Craftsman 917.25572 Operator's Manual

Operator's Manual
®
1
LAW
21.5 HP,*
TRACTO
46" Mower
Electric Start
Model No.
917.25572
This product has a low emission engine which operates
differently from previously built engines. Before you start the
engine, read and understand this Operator'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.
Sears Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman *As rated by the engine manufacturer
11551 8528
Warranty ................................................ 2
Safety Rules .......................................... 3
Product Specifications ........................... 6
Assembly/Pre-Operation ....................... 7
Operation ............................................... 9
Maintenance Schedule ........................ 16
Maintenance ........................................ 16
Service and Adjustments ..................... 21
Storage ................................................ 27
Troubleshooting ................................... 28
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 bythe 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, if part 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, [L 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.
_,WARNING: In order to 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.
_,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.
_,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 follow all instruc- tions 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 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 only indaylight 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.
Followthemanufacturer'srecommenda-
tion 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 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 ifyou 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
_WARNING: CHILDREN CAN BE INJURED BYTHIS EQUIPMENT. The American Acade-
my of Pediatrics recommends that children be a minimum of 12 year of age before op- erating a pedestrian controlled lawn mower
and a minimum of 16 years of age before operating a riding lawn mower.
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.
Nevercarrychildren, 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 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, the weight 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.
4
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 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 aclosed area.
Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be surethe 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 machineto 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 orreplace safetyand instruction labels, as necessary.
Be sure 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.
When loading or unloading this machine, do not exceed the maximum recom-
mended operation angle of 15 °.
5
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Gasoline Capacity 3.0 Gallons/11,35 L and type: Regular Unleaded
Oil Type: SAE 30 (above 32°F/0°0
API: SG-SL) SAE 5W30 (below 32°F/0°0
Oil Capacity: W/Filter: 64 Oz./1,96 L
W/out Filter: 52 Oz./1,5 L
Spark Plug: Champion QC12YC
(Gap: .040"/1.02 mm)
Charging 3 Amps Battery System: 5 Amps Headlights
Battery: Amp/Hr: 28
Min. CCA: 230
Case size: U1R
Blade Bolt Torque: 45-55 Ft. Lbs./62-75 Nm
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor. It has been designed, engi- neered and manufactured to give you the best
possible dependability and performance. Should you experience any problem you can-
not easily remedy, please contact a Sears or other qualified service center. We have com- petent, 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 instructions under "Maintenance" and "Storage" sections of this manual.
Wear proper Personal Protective Equip- ment (PPE) while operating this machine,
including (at a minimum) sturdy footwear, eye protection, and hearing protection. Do not mowin shortsand/oropentoed footwear.
Always let someone know you are outside mowing.
,_,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 applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.
Inthe 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).
6
Keys
Slope Sheet Battery
l',ll
Key(s)
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left
unassembled for shipping purposes.
(1) Oil Drain Tube
(2) Hex Bolts
(2) Nut Keps
TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY
A socket wrench set will make assembly
easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.
(1) 1/2" wrench Tire pressure gauge (2) 7/16" wrenches Utility knife LABEL
Pliers
When right or left hand is mentioned in this
manual, itmeans when you are inthe operating position (seated behind the steering wheel).
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM
CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
Remove all accessible loose parts and parts cartons from carton.
Cut along dotted lines on all four panels of carton. Remove end panels and lay
side panels flat.
Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and remove.
ADJUST SEAT
1. Sit in seat.
2. Lift up adjustment lever (A) and slide seat until a comfortable position is reached
which allows you to press clutch/brake
pedal all the way down.
3. Release lever to lock seat in position.
BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR
FROM SKID
TO CHECK BATTERY
1. Lift hood 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 battery and battery cable installation see "REPLACING BATTERY" in the
"Service and Adjustments" section in this
manual.
7
NOTE: You may now roll your tractor off the skid. Followthe appropriate instruction below
to remove the tractor from the skid.
_l_ WARNING: Before starting, read, un-
derstand and follow all instructions in the Operation section of this manual. Be sure
tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be sure 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 brake pedal.
3. Place freewheel control in disengaged position to disengage transmission (See
"TO TRANSPORT" inthe Operation sec- tion 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.
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 prop- erly. See "TO CHECK BRAKE" inthe Service
and Adjustments section of this manual.
,/CHECKLIST
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: J All assembly instructions have been com-
pleted.
J No remaining loose parts in carton. J Battery is properly prepared and
charged.
J Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened
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 how to 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 lo-
cation 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). / Itisimportant to purgethetransmission before
operating your tractor for the first time. Fol-
low proper starting and transmission purging
instructions (See "TO START ENGINE" and
"PU RG ETRANSMISSION" inthe Operation
section of this manual).
8
These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product.
Learn and understand their meaning.
R N N L I',,I @
REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW CHOKE FAST SLOW
IGNITION SWITCH
6 e G (@) -@
ENGINE OFF REVERSE ENGINE ON ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE MOWER HEIGHT
OPERATION
SYSTEM (ROS)
MOWER LIFT
t
LIGHTS ON
ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH DISENGAGED CLUTCH ENGAGED
(Automatic ModeJsonly)
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.
FUEL BATTERY
FREE WHEEL
REVERSE FORWARD
DANGER, KEEP HANDS
AND FEET AWAY
DANGER indicates a hazard which, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious injury. WARNING indicates a hazard which, if not avoided
could result in death or serious injury. CAUTION indicates a hazard which, if not avoided
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.
CRUISE CONTROL
CLUTCH/BRAKE
PEDAL
@@®@@
KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS
(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)
9
KNOW YOUR TRACTOR
READ THIS MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of
various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
Our tractors conform to the applicable safety standards of the
American National Standards Institute.
(A) ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to raise and lower the mower or other attach-
ments mounted to your tractor. (B) BRAKE PEDAL - Used for braking the
tractor and starting the engine.
(C) PARKING BRAKE - Locks clutch/ brake pedal into the brake position.
(D) THROTTLE CONTROL = Used to control engine speed. (F) IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting
and stopping the engine. (G) REVERSE OPERATION SYSTEM (ROS) "ON" POSITION - Allows operation of mower or other powered attachment
while in reverse. (H) LIGHT SWITCH - Turns the headlights
on and off.
03124
(J) CRUISE CONTROL LEVER - Used to set forward movement of tractor at desired
speed without holding the forward drive pedal.
(K) FORWARD DRIVE PEDAL - Used for forward movement of tractor.
(L) REVERSE DRIVE PEDAL - Used for reverse movement of tractor.
(M) FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disen- gages transmission for pushing or slowly towing the tractor with the engine off.
(N) CHOKE CONTROL =Used when starting a cold engine.
(P) SERVICE REMINDER/HOUR METER
- Indicates when service is required for the engine and mower.
10
The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into I
the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety !
glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any_ adjustments or repairs. We recommend standard safety glasses or a_
wide vision safety mask worn over spectacles. J
HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR
TO SET PARKING BRAKE Your tractor is equipped with an operator
presence sensing switch. When engine is running, any attempt bythe operator to leave
the seat without first setting the parking brake will shut off the engine.
1. Depress brake pedal (B) all the way down and hold.
2. Pull parking brake lever (C) up and hold, release pressure from brake pedal (B), then release parking brake lever. Pedal should remain in brake position. Make
sure parking brake will hold tractor se- cure.
STOPPING MOWER BLADES -
, To stop mower blades, move attachment
clutch control to disengaged position (t'_).
NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to slow position and allowing engine to idle before
stopping may cause engine to "backfire".
Turn ignition key (F) to "STOP" position and remove key. Always remove key when
leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized use.
Never use choke to stop engine.
IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch in
any position other than "STOP" will cause the
battery to discharge and go dead. NOTE: Under certain conditions when tractor
is standing idle with the engine running, hot
engine exhaust gases may cause "brown-
ing" of grass. To eliminate this possibility,
always stop engine when stopping tractor on grass areas.
_f_CAUTION: Always stop tractor com-
pletely, as described above, before leaving
the operator's position. TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL (D) Always operate engine at full speed (fast).
Operating engine at less than full speed
(fast) reduces engine's operating effi-
ciency.
Full speed (fast) offers the best mower performance.
=
|
(Ir_) Attachment (t'_) Attachment
Clutch Control Clutch Control
"Engaged .... Disengaged"
GROUND DRIVE- . To stop ground drive, depress brake pedal
all the way down.
IMPORTANT: Forward and reverse drive pedals return to neutral position when not
depressed. ENGINE -
Move throttle control (D) to slow position.
TO USE CHOKE CONTROL (N)
Use choke control whenever you are start- ing a cold engine. Do not use to start a
warm engine.
To engage choke control, pull knob out. Slowly push knob in to disengage.
TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD The direction and speed of movement
is controlled by the forward and reverse
drive pedals.
1. Start tractor and release parking brake.
2. Slowly depress forward (K) or reverse (L)
drive pedal to begin movement. Ground speed increases the further down the
11
pedal is depressed.
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