Craftsman 917.270760 User Manual

Owner’s Manual

CRRFTSMHN

18.5 HP ELECTRIC START

42” MOWER AUTOMATIC

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.270760

• 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

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, II60179

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

Warranty

Safety Rules Product Specifications

Assembly...................................

Operation Maintenance Schedule

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178

Maintenance Service and Adjustments...

Storage Troubleshooting

Repair Parts Pails Ordering

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.. Back Cover

18 22

30 34

WARRANTY

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 contained 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. War

ranty 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.

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

SAFETY RULES

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.

GENERAL OPERATION

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

• 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 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 absolute

ly necessary. Always look down and 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.

• 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 lossof-control and tipover accidents, which

can result in severe injury or death. 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 and down slopes, not across.

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree

limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. 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 gradual

ly downhill, if possible.

• Do not mow near drop-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.

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.

SAFETY RULES

• 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.

SERVICE

• Use extra care in handling 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 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 sen/icing them. Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as required.

Be sure the area is clear of other

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 children enter the area.

Before and when backing, look behind

and down for small children.

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

Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree

limbs, etc. Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. 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 gradual ly downhill, if possible.

SAFETY RULES

^Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!! BECOMEAWAREM! YOUR ^FETY IS INVOLVED. i&CAUTION: In order to prevent acciden tal starting when setting up. transporting, adjusting or making repairs always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire v^ere it cannot contact spark plug.

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

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE

CAPACITY

AND TYPE: OILTYPE

(API-SF/SG/SH):

OIL CAPACITY: SPARKPLUG:

(GAP: .030”)

VALVE

ADJUSTMENT GROUND

SPEED (MPH):

TIRE

PRESSURE:

CHARGING SYSTEM:

BATTERY:

BLADE BOLT

TORQUE;

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Craftsman Tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible depend

ability and performance. Should you experience any problem you

cannot easily remedy, please contact

your nearest Sears Authorized Service

Center. We have competent, well-trained technicians and the proper tools to

service or repair this tractor.

1.25 GALLONS UNLEADED REGULAR

SAE 30

(ABOVE 32°F)

SAE 5W-30

(BELOW 32°F)

4.0 PINTS CHAMPION

RC12YC INTAKE: .004”-.006"

EXHAUST; .004”-.006' FORWARD: 5.5

REVERSE: 2.4 FRONT; 14PSI

REAR: 10 PSI 16AMPS@3600RPM

AMP/HR: 28

MIN. CCA: 230 CASES1ZE:U1R

27-35 FT. LBS

^CAUTION: 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: The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer,

birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor properly. Always observe the “SAFETY RULES".

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

A Sears Maintenance 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.

Â 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 worWng order by the opera tor.

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 Center/Department (See Maintenance section of this manual).

UNASSEMBLED PARTS

Steering Wheel

1 1

T~_.

-----

steering Wheel Adapter

Steering

1 '

Steering Sleeve

Steering Wheel Insert

(1) Lock washer 3/8

Extension Shaft

(1)Hex Bolt

3/8-16 X 1

(1) Large Flat

Washer

(1) Knob

Keys

(1) Hex Bolt

5/16-18 X 1-1/4

mmmm

Seat

(1) Washer

® 17/32 X 1 -3/16 X 12 Gauge

Video Cassette

WmW

Slope Sheet

(1)

Locknut 5/16-18

(1) Shoulder

Bolt 5/16-18

----

(2) Keys

□

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 you need are listed below.

(1) 9/16" wrench (1} Pliers (2) 1 /2" wrench (1) Utility knife (1) 3/4" socket with (1) Tire pressure

drive ratchet gauge

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it means, from your point of view, when you are in the operating position (seated behind the steering wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

• Remove all accessible loose parts and

parts boxes from shipping carton.

• Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on all four corners of shipping carton, and lay panels flat.

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

• 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.

Steering Wheel Insert

Hex Bolt

Lock Washer

Large Flat Washer

Steering Wheel

Steering Boot

Extension Shaft

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 locknut. 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.

5/16 Locknut

Lower Steering—f Shaft >

5/16 Hex Bolt

Tabs

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 Pan

Battery Box Door

Terminal

INSTALLSEAT

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.

NOTE: You may now roll or drive you

tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate

instruction below to remove the tractor

from the skid,

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for iocation and function of controis)

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

• Release parking brake by depressing clutch^rake pedal.

• Place freewheel control in freewheel

ing position to disengage transmission (See “TO TRANSPORT in the Opera tion section of this manual).

• 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)

^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.

• Place freewheel control in "transmis sion engaged" position.

• Sit on seat in operating position,

depress clutch/brake pedal and set the parking brake.

• Place motion control 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.

• Release parking brake.

• Slowly move the motion control lever forward and slowly drive tractor off skid.

• Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking

brake and place motion control lever in neutral position.

• Turn ignition key to “OFF" position.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overin*

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 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 your tractor, check to see that the brake is properly adjusted. See “TO ADJUST

BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual.

INSTALL MULCHER PLATE

(If previously removed)

• Raise and hold deflector shield in

upright position.

• Place front of mulcher plate over front of mower deck opening and slide into

place, as shown.

• Hook front latch into hole on front of

mower deck.

• Hook rear latch into hole on back of

mower deck.

i^CAUTION: Do not remove deflector

shield from mower. Raise and hold shield when attaching mulcher plate and allow it to rest on plate while in opera tion.

Deflector Shield

Mulcher Plate

Latch Hooks

TO CONVERTTO BAGGING OR

DISCHARGING

Simply remove mulcher plate and store in a safe place. Your mower is now ready for discharging or installation of optional grass catcher accessory.

NOTE: It is not necessary to change

blades. The mulcher blades are de

signed for discharging and bagging also.

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 properly prepared and

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

✓ 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 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 free

wheel control is in drive position.

WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY EXTRA ATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS: / Engine oil is at proper level. / Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,

regular unleaded gasoline.

/ Become familiar with all controls - their

location and function. Operate them before you start the engine.

/ Be sure brake system is in safe

operating condition.

/ It is important to purge the transmis

sion before operating your tractor for the first time. Follow proper starting and transmission purging instructions

(See 'TO START ENGINE” and

“PURGE TRANSMISSION" in the

Operation section of this manual).

OPERATION

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

Learn and understand their meaning.

BATTERY

WARNING

ENGINE ON

REVERSE

OIL PRESSURE

FORWARD

LIGHTS ON

FAST

OVER TEMP

LIGHT

•m

SLOW

FUEL

jji

MOWER HEIGHT

PARKING BRAKE

LOCKED

UNLOCKED

MOWER LIFT

I* R N H L ©)|I

ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL

CLUTCH ENGAGED

HIGH

LOW

PARKING BRAKE

ATTACHMENT

IGNITION

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

maam

m ra .

h“l“ = j^)n

FREEWHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

KNOWYOUR 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.

Light Switch

Attachment Clutch Lever

Choke Contro

Throttle Control

Clutch/ Brake Pedal

Free Wheel Control

Ammeter

Lift Lever Plunger

Attachment Lift Lever

Height

^ Adjustment

Indicator

Parking Brake Lever

Motion Control Lever

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

AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or discharging (-) of battery. 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.

CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting a cold engine. CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for declutching and braking the tractor and starting the engine. MOTION CONTROL LEVER - Selects the speed and direction of tractor.

Institute.

FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengages transmission for pushing or slowly towing the tractor with the engine off.

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 CONTROL - Used to control engine speed.

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into

F 1 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 clutchA^rake pedal. Pedal should remain in “BRAKE" position.

Make sure parking brake will hold

tractor secure. Attachment Clutch Lever

Choke Control

Throttle Control

Clutch/ ^ --Position Brake\PedairN

, Motion

“Disengaged"^ , Control

Position “Brake” Lever

“Engaged” Position

“Disengaged”

Position

Parking Brake “Engaged”

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 motion control lever to neutral

(N) position.

IMPORTANT; The motion control lever

does not return to neutral (N) position when the clutch/brake pedal is de

pressed.

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 “OFP 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 conditions 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 USE CHOKE CONTROL

Use choke control whenever you are starting a cold engine. Do not use to start a warni engine.

• To engage choke control, pull knob

out. Slowly push knob in to disen gage.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACK WARD The direction and speed of movement is controlled by the motion control lever.

• Start tractor with motion control lever in

neutral (N) position.

• Release paridng brake and clutch/

brake pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever to

desired position.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING

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 ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS

Gauge wheels are properly adjusted when they are slightly off the ground when mower is at the desired cutting

height in operating position. Gauge

wheels then keep the deck in proper

position to help prevent scalping in most

terrain conditions.

• Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a

flat level surface.

• Adjust mower to desired cutting height (See “TO ADJUST 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 locknut and

tighten securely.

• Repeat for opposite side installing

gauge wheel in same adjustment hole.

3/8-16 Locknut

Gauge

Wheel

Mounting

Bracket

3/8 Washer

Gauge Wheel

Shoulder Bolt

• Start mower blades by engaging

attachment clutch control.

• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disen gage attachment clutch control.

A CAUTION: Do not operate the mower

without either the entire grass catcher, on mowers so equipped, or the deflector shield in place.

Attachment Clutch Lever “Engaged” 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 motion control lever to neutral (N) position.

IMPORTANT: The motion control lever

does not return to neutral (N) position when the clutch/brake pedal is de

pressed.

• To restart movement, slowly release

parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever to

slowest setting.

• Make all turns slowly.

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.

• Lower mower with attachment lift

control.

TO TRANSPORT

When pushing or towing your tractor, be sure to disengage transmission by

placing freewheei control in freewheel ing position. Free wheel control is

located at the rear drawbar of tractor,

• Raise attachment lift to highest

position with attachment lift control.

• Pull freewheel control out and down into the slot and release so it is held in

the disengaged position.

• Do not push or tow tractor at more than two (2) MPH.

• To reengage transmission, reverse

above procedure.

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.).

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS

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.

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.

ADD GASOLINE

• 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. A 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.

• Be sure freewheel control is in the

transmission engaged position.

• Sit on seat in operating position, depress dutch/brake pedal and set parking brake.

• Place motion control lever in neutral

(N) position.

• Move attachment clutch to “DISEN GAGED” position.

• Move throttle control to fast position

• Pull choke control out for a cold engine start attempt. For a warm engine start attempt the choke control

may not be needed.

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, push choke control in, wait a few minutes and try again. If engine still does not start, pull the choke control out and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F and

above)

• When engine starts, slowly push choke control in until the engine begins to run smoothly. If the engine starts to run roughly, pull the choke control out slightly for a few seconds

and then continue to push the control in slowly.

• The attachments and ground drive can

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, slowly push choke control in until the engine

begins to run smoothly. Continue to push the choke control in small steps allowing the engine to accept small changes in speed and load, until the choke control is fully in. If the engine starts to run roughly, pull the choke

control out slightly for a few seconds

and then continue to push the control

in slowly. This may require an engine

warm-up period from several seconds

to several minutes, depending on the

temperature.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP

• Before driving the unit in cold weather, the transmission should be warmed up as follows;

• Be sure the tractor is on level

ground.

• Place the motion control lever in neutral. Release the parking brake and let the clutch/brake

slowly return to operating position.

• Allow one minute for transmission to warm up. This can be done during the engine warm up period.

• The attachments can be used during the engine warm-up period after the transmission has been warmed up and may require the choke control be pulled out slightly.

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. .

PURGE TRANSMISSION Â CAUTION: Never engage or disen

gage freewheel lever while the engine is

running.

To ensure proper operation and perfor

mance, it is recommended that the transmission be purged before operating tractor for the first time. This procedure will remove any trapped air inside the

transmission which may have developed

during shipping of your tractor.

IMPORTANT; Should your transmission

require removal for service or replace ment, it should be purged after reinstalla

tion before operating the tractor.

• Place tractor safely on level surface

with engine off and parking brake set.

• Disengage transmission by placing freewheel control in freewheeling

position (See "TO TRANSPORT” in

this section of manual).

• Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. After the engine is running, move throttle control to slow position. With

motion control lever in neutral (N)

position, slowly disengage clutch/ brake pedal.

• Move motion control lever to full forward position and hold for five (5)

seconds. Move lever to full reverse position and hold for five (5) seconds.

Repeat this procedure three (3) times.

NOTE: During this procedure there will be no movement of drive wheels. The air

is being removed from hydraulic drive

system.

• Move motion control lever to neutral

(N) position. Shut- off engine and set parking brake.

• Engage transmission by placing freewheel control in driving position (See “TO TRANSPORT in this section of manual).

• Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. After the engine is running, move throttle control to half (1/2) speed. With

motion control lever in neutral (N)

position, slowly disengage clutch/

brake pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever forward, after the tractor moves approximately five (5) feet, slowly

move motion control lever to reverse position. After the tractor moves

approximately five (5) feet return the

motion control lever to the neutral (N) position. Repeat this procedure with the motion control lever three (3)

times.

• Your tractor is now purged and now

ready for normal operation.

MOWING TIPS

• Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing perfonmance. 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.

• Drive 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 fimt 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 perfonmance as well as the quality of cut desired.

• When operating attachments, select a ground speed that will suit the terrain and give best performance of the attachment being used.

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance,

keep mower housing free of built-up grass and trash. Clean after each use.

• The special mulching blade will recut the grass clippings many times and

reduce them in size so that as they fall onto the lawn they will disperse into the grass and not be noticed. Also, the

mulched grass will biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for the lawn.

Always mulch with your highest

engine (blade) speed as this will

provide the best recutting action of the

blades.

• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet grass tends to form clumps and

interferes with the mulching action. The best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon. At this time the grass has dried and the newly cut area will

not be exposed to the direct sun.

• For best results, adjust the mower cutting height so that the mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass blades. For extremely heavy mulching,

reduce your width of cut on each pass

and mow slowly.

• Certain types of grass and grass conditions may require that an area be

mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a second cut, mow across or perpen dicular to the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow north to south one week then change to east to west the next

week. This will help prevent matting and graining of the lawn.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

FILL IN OATES AS YOU COMPLETE

MAINTENANCE

Check Brake Operation Check Tire Pressure Check Operator Presence and

intertock Systems Check lor Loose Fasteners

Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades Lubrication Chart Check Battery Level

Clean Battery and Terminals Check Transaxle Cooling Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension

Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension

Check Engine Oil Level

Change En^ne Oil

Clean Air Filter

Clean Air Screen

Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester

Replace Oil Filter (If equipped)

Clean Engine Cooling Fins

Replace Spark Rug Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge Replace Fuel Filter

1 ‘ Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high arnbient temperaturee. 2 • Service more often when operating in dirty or duety oor>ditk>ne. 3' If equipped with oil filter, change oil every 50 houre.

4 < Replace bladee more often when mowir>g In sandy soH.

✓ ✓ ✓

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5 - If «quipped with adjustable system. 6 - Not required H equipped wHh mainterkertce'free battery. 7 - Tighten front axle pivot boH to 35 ft,-lbs. maximum.

✓

Do not overtighten.

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. -ig

LUBRICATION CHART

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 self-lubricating bearings. If you feel they must be lubricated, use only a dry,

powdered graphite type lubricant

sparingly.

+ 42 hidden pages

Craftsman 917.270760 User Manual

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Warranty

UNASSEMBLED PARTS

ASSEMBLY

OPERATION

MAINTENANCE