Quick Answer
To start a Craftsman riding mower, engage the parking brake, sit on the seat, and disengage the blade control. Turn the ignition key to the ‘Start’ position until the engine cranks (electric-start models), or pull the recoil handle firmly (manual-start models). Let the engine warm up for 30 seconds before mowing. Always consult your owner’s manual for model-specific variations.
Pre-Start Safety Checks
Before attempting to start your Craftsman riding mower, complete these essential safety checks to protect yourself and your equipment:
- Engage the parking brake: Locate the parking brake lever (usually on the right side of the seat or between the seat and fender) and engage it fully. This prevents the mower from rolling unexpectedly.
- Occupy the operator seat: Modern Craftsman mowers have safety interlocks that prevent engine start if no one is seated. Sit firmly on the seat before attempting ignition.
- Disengage blade controls: The blade control lever (often labeled ‘Blade On/Off’) should be in the ‘Off’ or ‘Disengaged’ position. Never start the mower with blades spinning.
- Check fuel level: Open the fuel tank cap and visually inspect the tank. Use fresh gasoline (no older than 30 days); stale fuel is a common cause of starting failure. Craftsman mowers typically use regular unleaded gasoline.
- Inspect the area: Clear the mowing deck and surrounding area of debris, sticks, or objects that could become projectiles or jam the blades.
- Review controls: Familiarize yourself with the location of the choke lever, ignition key, starter button (if applicable), and emergency shut-off switch.
Starting an Electric-Start Craftsman Riding Mower
Most modern Craftsman riding mowers feature key ignition with electric start. Follow these steps:
- Insert the ignition key: Locate the ignition switch on the dashboard (typically mounted to the right of the steering wheel or on the instrument panel). Insert the key into the slot.
- Turn the key to ‘On’: Rotate the key clockwise to the ‘On’ position. You should hear a click and see dashboard lights illuminate. Do not turn to ‘Start’ yet.
- Adjust the choke (cold starts only): For a cold engine, locate the choke control (a lever or pull knob on the dashboard or engine). Move it to the ‘Cold’ or ‘Full’ position. Warm engines do not require choke adjustment.
- Turn the key to ‘Start’: Rotate the key further clockwise to the ‘Start’ position. The starter motor will engage and begin turning the engine over. Hold the key here until the engine fires (typically 2–4 seconds). Do not force it or hold longer than 10 seconds; release immediately if the engine starts.
- Release the key: Once the engine ignites, release the key. It will return automatically to the ‘On’ position. The engine should now be running.
- Warm up the engine: Allow the engine to idle for 30–60 seconds before engaging the blade or operating the mower. Listen for smooth, consistent running sounds. If using the choke, gradually move it to the ‘Run’ or ‘Open’ position as the engine warms.
Starting a Manual Pull-Start (Recoil) Craftsman Riding Mower
Older Craftsman models or economy models may feature a manual recoil starter. Use this procedure:
- Locate the recoil handle: Find the pull-cord handle on the top or side of the engine housing. It typically has a red or yellow grip.
- Set the choke: If your mower has a choke control, move it to the ‘Choke’ or ‘Cold Start’ position.
- Grip and pull: Grasp the handle firmly with your dominant hand. Use a quick, smooth pulling motion—do not jerk or yank erratically. Pull the cord all the way out until you feel resistance, then snap it back quickly. The engine should turn over.
- Repeat if necessary: If the engine doesn’t start on the first or second pull, wait 10 seconds and try again. Pulling continuously without pausing can flood the engine with fuel.
- Adjust the choke: After the engine fires, gradually move the choke to the ‘Run’ position to allow the engine to idle smoothly.
- Verify operation: Listen for stable, regular engine sounds. The engine should settle into an even idle within 30 seconds.
Cold Start vs. Warm Start Procedures
Environmental temperature and engine temperature affect how easily your mower starts:
Cold Start (Engine Below 50°F or Not Run in 24+ Hours)
- Engage the choke fully to enrich the fuel mixture.
- Turn the ignition key to ‘Start’ or pull the recoil handle with deliberate force.
- Allow the engine to warm for 1–2 minutes before operating at full throttle.
- Gradually open the choke as the engine warms; you’ll notice smoother, more responsive performance.
Warm Start (Engine Recently Run or Ambient Temp Above 70°F)
- Do not use choke; the carburetor already has sufficient fuel.
- Turn the key to ‘Start’ or pull the recoil handle gently—the engine should catch quickly.
- Allow 10–15 seconds of idle time before mowing.
Troubleshooting Common Starting Problems
Engine Cranks But Won’t Turn Over
- Check fuel quality: Drain old fuel and refill with fresh gasoline. Stale or contaminated fuel clogs the carburetor.
- Inspect the spark plug: Remove the spark plug wire and unscrew the plug. Clean any dirt or carbon buildup. Replace if the electrode gap is too wide or the plug appears black or oily.
- Verify spark plug connection: Ensure the spark plug wire is fully seated on the plug terminal.
- Check the choke: On manual-start mowers, confirm the choke is in the correct position for the temperature.
No Cranking Sound at All
- Confirm parking brake engagement: Many Craftsman mowers won’t crank if the parking brake is not fully engaged due to safety interlocks.
- Verify operator presence: The seat sensor must detect someone sitting on the mower. Sit down and press firmly.
- Check the battery (electric-start models): If the key turns but nothing happens, the battery may be dead. Look for dim or no dashboard lights. Charge or replace the battery.
- Inspect the ignition switch: Ensure the key is in the correct position and fully inserted. A worn key or switch may not make proper contact.
Engine Starts But Immediately Shuts Off
- Verify operator seat pressure: The safety switch may be releasing due to an unstable seating position. Sit firmly in the center of the seat.
- Check blade control: Ensure the blade engagement lever is fully disengaged. Some models shut down if the blade control is partially engaged.
- Inspect the fuel line: A kinked or disconnected fuel line starves the engine. Look for loose connections at the carburetor and fuel tank.
Model-Specific Variations and Owner’s Manual Reference
Craftsman riding mower designs vary significantly depending on the model year, engine manufacturer, and transmission type. Your specific mower may have:
- Different ignition locations: Older models may have the ignition key on the side of the engine or on a pedestal console.
- Unique choke designs: Some models use an automatic choke that engages based on temperature; others require manual adjustment.
- Transmission-based safety interlocks: Hydrostatic or gear-driven transmission mowers may have additional safety requirements (e.g., shift lever must be in ‘Neutral’).
- Blade brake systems: Some newer models engage an automatic blade brake when you release the blade control; you may hear a clicking sound during startup.
Always consult your owner’s manual for exact procedures, fuel type specifications, and model-year details. If you’ve lost the manual, visit the Craftsman website or contact customer service with your model number (usually found on the deck or under the seat).
Maintenance Tips to Ensure Reliable Starting
- Change the oil annually: Fresh oil improves engine compression and combustion, making starting easier.
- Replace the air filter seasonally: A clogged air filter restricts fuel atomization and prevents proper starting.
- Store fuel correctly: Use a fuel stabilizer if storing the mower for more than 30 days. Drain the fuel tank or use fresh gas before the next season.
- Check the battery (electric-start): Clean any corrosion from battery terminals. Test the battery voltage annually with a multimeter; it should read 12+ volts.
- Inspect the spark plug gap: Most Craftsman mowers require a spark plug gap of 0.030–0.040 inches. Check and adjust annually.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my Craftsman mower won’t start after sitting all winter?
Winter storage often causes fuel to break down and carburetor components to gum up. Drain the old fuel completely, refill the tank with fresh gasoline mixed with a carburetor cleaner additive, and attempt starting. If the engine still won’t turn over, remove and clean or replace the spark plug. If it cranks but won’t fire, the carburetor likely needs professional cleaning or replacement.
Can I use ethanol-blend gasoline (E10) in my Craftsman riding mower?
Most modern Craftsman mowers can use E10 gasoline (up to 10% ethanol) without issues. However, ethanol attracts moisture, which can corrode fuel lines and carburetors over time. For best results, use non-ethanol gasoline if available, or add a fuel stabilizer to ethanol blends. Never use E15 or higher ethanol blends; they can damage the engine.
How long should I let my Craftsman mower warm up before mowing?
Allow the engine to idle for 30–60 seconds after starting to reach stable operating temperature. For cold starts (below 50°F), extend warm-up to 1–2 minutes. You’ll notice the engine sound become smoother and throttle response improve as it warms. The mower is ready to mow once the engine is running smoothly and the choke is fully open.
Why does my electric-start Craftsman mower sometimes fail to crank?
Common causes include a weak or dead battery, corroded battery terminals, a faulty starter motor, or a loose ignition switch connection. Check that the battery terminals are clean and tight, and verify the battery voltage with a multimeter (should be 12+ volts). If the battery is good but the mower still won’t crank, the starter or ignition system may need professional service.
Summary
Starting a Craftsman riding mower is straightforward when you follow the correct sequence: engage safety devices, perform pre-start checks, and use the appropriate ignition method for your model. Most electric-start mowers require turning the key to ‘Start’ and holding until the engine fires, while manual-pull models need a firm, swift recoil handle pull. Always allow warm-up time before mowing, reference your owner’s manual for model specifics, and maintain your mower seasonally to ensure reliable starting year after year.
