Blade Control
The blade control is attached to the upper handle of the mower. Depress and
squeeze it against the upper handle to operate the unit. Release it to stop engine
and blade.
This blade control is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass its operation.
Drive Control - Bail or Single Lever (If Equipped)
The drive control is located on top of the upper handle and is used to engage the
drive. Squeeze it against the upper handle to engage the drive; release it to slow
down or stop mower from propelling.
Drive Control - Dual Lever (If Equipped)
The drive controls are located on top of the upper handle and are used to engage
the drive. Squeeze the right, left, or both right and left controls against the upper
handle to engage the drive; release it/them to slow down or stop mower from
propelling.
Electric Starter Push Key (If Equipped)
The electric starter push key is located on the right side of the upper handle. It is
both a removable key and push button and is only provided on electric start models.
Cutting Height Adjustment Lever
One adjustment lever is located on the right rear wheel and one is located on the
right front wheel. Both levers have to be at the same position to ensure a uniform
cut. To adjust the cutting height, refer to the Assembly Section.
Side Discharge Cover (If Equipped)
Your mower is shipped as a mulcher. To discharge the grass clippings to the side
instead, follow the instructions in the Assembly section to attach the side discharge
cover.
Keep hands and feet away from the chute area on cutting deck. Refer to
warning label on the unit.
Craftsman Lawn Mowers conform to the safety standard of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
OPERATION
WARNING
WARNING
Meets ANSI Safety Standards
Grass Catcher (If Equipped)
The grass catcher, located at the rear of the mower, is used to bag the grass
clippings for disposal at another site. Once the bag is full, remove it up through the
handles and empty it before any further mowing.
Mulch Cover (If Equipped)
The mulch cover is used for mulching purposes. Instead of collecting the grass
clippings in a grass catcher or using the side discharge chute, some mower models
have the option of recirculating the clippings back to the lawn. This is called
mulching.
Trail Shield (If Equipped)
The trail shield is attached to the rear of the mower and is there to protect the
operator from flying debris. Do not use the mower unless the shield is fully
functional and in place.
Deck Wash (If Equipped)
Your mower's deck is equipped with a water port on its surface as part of its deck
wash system. Use the deck wash to rinse grass clippings from the deck's underside.
Recoil Starter
The recoil starter is attached to the right upper handle. Stand behind the unit and
pull the recoil starter rope to start the unit.
Oil Fill Cap/Dipstick
Refer to the Engine Operator's Manual packed with your mower for detailed oil
filling, checking and changing instructions.
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