properly.
Warning: Always wear protective equipment when operating the lawn mower. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Model Series CMXGRAM1130041
Type Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
Color Red/Black
Cutting Width 21 inches
Engine Type Briggs & Stratton 163cc OHV
Drive System Single-Speed Self-Propelled
Cutting Height Range 1.25 to 3.75 inches
Fuel Capacity 1.5 quarts
Oil Capacity 20 oz
Weight 78 lbs
Wheel Size 10-inch rear, 8-inch front
Mulching Capability Yes (with mulching plug)

Warranty Information

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

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

Key Features

Briggs & Stratton Engine

Powerful 163cc OHV engine provides reliable performance and easy starting with advanced combustion technology for better fuel efficiency.

Single-Speed Self-Propelled

Front-wheel drive system with single-speed transmission makes mowing easier on hills and uneven terrain with minimal effort.

Triple-Blade Cutting System

Three high-lift blades create superior airflow for excellent mulching, bagging, and side discharge performance.

6-Position Height Adjustment

Single-lever cutting height adjustment allows quick changes from 1.25 to 3.75 inches without tools.

Dura-Drive Transmission

Heavy-duty transmission provides reliable power transfer to the wheels for consistent performance in various conditions.

Foldable Handle

Easy-fold handle design allows for compact storage in limited spaces like garages and sheds.

Cutting Options Explained

Mulching

Finely cuts grass clippings and returns them to the lawn as natural fertilizer

Bagging

Collects grass clippings in a 2.5-bushel bag for a clean, manicured appearance

Side Discharge

Ejects clippings to the side for faster mowing in tall or wet grass conditions

3-in-1 Capability

Convert between mulching, bagging, and side discharge without tools

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Solution
Engine won't start Empty fuel tank, old gasoline, spark plug issue Add fresh fuel, check spark plug, ensure choke is properly set
Poor cutting performance Dull blades, wrong cutting height, clogged deck Sharpen blades, adjust cutting height, clean under deck
Uneven cutting Uneven tire pressure, worn blades, uneven deck Check tire pressure, replace blades, level mower deck
Self-propel not working Drive belt loose or broken, drive cable adjustment Check drive belt tension, adjust drive cable
Excessive vibration Unbalanced blade, loose blade bolt, damaged blade Balance or replace blade, tighten blade bolt
Engine stalls during operation Clogged air filter, dirty carburetor, fuel flow issue Clean air filter, check carburetor, ensure fuel flow

Maintenance Schedule

  • Before each use: Check oil level, tire pressure, and blade condition
  • Every 25 hours: Clean air filter, check spark plug
  • Every 50 hours: Change engine oil, sharpen blades
  • Every 100 hours: Replace air filter, check drive belt
  • Season end: Drain fuel or add stabilizer, clean thoroughly

Manual Downloads

Current Model Manuals

CMXGRAM1130041

21-inch Self-Propelled Mower

CMXGRAM1130032

21-inch Push Mower

CMXGRAM1150041

22-inch Self-Propelled Mower

CMXGRAM1100041

20-inch Electric Mower

Popular Previous Models

CMXGRAM1130022

21-inch Gas Mower

CMXGRAM1120041

21-inch Rear Bag Mower

CMXGRAM1110032

20-inch Briggs Mower

CMXGRAM1100022

19-inch Push Mower

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