How to Start Your Craftsman Lawn Mower: A Simple Guide

Maintaining a lush, healthy lawn is a rewarding task, and a Craftsman lawn mower can help you achieve that perfect look. But before you can enjoy your neatly trimmed yard, it's essential to know how to start your mower properly. This guide will walk you through the key steps to get your Craftsman lawn mower running smoothly.

1. Safety First

Before starting, choose a well-ventilated area free of obstacles. Check the weather to avoid mowing in rain or storms. Wear protective gear such as safety glasses, closed-toe shoes, and ear protection. Lastly, inspect your mower for any visible damage before use.

2. Check Fuel and Oil Levels

Ensure your mower is ready for action by checking the fuel and oil levels. Make sure there’s enough gasoline, and use the type recommended in your user manual. Also, check the oil level using the dipstick. If it's low, add the correct oil as directed.

3. Engage Safety Features

Craftsman mowers have built-in safety features, such as a dead-man switch and blade control lever. The engine won’t start unless you’re in the right position (like seated) and the blade lever is disengaged. Make sure these features are working properly before starting the mower.

4. Prime the Engine (If Needed)

Some Craftsman models have a priming bulb that helps start the engine. If your mower has one, press the bulb several times until you see fuel inside. This helps the engine start more easily.

5. Set the Choke and Throttle

Before starting, adjust the choke and throttle settings according to the user manual. Generally, set the choke to "Full" or "Closed" for a cold engine and place the throttle in the middle.

6. Pull the Starter Cord

Now you're ready to start the engine. Stand behind the mower, grasp the starter cord, and give it a firm pull. If it doesn’t start on the first try, pull again following the troubleshooting steps in your manual.

7. Warm-Up and Begin Mowing

Allow the engine to warm up for a few minutes. Once it’s ready, engage the blade control lever to start mowing.

8. Mowing Tips

• Overlap Passes: For an even mow, slightly overlap each pass with the next row.
• Mowing Height: Adjust the cutting height to suit your lawn. Mowing too low can stress the grass, while mowing too high may lead to uneven growth.
• Regular Maintenance: Keep your mower in top shape by following the maintenance schedule. Change the oil, replace the air filter, and sharpen the blade regularly.

Conclusion

Starting your Craftsman lawn mower is the first step to achieving a beautiful lawn. By following these simple steps and staying safe, you'll have your mower running in no time. Proper maintenance ensures a reliable mower and a pristine lawn for years to come.