Manual for 247.288831

Manual for 247.288831

Brand: CRAFTSMAN

Category: Lawn Mower

Document Type: Manual

Language: EN

Available Languages: EN , ES

Uploaded: Sept. 12, 2025, 4:21 a.m.

Manual Publish Date: 2012-02-03

Warranty Information

Two-year limited warranty against defects in material or workmanship for non-expendable parts.

Operation Summary

This manual covers the operation of the Craftsman 7 Speed, Shift-on-the-Go 42" Deck Lawn Tractor.

Key Controls:

  • Speed Control Lever / Parking Brake Lever (A): Regulates ground speed and sets the parking brake.
  • Throttle/Choke Control Lever (B): Controls engine speed and choke for starting.
  • Ignition Switch (C): Starts and stops the engine.
  • Deck Lift Lever (D): Adjusts the cutting deck height.
  • PTO Lever (Blade Engage) (E): Engages/disengages the cutting deck or attachments.
  • Shift Lever (G): Selects forward, neutral, or reverse.
  • Clutch-Brake Pedal (H): Engages the brake and disengages the clutch.

Starting the Engine: Ensure parking brake is engaged, PTO is disengaged, choke is activated, then turn the key. Deactivate choke once the engine starts.

Driving: Use the speed control lever for speed regulation and the shift lever for direction. Depress the clutch-brake pedal to stop. Always disengage blades before shifting into reverse.

Mowing: Mow at full throttle. Avoid high speeds, especially with a mulch kit or grass collector. Mow up and down slopes, not across.

Troubleshooting and error codes

Problem Cause Remedy
Engine won't start 1. Parking brake not set.
2. Spark plug wire disconnected.
3. Carburetor linkage incorrect.
4. Out of fuel or stale fuel.
5. Blocked fuel line.
6. Faulty spark plug.
7. Engine flooded.
8. Blown fuse. 		1. Set parking brake.
2. Connect spark plug wire.
3. Set linkage to correct position.
4. Fill with fresh fuel.
5. Clean fuel line and replace filter.
6. Clean or replace spark plug.
7. Start with throttle in FAST position.
8. Replace fuse.
Engine runs erratically 1. Choke engaged.
2. Loose spark plug wires.
3. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.
4. Blocked fuel cap vent.
5. Water/dirt in fuel system.
6. Dirty air filter. 		1. Press choke control.
2. Connect wires.
3. Clean fuel line, fill with fresh fuel, replace filter.
4. Unblock vent.
5. Drain tank and refill.
6. Clean or replace air filter.
Engine overheats 1. Low oil level.
2. Restricted airflow. 		1. Fill with correct oil.
2. Clean cooling fins of debris.
Cutting deck cuts unevenly 1. Deck not level.
2. Dull blade.
3. Uneven tire pressure. 		1. Level the deck.
2. Sharpen or replace blade.
3. Check tire pressure.
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