Craftsman 917270762 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER AUTOMATIC

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.270762

• 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, II 60179

Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears,comlcraftsman

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

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

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

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

Operation ............................................11

Maintenance Schedule ....................178

Maintenance.......................................1

Service and Adjustments....................2

Storage ...............................................2_

Troubleshooting .................................3(

Repair Parts........................................3,

Parts Ordering .....................BackCove

LIMITEDTWOYEARWARRANTYON CRAFTSMANRIDINGEQUIPMENTPARTS Fortwo (2) years from the date of purchase,if this Craftsman RidingEquipmentis

maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructions inthe owner's manual,Sears will repairor replace,free of charge, any partsfound to be defective in

material or workmanship. Warranty service is available free of chargeby taking your Craftsman ridingequipment to your nearest Sears ServiceCenter. In-homewarranty 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 outsideobjects, 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 o_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 wil_ 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

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 loss-

of-control and tipover accidents, which 3

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.

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

• Never carry children. They mayfall 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 servicing 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 s_owly.

Do not turn on slopes unless neces- sary, and then, turn slowly and gradual- ly downhill, if possible.

,_Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means

CAUT,ON,,,BECOMEAWARE,,,YOUR :FETY'S' ZOLVED

CAUTION, In order to prevent acciden-

tal starting when setting up, transporting,

adjusting or making repairs always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire

,_re it cannot contact spark plug.

AUTION: Do not coast down a hill in

neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.

A_.kCAUTION: 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

Y_Uwrtractor.

ARNING: The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE 1.25 GALLONS

CAPACITY UNLEADED AND TYPE: REGULAR

OILTYPE SAE 30

API-SF/SG/SH): (ABOVE 32°F)

SAE 5W-30

(BELOW 32°F) OIL CAPACITY: 4.0 PINTS SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION

GAP: .030") RC 12YC

VALVE INTAKE: .004"-.006"

ADJUSTMENT EXHAUST: .004"-.006"

GROUND FORWARD: 5.5

SPEED (MPH): REVERSE: 2.4

TIRE FRONT: 14 PSI

PRESSURE: REAR: 10 PSI

CHARGING 16AMPS @ 3600 RPM

SYSTEM: BATTERY: AMP/HR: 28

MIN. CCA: 230 CASE SIZE:U1 R

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 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.

Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will enable you to assemble

and maintain your tractor properly. Always observe the "SAFETY RULES".

MAINTENANCEAGREEMENT

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.

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 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).

Volante de direcci6n

Adaptador del volante de

direcci6n

Eje de extenci6n

_1) Permo

hexagonal

3/8-16 x 1

del volante de direcci6n

(1) Arandela de

seguridad 3/8

(1) Permo hexagonal

5/16-18 x 1-1/4

(1) Arandella de

seguridad

Llaves

Asiento

(_:_ (1) Arandela de calibre

17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12

_(1) Manilla

Video casetl

(1) Contra

tuerca

5/16-18

(1) Perno con

resalto 5/16-18

Hoja de pendiente

(2) Llaves

"-t

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

(2) 1/2" wrench (1) 3/4" socket with

drive ratchet

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).

(1) Pliers

(1) Utility knife

(1) Tire pressure

gauge

• 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

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.

Steering _._.._ I_LJJ

Wheel _ _ _

Extension

Shaft _ _----Adapter

_________ Lock Washer

f_ _ Large Flat

___)) Washer

_ Steering Boot

! Ta s

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.

5/16 Locknut__/"_ 5/16 Hex Bolt

Lower Steefing_ _-_I

Shaft _ -. , ,___', ,' 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

Battery Box

Do_

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.

Seat

Seat Pan

Label

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 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 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)

,d_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.

Shoulder Bolt

- . o

Flat

Adjustment Washer Knob 8

• 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" inthe 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.

Mulcher

Deflector_ Plate Shield

Hooks

TO CONVERT TO 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 REVIEWTHE 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).

J" 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 EXTRAATTENTION 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).

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

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING SRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT

WARNING

LIGHT

LOCKED

R N H L

ATTACHMENT REVERSE

CLUTCH ENGAGED

NEUTRAL HIGH LOW

PARKING BRAKE

ATTACHMENT KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

FREE WHEEL

(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 Ignition Clutch Lever Switch

Ammeter

Choke Contro%

Lever

Plunger

Throttle

Lift Lever

Clutch/

Brake Pedal

Height Adjustment Indicator

Free Wheel

Control

Approx. Motion

Speed: Lever

2MPH -

1MP

g Brake Lever

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

Institute.

ent

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.

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

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

Choke "Engaged" Position

"Disengaged"

Position

Throttle g

Brake "Engaged"

Clutch/

Motion

"Disengaged", Control

Position "Brake" Lever STOPPING Position

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 "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 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 warm 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 parking 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 1-1/2to 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 cuttingperformance, grass over 6 inches in height should be mowedtwice. 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 Iocknut and tighten securely.

• Repeat for opposite side installing gauge wheel in same adjustment hole.

3/8 - 16 Locknut\

Gauge Wheel

Mounting Bracket

3/8

Gauge Wheel

;houlder

Bolt

• Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch control.

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

_1_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" PosFtion

Lift

Lever High

Position

_Low

-:_ Position

"Disen_

Position

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

_ICAUTION: 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 freewheel 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

ATrACHMENTS

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.

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-

Bess.

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.

CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tan k

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 clutch/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

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 '_'O 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 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.

• 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 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 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.

Max 1/3"

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ..,f ___,_._o_o_ _'_,_,' '_

AS YOU COMPLETE

REGULAR SERVICE /__(,_S ERVl CE DATES

Check Brake Operation I_

Check Tire Pressure

Check Operator Presence and

T Interlock Systems I_ R Check for Loose Fasteners V w _7 I_

T Lubrication Chart

0 Check Battery Level

cA Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades _s4

R Clean Battery and Terminals V'

Check Transaxle Cooling Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension li_s

Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension V's

Check Engine Oil Level V' V _ Change Engine Oil 11_1.2.3 V I

E ! Clean Air Filter V'2

N Clean Air Screen V'2 G Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester I_

E Clean Engine Cooling Fins

/ Replace Oil Filter (If equipped) I_:

Replace Spark Plug I_ Replace Air Filter Paper Carthdge V'2 Replace Fuel Filter V'

1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures. 5 - If equipped with adjustable system 2 - Ser_k_e more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions. 6 - Not required ff equipped with maintenance-tree battery 3 - tf equipped with oil filter, change oil every 50 hours. 7 - Tighten front axle pivot bolt to 35 ft-Ibs, maximum

4 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil Do not overfighten.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this tractor does not cover items that have been subjected to

OS_

LUBRICATION CHART

Zerk Zerk

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

OFront Wheel

Bearing

Zerk

tractor. All adjustments in the Service and

ng Zerk

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

I I I

_)General Purpose Grease

(_Refer to Maintenance "Engine" Section

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the pivot points which have special nylon

I I

= I

bearings. Viscous lubricants will attract

• Check engine oil level.

• Check brake operation.

• Check tire pressure.

• Check operator presence and

interlock systems for proper operation.

• Check for loose fasteners.

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.

eel

+ 42 hidden pages

Craftsman 917270762 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual