Engine Won't Start

• The most common issue with any model Craftsman riding lawnmower is an engine that won't start. Start by examining the battery. Your Craftsman riding lawnmower's battery is similar to a car battery, but smaller (six volts instead of 12). Lift the seat on its forward hinges to reveal the battery. Check the posts for corrosion; a mixture of water and baking soda poured on the posts will dissolve this corrosion. Charge the battery to ensure it has plenty of power.
  
  As with any exposed engine, another common problem can be water that has made its way into the gas tank. Water is heavier than gasoline and will sink to the bottom of the tank. Insert a straw into the tank (try not to stir the tank) all the way to the bottom. Hold your finger over one end of the straw and draw out a sample. Drain the tank of any water, allow it to dry completely and add fresh gasoline.
  
  

Mower Won't Cut

• If your Craftsman riding lawnmower rides over the grass but does not cut, it may have a dull blade. You can sharpen the blade like any other cutting tool. A good metal file or a grindstone bit on a electric drill will make quick work of getting the edge back.
  
  Craftsman riding lawnmowers transmit power to the blade via a rubber belt (similar to a fan belt). The belt should be intact and taut on its drive pulleys. A belt that's wearing out can go slack and not grip the pulleys tight, allowing the drive shaft to slip.
  
  

Mower Won't Drive

• The drive on a Craftsman riding lawnmower is a chain connecting the engine to a sprocket on the rear wheel axle, just like a bicycle. The chain should be in place on sprockets at both ends, and it should be tight. A worn chain can lose tension. When this happens, the Craftsman riding lawnmower will lose motive power transmitted to the drive wheels.