Craftsman 917256530 Owner’s Manual

S_EA/ S

MODEL NUMBER 917.256530 OWNER'SMANUAL

° Assembly ° Operation

° Customer Responsibilities ° Service and Adjustments

° Repair Parts

CAUTION: Read and follow all safety rules and instructions before operating this equipment.

FOR CONSUMER ASSISTANCE HOT LINE, CALL THIS TOLL FREE NUMBER: 1-800-659-5917

Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers

IMPORTANT: 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

SAFETY RULES

I. GENEI_IAL OPERATION

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

• Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the irrstructions, to operate the machine.

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

which could be picked up and thrown by the blade

Be sure thearea is clear of other people before mowing Stop machine if anyone enters the area

Never carry passengers. Do not mow in reverse unlessabsolutely necessary_ Always

look down end behind before and while backing Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not point

it at anyone Do not operate the mower without either the

entire grass catcher or the guard in place

• Slow down before turning

Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting

• Turn off blades when not mowing Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging

chute

Mow 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 into a trailer or truck.

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tipover accidents, which can result in severe injuryordeath_

All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.

DO:

Mow up end down slopes, not across. Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps_ Uneven terrain could overturn the machine Tal/ grass can hide obstac/es

Use slow speed Choose a low gear so that you willnot have

to stop or shift while on the slope.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for wheel weights or counterweigirts to improve stability.

• Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments_ These can change the stability of the macMne.

Keep all movement on the slopes s/owand gradual Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction.

• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the

slope

DO NOT:

• Donotturnonslopesunlessnecessary, andthen, tumslowly and gradually downhill, if possible_

Do not mow near drcp-offs, ditches, or embankments. The mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in

Do not mow on wet grass Reduced traction could cause sliding.

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

• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.

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 under the watchful

care of another responsible adult

Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.

Before and when backing, look behind and down for small children.

Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.

Never allow children to operate the machine Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,

trees, or other objects that may obscure vision

IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care inhandling gasoline and other fuels_ They are flammable and vapors are explosive.

Use only an approved container_ Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine

running. Allow engine to cool before refueling, Do not smoke.

Never refuel the machine indoors Never store the machine or fuel container inside where

there is an open flame, such as a water heater

Never run a machine inside a closed area

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep equipment in good 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 Allow machine to cool before storing

• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting

Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running.

• Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and

deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow ob ecls to be thrown. Frequently check components and rep ace wit i manufacturer's recommended parts, when nec- essary

Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them

Check brake operation frequently Adjust and service as required.

portant safety precautions. It means CAUTIONm BECOMEALERT!!! YOUR

Look for this symbol to point out im- SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

CAUTION: Always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug in order to prevent accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs.

WARNING

The engine exhaust from this product con-

tains chemicals known to the State of Califor-

nia to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Sears

Tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufac-

tured to give you the best possible dependability and performance_

Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Authorized

Service CentedDepartment We have competent, well- trained technicians 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"

MODEL NUMBER 917256530

SERIAL NUMBER

DATEOF PURCHASE

THE MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBERS WILL BEFOUND ON A PLATE UNDER THE SEAT,

YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER AND

DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

PRODUCT SPECIFICAT ONS

HORSEPOWER: 15 5 GASOLINE CAPACITY 5 QUARTS

AND TYPE: UNLEADED REGULAR OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG): SAE 30 (above 32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: 30 PINTS

SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RJ19LM (GAP: 030") STD361458

VALVE CLEARANCE: INTAKE: 005" - 007"

EXHAUST: 009"-011"

GROUND SPEED (MPH): FORWARD: 55

REVERSE: 2 5

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

REAR: 10 PSI

CHARGING SYSTEM: 3 AMPS BATTERY

5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS

BATTERY: AMP/HR: 25

MIN CCA: 190

CASE SIZE: U1R

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 30-35 FT LBS

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any

A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this prod- uct Contact your nearest Sears store for detail&

unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-cov- ered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped

with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

Read and observe the safety rules.

o Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and

using your tractor.

• Follow the instructions under "Customer Responsibili- ties" and "Storage" sections of this owner's manual.

(if any) if a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.

In the state of California the 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 Authorized Service Canted Department (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT

For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is maintained, lubricated and tuned up according

to the instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair or replace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in material or workmanship

This Warranty does not cover:

Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, belts, etc Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails, thorns, stumps, or glass Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, negligence, improper storage or accident or the failure to maintain time

equipment according to the instructions contained in the owner's manual Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes

LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY

For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding equipment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the battery will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge

IN-HOME WARRANTY SERVICE ON YOUR CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT IS AVAILABLE AT NO-CHARGE FOR 30 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE PLEASE CONTACT YOUR NEAREST SERVICE CENTER AFTER 30 DAYS

FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE, WARRANTY SERVICE IS AVAILABLE BY TAKING YOUR CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIP-

MENT TO YOUR NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER. (IN-HOME WARRANTY SERVICE WILL STILL BE AVAILABLE AFTER 30 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE BUT A STANDARD TRIP CHARGE WILL APPLY) THIS WARRANTY APPLIES ONLY WHILE THIS PRODUCT IS IN THE UNITED STATES

This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to stale

SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO, D/81 7 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL 60179

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SAFETY RULES ............................................................ 2

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ...................................... 3

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ..................... 3, 17-21

WARRANTY ...................... ;........................................... 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................. 4

INDEX ............................................................................ 4

TRACTOR ACCESSORIES .......................................... 5

ASSEMBLY ............................................................. 7-10

mNDEX

Accessories ......................................._................. 5

Adjustments:

Brake ......................................... 24

Carburetor ..........................................27

Mower:

Front-To-Back ...............................23

Side-To-Side ............................. 23

Throttle Control Cable ....................27

Air Filter, Engine .........................................20

Air Screen, Engine ................................. 20

Assembly ........................................... 7-10

Battery:

Charging .......................................... 8

Cleaning ....................................... 19

Connecting ...........................................7

Starting with Weak Battery ....... 26

Storage ................................................28

Terminals ...................................... 19

Belts:

Motion Drive

Removal/Replacement .......... 24

Mower Blade Driv3

Removal/Replacement ........... 23

Blade:

Sharpening .............................. 18

Replacement ....................................18

Brake Adjustment ....................................24

Carburetor Adjustment .............................27

Controls, Tractor ................................. 12

Customer Responsibilities ........... 17-21

Engine:

Air Filter .........................................20

Air Screen, Engine ......................20

Battery ..............................................18

Cooling Fins, Engine ............... 21

Engine Oil ................................. 19

Fuel Filter .............................. 21

Spark Plugs ..................................21

Tractor:

Blades ........................................... 18

Lubrication Chart .......................17

Maintenance Schedule .............17

Tire Care .......................... 8,18,27

Cutting Height, Mower ...........................13

Electrical:

Interlocks and Relays ................... 26

Schematic ...................................... 31

Wiring Diagram ...............................32

Engine:

Air Filter ...................................................20

Air Screen .........................................20

Cooling Fins, Engine .................... 20

Oil Change .................................... 19

Oil Level .........................................15,19

Oil Type ..................................................18

Preparation .................................... 15

Repair Parts .......................... 50-55

Starting ..................................... 15

Storage ........................................ 28

Filters:

Air ................................................... 20

Fuel ..........................................................21

Fuel:

Type ............................................... 15

Storage ......................................... 28

Fuse ...........................................................26

Gauge Wheels ....................................... 9

Hood Removal/Installation ......................26

Leveling Mower Deck ...................... 23

Lubrication Chart .....................................16

Maintenance Schedule ..............................17

Mower:

Adjustment, Front-to-Back ........... 23

Adjustment, Side-to-Side ............ 23

Blade Sharpening ...................... 18

Blade Replacement ........................18

Cutting Height .............................. 13

Installation ................................ 22

Operation ...................................... 14

Removal ................................................22

Mowing Tips ......................................................16

Muffler ..................................................... 21

Spark Arraster ............................ 3,42

Mulcher Plate ..................................... 10

OPERATION .......................................................... 11-16

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ..................................... 17

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ........................... 22-27

STORAGE ................................................................... 28

TROUBLESHOOTING ........................................... 29-30

REPAIR PARTS - TRACTOR ................................ 32-47

REPAIR PARTS - ENGINE .................................... 50-55

PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE .................. BACK PAGE

Oil:

Cold Weather Conditions .........15,19

Engine ...................................................19

Storage ..................................................28

Operation ............................................11-16

Operating Mower ........................................14

Options:

Accessories ............................. 5

Spark Arraster .................................3,42

Parking Brake ................................. 12-13

Parts Bag ............................................... 6

Parts, Replacement/Repair ..............32-47

Product Specifications ............................ 3

Repair Parts .............................. 32-47

Safety Rules ............................................ 2

Seat .................................................................8

Service and Adjustments .................21-26

Brake ............................................ 23

Carburetor ................................... 26

Fuse ....................................................25

Hood Removal/Installation ......... 25

Motion Drive Belt

Removal/Replacement ............ 23

Mower Blade Drive Belt

Removal/Replacement ............ 23

Mower Adjustment:

Front-to-Back .......................... 22

Side-to-Side ...............................22

Mower Installation ........................ 21

Mower Removal .......................... 21

Tire Care .............................. 8,17,24

Slope Guide Sheet .................................57

Spark Plugs ..............................:................. 20

Specifications .......................................... 3

Starting the Engine ...................................14

Steering Wheel .........................................7,24

Stopping the Tractor ....................... 12

Storage ................................................ 27

Throttle Control Cable Adjustment .... 26

Tires ...................................................8,17,24

Trouble Shooting Chart ................... 28-29

Transaxle Repair Parts ............... 48-49

Warranty .................................................... 3

Wiring Diagram ........................................32

Wiring Schematic .....................................31

ACCESSO AND ATTACHMENTS

These accessories and attachments were available through most Sears retail outlets and service centers when the tractor was purchased Most Sears stores can order these items for you when you provide the model number of your tractor

ENGINE MAINTENANCE

SPARK PLUG GAS CAN ENGINE OIL FUEL STABILIZER AIR FILTER BLADES BELTS

PERFORMANCE

Sears offers awide variety of attachments that fit your tractor Many of these are listed below with brief explanations of how they can help you This list was current at the time of publication; however, it may change in future years - more attachments may be added, changes may be made in these attachments, or some may no longer be available or fit your model Contact your nearest Sears store for the accessories and attachments that are available for your tractor,

Most of these attachments do not require additional hitches or conversion kits (those that do are indicated) and are designed for easy attaching and detaching

AERATOR promotes deep root growth for a healthy lawn Ta- pered 2 5-inch steel spikes mounted on 10-inch diameter discs puncture holes in soil at close intervals to let moisture soak in Steel weight tray for increased penetration

BAGGER lets you collect grass clippings and leaves for a healthier, neater looking lawn Two Permanex containers hold

3g-gallon plastic bags BUMPER protects front end of tractor from damage CARTS make hauling easy Variety of sizes available, plus

accessories such as side panel kits, tool caddy, cart cover, protective mat and dolly

CORING AERATOR takes small plugs out of soil to allow mois- ture and nutrients to reach grass roots 36-inch swath 24 hardened steel coring tips, 150 Ib capacity weight tray,

EASY OIL DRAIN VALVE makes oil changes easier, faster FRONT NOSE ROLLER canters infront of mower deck to reduce

chances of "scalping" on uneven terrain GANG HITCH lets you tow 2 or 3 pull-behind attachments at once,

such as sweepers, dethatchers, aerators (not for use with rollers, carts or other heavy attachments)

GAUGE WHEELS on both sides of the mower deck reduce chances of "scalping" on uneven terrain For mower decks not so

equipped MULCH RAKF--JDETHATCHER loosens soil and flips thatch and

matted leaves to lawn surface foreasy pickuF Twenty spring tine teeth. Useful to prepare bare areas forseeding. Available for front or rear mounting. HIGH PERFORMANCE REEL-ACTION SPRING TINE BETHATCHER covers 36-inch wide path and tosses thatch into large hopper Mounts behind tractor

MULCHING CLOSE-OUT PLATE KIT, once installed, lets you mulch, discharge or bag clippings (bagger optional) without

changing blades For models not equipped as 3-in-1 Convertible mowers See "MOWER" in the Repair Parts section of this

manual RAMP TOPS AND FEET let you load and unload tractor from a

pickup truck Use with2x8or2x101umber ROLLER for smoother lawn surface. 36-inch wide, 18-inch

diameter water-tight drum holds up to 390 fbs of weight Rounded edges prevent harm to turf Adjustable scraper automatically

cleans drum.

SNOW BLADE for snow removal only. 14-inch high, 48-inch wide

blade clears 42-inch path when angled left orright Raises, lowers with side lever Adjustable skids; replaceable, reversible scraper bar (Use with tire chains and wheel weights and/or rear drawbar weight.)

SNOWTHROWER has 40-inch swath Drum-type auger handles powdery and wet/heavy snow Mounts easiIy with simple pin arrangement Discharge chute adjusts from tractor seat 6-inch diameter spout discharges snow 10 to 50 feet Lift controlled at

tractor seat. (Use with chains and wheel weights and/or rear drawbar weight )

SPRAYERS use 12-volt DC electric motor that connects to the tractor battery or other 12-volt source Includes booms for

automatic spraying and hand held wand for spot spraying Wand has adjustable spray pattern For applying herbicides, insecti- cides, fungicides and liquid fedilizers

SPREADER/SEEDERS make seeding, fertilizing, and weed kill- mg easy. Broadcast spreaders are also useful for granular de-

icers and sand SWEEPERS let you collect grass clippings and leaves

TILLER has 5 hp engine and 36-inch swath to prepare seed beds, cultivate and compost garden residue Tiller has its own built-in lift and depth control system and does NOT require asleeve hitch_

Fits any lawn, yard orgarden tractor Simply hook up to the tractor drawbar and go! Optional accessories convert unit for

dethatching, aerating, hilling .without tools TIRE CHAINS are heavy duty; closely spaced extra-large cross

links give smooth ride, outstanding traction TRACTOR CAB has heavy duty vinyl fabric over tubular steel

frame, ABS plastic top; clear plastic windshield offers 360 degree visibility Hinged metal doors wilh catch. Keeps operator warm

and dry Remove vinyl sides and windshields for use as sun protector in summer Optional accessories include: tinted/

tempered solid safety glass windshield with hand operated wiper;

12-volt amber caution light for mounting on cab top VACS forpowerful collection of heavy grass clippings and leaves

Optional wand attachment to pick up debris in hard-to-reach places VAC/CHIPPER includes a chipper-shredder

WEIGHT BRACKET for drawbar for snow removal applications Uses (1) 55 Ib weight

WHEEL WEIGHTS for rear wheels provide needed traction for snow removal or dozing heavy materials

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK

Parts Bag contents shown full size

(1) Large

'_=__ (1) L_8-24

(1) Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 1-1/4

(1) Washer

17/32xl-3/16x12Gauge __

(1)Lock _ \

Washer 1/2 _

(1) Shoulder Bolt 5/16-18

(1) Locknut 5/16-18

(1) Hex Bolt

1/2-13 x 1

Seat

Steering

Wheel

Mulcher

Plate

Steering

Video

Cassette

Manual Pads Bag

Parts bag contents not shown full size

(2) Shoulder

Bolts

_m (2) Washers 3/8

(_ x 7/8 x 14 Gauge

(2) Center-

lock Nuts

) Gauge

Wheels

Boot

# 10 x 5/8

_( 0_ (2) Lock Wash_ers #1_

(2) Hex Bolts 1/4-20 x 3/4

(2) Washers

;)/32 x 5/8 x 16 Gauge /2) Lock Washers 1/4

(2) Weld Nuts #10

3/16 x 3/4 x 16 Gauge ,_

(2) Hex Nuts_

1/4-20 _

Steering Wheel

Adapter

(2) Latch Hook

Assemblys

Slope Sheet

Extension

Shaft

I Steerin_

(2) Keys

Steering

Wheel

Insert

ASSEMBLY

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 insure proper tightness.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assembly easier Standard wrench sizes are listed,

(1) 5/16" wrench (1) 3/4" Socket w/drive rachet (2) 7/16" wrenches Phillips Screwdriver

(1) 1/2" wrench Tire pressure gauge (1) 9/16" wrench Utility knife When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it

means when you are in the operating position (seated behind the steering wheel).

,_ / INSERT

:L/3/8-24 LOCKNUT

_L_ _....,..--_ LARGE FLAT

k .i_.j"- WASHER

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

o Remove all accessible loose parts and parts cartons

from carton (See page 6).

o Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on all four corners

of carton, and lay panels flat.

• Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and remove.

BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL (See Fig. 1)

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND BOOT

• Slide extension shaft onto lower steering shall Align mounting holes in extention and Iowershafts and install

5/16 hex bolt and Iocknut. Tighten securely.

IMPORTANT: TIGHTEN BOLT AND NUT SECURELY TO 18-22 FT. LBS TORQUE

o Place tabs of steering boot over tab slots in dash and

push down to secure_

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing straight forward.

° Slide steering wheel adapter onto steering shaft exten-

sion,

• Position steering wheel and sleeve assembly so cross bars are horizontal (left to right) and slide onto adapter.

Assemble large flat washer and 3/8-24 Iocknut and tighten securely.

= Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering

wheel.

° Remove protective plastic from tractor hood and grill

IMPORTANT: CHECK FOR AND REMOVE ANY STAPLES IN SKID THAT MAY PUNCTURE TI RES WHERE TRACTOR IS TO ROLL OFF SKID

WHEEL

ADAPTER

6/16 HEX BOLT

FIG. 1

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Fig. 8)

Raise attachment lift lever to its highest position

= Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake

pedal

, Place freewheel control in freewheeling position to

disengage transmission (See "TO TRANSPORT" in the Operation section of this manual)

Roll tractor backwards off skid.

, Remove banding holding discharge guard up against

tractor.

CONNECT BATTERY (See Figs. 2 and 3)

BLY

CAUTION: Do not short battery termi_ nals. Before connecting battery, re- move metal bracelets, wristwatch bands, rings, etc.

Positive terminal must be connected first to prevent sparking from acciden-

tal grounding.

• Remove cardboard packing from seat pan and lift seat pan to raised position_

° Open battery box door.

• Remove terminal protective caps and discard.

= If this battery is put into service after month and year

indicated on label (label located between terminals) charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps.

° First connect RED battery cable to positive (+) terminal

with hex bolt, flat washer, lock washer and hex nut as shown. Tighten securely.

= Connect BLACK grounding cable to negative (-) termi-

nal with remaining hex bolt, flat washer, lock washer' and hex nut. Tighten securely.

o Close battery box door. Open battery box door' for:

o Inspection for secure connections (to tighten hard-

ware), ° Inspection for' corrosion. o Testing battery_

° Jumping (if required). ° Periodic charging

DISCARD

POSITIVE PROTECTIVE (RED) CABLE CAPS

TERMINAL

HEX WASHER NUT

LOCK

FLAT

NASHER

SEAT

PAN

BOXDOOR

FIG. 3

INSTALL SEAT (See Fig. 4) Adjust seat before tightening adjustment bolt.

= Remove cardboard packing on seat pan

Place seat on seat pan and assemble shoulder boll

= Assemble adjustment bolt, lock washer and flat washer

Ioosely_ Do not tighten.

° Tighten shoulder bolt securely o Lower seat into operating position and sit on seal = Slide seat until a comfortable position is reached which

allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way down_

• Get off seat without moving its adjusted position . Raise seat and tighten adjustment bolt securely.

SEAT

SEATPAN _._/ _

S.C,'BEn \\\

NEGATIVE (BLACK) CABLE

FIG. 2

HEX BOLT

BOLT

FIG. 4

ASSEM LY

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 in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page 3 of this manual

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS For best cutting results, mower housing should be properly

leveled See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" 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 manual Verify that the belts are routed correctly,

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM After you learn how to operate you r tractor, check to see that

the brake is properly adjusted See '3"0 ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual

ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELS TO MOWER

DECK (See Fig, 5)

Assemble gauge wheels with tractor on a flat level surface.

• Adjust mower to desired cutting height (See '3"0 AD- JUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT" in the Operation section of this manual)

, With mower in desired height of cut position, gauge

wheels should be assembled so they are slightly off the ground Install gauge wheel in appropriate hole with shoulder bolt, 3/8" washer and 3/8-16 Iocknut and tighten securely.

o Repeat for opposite side installing gauge wheel in

same adjustment hole.

GAUGE WHEEL MOUNTING

LOCKNUT

3/8"WASHER

GAUGE WHEEL"

SHOULDER BOLT

FIG. 5

+ 21 hidden pages

Craftsman 917256530 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual