Are you looking for a high-performance riding lawn mower packed with features and attachments? The Craftsman T1600 may be just the right mower for you.
From its robust power to its durable construction, this lawn mower has all the bells and whistles of a top-of-the-line model – at an affordable price.
In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the Craftsman T1600, from specs and performance to pricing and what accessories are included.
We’ll even go over some frequently asked questions about this popular lawn mower so that you can make an informed decision before purchasing.
Craftsman T1600 review
Table of Contents
The Craftsman T1600 is a powerful, efficient lawn tractor that will make mowing your lawn a breeze. It features a 19 hp Briggs & Stratton 540cc 1-cyl gasoline engine with an automatic foot pedal transmission and electric blade engagement.
The 46” reinforced steel cutting deck has five adjustable settings ranging from 1-1/2” to 4-1/2”, making cutting grass of varying lengths easy. The 10” front and 14” rear wheels provide enhanced maneuverability and stability. In contrast, the deck wash port makes it easy to clean the cutting area after each use.
Additionally, the Craftsman T1600 includes a multitude of comfort features, such as an adjustable sliding seat, an ergonomic steering wheel, and an adjustable cup holder. With all of its features, the Craftsman T1600 is sure to make lawn care a breeze.
Your lawn will look polished with the help of the Craftsman T1600 lawn tractor, as it is suitable for a variety of tasks, from mowing the lawn and trimming around trees to clearing snow and hauling supplies.
With its powerful engine, adjustable cutting deck, and ergonomic design, it is sure to make your lawn care tasks much easier to complete on a regular basis.
Variator Transmission
Variator transmission is one of the main features of the Craftsman T1600. It is a type of transmission that uses two pulleys and a belt to vary the speed ratio, allowing you to adjust your mower’s speed on demand.
The pulleys are connected by a spring-loaded belt which can be moved up or down to increase or decrease the tension.
This provides direct control over the mower’s speed – you can turn it up to mow faster or slow it down for more intricate work.
It is also efficient, eliminating the need for shifting between gears and reducing wear and tear on the engine. You can easily switch between different speeds without stopping and adjusting the settings.
Air-Cooled Vertical-Shaft Engine
The air-cooled vertical-shaft engine is one of the main features of the Craftsman T1600 lawn mower. This engine is specially designed to provide extra power and better performance than many traditional lawnmowers.
The air-cooled vertical-shaft engine allows for cooler running temperatures and more efficient operation, helping to give you a longer-lasting and more powerful engine life.
The engine also includes an electronic ignition system for easy starting and operation. Additionally, the Craftsman T1600 lawn mower has a larger fuel tank capacity than other models, allowing you to mow longer without having to refuel more often.
With all these features, the Craftsman T1600 will surely provide you with powerful performance and long-lasting reliability.
Versatility and Ease of Use
The Craftsman T1600 includes a 6-speed transmission, allowing you to switch between high and low speeds for different tasks easily. This feature can help you get the most out of your mowing job.
The mower also has an adjustable cutting height, so you can cut your grass exactly how you want it. Additionally, the T1600 is designed to make maintenance and cleaning quick and easy with a simple, user-friendly design.
With all these features, the Craftsman T1600 will surely provide you with a powerful and reliable lawn mowing experience.
Belt Driver Variator Transmission
The Craftsman T1600 lawn tractor is equipped with a belt-driven variator transmission, making it an ideal choice for areas requiring regular mowing on varied terrain.
The transmission provides smooth shifts and seamless power delivery so you can get the job done quickly and efficiently. With five speeds forward and one reverse speed, you have plenty of options to get the job done quickly and comfortably.
The variable speed feature allows you to adjust your speed on the fly, depending on the type of terrain you’re mowing over.
And for added convenience, this lawn tractor also has a manual blade engagement system, so you can easily start and stop your mower with just one touch.
Quality construction makes this lawn tractor an excellent choice for years of dependable service. With robust components, the Craftsman T1600 lawn tractor runs smoothly and reliably with minimal maintenance required.
This is an excellent option for those who want a reliable mower at an affordable price. From small gardens to larger yards, the Craftsman T1600 is the perfect solution for all your lawn tasks.
Craftsman T1600 problems
While this Craftsman model offers a variety of useful features and is generally considered a highly versatile, easy-to-use mower, it does come with certain potential issues that its users have reported.
The Mower keeps Shutting Off.
One of the problems that Craftsman T1600 users have experienced is that the mower keeps shutting off unexpectedly.
The issue usually stems from the mower’s fuel pump. The fuel pump is used to supply fuel from the tank to the engine, and if it isn’t functioning properly, it can cause the mower to shut off.
To ensure that your Craftsman T1600 doesn’t keep shutting off unexpectedly, you’ll need to check and ensure that the fuel pump is in good working order.
If it isn’t, then you’ll need to replace it. Another cause of unexpected shut-offs can be an air leak in the fuel system, which can also be detected and repaired.
If these issues are not the root cause of your mower’s sudden shutdowns, you may need to take it in for a service or repair at an authorized Craftsman service center. In either case, taking the proper steps to identify and address the issue can help ensure that your mower runs properly.
Blades not Spinning Freely
Another common problem with the Craftsman T1600 involves the blades not spinning freely when engaged.
This can be caused by a buildup of grass clippings, leaves, and other debris on the blades. To remedy this issue, you should first remove any visible debris from the blades using a stiff brush or putty knife.
If that doesn’t work, then you can try engaging the blade and lightly tapping it with a rubber mallet to loosen any built-up debris.
If that still doesn’t work, then it’s recommended to take the mower in for service or repair at an authorized Craftsman service center.
Clogged Carburetor
Craftsman T1600 users also reported that a clogged carburetor can cause the engine not to work properly and may even result in sudden shutdowns.
The carburetor is a vital part of the machine and should be cleaned regularly to ensure it works properly.
To clean the carburetor, first, check to see if debris or dirt has accumulated in the air filter or on any accessible parts of the carburetor.
If debris is present, use compressed air to blow out any dirt or debris. Make sure to wear protective eyewear and a dust mask when cleaning the carburetor.
Next, locate the screws that secure the carburetor’s main body and remove them with a screwdriver.
The screws should be labeled with an “L” for left and “R” for right so they can be re-inserted in the same original position. Carefully lift and remove the carburetor from its housing, then separate it into two halves.
Using a soft cloth, clean any parts of the carburetor that are accessible and free of debris. You may need to use a small brush or an old toothbrush to remove any stuck-on dirt.
Once the carburetor is clean, reassemble it and place it back in its housing. Then replace the screws that are securing it into place.
If the problem persists, you may need professional help or buy a new carburetor for your Craftsman mower.
Craftsman T1600 Price
The Craftsman T1600 was originally launched in 2014 as a part of their T1000 series. The initial price of this lawn tractor was $1640.
However, today, depending on its state, overall quality, and year of production, you can find a used Craftsman T1600 for around $250. Keep in mind, however, that a used lawn tractor in better condition will cost about $700-800.
Craftsman T1600 Specs
As we’ve mentioned, it is important to make an informed decision when making this kind of purchase, as you want to ensure that the tractor is the right fit for your property.
The following tables will include all the necessary details you need to decide about the Craftsman T1600 lawn mowing tractor.
Craftsman T1600 Engine Specs
Briggs & Stratton | |
gasoline | |
1-cylinder 2-valve | |
air-cooled vertical-shaft | |
Displacement: | 540 cc
33.0 ci |
Bore/Stroke: | 3.7×3.06 inches
94 x 78 mm |
Power (gross): | 19 hp
14.2 kW |
Starter: | electric |
Starter volts: | 12 |
Craftsman T1600 Transmission Specs
Transmission: | MTD AutoDrive |
Type: | belt-driven variator |
Gears: | infinite forward and reverse |
Craftsman T1600 Dimensions
Craftsman 247.20374 Tires | |
Lawn/turf front: | 15×6 |
Lawn/turf rear: | 20×8 |
Dimensions | |
Wheelbase: | 31 inches
78 cm |
Front axle: | Steel |
Craftsman T1600 attachment overview
When purchasing a lawn tractor, it is essential to consider the attachments that come with it, as they contribute to the overall versatility.
46” mower deck
Type: | mid-mount Craftsman |
2-blade with Manual lift | |
Cutting width: | 46 inches
116 cm |
Cut height: | 1.5 to 4 inch
3 to 10 cm |
Cut positions: | 5 |