Craftsman 917270533 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

£RRFTSMRH

14.5 HP

ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER 6 SPEED TRANSAXLE

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.270533

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Repair Parts

CAUTION: Read and follow all Safety

Rules and Instructions before

operating this equipment.

For answers to your questions

about this product,Call:

1-800-659-5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line

5 am - 5 pm, Mon- Sat

Seam, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, U60179

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

Warranty ............................................... 2

Safety Rules ......................................... 3

Product Specifications .......................... 5

Assembly .............................................. 7

Operation ............................................ 10

Maintenance Schedule ...................... 16

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT PARTS

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. Warranty service is available free of charge by taking your Craftsman riding equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty service is available but a trip charge will apply. This warranty applies only while this product is in the United States. This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, belts and oil filters.

• Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails, thorns, stumps, or glass.

• 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 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 the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions con-

tained in the owner's manual.

• Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs caused by fuel determined to be contami-

nated or oxidized (stale). In general, fuel should be used within thirty (30) days of its purchase date.

• 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. Warranty

service is available free of charge by taking your Craftsman riding equipment to your

nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty service is available but a trip charge will apply. This warranty applies only while this product is in the United States.

TO LOCATE THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER OR TO SCHEDULE IN-HOME

WARRANTY SERVICE, SIMPLY CONTACT SEARS AT 1-800-4-MY-HOME

This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which

may vary from state to state.

Maintenance ....................................... 16

Service and Adjustments .................... 20

Storage ............................................... 26

Troubleshooting ................................. 27

Repair Parts ........................................ 32

Parts Ordering ..................... Back Cover

Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could re- sult in serious injury or death.

GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all in-

structions in the r_anual and on the

machine before starting.

• Only allow responsible adults, who are

familiar with the instructions, to oper- ate 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 the area is clear of other

people before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless abso-

lutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.

• Be aware of the mower discharge di-

rection and do not point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without ei-

ther the entire grass catcher or the

guard in place.

• Slow down before turning.

• Never leave a running machine unat- tended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and re-

move 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 un- der the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.

• Use extra care when loading or un-

loading the machine into a trailer or

truck.

• Data indicates that operators, age 60

years and above, are involved in a

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

SLOPE OPERATION Slopes are a major factor related to loss-

of-control and tipover accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. All

slopes require extra caution. If you can-

not back up the slope or if you feel un- easy on it, do not mow it. DO:

• Mow up and down slopes, not across.

• Remove obstacles such as recks, tree limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Un-

even terrain could overturn the ma- chine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will not have to stop or shift

while on the slope.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommen-

dations for wheel weights or counter- weights to improve stability.

• Use extra care with grass catchers or

other attachments. These can change the stability of the machine.

• Keep all movement on the slopes slow

and 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:

• Do not turn on slopes unless neces-

sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu-

ally downhill, if possible.

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

embankments. The mower could sud-

denly 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.

CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator

is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the ma-

chine and the mowing activity. Never as- sume 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. ]'hey may fall off •

and be seriously injured or interfere

with safe machine operation

• Never allow children to operate the ma- chine. •

• Use extra care when approaching blind

corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision. •

SERVICE

• Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are flammable and va-

pors are explosive.

Use only an approved container.

Never remove gas cap or add fuel

with the engine running. Allow en-

gine 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 equip-

ment 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 objects to be thrown Frequently check components and replace with

manufacturer's recommended parts, when necessary.

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.

• Be sure the area is clear of other * Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree people before mowing. Stop machine

if anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers or children

even with the blades off.

• Do not mow in reverse unless abso-

lutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.

• Never carry children. They may fall off

and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.

• Keep children out of the mowing area

and under the watchful care of another

responsible adult

• Be alert and turn machine off if chil-

dren enter the area.

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

• Mow up and down slopes (15 ° Max), not across.

limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Un-

even terrain could overturn the ma- chine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear

so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.

• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If

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 neces- sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu-

ally downhill, if possible.

_Look for this symbol to point out impor- tant sarety precautions. It means CAU- TION!!T BECOME AWARE!!! YOUR

SAFETY IS INVOLVED. _CAUTION: In order to prevent acciden-

tal starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs always dis- connect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug.

_CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill in neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.

_CAUTION: Tow only the attachments that are recommendedby 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: The enqine exhaust from

this product contains chemicals known to

the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE CAPACITY

AND TYPE:

OILTYPE

API-SF/SG/SH):

31LCAPACITY: SPARK PLUG:

GAP: .030")

_/ALVE

:LEARANCE:

GROUND SPEED FORWARD:

MPH): 1ST 1.1

TIRE FRONT: 14 PSI

_RESSURE: REAR: 12 PSI 3HARGING 9 AMPS @ 3600 RPI_/

SYSTEM: 3A'FrERY: AMP/HR: 25

BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT. LBS

TORQUE:

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Craftsman Tractor. It has been

designed, engineered and manufactured

to give you the best possible dependabil-

ity and performance.

1.25 GALLONS UNLEADED

REGULAR

SAE 30(ABOVE 32°F SAE 5W-30

(Below 32°F)

3.0 PINTS CHAMPION

RC12YC INTAKE: .003"-.005'

EXHAUST:.005"-.007'

2ND 1.4

3RD 2.2 4TH 3.3

5TH 4.3

6TH 5.5

REVERSE: 1.7

MIN. CCA: 190 CASE SIZE:U1R

Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact

your nearest authorized service center. 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".

REPAIR AGREEMENT

A Sears Repair Agreement is available

on this product. Contact your nearest Sears store for details.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

• Follow a regular schedule in maintain- ing, 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 applicable 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 Califomia the above is

required by law (Section 4442 of the

Califomia 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 authorizod service

center/department (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

Steering Wheel

Steering

Wheel Insert

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

[__ Steering Wheel

' I j , Adapter

(1) Locknut 5/16-18

Seat

(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-16 x 1

(1) Large Flat Washer

(1) Lockwasher 3/8 =

Steering

Extension

Shaft C

_(t) Knob

Keys

(2) Keys

(1) Washer

17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge

Slope Sheet

(1) Shoulder

Bolt 5/16-18

Video Cassette

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. Review the video cassette before

you begin.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assem61y easier. Standard wrench sizes you need

are listed below. (1) 9/16" wrench (1) Pliers

(2) 1/2" wrench (1) Utility knife (1) Tire pressure gauge

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it means, from your point of

• Assemble large flat washer, 3/8 lock washer, 3/8 hex bolt and tighten

securely.

• Snap steering wheel insert into center

of steering wheel.

• 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.

view, when you are in the operating position (seated behind the steering

wheel).

TO REMOVETRACTOR FROM

CARTON

[_ _ Steering Wheel

Insert

j_---_- 3/8-24 Locknut

/__Large Flat Washer

3/8 Lock "f/_<-_-_-_

• Remove all accessible loose parts and parts cartons from carton.

Washe_

• Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on

all four corners of carton, and lay

Steering Wheel

Tabs

panels flat.

• Check for any additional loose parts

or cartons and remove.

Steering

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND

BOOT

• Slide extension shaft onto lower steering shaft. Align mounting holes

in extension and lower shafts and install 5/16 hex bolt and Iocknut.

Tighten securely.

• 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.

• Remove steering wheel adapter from

steering wheel and slide adapter onto steering shaft extension.

• Position steering wheel so cross bars

are horizontal (left to right) and slide inside boot and onto adapter.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

CHECK BATTERY

• Lift seat pan to raised position and

open battery box door.

• 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. (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance section of this manual for

charging instructions).

Seat

Battery Box Label

INSTALL SEAT

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob.

• Remove adjustment knob and flat washer securing seat to cardboard

packing and set aside for assembly of seat to tractor.

• Pivot seat upward and remove from

the cardboard packing. Remove the cardboard packing and discard.

• Place seat on seat pan and assemble

shoulder bolt. Tighten shoulder bolt securely.

• Assemble adjustment knob and flat washer loosely. Do not tighten.

• Lower seat into operating position and sit on seat.

• 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 knob securely.

Shoulder Seat Pan

Flat Washer

Adjustment

Knob

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section for location and

function of controls)

• Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to its highest position.

• Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake pedal.

• Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.

• Roll tractor forward off skid.

• Remove banding holding discharge guard up against tractor.

TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section for location

and function of controls)

,A WARNING: Before starting, read,

understand 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.

• Be sure all the above assembly steps

have been completed.

• Check engine oil level and fill fuel

tank with gasoline.

• Sit on seat in operating position,

depress clutch/brake pedal and set the parking brake.

• Place gear shift lever in neutral (N)

position.

• Press lift lever plunger and raise

attachment lift lever to its highest position.

• Start the engine. After engine has

started, move throttle control to idle

position.

• Depress clutch/brake pedal into full =BRAKE" position and hold. Move

gearshift lever to 1st gear.

• Slowly release clutch/brake pedal and slowly drive tractor off skid.

• Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking

brake and place gearshift lever in neutral position.

• Tum ignition key to =OFF" position.

Continue with the instructions that follow,

NOTE: You maLy now roll or drive your tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate

instruction below to remove the tractor from the skid.

CHEGKTIREPRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were ovedn- flated at the factory for shipping pur-

poses. Correct tire pressure is important for best cutting performance.

• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in

=PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" 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 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 BRAKE SYSTEM

After you learn how to operate your tractor, check to see that the brake is

properly adjusted. See "TO ADJUST

BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual.

/ CHECKLIST

BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY

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 propedy prepared and

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

,I Seat is adjusted comfortably and

tightened securely.

/ All tires are properly inflated. (For

shipping 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 propedy around pulleys

and inside all belt keepers.

/ Check wiring. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are properly clamped.

WHILE LEARNING HOWTO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY EXTRAATTENTION TO

THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS: ,/Engine oil is at proper level.

/ Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,

regular unleaded gasoline.

4' 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.

These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product.

Learn and understand their meaning.

BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

WARNING

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP '_

LIGHT

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT

LOCKED

H L

ATTACHMENT REVERSE

CLUTCH ENGAGED

ATTACHMENT

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

NEUTRAL HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

FREE WHEEL

(AutomaticModelsonly)

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR READ THIS OWNER'S 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.

Attachment

Ammeter

Throttle/Choke Control

Clutch Lever Ignition Switch

Plunger

- Attachment Lift Lever

o Height

Pedal

g Brake Lever

Gearshift Levc

Indicator

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards

Institute.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER - Used to engage the mower blades, or other

attachments mounted to your tractor. ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to

raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck or other attachments mounted to your

tractor.

CLUTCWBRAKE PEDAL - Used for

declutching and braking the tractor and starting the engine.

GEARSHIFT LEVER - Selects the speed and direction of tractor.

IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and stopping the engine.

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to

release attachment lift lever when

changing its position.

LIGHT SWITCH - Turns the headlights on

and off.

PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks

clutch/brake pedal into the brake

position. THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL - Used

for starting and controlling engine speed. AMMETER - Indicates battery charging (+) or discharging (-).

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 while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask

over spectacles or standard safety glasses.

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 by the operator to leave the seat without first setting the

parking brake will shut off the engine.

• Depress clutch/brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position and hold.

• Place parking brake lever in "EN- GAGED" position and release pres- sure from clutch/brake pedal. Pedal

should remain in "BRAKE" position. Make sure parking brake will hold

tractor secure.

Attachment Clutch Lever "Engaged" Position

Throttle/Choke Ignition Control \ Switch

"Disengaged"

Brake Position Pedal

Brake

=Engaged"

Position

Gearshift

Lever

"Brake" "Disengaged"

Position Position STOPPING

MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades,move attach- ment clutch lever to "DISENGAGED"

position.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive, depress clutch/ brake pedal into full =BRAKE" position.

• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N)

position.

ENGINE -

• Move throttle control to slow position.

NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to

slow position and allowing engine to idle before stopping may cause engine to

"backfire".

• Turn ignition key to "OFF" 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 "OFF"

will cause the battery to be discharged,

(dead). NOTE: Under certain condidons when

tractor is standing idle with the engine

running, hot engine exhaust gases may cause "browning" of grass. To eliminate

this possibility, always stop engine when stopping tractor on grass areas.

CAUTION: Always stop tractor

completely, as described above, before leaving the operator's position; to empty

grass catcher, etc. TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL

Always operate engine at full throttle.

• Operating engine at less than full

throttle reduces the battery charging

rate.

• Full throttle offers the best bagging and mower performance.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD

The direction and speed of movement is controlled by the gearshift lever.

• Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal depressed and gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.

• Move gearshift lever to desired position.

• Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to start movement.

IMPORTANT: Bring tractor to a complete

stop before shifting or changing gears.

Failure to do so will shorten the useful life of your transaxle.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUI-I'ING

HEIGHT

The position of the attachment lift lever determines the cutting height.

• Grasp lift lever.

• Press plunger with thumb and move lever to desired position.

The cutting height range is approxi- mately 1-1/2 to 4". The heights are

measured from the ground to the blade

tip with the engine not running. These

heights are approximate and may vary depending upon soil conditions, height

of.grass and types of grass being mowed.

• The average lawn should be cut to approximately 2-1/2 inches during the

cool season and to over 3 inches

during hot months. For healthier and better looking lawns, mow often and

after moderate growth.

• For best cutting performance, grass

over 6 inches in height should be mowed twice. Make the first cut

relatively high; the second to desired

height.

TO OPERATE MOWER

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch. Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat with the engine running and the attachment clutch engaged will shut off the engine.

• Select desired height of cut.

• Start mower blades by engaging

attachment clutch control.

• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disen-

gage attachment clutch control.

AqkCAUTION: Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher, on

mowers so equipped, or the discharge guard in place. Attachment Clutch Lever

=Engaged" Position

Attachemnt Uft Lever

High Position

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

CAUTION: Do not drive up or down

hills with slopes greater than 15° and do not drive across any slope.

• Choose the slowest speed before

starting up or down hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on

hills.

• If slowing is necessary, move throttle control lever to slower position.

• If stopping is absolutely necessary,

push clutch/brake pedal quickly to brake position and engage parking

brake.

• Move gearshift lever to lstgear. Be

sure you have allowed room for tractor to roll slightly as you restart movement.

• To restart movement, slowly release parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

• Make all tums slowly.

TOTRANSPORT

• Raise attachment lift to highest

position with attachment lift control.

• When pushing or towing your tractor,

be sure gearshift lever is in neutral (N) position.

• Do not push or tow tractor at more than

five (5) MPH.

NOTE: To protect hood from damage

when transporting your tractor on a truck

or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and secured to tractor. Use an appropriate means of tying hood to tractor (rope, cord, etc.).

TOWINGCARTSANDOTHER ATI'ACHMENTS

Tow only the attachments that are

recommended by and comply with

specifications of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use common sense when towing.

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.

Low

:: Po_don

Guard 13

BEFORE STARTING THE ENIGNE

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

• The engine in your tractor has been shipped, from the factory, already filled with summer weight oil.

• Check engine oil with tractor on level ground.

• Remove oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw cap tight, wait for a few seconds,

remove and read oil level. If neces-

sary, add oil until "FULL" mark on

dipstick is reached. Do not overfill.

• For cold weather operation you should change oil for easier starting (See "OIL

VISCOSITY CHART" in the Mainte- nance section of this manual).

• To change engine oil, see the Mainte-

nance section in this manual.

ADDGASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular

unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline

will increase carbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce valve life). Do

not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel fresh-

ness.

IMPORTANT: When operating in

temperatures below 32°F(0°C), use

fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to help insure good cold weather starting.

WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and

formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an

engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be

emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the

engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel

next season. See Storage Instructions for additional information. Never use

engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may

occur.

_k,CAUTION" Fill to bottom of gas tank filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any

spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

TO START ENGINE

When starting the engine for the first time

or if the engine has run out of fuel, it will

take extra cranking time to move fuel

from the tank to the engine.

• Sit on seat in operating position,

depress clutch/brake pedal and set parking brake.

• Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) position.

• Move attachment clutch to "DISEN- GAGED" position.

• Move throttle control to choke position.

NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and cold starting procedures below.

• Insert key into ignition and turn key clockwise to "START" position and

release key as soon as engine starts. Do not run starter continuously for more than fifteen seconds per minute.

If the engine does not start after

several attempts, move throttle control to fast position, wait a few minutes and try again. If engine still does not start,

move the throttle control back to the choke position and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50 ° F and above)

• When engine starts, move the throttle control to the fast position.

• The attachments and ground drive oan now be used. If the engine does not accept the load, restart the engine and

allow it to warm up for one minute using the choke as described above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50 ° F and below)

• When engine starts, allow engine to run with the throttle control in the

choke position until the engine runs

roughly, then move throttle control to

fast position. This may require an engine warm-up period from several

seconds to several minutes, depend-

ing on the temperature.

• The attachments can also be used during the engine warm-up period.

NOTE: If at a high altitude (above 3000

feet) or in cold temperatures (below 32

F) the carburetor fuel mixture may need to be adjusted for best engine perfor-

mance. See "TO ADJUST CARBURE- TOR" in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual.

MOWING TIPS

• Tire chains cannot be used when the mower housing is attached to tractor.

• Mower should be properly leveled for

best mowing performance. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING in the

Service and Adjustments section of

this manual.

• The left hand side of mower should be

used for trimming.

• Dnve so that clippings are discharged onto the area that has been cut. Have

the cut area to the right of the tractor. This will result in a more even distribu-

tion of clippings and more uniform cutting.

• When mowing large areas, start by turning to the right so that clippings will

discharge away from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc. After one or two

rounds, mow in the opposite direction

making left hand turns until finished.

• If grass is extremely tall, it should be

mowed twice to reduce load and

possible fire hazard from dried clippings. Make first cut relatively

high; the second to the desired height.

• Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet

grass will plug mower and leave undesirable clumps. Allow grass to dry before mowing.

• Always operate engine at full throttle

when mowing to assure better mowing performance and proper discharge of

material. Regulate ground speed by

selecting a low enough gear to give the mower cutting performance as well

as the quality of cut desired.

• When operatingattachments, select a

ground speed that will suit the terrain and give best performance of the

attachment being used,

(

FIL,-,,OATES

AS OOM LE

REGULAR SERVICE

cC_e_ BTi::; eOPess_:etiOn _

Check Operator Presence and

T InterlockSystems I1_

R Check for Lcose Fasteners _ I_, I_

T Lubdcation Chart I_

0 Check BatteryLevel

cA SharpervReptaceMower Blades _

R Clean Battery and Terminals

Check Transa)deCooling AdjustBladeBelt(s) Tension I_s

Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension Ks

Check EngineC_ILevel l// , I_ Change Engine Oil I_l,=r3

E clean AirFilter _,: "

a Clean AirScreen

I Inspect Muffler/Sperk Arrester I_

Replace O_1Filter(If equipped) =_

N Clean Engine CoolingFins

Replace Spark Ptug _ I_ Replace AirFilter Paper Cartridge 14/2

Replace Fuel Filter

I -Changlmofeoftenwhenoporldingund4_lLhelp4yloldoritlh_ghamblerdtemper_re=. 5.1flKluipped_thad_st_$yltern, 2- Se_ moreoftonwhenopereqngIndittyo_dumly¢ond_on=. 6 -Not requiredifequipped*tth rnamtenlnce-freobattery.

3° tl equipf)edwith0tlfillot,changeoil ever/50 hour=. 7 °Tightenfiordaxlepivotboltto35It 4hi, rn_imu_. 4° Replacebladesrno_ooften_on mowingin=_mdyioiL Donotovertlghton.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this tractor does not

cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To

receive full value from the warranty, operator must maintain tractor as

instructed in this manual. Some adjustments will need to be made

periodically to properly maintain your tractor.

All adjustments in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual

should be checked at least once each season.

• Once a year you should replace the

spark plug, clean or replace air filter, and check blades and belts for wear.

A new spark plug and clean air filter assure proper air-fuel mixture and

help your engine run better and last longer.

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level.

• Check brake operation.

• Check tire pressure.

• Check operator presence and interlock systems for proper operation.

• Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION CHART

Spindle--

Zerk Zerk

•Fmnt Wheel

Zerk (

Bearing i

• SAE OR 10W30 MOTOR OIL

(_REFER TO MAINTENANCE =ENGINE"

SECTION

IMPORTANT: DO not oil or grease the pivot points which have special nylon bearings. Viscous lubricants will attract

dust and dirt that will shorten the life of the serf-lubricating] bearings. If you feel

they must be lubncated, use only a dry, powdered graphite type lubricant

16 sparingly.

....... ng Zerk

_'" _ _Engine

, _

Wheel

TRACTOR

Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance.

BRAKEOPERA_ON

If tractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance at high speed in

highest gear, then brake must be

adjusted. (See =TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual).

TIRES

• Maintain proper air pressure in all tires (See "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"

section of this manual).

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chemicals which can

harm rubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage.

NOTE: To seal tire punctures and prevent flat tires due to slow leaks, tire sealant may be purchased from your

local parts dealer. "lire sealant also prevents tire dry rot and corrosion.

OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM

Be sure operator presence and interlock

systems are working properly. If your tractor does not function as described,

repair the problem immediately.

• The engine should not start unless the clutch/brake pedal is fully depressed

and attachement clutch control is in the disengaged position.

• When the engine is running, any

attempt by the operator to leave the seat without first setting the parking brake should shut off the engine.

• When the engine is running and the

attachment clutch is engaged, any

attempt by the operator to leave the

seat should shut off the engine.

• The attachment clutch should never operate unless the operator is in the

seat.

BLADECARE For best results mower blades must be

kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged blades.

BLADE REMOVAL

• Install new or resharpened blade with

trailing edge up towards deck as

shown.

IMPORTANT: To ensure proper assem- bly, center hole in blade must align with

star on mandrel assembly.

• Reassemble hex bolt, lock washer and flat washer in exact order as shown.

• Tighten bolt securely (27-35 Ft. Lbs.

torque).

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is Grade 8 heat treated. TrailingEdge Up

Blade Center

Mandrel Assembly

lat

Lock Washer "_ .'>_ "_ \Star

_---Hex Bolt (Grade

*A Grade 8 heat treated boltcan be identified

by six linesonthe bolt head.

TO SHARPEN BLADE NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen-

ing blade - but if you do, be sure the blade is balanced.

Care should be taken to keep the blade balanced. An unbalanced blade will

cause excessive vibration and eventual

damage to mower and engine.

• The blade can be sharpened with a

file or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on the

mower.

• To check blade balance, you will need

a 5/8" diameter steel bolt, pin, or a cone balancer. (When using a cone

balancer, follow the instructions

supplied with balancer.) NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing blade. The lobes of the center hole may appear to be centered, but are not.

• Slide blade on to an unthreaded

portion of the steel bolt or pin and hold the bolt or pin parallel with the ground.

If blade is balanced, it should remain in a horizontal position. If either end of the blade moves downward, sharpen

the heavy end until the blade is

balanced.

• Raise mower to highest position to allow access to blades.

• Remove hex bolt, lock washer and flat

washer securing blade.

5/8_ e

Center Hole

+ 39 hidden pages

Craftsman 917270533 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual