How to Change the Oil in a New Craftsman 21 Lawn Tractor

Start the engine and drive the tractor to a level surface. Turn off the engine and open the hood. Craftsman recommends changing the oil while the motor is still warm.

Remove the oil dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag. The dipstick is located on top of the engine, near the right hand side of the engine compartment. Set the oil dipstick aside on a clean surface so it doesn't get dirty.

Remove the yellow dust cap from the oil drain valve. The drain valve is located at the bottom of the engine, below the oil dipstick. Push the drain tube onto the end of the drain valve with your fingers. Make sure the other end is hanging over the engine compartment.

Place the oil drain pan under the drain tube, so the oil drains into the pan. Open the drain valve by pushing inward slightly on the drain tube, and rotating the valve counterclockwise. Pull the drain valve toward you to open the valve and allow the oil to drain.

Close the drain valve once the oil has finished draining. Push inward and rotate the valve clockwise to close the drain valve. Remove the drain tube and replace the yellow dust cap on the drain valve. Dispose of the old motor oil according to your local laws.

Refill the engine with fresh motor oil. Check the oil level with the dipstick periodically to make sure you do not overfill the oil. Wipe the dipstick clean each time you remove it. When the oil on the dipstick reaches the "full" mark, the crankcase is full of oil. Replace the dipstick and tighten it securely.