Brand: CRAFTSMAN
Category: Lawn Mower
Document Type: Manual
Language: EN
Available Languages: EN , ES
Manual for Z6000 SERIES
Uploaded: Sept. 12, 2025, 4:22 a.m.
Manual Publish Date: 2016-12-07
Warranty Information
Refer to the manual for warranty details; contact Sears for service.
Starting the Engine
Ensure the battery is good and the fuel is fresh. Sit in the seat with control levers neutral and parking brake engaged. Disengage PTO. Move throttle to CHOKE. Turn ignition to START. Release key when engine starts. Gradually move throttle out of CHOKE. Allow engine to warm up before applying load.
Driving the Riding Mower
Adjust seat for comfort. Move control levers inward to neutral. Move throttle to FAST. Slowly move levers forward to move. Push levers further for more speed. Move levers rearward to slow down or stop. For turns, move one lever rearward of the other. For reverse, move both levers rearward. Always look behind when backing.
Using the Mower Deck
Clear the area of debris. Do not engage deck when lowered in grass. Mow across slopes. Engage PTO and set throttle to FAST. Lower deck to desired height. Move forward slowly. Slow down before turning. Overlap strips by 3 inches. Change mowing direction 45 degrees each time to prevent rutting.
Troubleshooting and error codes
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Engine will not start |
1. PTO lever engaged. 2. Parking brake not set. 3. Spark plug wire disconnected. 4. Throttle lever not in start position. 5. Fuel tank empty or stale. 6. Fuel line blocked. 7. Spark plug faulty. 8. Engine flooded. 9. Fuse(s) blown. |
1. Disengage PTO. 2. Set parking brake. 3. Connect spark plug wire. 4. Move throttle to FAST position. 5. Fill tank with fresh fuel. 6. Check fuel line. Replace fuel filter. Consult engine manual. 7. Clean, gap, or replace spark plug. 8. Start with throttle in FAST position. 9. Replace fuse. |
| Engine runs erratically |
1. Choke engaged. 2. Spark plug wire loose. 3. Fuel line clogged or stale fuel. 4. Fuel cap vent obstructed. 5. Water/dirt in fuel system. 6. Air filter dirty. |
1. Check choke operation. Contact dealer if needed. 2. Connect and gap spark plug wire. 3. Check fuel line. Refill with fresh fuel, replace filter. Consult engine manual. 4. Unclog vent or replace cap. 5. Empty tank, refill with fresh fuel. Consult engine manual. 6. Clean or replace air filter. |
| Engine overheats |
1. Low engine oil. 2. Restricted airflow. |
1. Fill with correct oil. 2. Remove debris from cooling fins. |
| Engine surges at high RPM | 1. Spark plug gap incorrect. | 1. Adjust spark plug gap. Consult engine manual. |
| Engine idles poorly |
1. Spark plug dirty. 2. Air filter dirty. |
1. Adjust spark plug gap. Consult engine manual. 2. Clean or replace air filter. Consult engine manual. |
| Excessive vibration |
1. Loose or off-center blades. 2. Damaged, dull, or bent blade. |
1. Tighten blade and spindle. Balance blade. 2. Replace blade. |
| Uneven cut |
1. Deck not leveled. 2. Dull blade. 3. Uneven tire pressure. |
1. Level deck side-to-side. 2. Sharpen or replace blade. 3. Check tire pressure. |