How do You Change the Speed on a Craftsman Self Propelled Lawn Mower? - Plant Care Guide

To change the speed on a Craftsman self-propelled lawn mower, you typically use a control lever or dial located on the handlebar. The exact mechanism can vary slightly depending on your specific Craftsman model, but most self-propelled mowers are designed with user-friendly controls to adjust the ground speed to your comfort and the mowing conditions.

Always refer to your mower's owner's manual for precise instructions tailored to your model.

What is a Self-Propelled Lawn Mower and How Does it Work?

A self-propelled lawn mower is a type of lawn mower that moves forward on its own power, eliminating the need for the operator to push it. This feature significantly reduces physical effort, making mowing larger lawns or those with uneven terrain much easier and less fatiguing.

Here’s a basic explanation of how a self-propelled lawn mower works:

• Engine Power: Like a traditional push mower, it has a gasoline engine (or electric motor for battery-powered models) that powers the cutting blade.
• Drive System: In addition to powering the blade, the engine also drives a separate transmission system that sends power to the mower's wheels, usually the front or rear wheels.
• Engagement Lever: The operator engages this drive system using a control lever (often called a "bail" or "bar") on the handlebar. When this lever is squeezed or held down, it engages the drive belt or gears, causing the wheels to turn. Releasing the lever disengages the drive, stopping the forward motion.
• Speed Control: This is where the "self-propelled" aspect becomes customizable. Most models include a mechanism to change the ground speed at which the mower moves. This allows you to match the mower's pace to your walking speed, the grass conditions, or the terrain.
• Variable Speed Transmissions: These mowers use different types of transmissions to achieve variable speed:
  • Belt-driven: A belt transfers power from the engine to a pulley system that drives the wheels. Speed changes can involve varying engine RPM or adjusting tension on the belt.
  • Gear-driven: A series of gears transmit power, allowing for different fixed speeds or continuous variable speed.
  • Hydrostatic: Similar to automatic transmissions in cars, these use fluid pressure to provide smooth, continuous speed changes. This is common in higher-end models.
• Cutting Action: While the mower moves itself, the cutting deck and blade operation remain the same as other rotary mowers, designed to efficiently cut grass.

The core benefit is reducing physical exertion, allowing you to walk comfortably behind the mower while it does the work of propelling itself.

Where is the Speed Control Located on a Craftsman Self-Propelled Mower?

The location of the speed control on a Craftsman self-propelled lawn mower can vary based on the specific model and its design generation. However, it's almost always found on the handlebar or within easy reach of the operator's hands.

Here are the common locations and types of speed controls you might find:

1. Single Lever/Handlebar Control (Most Common):
   • Location: Often a single lever or paddle that runs horizontally across the top of the handlebar, or a lever positioned on one side of the handlebar.
   • Operation: You typically squeeze or push this lever more or less to control the speed. The harder you squeeze, the faster the mower moves. Releasing it slows down or stops the drive. This offers intuitive, variable speed control.
2. Dial or Lever with Indexed Settings:
   • Location: A small dial or a distinct lever mounted on the handlebar, usually within thumb's reach.
   • Operation: This type of control offers a few distinct speed settings (e.g., 1, 2, 3, or "Slow," "Medium," "Fast"). You click or slide the dial/lever to your desired speed.
3. Specific Handle or Paddle (My Stride/Autowalk Systems):
   • Location: Some Craftsman models, particularly those with advanced self-propel systems like "My Stride" or similar auto-walk technologies, might have a specialized handle or paddle.
   • Operation: These systems often adjust speed based on how far you push the handlebar forward, how hard you squeeze a certain handle, or even by detecting your walking pace. They aim for seamless, intuitive speed matching.
4. Engine RPM Control (Less Common for Ground Speed):
   • Note: While your mower might have an engine speed (throttle) control (e.g., "Fast," "Slow," "Choke"), this primarily affects the blade speed and engine power, not necessarily the ground speed of the self-propel system directly. Some very basic models might link them, but modern self-propelled mowers have separate ground speed controls.

Always refer to your Craftsman owner's manual. It will provide diagrams and specific instructions for your model, showing exactly where your speed adjustment lever or dial is located and how to operate it safely. If you don't have the manual, you can usually find a digital version on the Craftsman website by searching for your mower's model number.

How to Adjust the Speed on Different Craftsman Models

Adjusting the speed on a Craftsman self-propelled lawn mower is generally straightforward, but the exact method can vary between different models. Craftsman has produced various self-propelled mowers over the years, each with slightly different control mechanisms.

Here's how you might change the speed on different Craftsman models:

1. Lever or Paddle Control (Most Common Variable Speed):

• Models: Many Craftsman models, especially newer ones, use a single lever or paddle that directly controls the drive speed.
• How to Adjust:
  1. Start the mower and engage the self-propel system (usually by holding down a main bail bar).
  2. Press or squeeze the speed control lever/paddle on the handlebar.
  3. To increase speed: Apply more pressure or push the lever further forward.
  4. To decrease speed: Reduce pressure on the lever or ease it back.
• Key: This system offers continuous variable speed, allowing you to fine-tune your pace on the fly.

2. Indexed Dial or Lever with Set Speeds:

• Models: Older or more basic self-propelled Craftsman mowers might have a dial or a small lever that clicks into distinct speed settings.
• How to Adjust:
  1. Start the mower and engage the self-propel system.
  2. Rotate the dial or slide the lever to your desired speed setting (e.g., "1" for slow, "2" for medium, "3" for fast).
  3. You'll feel it click into place for each setting.
• Key: Offers predefined speeds, which can be less flexible but easy to select.

3. My Stride / Auto-Walk Systems:

• Models: Newer, premium Craftsman mowers might feature advanced intuitive drive systems.
• How to Adjust:
  1. Start the mower and engage the self-propel bail.
  2. My Stride: The mower's speed automatically adjusts to your walking pace. The harder you push on the handlebar, the faster it goes; the less you push, the slower it goes.
  3. Auto-Walk (similar systems): May involve a specific lever or grip that you push forward, and the further you push, the faster the mower moves, mimicking your stride.
• Key: These systems are designed to be highly intuitive, matching the mower's speed to yours without manual adjustment.

Crucial Advice:

• Read Your Owner's Manual: Always consult the specific Craftsman owner's manual for your mower's model number. It contains detailed diagrams and operating instructions for your exact speed control mechanism. If you don't have it, search for it online using your model number.
• Practice: Take some time to get familiar with the speed control in an open area of your lawn before tackling complex sections.

Understanding your specific model's control type is the first step to mastering its self-propelled speed adjustment.

When Should You Adjust Your Mower's Speed?

Adjusting your Craftsman self-propelled lawn mower's speed isn't just a matter of comfort; it's a key technique for achieving the best possible cut and maintaining your lawn's health. The ideal speed varies depending on several factors.

Here’s when you should adjust your mower's speed:

1. Grass Height and Thickness:
   • Tall, Thick Grass: Decrease your speed. Mowing too fast through dense or tall grass can bog down the engine, result in an uneven cut (ripped grass instead of clean cuts), and leave clumps. A slower pace allows the blades to properly cut and discharge the clippings.
   • Short, Thin Grass: Increase your speed. If the grass is short and light, you can mow faster to save time without sacrificing cut quality.
2. Terrain Conditions:
   • Uneven or Sloping Terrain: Decrease your speed. A slower speed provides better control and stability, reducing the risk of losing balance or the mower tipping.
   • Flat, Smooth Terrain: Increase your speed. On level ground, you can comfortably mow at a faster pace.
3. Your Walking Pace:
   • Comfort: The primary benefit of a self-propelled mower is matching its speed to your comfortable walking pace. Adjust it so you're walking, not running to keep up, nor dragging your feet impatiently.
4. Desired Cut Quality:
   • Fine Finish: Decrease your speed slightly. A slower pass often results in a cleaner, more precise cut, which is ideal for a manicured look.
   • Quick Cut: Increase your speed. For a general tidy-up where absolute perfection isn't paramount, a faster speed is fine.
5. Bagging vs. Mulching:
   • Bagging: If the grass is very thick and you're bagging, a slower speed helps prevent clumping and ensures the clippings are properly directed into the bag.
   • Mulching: If you're mulching, a slightly slower speed (especially in thick grass) gives the mower's blades more time to finely chop the clippings before returning them to the lawn.
6. Obstacles and Tight Spaces:
   • Around obstacles: Slow down considerably when maneuvering around trees, flower beds, or other obstacles to maintain control and prevent accidental damage to the mower or garden.
   • Tight turns: A slower speed makes turning and navigating tight corners much easier.

By proactively adjusting your mower's speed, you'll achieve a better-looking lawn, reduce wear and tear on your machine, and make your mowing experience more comfortable and safe.

Troubleshooting Self-Propelled Speed Issues on a Craftsman Mower

If your Craftsman self-propelled lawn mower isn't moving at the right speed (too slow, too fast, or inconsistent), troubleshooting can often resolve the issue. These problems usually point to specific components in the drive system.

Here’s how to troubleshoot self-propelled speed issues:

1. Check the Speed Control Lever/Cable:
   • Problem: The most common issue. The control lever or dial might not be engaging fully, or the cable connected to it could be loose, stretched, or kinked.
   • Solution:
     1. Visually inspect: Ensure the lever moves freely and fully engages the drive.
     2. Check cable tension: Locate the self-propel cable (usually runs from the handlebar to the transmission/drive mechanism under the mower deck). If it's loose, you might find an adjustment barrel or nut along the cable. Tightening this can increase tension and improve speed.
     3. Look for damage: Check the cable for kinks, fraying, or breaks. A damaged cable will need to be replaced.
2. Inspect the Drive Belt:
   • Problem: The drive belt (which transfers power from the engine to the transmission) can become worn, stretched, cracked, or simply break. A loose or worn belt will slip, resulting in reduced or inconsistent ground speed.
   • Solution:
     1. Safety First: Disconnect the spark plug wire and ensure the engine is off before inspecting under the deck.
     2. Locate the belt: It's usually accessible under the mower deck or by removing a cover.
     3. Check condition: Look for cracks, excessive wear, or glazing. If it looks bad, it needs replacement. A replacement drive belt is often specific to your model.
     4. Check tension: If the belt is new but still seems loose, consult your manual for any tension adjustment points (though less common for drive belts).
3. Examine the Drive Wheels/Tires:
   • Problem: Worn-out wheel treads can reduce traction, making the mower feel like it's slipping or not moving fast enough, especially on slopes or wet grass. This is common for front-wheel drive mowers.
   • Solution: Inspect the tread pattern on the drive wheels. If they are significantly worn or bald, consider replacing them.
4. Inspect the Drive Mechanism/Transmission (Internal Issue):
   • Problem: Less common for DIY fixers, but internal transmission issues (e.g., worn gears, damaged clutch) can cause persistent speed problems.
   • Solution: This typically requires professional service. If you've checked the cable and belt and still have issues, it's best to take it to a small engine repair shop.
5. Clean Under the Deck:
   • Problem: Excess grass clippings, mud, or debris can build up around the drive components, hindering their movement or causing slippage.
   • Solution: Safety First: Disconnect the spark plug wire. Tilt the mower (air filter side up) and thoroughly scrape away any caked-on debris from around the drive wheels, transmission housing, and belt area.

Always remember to disconnect the spark plug wire before performing any inspections or maintenance under the mower deck to prevent accidental starting and serious injury. Referencing your owner's manual for specific component locations and adjustment procedures is always the best approach.

Maintenance Tips for Your Self-Propelled Drive System

Proper maintenance of your self-propelled drive system is crucial for ensuring your Craftsman lawn mower operates at its optimal speed and lasts for many seasons. Regular care prevents common issues and saves you money on repairs.

Here are key maintenance tips for your self-propelled drive system:

1. Regular Cleaning (Most Important):
   • Frequency: After every few mows, or whenever you notice significant buildup.
   • Method: Always disconnect the spark plug wire! Tilt the mower (air filter side up) and use a stiff brush, scraper, or even compressed air to remove accumulated grass clippings, mud, and debris from:
     • Around the drive wheels and axles.
     • The belt and pulley areas.
     • The transmission housing.
   • Why: Buildup can impede the belt's movement, cause slippage, and put extra strain on the drive system.
2. Inspect the Drive Belt Annually:
   • Frequency: At least once per mowing season, or if you notice any speed inconsistencies.
   • Method: Disconnect the spark plug wire. Locate the drive belt. Carefully inspect it for:
     • Cracks or Fraying: Signs of wear and impending failure.
     • Stretching: A loose belt will slip.
     • Glazing: A shiny, hard surface indicates the belt is slipping.
   • Action: Replace the belt if you see any significant wear. Keep a spare Craftsman mower drive belt on hand.
3. Check Drive Cable Tension:
   • Frequency: Annually or if speed adjustment feels loose/ineffective.
   • Method: Refer to your owner's manual for the specific adjustment points on your self-propel cable. A slight adjustment can often restore proper speed control.
   • Action: Lubricate the cable ends with a light lubricant if they seem stiff.
4. Inspect Drive Wheels:
   • Frequency: Annually.
   • Method: Check the tread on the drive wheels.
   • Action: If the treads are significantly worn, they won't provide good traction, especially on wet grass. Replace worn drive wheels.
5. Lubrication (Specific Points Only):
   • Caution: Do NOT indiscriminately spray lubricant into the transmission or clutch.
   • Method: Only lubricate specified pivot points or cable ends with a light oil as per your owner's manual.
   • Why: Too much lubricant, or the wrong type, can attract dirt or interfere with clutch mechanisms.
6. Store Properly:
   • Method: Store the mower in a dry, covered area to protect the drive system components from rust and corrosion.
   • Why: Moisture can damage belts, cables, and internal transmission parts.

By incorporating these maintenance tasks into your routine, you'll ensure your Craftsman self-propelled mower continues to make yard work less strenuous and more enjoyable for years to come.

Common Mistakes When Adjusting Mower Speed

Even with user-friendly controls, it's easy to make common mistakes when adjusting your Craftsman mower speed. Avoiding these can improve your mowing experience and prevent premature wear on your equipment.

Here are pitfalls to steer clear of:

1. Ignoring Grass Conditions:
   • Mistake: Mowing at the same fast speed through tall, thick grass as you would through short grass.
   • Consequence: Bogs down the engine, leads to an uneven cut, rips grass blades instead of cleanly cutting them, and puts unnecessary strain on the engine and drive system.
   • Solution: Slow down significantly for dense or tall areas.
2. Mismatching Your Walking Pace:
   • Mistake: Setting the mower speed too fast or too slow for your comfortable walking pace, forcing you to jog or drag your feet.
   • Consequence: Causes fatigue, makes the mowing experience unpleasant, and can lead to less precise control.
   • Solution: Adjust the speed to a pace that feels natural and comfortable for you.
3. Not Using Variable Speed Effectively:
   • Mistake: Setting it to one speed (e.g., "fast") and leaving it there, even when encountering turns, obstacles, or changing grass conditions.
   • Consequence: Reduces control, increases the risk of damaging the mower or garden beds, and results in a less uniform cut.
   • Solution: Utilize the variable speed capability. Slow down for turns, around obstacles, and through tough patches. Speed up on long, clear stretches.
4. Incorrectly Using the Engine Throttle as Speed Control:
   • Mistake: Some basic mowers have a throttle control (Fast/Slow/Choke) but not a separate ground speed control. Thinking that slowing the engine will effectively slow the ground speed.
   • Consequence: While it might somewhat slow the ground speed, it primarily reduces blade speed, leading to a poor, uneven cut as the blades don't spin fast enough to lift and cut the grass effectively.
   • Solution: If your mower has a dedicated ground speed control, use that. If not, consider a model with true self-propelled speed adjustment for better results. Always keep the engine throttle on "Fast" (or maximum RPM) for the best cut, and only adjust ground speed.
5. Neglecting Drive System Maintenance:
   • Mistake: Ignoring a stretched belt, worn wheels, or a loose cable, leading to inconsistent or ineffective self-propel.
   • Consequence: Frustrating mowing experience, puts extra strain on other components, and can lead to costly repairs if left unaddressed.
   • Solution: Regularly inspect and maintain the drive belt, cable, and wheels as recommended in your owner's manual.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can fully leverage the convenience of your Craftsman self-propelled lawn mower and achieve a beautifully cut lawn with less effort.

The Evolution of Craftsman Self-Propelled Mower Technology

The evolution of Craftsman self-propelled mower technology reflects a continuous effort to improve user comfort, efficiency, and cutting performance. From early, simple drive systems to today's sophisticated designs, Craftsman has adapted to meet the demands of modern lawn care.

Here’s a look at how Craftsman's self-propelled technology has evolved:

• Early Models (Fixed or Limited Speeds):
  • Characteristics: Initial self-propelled mowers often featured single-speed drive systems or a very limited number of fixed speeds (e.g., "Slow" and "Fast"). Engagement typically involved a single bail bar.
  • Technology: Basic belt-driven systems.
  • Focus: The primary goal was simply to eliminate pushing, providing a basic convenience.
• Variable Speed (More Control):
  • Characteristics: The introduction of variable speed controls was a significant leap. These allowed operators to fine-tune the ground speed, often using a lever or dial on the handlebar.
  • Technology: More refined belt-driven or rudimentary gear-driven transmissions that allowed for a wider range of speed adjustment.
  • Focus: Enhanced user comfort and adaptability to different mowing conditions.
• Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) vs. Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD):
  • Characteristics: Craftsman (like other brands) began offering both FWD and RWD options.
  • FWD: Good for flat lawns, easy to turn and maneuver.
  • RWD: Provides better traction on slopes and for bagging heavy clippings.
  • Focus: Catering to different lawn types and operator preferences for maneuverability and traction.
• Intuitive Drive Systems (My Stride, Autowalk, etc.):
  • Characteristics: Recent innovations have focused on making the self-propel system more intuitive and less fatiguing. Systems like "My Stride" (often found on Craftsman models or their parent company's brands like Troy-Bilt and Cub Cadet) automatically adjust the mower's speed based on the operator's walking pace. This means no levers or dials to constantly adjust.
  • Technology: More advanced hydrostatic transmissions or sophisticated mechanical linkages that respond to pressure on the handle or specific grip.
  • Focus: Maximizing user convenience, comfort, and seamless operation, truly making the mower an extension of the operator.
• Integration with Engine Power and Deck Design:
  • Characteristics: Modern Craftsman self-propelled mowers integrate powerful engines (like Briggs & Stratton or Honda) with optimized cutting decks and mulching capabilities.
  • Technology: Enhanced engine-to-transmission coupling, durable deck materials, and blade designs.
  • Focus: Not just about moving the mower, but ensuring a superior cut quality, efficient mulching/bagging, and overall reliability.
• Electric/Battery-Powered Self-Propelled:
  • Characteristics: The shift towards electric outdoor power equipment has brought battery-powered self-propelled mowers to the market. These offer convenience, lower noise, and zero emissions.
  • Technology: Brushless motors, advanced battery systems, and electronic speed controls.
  • Focus: Environmental sustainability, reduced maintenance, and quiet operation without sacrificing self-propelled convenience.

This continuous evolution demonstrates Craftsman's commitment to providing lawn mowers that meet the changing needs and expectations of homeowners, making yard work easier and more efficient.