Craftsman 917.25431, 917.25441 Operator's Manual
Operator's Manual
CRRFrSMRM°
LAW
21.0 HR*
TRACTO
42" Mower
Electric Start
Automatic Transmission
Model No.
917.28851
917.25431
• EspaSol, p. 35
This product has a low emission engine which operates
differently from previously built engines. Before you start the
engine, read and understand this Owner's Manual.
IMPORTANT:
Read and follow all Safety
Rules and Instructions before
operating this equipment.
Gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol (EIO) is acceptable for use in this machine.
The use of any gasoline exceeding 10% ethanol (EIO) will void the product warranty.
Esta maquina puede utilizar gasolina con un contenido de hasta el 10% de etanol (EIO).
El uso de una gasolina que supere el 10% de etanol (EIO) anular_ la garantia del producto.
SEARS, ROEBUCKAND CO., HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL 60179 U.S.A.
Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman *As rated by the engine manufacturer
For answers to your questions
about this product, Call:
1-800-659-5917
SEARS Craftsman Help Line
5 am - 5 pro, Mon- Sat
441296
Warranty .................................................. 2
Safety Rules ............................................ 3
Product Specifications ............................. 6
Assembly/Pre-Operation ......................... 8
Operation ............................................... 11
Maintenance Schedule .......................... 18
Maintenance .......................................... 18
Service and Adjustments ....................... 23
Storage .................................................. 29
Troubleshooting ..................................... 30
Sears Service ......................... Back Cover
Craftsman Riding Equipment Warranty
CRAFTSMAN FULL WARRANTY
FOR TWO YEARS from the date of purchase, all non-expendable parts of this riding equipment are
warranted against any defects in material or workmanship. A defective non-expendable part will
receive free in-home repair or replacement if repair is impossible.
FOR FIVE YEARS from the date of purchase, the frame and front axle of this riding equipment are
warranted against any defects in material or workmanship. A defective frame or front axle will receive
free in-home repair or replacement if repair is impossible.
FOR 90 DAYS from the date of purchase, the battery (an expendable part) of this riding equipment
is warranted against any defects in material or workmanship (our testing proves that it will not hold a
charge). A defective battery will receive free in-home replacement.
ADDITIONAL LIFETIME LIMITED WARRANTY on CAST IRON FRONT AXLE (if equipped)
FOR AS LONG AS IT IS USED by the original owner after the fifth year from the date of purchase, the
cast iron front axle (if equipped) of this riding equipment is warranted against any defects in material or
workmanship. With proof of purchase, a defective cast front axle will receive free in-home replacement.
WARRANTY SERVICE
For warranty coverage details to obtain free repair or replacement, call 1-800-659-5917 or visit the
web site: www.craftsman.com
In all cases above, ifpart repair or replacement is impossible, the riding equipment will be replaced
free of charge with the same or an equivalent model.
All of the above warranty coverage is void if this riding equipment is ever used while providing
commercial services or if rented to another person.
This warranty covers ONLY defects in material and workmanship. Warranty coverage does NOT
include:
• Expendable parts (except battery) that can wear out from normal use within the warranty period,
including but not limited to blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, belts, and oil filters.
• Standard maintenance servicing, oil changes, or tune-ups.
• Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails, thorns,
stumps, or glass.
• Tire or wheel replacement or repair resulting from normal wear, accident, or improper operation or
maintenance.
• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, including but not limited to damage caused by
towing objects beyond the capability of the riding equipment, impacting objects that bend the
frame, axle assembly or crankshaft, or over-speeding the engine.
• Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, including but not limited to, electrical and
mechanical damage caused by improper storage, failure to use the proper grade and amount
of engine oil, failure to keep the deck clear of flammable debris, or failure to maintain the riding
equipment according to the instructions contained in the operator's manual.
• Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs caused by fuel determined to be contaminated or oxidized
(stale). In general, fuel should be used within 30 days of its purchase date.
• Normal deterioration and wear of the exterior finishes, or product label replacement.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from
state to state.
Sears Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
2
_DANGER: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result
in serious injury or death.
_I, WARNING: In orderto prevent acciden-
tal starting when setting up, transporting,
adjusting or making repairs, always discon-
nect spark plug wire and place wire where
it cannot contact spark plug.
_,WARNING: Do not coast down a hill in
neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.
_I, WARNING: Tow only the attachments
that are recommended by and comply with
specifications of the manufacturer 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.
_WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of
its constituents, and certain vehicle compo-
nents contain or emit chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer and birth
defects or other reproductive harm.
_I, WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and
related accessories contain lead and lead
compounds, chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer and birth defects
or other reproductive harm. Wash hands
after handling.
I. GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and followall instruc-
tions on the machine and inthe 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.
• Ensure the area is clear of bystanders
before operating. Stop machine ifanyone
enters the area.
• Never carry passengers.
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely
necessary. Always look down and behind
before and while backing.
• Never direct discharged materialtoward
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 en-
tire grass catcher, discharge chute, or
other safety devices in place and working.
• Slow down before turning.
• Never leave a running machine unat-
tended. 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 chute.
• Operate machine onlyin 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 into a trailer or truck.
• AIways wear eye protection when operat-
ing machine.
• Data indicates that operators, age 60
years and above, are involved in a large
percentage of riding mower-related inju-
ries. 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 recommen-
dation for wheel weights or counter-
weights.
• 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 to plow leaves or other
debris which can cause build-up to oc-
cur. Clean any oil or fuel spillage before
operating or storing the machine. Allow
machine to cool before storage.
3
li. 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. Ifthetires Iosetraction, 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 ma-
chine. 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.
Iii. 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 of the mowing area
and in the 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 inthe 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 ma-
chine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may block your view of a child.
IV. TOWING
• Tow only with a machine that has a hitch
designed for towing. Do not attach towed
equipment except at the hitch point.
• Followthemanufacturer'srecommenda-
tion for weight limits for towed equipment
and towing on slopes.
• Never allow children or others in or on
towed equipment.
• On slopes, theweight ofthetowed equip-
ment 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 dam-
age, 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.
• Neverstorethe machine orfuel container
where there is an 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. If this is not possible, then refuel
such equipment with a portable container,
rather than from a gasoline dispenser
nozzle.
4
• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim
of the fuel tank or container opening at
all times until fueling is complete. Do not
use a nozzle lock-open device.
• Iffuel is spilled on clothing, change cloth-
ing immediately.
• Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas cap
and tighten securely.
GENERALSERVlCE
• Never operate machine in a closed
area.
• Keep all nuts and boltstightto Ensurethe
equipment is in safe working condition.
• Nevertamperwithsafetydevices.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 de-
bris. Allow machine to cool before storing.
• If you strike a foreign object, stop and
inspectthe machine. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.
• Never make any adjustments or repairs
with the engine running.
• Checkgrasscatchercomponentsandthe
discharge chute frequently and replace
with manufacturer's recommended 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 orreplacesafetyand instruction
labels, as necessary.
• Ensure the area is clear of bystanders
before operating. 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 backing.
• 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 of the mowing area
and in the 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.
• 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. Ifthetires Iosetraction, 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.
5
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Gasoline Capacity 2.5 Gallons
and Type: Unleaded Regular
Oil Type SAE 30 (above 32°F)
API-SG-SL): SAE 5W30 (below 32°F '
Oil Capacity: W/Filter: 56 oz.
W/O Filter: 48 oz.
Spark Plug: Champion RC12YC
(Gap: .030")
Ground Speed Forward: 0- 5.2
Reverse: 0- 2.9
Charging System: 3 Amps Battery
5 Amps Headlights
Battery: Amp/Hr: 28
Min. CCA: 230
Case size: U1R
Blade Bolt Torque: 45-55 Ft. Lbs.
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase
of a new tractor. It has been designed,
engineered and manufactured to give
you the best possible dependability and
performance.
Should you experience any problem you
cannot easily remedy, please contact a Sears
or other qualified service center. We have
competent, well-trained representatives and
the proper tools to service or repair this tractor.
Please read and retain this manual. The
instructions will enable you to assemble
and maintain your tractor properly. Always
observe the "SAFETY RULES".
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
• Read and observe the safety rules.
• Follow a regular schedule in maintaining,
caring for and using your tractor.
• Follow the instructions under "Mainte-
nance" and "Storage" sections of this
owner's manual.
_WARNING: This tractor is equipped with
an internal combustion engine and should not
be used on or near any unimproved forest-
covered, brush-covered or grass-covered
land unless the engine's exhaust system is
equipped with a spark arrester meeting ap-
plicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark
arrester is used, it should be maintained in
effective working order by the operator.
In the state of Californiathe above is required
by law (Section 4442 of the California Public
Resources Code). Other states may have
similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal
lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is
available through your nearest Sears service
center (See REPAIR PARTS manual).
REPAIR PROTECTION
AGREEMENTS
Congratulations on making a smart purchase.
Your new Craftsman® product is designed
and manufactured for years of dependable
operation. But like all products, it may require
repair from time to time. That's when having
a Repair Protection Agreement can save you
money and aggravation.
Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement
now and protect yourself from unexpected
hassle and expense.
Here's what's included in the Agreement:
• Expert service by our 12,000 professional
repair specialists.
• Unlimited service and nochargefor parts
and labor on all covered repairs.
• Product replacement if your covered
product can't be fixed.
Discount of 10% from regular price of
service and service-related parts not
covered by the agreement; also, 10% off
regular price of preventive maintenance
check.
Fast help by phone - phone support
from a Sears representative on products
requiring in-home repair, plus convenient
repair scheduling.
Once you purchase the Agreement, a simple
phone call is all that it takes for you to
schedule service. You can call anytime day
or night, or schedule a service appointment
online.
Sears has over 12,000 professional repair
specialists, who have access to over 4.5
million quality parts and accessories. That's
the kind of professionalism you can count on
to help prolong the life of your new purchase
for years to come. Purchase your Repair
Protection Agreement today!
Some limitations and exclusions apply.
For prices and additional information call
1-800=827-6655.
SEARS iNSTALLATION SERVICE
For Sears professional installation of home
appliances, garage door openers, water
heaters, and other major home items, inthe
U.S.A. call 1-800=4-MY=HOME®
6
Steering Wheel
r
/ f-.,
\
/ ( '_ \
\ \......} /
\ !
,,, J
\ /
Steering
Wheel Insert
_ Steering Wheel
j j j j j j j j j J , Adapter
I_ J
i i
(1 Flat Washer
(1) Locknut
! I
Steering
Boot
(1) Seat
Keys
(2) Kegs
Seat
(1) Washer
(1) Hex Bolt
Slope Sheet
7
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left
unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor
all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools
as necessary to ensure proper tightness.
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assembly
easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.
(1) 5/16" wrench
(2) 7/16" wrenches
(2) 1/2" wrenches
(1) 9/16" wrench
When right or left hand is mentioned in this
manual, it means when you are in the operating
position (seated behind the steering wheel).
Utility knife
Tire pressure gauge
Pliers
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM
CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
• Remove all accessible loose parts and
parts cartons from carton.
• Cut along dotted lines on all four pan-
els of carton. Remove end panels and
lay side panels flat.
• Check for any additional loose parts or
cartons and remove.
BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR
FROM SKID
TO iNSTALL STEERING WHEEL
ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND
BOOT
1. Slide extension shaft onto lower steering
shaft.
2. Place tabs of steering boot over tab slots
in dash and push down to secure.
INSTALL STEERING WHEEL
3. Position front wheels of the tractor so
they are pointing straight forward.
4. Position steering wheel so cross bars
are horizontal (left to right) and slide onto
steering wheel adapter.
5. Secure steering wheel to steering shaft
with Iocknut and large flat washer previ-
ously removed. Tighten securely.
6. Snap steering wheel insert into center of
steering wheel.
7. Remove protective materials from tractor
hood and grill.
iMPORTANT: Check for and remove any
staples in skid that may puncture tires where
tractor is to roll off skid.
TO CHECK BATTERY
1. Lift seat to raised position.
NOTE: If this battery is put into service after
month and year indicated on label (label is
located between terminals) charge battery
for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps. (See
"BATTERY" in Maintenance section of this
manual for charging instructions).
• For batteryand battery cable installation
see "REPLACING BATTERY" in the
"Service and Adjustments" section in this
manual.
Label
' j / \
....._ Insert IW---,'L_-_)
Nut _ I '":.-2 _("
___-__ La_F_ _asher
\ \ .../ _ .... _> .//_
,._ ......... U._s _teerlng
i
S i--\
/, .- t k
', ';'; _""'-"_ Steering Boot
_Adapter
Extension
Lower
8
INSTALL SEAT
1. Remove bolt and flat washer securing
seat to cardboard packing and set aside
for assembly of seat to tractor. Remove
the cardboard packing and discard.
2. Connect switch to seat.
3. Place seat on seat pan so all three (3)
bottom pads are positioned over large
slotted holes in pan.
Tape
Wiring harness
.
Push down on seat to engage pads in
slots and pull seat towards rear of tractor.
.
Raise seat and tighten bolt securely.
6.
Remove tape and discard.
7.
Lower seat into operating position and
sit on seat. Press clutch/brake pedal all
the way down. If operating position is not
comfortable, adjust seat.
Slot
Pad_
Flat
washer
/ )e
[
\
NOTE: You may now roll your tractor off
the skid. Follow the appropriate instruction
below to remove the tractor from the skid.
_WARNING: Before starting, read,
understand and follow all instructions in the
Operation section of this manual. Ensure
tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Ensure
the area in front of tractor is clear of other
people and objects.
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)
1. Raise attachment lift lever to its highest
position.
2. Release parking brake by depressing
clutch/brake pedal.
3. Place freewheel control in "transmis-
sion disengaged position" (See "TO
TRANSPORT" in Operation section of
this manual).
4. Roll tractor forward off skid.
5. Remove banding holding the deflector
shield up against tractor.
Continue with the instructions that follow.
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your tractor were overinflated at
the factory for shipping purposes. Correct
tire pressure is important for best cutting
performance.
• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown on
tires.
CHECK DECK LEVELNESS
For best cutting results, mower housing
should be properly leveled. See "TO LEVEL
MOWER" in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.
pan
Adjustment
Bolt Tab handle
TO ADJUST SEAT
Grasp adjustment handle and pull up, slide
seat to desired position and release adjust-
ment handle.
CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF
ALL BELTS
See the figures that are shown for replacing
motion and mower blade drive belts in the
Service and Adjustments section of this man-
ual. Verify that the belts are routed correctly.
CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
After you learn how to operate your tractor,
check to see that the brake is operating
properly. See "TO CHECK BRAKE" in the
Service and Adjustments section of this
manual.
9
_fCHECKLIST
Before you operate your new tractor, we
wish to assure that you receive the best
performance and satisfaction from this
Quality Product.
Please review the following checklist:
_/All assembly instructions have been
completed.
_/ No remaining loose parts in carton.
_/ Battery is properly prepared and charged.
_/Seat is adjusted comfortably and tight-
ened securely.
_/All tires are properly inflated. (For ship-
ping purposes, the tires were overinflated
at the factory).
_/ Be sure mower deck is properly leveled
side-to-side/front-to-rear for best cutting
results. (Tires must be properly inflated
for leveling).
_/Check mower and drive belts. Be sure
they are routed properly around pulleys
and inside all belt keepers.
_/Check wiring. See that all connections
are still secure and wires are properly
clamped.
_/ Before driving tractor, be sure freewheel
control is in "transmission engaged"
position (see "TO TRANSPORT" in the
Operation section of this manual).
While learning howto use your tractor, pay ex-
tra attention to the following important items:
_/ Engine oil is at proper level.
_/ Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline.
_/ Become familiar with all controls, their
location and function. Operate them
before you start the engine.
_/ Be sure brake system is in safe operating
condition.
_/ Be sure Operator Presence System and
Reverse Operation System (ROS) are
working properly (See the Operation and
Maintenance sections in this manual).
_/ It is important to purge the transmission
before operating your tractor for the
first time. Follow proper starting and
transmission purging instructions (See
"TO START ENGINE" and "PURGE
TRANSMISSION" in the Operation sec-
tion of this manual).
10
These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn
and understand their meaning.
R N H L I',,I @ -_
REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW CHOKE FAST SLOW
IGNITION SWITCH
ENGINE OFF REVERSE ENGINE ON ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE MOWER HEIGHT
OPERATION
SYSTEM (ROS)
_D _ E21 { j.,
LIGHTS ON FUEL BATTERY REVERSE FORWARD
CRUISE CONTROL CLUTCH/BRAKE
®@®@@
ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH DISENGAGED CLUTCH ENGAGED
FREE WHEEL
(Automatic Models only)
Failure to follow instructions
could result in serious injury or
death. The safety alert symbol
is used to identify safety inform-
ation about hazards which can
result in death, serious injury
and/or property damage.
DANGER, KEEP HANDS
AND FEET AWAY
DANGER indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,
A
will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,
A
could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,
A
might result in minor or moderate injury.
CAUTION when used without the alert symbol,
indicates a situation that could result in damage
to the tractor and/or engine.
HOT SURFACES indicates a hazard which,
if not avoided, could result in death, serious injury
and/or property damage.
FiRE indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,
could result in death, serious injury and/or
property damage.
KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS
(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
MOWER LIFT
PEDAL
11
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