Owners Manual for Craftsman T210 Riding Mower

The Craftsman T210 Riding Mower is a 42-inch deck lawn tractor featuring a 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, hydrostatic transmission, 6-speed gear drive, electric start, adjustable cutting height, mulching capability, and a comfortable high-back seat. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Operating Instructions 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Guidelines 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42-inch cutting deck, 19.5 HP engine, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric start, Adjustable seat, Mulching kit capability.

Feature	Description
Cutting Width	42-inch triple-blade deck
Engine	19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton single-cylinder
Transmission	Hydrostatic drive with infinite speed control
Starting System	Electric key start with backup recoil
Cutting Height	Adjustable 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Fuel Capacity	2.5 gallons (gasoline)
Seat	High-back with armrests
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive
Blade Engagement	Electric PTO clutch
Mulching	Optional mulching kit available

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Install steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Attach seat: Mount using provided bolts and washers.
Install battery: Connect red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Attach cutting deck: Lower deck onto mounting points and secure with pins.
Install mulching kit (if included): Follow kit instructions.

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

First-Time Setup

Prepare mower for initial use.

Add oil: Use SAE 30 or 10W-30; check dipstick.
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).
Check tire pressure: Inflate to 14 PSI (front) and 10 PSI (rear).
Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position.
Test operation: Start engine in open area; engage blades briefly.

CAUTION! Perform setup outdoors. Keep away from sparks or flames.

Specifications

Model: Craftsman T210
Engine: 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, OHV
Cutting Width: 42 inches
Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite forward/reverse
Speed Range: 0-5.5 mph forward, 0-2.5 mph reverse
Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gallons
Oil Capacity: 1.5 quarts
Weight: 450 lbs (approx.)
Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Settings

Operator station: Ignition key, Throttle, Choke, Blade engagement lever, Parking brake, Height adjustment lever, Forward/reverse pedals.

Dashboard: Ignition switch, Hour meter, PTO engagement button, Headlight switch.

Operation: Start with brake engaged. Adjust speed with pedal. Engage blades only when moving forward. Use parking brake on slopes.

Operating Instructions

Safe mowing procedures.

Pre-operation check: Inspect for debris; check oil and fuel.
Starting: Sit on seat; engage brake; turn key to START.
Mowing: Engage PTO; adjust speed; overlap passes slightly.
Slopes: Mow across slopes, not up/down; avoid steep inclines.
Stopping: Disengage PTO; engage brake; turn key OFF.

Tip: Mow when grass is dry. Clear area of stones and debris.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, inspect blades, check for leaks
Every 8 hours	Check engine oil level
Every 25 hours	Change oil (first 5 hours), clean air filter
Every 50 hours	Replace spark plug, check battery terminals
Every 100 hours	Change oil filter, lubricate chassis points
Seasonally	Sharpen/replace blades, check belt tension

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

Drain fuel or add stabilizer; run engine 5 minutes.
Change oil and filter.
Remove battery; store fully charged in cool, dry place.
Clean deck thoroughly; apply light oil to blades.
Store in dry, covered area; cover mower.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank without stabilizer.

Safety Information

Read and follow all safety instructions.

Wear eye protection, sturdy shoes, and long pants.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
Do not carry passengers.
Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
Look behind before backing up.
Keep children and pets away from mowing area.

DANGER! Rotating blades can cause severe injury. Always disengage PTO before leaving seat.

Warranty Information

Craftsman T210 includes 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials/workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, safety switch	Charge battery; add fuel; ensure brake engaged and seat occupied.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed	Sharpen/replace blades; set throttle to FULL.
Excessive vibration	Damaged blade, loose parts	Inspect blades for damage; tighten deck bolts.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old fuel	Clean/replace air filter; drain and replace fuel.
Hydrostatic transmission slips	Low oil, drive belt worn	Check transmission oil level; inspect drive belt.

Reset: Turn key OFF and wait 30 seconds if safety switch triggers.

Service: 1-888-331-4569; www.craftsman.com