Installation Guide
Tools Needed:
- Adjustable wrench set
- Socket set (3/8" drive)
- Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips)
- Pliers
- Torque wrench
- Battery terminal cleaner
Step-by-Step Assembly
- Unpack and Inspect: Remove all packaging materials and inspect for shipping damage. Verify all parts are included.
- Install Steering Wheel: Align steering wheel with shaft and secure with provided hardware. Torque to 25-30 ft-lbs.
- Attach Seat: Position seat on mounting brackets and secure with bolts and washers. Adjust to comfortable position.
- Install Battery: Connect positive (red) cable first, then negative (black) cable. Apply anti-corrosion grease to terminals.
- Attach Cutting Deck: Lower deck lift lever, align deck with mounting points, and secure with retaining pins and clips.
- Install Wheels: Mount rear wheels with washers and lug nuts. Torque to 35-40 ft-lbs. Install front wheels with cotter pins.
- Add Fluids: Fill engine with SAE 10W-30 oil (check dipstick). Add fresh gasoline (87 octane minimum).
- Pre-Operation Check: Check tire pressure (10-12 PSI), deck leveling, and all safety switches before first use.
Specifications
| Model Series | CMXGRAM1130042 |
| Engine Type | Briggs & Stratton Intek OHV |
| Engine Power | 19.5 HP (420cc) |
| Cutting Width | 42 inches |
| Cutting Height Range | 1.5 - 4 inches (7 positions) |
| Transmission | Hydrostatic, Single Speed |
| Fuel Capacity | 2.5 gallons |
| Oil Capacity | 1.5 quarts |
| Turning Radius | 18 inches |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 68 x 54 x 42 inches |
| Weight | 450 lbs |
| Max Speed | 5.5 mph forward, 2.5 mph reverse |
Warranty Information
- Full Warranty: 2 years limited warranty on entire mower
- Engine Warranty: 3 years limited warranty on Briggs & Stratton engine
- Transmission Warranty: Lifetime warranty on hydrostatic transmission
- Additional Coverage: Extended protection plans available at purchase
For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit Craftsman.com
Key Features
Hydrostatic Transmission
Smooth, effortless speed control with infinite forward and reverse settings. No shifting or clutching required for operation.
42-Inch Cutting Deck
Triple-blade system with aerodynamic lift for superior cutting performance. Fabricated steel construction for durability.
Briggs & Stratton Engine
19.5 HP overhead valve engine provides reliable power with improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
Electric PTO Clutch
Engage and disengage blades with the flip of a switch. No manual belt adjustments required.
Adjustable High-Back Seat
Padded seat with adjustable position and lumbar support for comfortable operation during extended use.
Dual-Braking System
Combination brake/clutch pedal for safe operation. Parking brake lever for secure parking on inclines.
Cutting System Features
7-Position Height Adjustment
Single lever adjusts cutting height from 1.5 to 4 inches for various grass conditions
Deck Wash Port
Connect garden hose to clean underside of deck after mowing to prevent grass buildup
Mulching Capability
Optional mulching kit converts clippings into fine particles that fertilize the lawn
Side Discharge
Standard discharge chute for normal mowing conditions
Anti-Scalp Rollers
Front rollers prevent deck from scalping lawn on uneven terrain
Quick-Change Blades
Standard 21-inch blades can be sharpened or replaced without removing deck
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Engine won't start | Dead battery, safety switch engaged, fuel valve closed | Check battery charge, ensure seat switch is engaged, open fuel valve |
| Poor cutting performance | Dull blades, deck clogged, incorrect cutting height | Sharpen or replace blades, clean deck underside, adjust cutting height |
| Uneven cutting | Deck not level, tire pressure uneven, worn blades | Level cutting deck, adjust tire pressure, replace worn blades |
| Loss of power | Dirty air filter, old gasoline, clogged fuel line | Replace air filter, drain old gas, clean fuel line and carburetor |
| Excessive vibration | Unbalanced blades, loose mounting bolts, bent spindle | Balance blades, tighten all bolts, inspect spindle for damage |
| Hydrostatic transmission issues | Low fluid, air in system, worn drive belt | Check fluid level, bleed system, replace drive belt if worn |
Maintenance Schedule
- Before Each Use: Check tire pressure, oil level, and fuel level
- Every 8 Hours: Clean deck underside, check blade condition
- Every 25 Hours: Change engine oil, check air filter
- Every 50 Hours: Replace spark plug, grease fittings
- Every 100 Hours: Change transmission fluid, replace fuel filter
- Seasonal: Stabilize fuel for storage, remove battery for winter
Manual Downloads
Current Model Manuals
CMXGRAM1130042
42-inch 19.5 HP Riding Mower
CMXGRAM1150046
46-inch 22 HP Riding Mower
CMXGRAM1100050
50-inch 24 HP Riding Mower
CMXGRAM1130042S
42-inch with Smart Lawn Technology
Popular Previous Models
247.203940
42-inch 17.5 HP Kohler Engine
247.289570
46-inch 22 HP Automatic Drive
247.203830
42-inch 18 HP Electric Start
247.288650
50-inch 24 HP Hydrostatic