what oil to use in craftsman lawn tractor

Craftsman Lawn Tractors are highly reliable garden equipment designed to keep your lawn looking neat and tidy. Just like any other machine, their longevity and performance depend on proper maintenance and oiling. It’s essential to use the right type of oil to keep your tractors operating smoothly and prevent them from breaking down.

The Importance of Using the Right Oil

Using the right type of oil in your Craftsman Lawn Tractor is crucial for the longevity and performance of the engine. The engine of a lawn tractor is more prone to wear and tear than the engines of cars and motorcycles, mainly because they are not used regularly. Therefore, choosing the wrong type of oil, or lower-quality oil, can result in the engine not receiving the protection it needs. This can lead to premature wear and tear and engine failure.

Types of Oil Suitable for Craftsman Lawn Tractor

When choosing an oil type for your Craftsman Lawn Tractor, you should first look at the viscosity required. The viscosity refers to the thickness of the oil and its ability to flow. There are two types of oil viscosity: single-grade and multi-grade. Multi-grade oil is more common as it provides better protection in different weather conditions. Multi-grade oil also has a ‘W’ in its viscosity rating, such as 10W-30. Craftsman recommends using SAE 30 four-cycle lawn mower oil or Shell Rotella T 15W-40 heavy-duty diesel engine oil.

When to Change the Oil

The frequency of changing the oil in your Craftsman Lawn Tractor depends on the usage and type of oil used. On average, it’s recommended that you change the oil on a lawn tractor every 50 hours of use or once a year, whichever comes first. However, if you use your lawn tractor in dusty conditions, you should change the oil more frequently. You should also change the oil if you notice the oil is dirty, as this can cause damage to the engine.

Conclusion

Choosing the right oil, changing it regularly, and following the correct procedures for oil changes is essential for the longevity and performance of your Craftsman Lawn Tractor. SAE 30 four-cycle lawn mower oil or Shell Rotella T 15W-40 heavy-duty diesel engine oil are suitable choices. By following proper maintenance and oiling procedures, you can ensure that your lawn tractor runs efficiently and lasts for many years to come.