Craftsman 917249170 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

MRN°

54" Mower

Model No.

917.249170

CATC

+Safety +Assembly

+Operation +Maintenance

+Repair Parts

CAUTION"

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before

operating this equipment.

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.

Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman

For answers to your questions

about this product, Call:

1-800-659-5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line 5 am - 5 pm, Mon - Sat

Safe Operation Practices for Ride=On Mowers

SAFETY RULES &

IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINEIS CAPABLEOFAMPUTATING HANDSAND FEETAND THROWING OBJECTS. FAILURE

TO OBSERVETHE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

• Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-

cidental starting when setting up,

WARNING: in order to prevent ac= transporting, adjusting or making re-

pairs, always disconnect spark plug

wire and place wire where it cannot

contact spark plug.

in neutral, you may lose control of the

WARNING: Do not coast down a hill

tractor.

WARNING: Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and com-

ply with specifications of the manu= facturer of your tractor. Use common sense when towing. Operate only at the lowest possible speed when on a slope. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is dangerous. Tires can lose traction with the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual before starting.

• Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under

the machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at

all times.

• Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with

the instructions, to operate the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc.,

which could be picked up and thrown by the blades.

• Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before operat- ing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow inreverse unless absolutely necessary. Al-

ways look down and behind before and while backing.

• Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Material may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop

the blades when crossing gravel surfaces.

• Do not operate machine without the entire grass catcher, discharge guard, or other safety devices in place and

working.

• Slow down before turning.

• Never leave a running machine unattended. Always

turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and

remove keys before dismounting.

• Disengage blades when not mowing. Shut off engine and wait for all parts to come to a complete stop before cleaning the machine, removing the grass catcher, or

unclogging the discharge guard.

• Operate machine only in daylight or good artificial light.

• Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.

• Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine intoa trailer or truck.

• Always wear eye protection when operating machine.

related injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for wheel weights or counterweights.

• Keep machine free of grass , leaves or other debris

build-up which can touch hot exhaust/engine parts and burn. Do not allow the mower deck to plow leaves or other debris which can cause build-up to occur.

Clean any oil or fuel spillage before operating or storing the machine. Allow machine to cool before storage.

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and

tip-over accidents, which can result in severe injury or

death. Operation on all slopes requires extra caution. If

you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it,

do not mow it.

• Mow up and down slopes, not across.

• Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine.

Tall grass can hide obstacles.

• Choose a low ground speed so that you will not have

to stop or shift while on the slope.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Tires may lose traction.

Always keep the machine in gear when going down slopes. Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill.

• Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. Ifthe

tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction,

which could cause the machine to roll over.

• Use extra care while operating machine with grass catchers or other attachments; they can affect the

stability of the machine. Do no use on steep slopes.

• Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the ground.

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments.

The machine could suddenly roll over if a wheel is over the edge or if the edge caves in.

Ill. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that

children will remain where you last saw them.

• Keep children out ofthe mowing area and inthe watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.

• Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the area.

• Before and while backing, look behind and down for

small children.

• Never carry children, even with the blades shut off. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with

safe machine operation. Children who have been given

rides in the past may suddenly appear in the mowing area for another ride and be run over or backed over

by the machine.

• Never allow children to operate the machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,

trees, or other objects that may block your view of a

child.

SAFETY RULES

Safe Operation Practices for Ride=On Mowers

IV. TOWING

• Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for towing. Do not attach towed equipment except at the

hitch point.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for weight

limits for towed equipment and towing on slopes.

• Never allow children or others in or on towed equip-

ment.

• On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may

cause loss of traction and loss of control.

• Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.

V. SERVICE

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme

care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.

• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other sources of ignition.

• Use only approved gasoline container.

• Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine •

running. Allow engine to cool before refueling.

• Never fuel the machine indoors.

• Never store the machine or fuel container where there

isan open flame, spark, or pilot light such as on a water heater or other appliances.

• Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with plastic liner. Always place containers

on the ground away from your vehicle when filling.

• Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. Ifthis is not possible,

then refuel such equipment with a portable container,

rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.

• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim ofthe fuel tank or

container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.

• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immedi-

ately.

• Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas cap and tighten • securely.

GENERAL SERVICE

• Never operate machine in a closed are.

• Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure the equipment ,

is in safe working condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper

operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris

build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage and remove any

fuel-soaked debris. Allow machine to cool before " storing.

• If you strike a foreign object, stop and inspect the machine. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.

• Never make any adjustments or repairs with the engine running.

• Check grass catcher components and the discharge guard frequently and replace with manufacturer's rec-

ommended parts, when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.

• Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as required.

• Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as necessary.

Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before operat- ing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

Never carry passengers. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary.

Always look down and behind before and while back-

ing. Never carry children, even with the blades shut off. They

may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with

safe machine operation. Children who have been given

rides in the past may suddenly appear in the mowing area for another ride and be run over or backed over

by the machine. Keep children out ofthe mowing area and inthe watchful

care of a responsible adult other than the operator.

Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the area.

Before and while backing, look behind and down for

small children.

Mow up and down slopes (15° Max), not across. Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the

area. Choose a low ground speed so that you will not have

to stop or shift while on the slope. Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If the

tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

If machine stops while going uphill, disengage blades,

shift into reverse and back down slowly.

Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn

slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.

SAFETY RULES ................................................................... 2-3

CARTON CONTENTS ............................................................. 4

ASSEMBLY ........................................................................... 5-8

OPERATION ............................................................................ 9

SAVETHESEINSTRUCTIONS

MAINTENANCE ..................................................................... 10

STORAGE .............................................................................. 10

WARRANTY ........................................................................... 10

REPAIR PARTS ..................................................................... 11

KNOW YOUR GRASS CATCHER

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE ASSEMBLING OR OPERATING YOUR GRASS CATCHER. Compare the illustrations with the carton contents to familiarize yourself with the parts before starting the

assembly. Study the operating instructions and safety precautions thoroughly to insure proper functioning of your Grass Catcher and to prevent injury to yourself and others. Save this manual for future reference.

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe

eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields before starting your tractor and while mowing.

We recommend a wide vision safety mask for over the spectacles or standard safety glasses.

COMPLETE BAGGER MUST BE iN PLACE BEFORE OPERATING MOWER

UNPACKING INSTRUCTIONS

• Remove all parts and packing materials from carton.

• Check carton contents against list. Be sure all parts

are there.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

(1) 9/16" Wrench

PARTS

COVER

IDENTIFICATION

CARTON CONTENTS:

(3) Containers (1) Upper Chute

(1) Lower Chute (2) Support Assemblies

RETAINER

SPRING

CHUTE

LATCH

(1) Cover Assembly (1) Retainer Spring (2) Shoulder Bolts

SHOULDER

SUPPORT

ASSEMBLY

UPPER

GRASS CATCHER CONTAINERS

CHUTE

LOWER CHUTE

ATTACHING STRAPS

NOTE: When right hand (R.H.) and left hand (L.H.) are mentioned in this manual, it means when you are seated on the tractor, in the operator's position.

CAUTION: BEFORE ASSEMBLING GRASS CATCHER TO TRACTOR:

• Depress clutch/brake pedal fully and set parking brake. Place gearshift/motion control lever in "NEUTRAL" position.

Place attachment clutch in "DISENGAGED" position.

e e

Turn ignition key "OFF" and remove key.

Make sure the blade and all moving parts have completely stopped.

Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with plug.

BAGGER SUPPORT ASSEMBLY

Determine which type drawbar you have on your tractor.

Compare the drawbar illustrations below to the drawbar

located at the rear of your tractor. Follow the support assembly instructions that apply to your

type drawbar from the four listed below. Please note draw-

bars A and B are vertical, while C and D are angled.

DRAWBAR A DRAWBAR B

0 o 0

o o

0 0

DRAWBAR C

i! 00oo o

o o!1

0 0

DRAWBAR D

if your tractor is equipped

with this illustration call

1=800=633=3522

for a replacement kit.

DRAWBAR A (See Figs. 1A & 1B)

Remove and discard the upper bolt on both sides of

the drawbar. Using the same holes, install the shoulder

bolts supplied and tighten securely.

REMOVE AND DISCARD UPPER BOLTS AND INSTALL SHOULDER BOLTS SUPPLIED

2. Align support assembly pin with hole in drawbar and hang assembly over the shoulder bolts.

3. Be sure support assembly is seated properly and secure

with retainer spring supplied.

SHOULDER BOLTS

ASSEMBLY

Fig. 1B

DRAWBAR B (See Fig. 10)

1. Discard adapters provided - not required for drawbar type B.

2. Align support assembly pin with hole in drawbar and hang assembly over the shoulder bolts.

3. Be sure support assembly is seated properly and secure

with retainer spring supplied.

SHOULDER

BOLTS

Fig. 1A

DRAWBAR

SUPPOR'[

ASSEMBLY

RETAINER

SPRING

5 Fig. 1C

MOUNTING COVER ASSEMBLY TO

SUPPORT ASSEMBLY (See Fig. 2)

DRAWBAR D (See Figs. 1D)

1. Slide flanges of support assembly into drawbar slots first, then, pivot backwards inserting pin into drawbar

pin hole.

2. Be sure support assembly is seated properly, then secure with retainer spring.

"% SUPPORT

" ' ASSEMBLY

z 7

DRAWBAR SLOTS (Drawbar "A" shown)

INSERT FLANGES

FIRST INTO DRAWBAR

SLOTS

NOTE: For ease of assembly, you may wish to obtain the assistance of another person for mounting cover assembly

to tractor.

1. Lift and rotate cover to align cover brackets with support assembly tubes.

2. Slide cover assembly down onto the support tubes.

COVER ASSEMBLY

SUPPORT

ASSEMBLY

DRAWBAR PIN HOLE

Fig. 1D

RETAINER SPRING

03024

Fig. 2

CONTAINER MOUNTING (See Fig. 3)

LOWER CHUTE (See Fig. 4)

1. Install one container to left side first. Install another container to center position and one in right position.

NOTE: Left edge of right container should always overlap right edge of left container at center supports.

2. Close cover and lock latches over center support tubes. To lock and release latches, pull back on latch

handles.

COVER LATCH HANDLES

CENTER

SUPPORT

TUBES

Raise and hold deflector shield in upright position.

Place slot in lower chute over mounting tab on mower

and position lower chute over mower opening as shown.

Hook rear latch into flange hole on back of mower.

Hook front latch into hole infront gauge wheel bracket

or under gauge wheel bracket on mower without a hole in the bracket.

CAUTION: Do not remove deflector

shield from mower. Raise and hold shield when attaching lower chute

and allow it to rest on chute while in

operation.

DEFLECTOR

SHIELD

CONTAINER

HANDLE

Fig. 3

MOUNTING

TAB

REAR LATCH

GAUGE WHEEL

BRACKET

FRONT LATCH

Fig. 4

UPPER CHUTE (See Figs. 5A & 5B)

LEVEL MOWER DECK

1. Lower mower to its lowest cutting position.

2. Assemble upper chute by inserting curved end into hole in back of cover.

NOTE: Handle carefully so as not to damage full bagger

indicator.

3. Push in and turn upper chute until it is in line with lower

chute.

4. Align the bosses on lower chute with alignment slots

on upper chute and slide together.

5. Secure with rubber latch by hooking hole in latch over latch pin.

COVER

Be sure mower is properly leveled for best mower per- formance. See your tractors owner's manual for instruc-

tions.

Fig. 5A

FULL BAGGER ;÷=" INDICATOR

ALIGNMENT SLOT

Fig. 5B

HANDLE

LATCH PIN

LATCH

LOWER

CHUTE

BOSSES \_ \

+ 16 hidden pages