How to Adjust the Brakes on a Craftsman Lawn Mower

Park the lawn mower on a flat and level surface. Depress the clutch/brake pedal and engage the parking brake by pulling the parking brake lever. Turn off the mower and remove the key.

Move the motion control lever on the transmission to the neutral position that is indicated by an "N" on the control lever. The control lever is located to the right of the operator seat. Pull the freewheel control slot out and into position so the transmission is disengaged.

Locate the brake operating arm on the transmission close to the right rear wheel. Measure the distance between the operating arm and the adjustment nut located closest to the spring. If the measurement is not 1 9/16-inch then an adjustment is necessary.

Loosen the jam nut located next to the adjustment nut with an adjustable wrench. Rotate the adjustment nut until is is 1 9/16-inch from the operating arm. Tighten the jam nut until it is snug against the adjustment nut.

Test the brakes on the lawn mower. If stopping distance is not improved, measure the distance between the operating arm and the adjustment nut. If the distance remains 1 9/16-inch then the brake rotor may need to be replaced.