Craftsman C459.60101 User Manual

Operator’s Manual
LAWN TRACTOR
19.5 HP, Variation Speed
42” Deck
Model No. C459.60101
®
This product has a low emission engine which operates differently
from previously built engines. Before you start the engine, read and
understand this Operator’s Manual.
CAUTION
Before using this equipment,
read this manual and follow
all safety rules and operating
instructions.
Sears Canada Inc., 290 Yonge Street, Toronto, On M5B 2C3
Visit our web site: sears.ca
Form No. 769-06862
(9.11.12)

Craftsman C459.60101 Specifications

General

Engine	Briggs & Stratton
Engine Type	4-Cycle
Drive System	Self-Propelled
Cutting Height Positions	6
Mulching Capability	Yes
Side Discharge	Yes
Rear Bag	Yes
Speed Settings	Variable
Cutting Width	21 inches
Cutting Height	1.25 to 3.75 inches
Warranty	2 years limited

Summary

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

GENERAL OPERATION

General guidelines for safe operation, assembly, and maintenance instructions.

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65

Information on chemicals in engine exhaust and battery components.

SLOPE OPERATION

Guidelines for safely operating the tractor on slopes, including safe practices and precautions.

CHILDREN

Safety precautions regarding children's proximity to the tractor during operation and maintenance.

TOWING

Safety guidelines and precautions for towing equipment with the tractor.

Safe Handling of Gasoline

Safe practices for handling gasoline, including storage, fueling, and spill procedures.

General Service

General service and maintenance safety instructions, including engine operation and component checks.

DO NOT MODIFY ENGINE

Warning against modifying the engine governor or settings to avoid unsafe speeds.

SPARK ARRESTOR

Warning regarding the use of a spark arrestor when operating on flammable land.

SAFETY SYMBOLS

Explains various safety symbols found on the machine and their meanings.

SLOPE GUIDE

A visual guide to determine safe operating slopes using a visual alignment method.

SAFETY LABELS

ASSEMBLY

Attaching the Battery Cables

Step-by-step guide for connecting the tractor's battery cables correctly.

Shipping Brace Removal

Instructions for safely removing the shipping brace before operating the mower.

Attaching The Steering Wheel

Procedure for attaching the steering wheel to the steering shaft.

Adjusting the Seat

How to adjust the tractor's seat position for operator comfort and safety.

Attaching The Seat

Steps for correctly installing the tractor seat, including wiring connections.

Tire Pressure

Recommended tire pressure settings for optimal tractor performance and even mowing.

OPERATION

Control Panel Overview

Identifies and explains the function of each control lever, pedal, and switch on the tractor.

PARKING BRAKE LEVER

Instructions on how to engage and disengage the parking brake lever.

THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL LEVER

Explanation of the throttle and choke control lever for engine speed and cold starts.

IGNITION SWITCH

How to use the ignition switch to start and stop the engine.

PTO (BLADE ENGAGE) LEVER

How to engage and disengage the PTO lever for the cutting deck.

SHIFT LEVER

Instructions for using the shift lever to change between forward, neutral, and reverse.

BRAKE PEDAL

How to use the brake pedal to stop the tractor.

GAS AND OIL FILL-UP

Procedures for filling the engine oil and gasoline tank, including safety precautions.

SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEM

Explanation of the safety interlock system and its function in preventing unintended operation.

SETTING THE CUTTING HEIGHT

How to adjust the cutting deck height and deck wheel positions.

STARTING THE ENGINE

Step-by-step instructions for safely starting the tractor's engine.

STOPPING THE ENGINE

Procedures for safely shutting down the tractor's engine, including after striking an object.

DRIVING THE TRACTOR

Instructions for driving the tractor, including acceleration, braking, and shifting gears.

DRIVING ON SLOPES

Detailed safety instructions and precautions for operating the tractor on slopes.

ENGAGING THE BLADES

How to engage the PTO lever to activate the cutting deck or other attachments.

MOWING

Tips and recommendations for effective mowing, including speed, cutting height, and blade maintenance.

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

A detailed schedule outlining maintenance tasks based on operating hours and time intervals.

ENGINE MAINTENANCE

Procedures for checking and changing engine oil and oil filter, including viscosity guides.

Fuel Filter

How to drain fuel and replace the fuel filter, with safety warnings.

Air Cleaner

Instructions for cleaning or replacing the air filter cartridge.

Spark Plug

How to clean, inspect, and replace the spark plug.

Clean Engine

How to clean the engine and keep it free of debris for optimal performance and safety.

LUBRICATION

Lubrication points and schedule for various tractor components, including wheels, axles, and battery.

CLEANING THE ENGINE AND DECK

How to clean the tractor's engine and deck, including warnings against pressure washers.

ADJUSTMENTS

Adjustments for leveling the cutting deck, including front-to-rear and side-to-side procedures.

Seat Adjustment

Refer to Assembly section for seat adjustment instructions.

Parking Brake Adjustment

Instructions for adjusting the parking brake if the tractor does not stop completely.

CUTTING DECK REMOVAL

Step-by-step guide on how to remove the cutting deck from the tractor.

JUMP STARTING

How to safely jump-start the tractor's battery using jumper cables.

CHARGING

Instructions and safety warnings for charging the tractor's battery.

FUSE

Location and function of the tractor's 20 AMP fuse.

CUTTING BLADES

Procedures for removing, sharpening, balancing, and replacing the cutting blades safely.

CHANGING THE DECK BELT

Instructions on how to remove and replace the tractor's deck belt.

PARKING BRAKE ADJUSTMENT

Procedure for adjusting the parking brake if it is not functioning correctly.

CHANGING THE TRANSMISSION DRIVE BELT

Notes that changing the transmission drive belt may require special tools and service center assistance.

OFF-SEASON STORAGE

PREPARING THE ENGINE

Steps to prepare the engine for storage, either by using stabilizer or draining fuel.

DRAINING THE FUEL

Detailed procedure for draining the fuel tank and filter to prevent fuel deterioration.

PREPARING THE LAWN TRACTOR

Cleaning and lubricating the tractor before storage.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Engine and Starting Problems

Troubleshooting steps for issues like engine not starting, running erratically, or overheating.

Cutting and Performance Issues

Troubleshooting steps for problems such as uneven cut, vibration, and poor mulching.

Labels

PARTS LIST

Front Body and Controls Parts

List and descriptions of parts related to the front grill, headlights, dash, and controls.

Frame and Chassis Components

List and descriptions of parts related to the tractor frame, steering column, and front axle assembly.

Lift, Brake, and PTO Components

List and descriptions of parts for the deck lift, brake system, and PTO assembly.

Steering Mechanism and Wheel Parts

Illustrated parts list for the tractor's drive system, including transmission, pulleys, belts, and idlers.

Cutting Deck Components

Illustrated parts list for the cutting deck, including blades, pulleys, spindles, and deck covers.

Engine Mounting Components

Illustrated list of parts for mounting the engine, including muffler shield and exhaust components.

Carburetor and Fuel System Components

Illustrated list of carburetor parts, fuel system components, and related kits.

WARRANTY STATEMENT

General Warranty Terms and Exclusions

Covers general warranty coverage, exclusions for misuse, neglect, improper maintenance, and wear items.

Applicable Warranty Periods

Specifies the duration of the warranty based on product type and usage.

Emission Control System Warranty Statement

Warranted Parts and Coverage

Lists specific emission control parts covered by the warranty and their coverage duration.

Warranty Claims and Exclusions

Outlines procedures for filing warranty claims and common exclusions due to misuse or improper maintenance.

Federal and California Emission Control Warranty

Explains the emission control system warranty for engines sold in California and other US states.

Owner's Warranty Responsibilities

Outlines the owner's duties regarding maintenance and presenting the engine for warranty service.

REPAIR PROTECTION AGREEMENT

Benefits of the Repair Protection Agreement

Details the services included, such as expert service, unlimited repairs, and product replacement.

Contact Information and Services

REPAIR PROTECTION AGREEMENT (French)

WARRANTY (French)

General Warranty Terms and Exclusions (French)

Covers warranty coverage, exclusions for misuse, neglect, improper maintenance, and wear items.

Applicable Warranty Periods (French)

Lists the specific warranty periods for different Craftsman products based on intended use.

Emission Control System Warranty Statement - California (French)

Manufacturer's Warranty Coverage and Owner Responsibilities (French)

Explains the manufacturer's warranty for emission parts and the owner's role in maintenance and claims.

Emission Control System Warranty Statement - US/Canada (French)

Warranty Provisions and Exclusions (French)

Details warranty provisions for parts, coverage duration, claims process, and exclusions.

Engine Emissions Information (French)

WARRANTY (French)

General Warranty Terms and Exclusions (French)

Covers warranty coverage, exclusions for misuse, neglect, improper maintenance, and wear items.

Applicable Warranty Periods (French)

Lists the specific warranty periods for different Craftsman products based on intended use.

SAFETY LABELS (French)

TROUBLESHOOTING (French)

Engine and Starting Problems (French)

Troubleshooting steps for issues like engine not starting, running erratically, or overheating.

Cutting and Performance Issues (French)

Troubleshooting steps for problems such as uneven cut, vibration, and poor mulching.

OFF-SEASON STORAGE (French)

Engine Preparation for Storage (French)

Steps to prepare the engine for storage, either by using stabilizer or draining fuel.

Fuel Tank Draining (French)

Procedure for safely draining the fuel tank and filter to prevent fuel deterioration.

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE (French)

Parking Brake Adjustment (French)

Guidance on adjusting the parking brake for proper function.

Changing the Transmission Drive Belt (French)

Notes that changing the transmission drive belt may require special tools and service center assistance.

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE (French)

Changing the Mower Deck Belt (French)

Step-by-step instructions for changing the mower deck belt, including blade removal and pulley routing.

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE (French)

Jump Starting the Tractor (French)

Procedures and safety warnings for jump-starting the tractor's battery.

Battery Charging and Fuses (French)

Instructions for charging the battery and locating/checking the tractor's fuse.

Blades (French)

Safety precautions and instructions for removing and replacing mower blades.

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE (French)

Tires and Battery (French)

Information on tire pressure recommendations and California Proposition 65 warning for batteries.

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE (French)

Deck Adjustment (French)

Instructions for lateral adjustment of the mower deck and procedures for removing the mower deck.

Seat and Brake Adjustment (French)

Information on adjusting the seat and brake system.

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE (French)

Cleaning Engine and Deck (French)

How to clean the engine and deck, including warnings about pressure washers.

Deck Leveling (French)

Instructions for adjusting the mower deck level, including front-to-rear and side-to-side adjustments.

ENGINE MAINTENANCE (French)

Checking Engine Oil (French)

Step-by-step guide for checking and maintaining the correct engine oil level.

Changing Engine Oil and Filter (French)

Procedures for changing the engine oil and oil filter, including safety and disposal information.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE (French)

Maintenance Intervals and Tasks (French)

Outlines recommended maintenance tasks for different intervals, including checks, cleaning, lubrication, and replacement.

OPERATING ON SLOPES (French)

Mowing Safety (French)

General safety tips for mowing, including avoiding debris, proper pattern, and blade maintenance.

OPERATION (French)

Starting the Engine (French)

Step-by-step guide for starting the tractor's engine safely.

Stopping the Engine (French)

Procedures for safely shutting down the engine.

Driving the Tractor (French)

How to operate the tractor safely, including acceleration, braking, and shifting gears.

OPERATION (French)

Safety Interlock Switches (French)

Explanation of the tractor's internal safety switches and their function.

Adjusting Mower Deck Height (French)

How to adjust the cutting deck height and guide wheel positions.

Parking Brake Operation (French)

Instructions for engaging and disengaging the parking brake.

Ignition Switch and Controls (French)

Operation of the ignition switch, throttle control, seat adjustment, and brake pedal.

OPERATION (French)

Shift Lever and Controls (French)

Operation of the shift lever, fuel and oil fill-up procedures, and general safety warnings.

OPERATION (French)

Parking Brake and Throttle Control (French)

How to operate the parking brake, throttle control, and ignition switch.

Deck Lift and Accelerator Pedal (French)

Operation of the deck lift lever, accelerator pedal, and PTO engagement lever.

OPERATION (French)

Control Layout Overview (French)

Diagram identifying the location and function of all tractor controls and levers.

ASSEMBLY (French)

Seat Adjustment and Installation (French)

Guides for adjusting and installing the tractor seat, ensuring proper engagement.

Tire Pressure (French)

Recommended tire pressure for optimal performance and even cutting.

ASSEMBLY (French)

Battery Cable Installation (French)

Step-by-step instructions for connecting the battery cables, including safety warnings.

Discharge Chute Support Removal (French)

Procedure for removing the discharge chute support for shipping purposes.

Steering Wheel Installation (French)

Instructions for installing the steering wheel onto the steering column.

SAFETY LABELS (French)

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS (French)

Instructions on using a slope guide to determine safe operating inclines and warnings about operating on steep slopes.

Instructions on using a slope guide to determine safe operating inclines and warnings about operating on steep slopes.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS (French)

SAFETY SYMBOLS (French)

Explains various safety symbols and their meanings related to machine operation.

Danger - Moving Blades (French)

Warnings about the danger of moving blades, including not carrying passengers and avoiding contact.

Warning - Thrown Objects (French)

Warnings about the risk of thrown objects and the need to keep bystanders clear.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS (French)

Engine Lifespan and Emissions (French)

Information on average engine lifespan, emissions regulations, and spark arrestor requirements.

Do Not Modify Engine (French)

Warning against modifying the engine governor or settings to prevent unsafe operation.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS (French)

General Maintenance and Safety (French)

General safety tips for maintenance, including fuel handling, engine cleaning, and component checks.

Towing and General Safety (French)

Safety guidelines for towing with the tractor and general maintenance precautions.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS (French)

General Operation and Slope Safety (French)

Guidelines for general tractor operation, including loading/unloading, clearing areas, and safe operation on slopes.

Child Safety and Slope Operation Rules (French)

Specific safety rules regarding children and detailed instructions for operating on slopes.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS (French)

General Operation and Safety Precautions (French)

Comprehensive safety guidelines for general operation, including warnings about projectiles, bystanders, and proper attire.

Operator's Manual (French)