Craftsman T240 Review

T240 review

Our take on the Craftsman T240

The Craftsman T240 is the step-up riding mower in Craftsman’s T-Series. It has a 22 hp Kohler 7000 Series V-twin and a 46-inch stamped steel deck. It uses a foot-pedal hydrostatic transmission instead of the manual gear drive on the T110. It also adds a soft-touch steering wheel, a high-back seat and a front bumper. Craftsman says it cuts up to 2 acres.

This review covers the engine, drive, deck, comfort and owner needs. We also compare it with the T110 and explain who should pay more for the T240.

Engine

The engine is a Kohler 7000 Series V-twin rated at 22 hp. A V-twin runs smoother than a single. It also keeps speed better in thick grass. Kohler is a respected engine brand in this class. This is the biggest difference from the T110.

Hydrostatic drive

The T240 uses a foot-pedal hydrostatic transmission. You press one pedal to go and release to slow. There is no shifting. Speed changes are smooth. This is much easier than a manual gear drive when you mow around trees, beds and corners.

Turn Tight steering

Craftsman markets this model with Turn Tight steering. It is meant to let you turn in a very small circle for a tractor. Lowe’s lists a radius number that looks like a typo, so we do not repeat it. Check the current spec sheet for the exact figure. In practice, the steering helps you trim close around obstacles.

46-inch deck

The deck is reinforced stamped steel at 46 inches wide. That is four inches wider than the T110. A wider deck cuts the number of passes. A mulching kit is optional. The T240 fits most gates, but measure first if your access is narrow.

Seat, steering wheel and bumper

The T240 has a high-back seat for better support. The steering wheel has a soft-touch grip. A front bumper protects the nose of the tractor. These small items add comfort and protection on every mow.

Tires and build

Tires are 15×6 in front and 20×8 in back. Craftsman says the T240 is made in Martin, Tennessee from global materials. The warranty is 3 years.

What owners say

Owners like the V-twin and the easy foot-pedal drive. They call it a solid mid-priced rider. Complaints focus on typical budget-tractor issues. Some mention assembly time and small details. Keep the machine serviced and register your warranty.

Limits to know about

The T240 uses a stamped deck rather than a fabricated one. It does not include a mulch kit. It is not built for steep hills. Larger lots over two acres need a bigger machine.

How it compares

The T110 costs less but has a single-cylinder engine, a manual transmission and a low-back seat. The T240 costs more and fixes all three. If you value comfort and smooth driving, the T240 is worth the extra money.

Who should buy it

Buy the T240 if you have one to two acres with trees, beds and corners. It suits owners who mow for an hour or more and want a comfortable seat. Skip it if you have flat open ground and a tight budget. The T110 can handle that.

Price and warranty

The T240 is sold at Lowe’s. Third-party listings show about $2,399, but prices change often. Confirm the current price at the retailer. The warranty is 3 years.

Quick specs at a glance

The engine is a 22 hp Kohler 7000 Series V-twin. The deck is 46 inches. Drive is a foot-pedal hydrostatic transmission. Tires are 15×6 and 20×8. The seat is high-back. A front bumper is standard. The warranty is three years. Craftsman rates the deck for up to two acres.

Tips to get the most from it

Learn the foot pedal on open ground before you mow around obstacles. Ease off the pedal on slopes and avoid sharp turns on hills. Check the oil before every mow. Clean the air filter each season. Sharpen the blades and check the deck level so the cut stays even. Use tire chains in snow or wet conditions only if the manual allows. Buy the mulching kit if you prefer to mulch. A twin bagger for 42 and 46-inch decks is sold separately for bagging.

Verdict

The T240 is a well-rounded entry-to-mid riding mower. The V-twin, hydrostatic drive and high-back seat make it far more pleasant than the T110. It is a good fit for typical suburban yards.