Craftsman yts3000

[Elusiv]

Hey All,
I was recently able to get a 2010 Craftsman YTS3000 for $500. It currently runs great. Used it last weeknd and had absolutely zero issues. I want to keep it that way.

I'm looking for suggestions on setting up a maintenance program at home. What are some things I should check everytime I use it, items to inspect/maintain monthly or at the beginning and end of the season.

Generally, I am capable enough to change the oil and top off fluids. I have changed the fuel line/primer bulb on a trimmer before. I am ok with performing part replacement if it is something I can access clear instructions. Not sure how well I could troubleshoot.

 

[motoman]

Elusiv, Keep the tractor dry when not in use, if possible. I don't like plastic covers because of condensation. Get a manual. Grease all zerks several times per summer. Blow out grass from deck pulleys each usage. CHECK OIL, CHECK OIL CHECK OIL every hour. These ac engines vibrate apart and leak oil as well as use oil (normal). My manual is silent on valve adjustments. Learn how or have it done annually. Blades sharp and balanced! Enjoy

 

[mechanic mark]

Post model number from under seat.

 

[7394]

Check the air filter frequently..

Change oil & filter at least once a year, or about 50 hours of use..

Check tire pressures (cold) & adjust if needed.

Keep Battery clean around terminals. & if the battery has caps, make sure it is full to fill line, if not add DISTILLED water, do not overfill as that will weaken the acid in it..

Getting an owners manual would be a good investment..

 

[hrdman2luv]

In short, check everything when you can. After you hose it off, I always run mine (including engaging the mower) to dry off the water. Water and aluminum (and unpainted steel) don't mix. This usually don't take long. After I rinse it off, I just do a lap or two around the house. All the bumping and wind from the mower blades, and the heat from the engine, usually dries it off pretty quick.

 

[tigercat]

Don't wash your tractor with water. Water will corrode your switches and give you problems like no start or stall issues. Use a leaf blower or compressed air to clean your machine. Wash the tractor once or twice a year if you must, not weekly. Store the machine in a dry place. Don't spray the spindle bearings with water. They will rust and your going to replace spindle shafts and bearings often otherwise.

Keep fresh fuel in the carburetor, and when you store the machine off season, run the carburetor dry. Today's gas is not like years ago, it rusts the internals of carburetors. I cleaned or replaced several carburetors in the last several years on many of my out door machines. Ethanol fuel sucks.

Edit to add, I think we have the exact same machine.
Read all about mine here if you like.
http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/craft...-hear-any-good-bad-stories-your-tractors.html

 

[hrdman2luv]

Don't wash your tractor with water. Water will corrode your switches and give you problems like no start or stall issues. Use a leaf blower or compressed air to clean your machine. Wash the tractor once or twice a year if you must, not weekly. Store the machine in a dry place. Don't spray the spindle bearings with water. They will rust and your going to replace spindle shafts and bearings often otherwise.

Keep fresh fuel in the carburetor, and when you store the machine off season, run the carburetor dry. Today's gas is not like years ago, it rusts the internals of carburetors. I cleaned or replaced several carburetors in the last several years on many of my out door machines. Ethanol fuel sucks.

Edit to add, I think we have the exact same machine.
Read all about mine here if you like.
http://www.lawnmowerforum.com/craft...-hear-any-good-bad-stories-your-tractors.html

That's why I dry mine off before I put it up. The heat from the motor, and the wind from the blades dries things out pretty good. I got grease zerts on the inside of my wheels to keep the spindels from rusting. I had to drill out the rear wheels and install the back ones.

 

[tigercat]

The spindle shafts and bearings I mention are the tower bearing on the lawn mower deck. 20 years ago I would faithfully wash my Craftsman tractor after every use. Because of all the water sprayed onto the deck (to clean off the grass clippings) I had to replace both bearings (upper and lower) on both sides every 3 years (42" cut deck which and 2 bladed / 4 bearings).
I wised up since then and don't have the problem with my latest tractor. I have other issues now.:laughing:

The switches are all exposed and water will get into the clutch or seat switches easily. I think it's best to avoid spraying water on these parts when possible.