Craftsman 917.270822 User Manual

Owner’s Manual

CRRFTSMRN*

19 5 HP ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER AUTOMATIC

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.270822

Safety Assembly Operation Maintenance Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this equip ment.

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, IL 60179

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

Warranty .;....................................

Safety Rules ................................

Product Specifications

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

Operation......................................

Maintenance Schedule

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11 18

2 2 5 8

Maintenance..........................

Service and Adjustments... Storage

Troubleshooting

Repair Parts Parts Ordering

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.. Back Cover

18 22 27 28 32

WARRANTY

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is

maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner's manual. Sears will repair or replace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in material or workmanship. This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark

plugs, air cleaners, belts, etc.

• Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails,

thorns, stumps, or glass.

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, negligence, improper storage or ac cident or the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions con

tained in the owner’s manual. •

• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding

equipment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the battery will not hold a charge. Sears will replace the battery at no charge. In-home war ranty service on your Craftsman riding equipment is available at no charge for 30 days

from the date of purchase. Please contact your nearest service center. After 30 days from the date of purchase, warranty service is available by taking your Craftsman

riding equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center. (In-home warranty service will still be available after 30 days from the date of purchase but a standard trip charge will apply). This warranty applies only while this product is in the United States. This War ranty 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 ca

pable 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 in structions in the manual and on the ma chine 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 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.

SAFETY RULES

• 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-re lated injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious in jury.

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. 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 nof 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 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. They 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 vapors 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.

SAFETY RULES

Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly. Keep machine free of g^rass, 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.

Check brake operation frequently. Ad just 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. 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.

Grass catcher components are subject

to wear, damage, and deterioration,

which could expose moving parts or al low 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.

Mow up and down slopes (15° Max), not across. Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Un

even terrain could overturn the ma chine. 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.

Tall grass can hide obstacles.

Do nof turn on slopes unless neces

sary, and then, turn slowly and gradual

ly downhill, if possible.

ALook for this symbol to point out impor

tant safety precautions. It means CAU TION!!! 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.

^WARNING: The engine exhaust from

this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer,

birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

PRODUCT SPECIRCATIONS

GASOUNE CAPACITY ANDPiPE:

OILTYPE SAE30

(API-SF/SG/SH): (above 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: 3.0 PINTS SPARKPLUG:

(GAP; .030")

VALVE CLEARANCE: INTAKE: .004-.006

GROUND SPEED FORWARD: 0-5.5

(MPH):

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT; 14PS1

CHARGING SYSTEM:

BATTERY;

BLADE BOLT TORQUE;

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase

of a Craftsman Tractor. It has been de signed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance. Should you experieince 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 ser vice 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".

3,5 GALLONS UNLEADED REGULAR

SAE5W-30

(below 32"F)

Champion RJ19LM ORJ19LM

EXHAUST; ,007-.009

REVERSE: 0-2.4

REAR: 10PSI 3 AMPS BATTERY

5AMPSHEADUGHTS AMP/HR: 30

MIN. CCA 240 CASE SIZE: U1R

27-35 FT. LBS.

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

A Sears Maintenance Agreement is avai able on this product. Contact your neares

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 unim proved 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 California the above is re

quired by law (Section 4442 of the Califor

nia 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 (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK

(1) Large Flat Washer

Parts Bag contents shown full size

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

(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-16 X 1

(2) Washers

O , 3/16x3/4x16 Gauge

(1) Locknut 5/16-18

(1) Shoulder

Bolt 5/16-18

(1) Washer

17/32x1-3/16x12 Gauge

(2) Lock

Washers #10

(2) Weld

Nuts #10

(2) Screws #10x5/8

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK

Parts packed separately in carton

Seat

Video

Mulcher

Plate

Cassette

Manual

—c z ~,) —

Steering Wheel Adapter

Parts Bag

Parts Bag contents not shown full size

Wheel Insert

-c

(2) Keys

(2) Latch Hook

Assemblies

Steering Extension Shaft

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 trac tor 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 assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes you need are listed below.

(1) 9/16" wrench

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

guage

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

view, when you are in the operating posi tion (seated behind the steering wheel).

(1) 3/4" Socket w/

drive ratchet

(1) Phillips Screw

driver

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

• Remove all accessible loose parts and

parts cartons from 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

cartons and remove.

BEFORE ROLUNG TRACTOR OFF SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND

BOOT

• Slide extension shaft onto lower steer ing shaft. Align mounting holes in ex

tension and lower shafts and install

5/16 hex bolt and locknut. Tighten se curely.

IMPORTANT: Tighten bolt and nut se

curely to 18-22 ft. lbs. torque.

• Place tabs of steering boot over tab

slots in dash and push down to secure.

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

• Position front wheels of the tractor so

they are pointing straight forward.

• Slide steering wheel adapter onto

steering shaft extension.

• Position steering wheel so cross bars

are horizontal (left to right) and slide in side boot and onto adapter.

• Assemble large flat washer, 3/8 lock

washer, 3/8 hex bolt and tighten secure

ly-

• Snap steering wheel insert into center

of steering wheel.

• Remove protective materials from trac tor hood and grill.

IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any

staples in skid that may puncture tires where tractor is to roll off skid.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

CHECK BATTERY

• Lift hood to raised position.

• If this battery is put into service after

month and year indicated on label (la bel located between terminals) charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-1C amps. (See "BATTERY" in MAINTE

NANCE section of this manual for charging instructions).

Insert

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob.

• Remove cardboard packing on seat

pan.

• Place seat on seat pan and assemble

shoulder bolt. Tighten shoulder bolt se curely.

• 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.

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Op

eration section for location and function

of controls)

• Press lift lever plunger and raise attach ment lift lever to its highesL position.

• Release parking brake by depressing

clutch/brake pedal.

• Place freewheel control in freewheeling 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 ^WARNING; Before starting, read, un

derstand and follow all instructions in the Operation section of this manual. Be sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be sure the area in front of tractor is clear of other people and objects.

• 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, de

press clutch/brake pedal and set the parking brake,

• Place motion control lever in neutral

(N) position.

• Press lift lever plunger and raise at tachment lift lever to its highest posi tion,

• Start the engine. After engine has started, move throttle control to idle po

sition.

• 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.

INSTALL MULCHER PLATE

• Install two latch hooks to mulcher plate using screw, washer, lock washer, and

weld nut as shown. .

NOTE: Pre-assemble weld nut to latch

hook by inserting weld nut from the top with hook pointing down.

• Tighten hardware securely.

• Raise and hold deflector shield in up right 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.

^CAUTION; Do not remove discharge

guard from mower. Raise and hold guard

when attaching mulcher plate and allow it to rest on plate while in operation.

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.

Deflector —i». Shield

Latch

Hooks

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes. Cor rect tire pressure is important for best cut ting performance.

• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in the “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 Ser

vice and Adjustments section of this

manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF

ALL BELTS

See the figures that are shown for replac ing motion and mower blade drive belts

in the Service and Adjustments sectoin of

this manual. Verify that the belts are

routed correctly.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM

After you learn how to operate your trac tor, check to see that the brake is properly adjusted. See TO ADJUST BRAKE” in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

%^CHECKUST

BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY

YOUR NEW TRACTOR, WE WISH TO AS

SURE 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 tight

ened securely.

/ All tires are properly inflated, (For ship

ping purposes, the tires were overin

flated 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 HOWTO 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 operat

ing condition.

/ It is important to purge the transmission

before operating your tractor for the first

time. Follow proper starting and trans

mission purging instructions (See “TO START ENGINE” and “PURGE TRANS

MISSION” 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.

♦

Q A

BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD

WARNING

FAST

0= ©I

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

IB l\l © ©“

FUEL

CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT

LOCKED

R N H L ®|I

ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW

CLUTCH ENGAGED

LIGHT

SLOW

PARKING BRAKE

ATTACHMENT

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTI ON)

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUF

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

Ammeter

Choke

Ignition Switch

Position

Clutch/Brake Pedal

Height

Adjustment

Knob

Freewheel Control

Throttle Control

Our tractors conformToTiie'salety standards oi the American

National Standards Institute.

Lift Leve Plunger

parking Brake

Motion Control Lever

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Used to en gage the mower blades, or other attachments mounted to your tractor.

LIGHT SWITCH: Turns the headlights on and

off. CHOKE CONTROL: Used when starting a cold engine. THROTTLE CONTROL: Used to control en

gine speed. CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Used for declutching and braking the tractor and start

ing the engine. FREEWHEEL CONTROL: Disengages trans mission for pushing or slowly towing the trac

tor with the engine off.

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB: Used to ad just the mower cutting height.

MOTION CONTROL LEVER: Selects the speed and direction of the tractor. ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Used to raise

and lower the mower deck or other attach

ments mounted to your tractor.

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER: Used to release at

tachment lift lever when changing its position.

IGNITION SWITCH: Used for starting and

stopping the engine.

AMMETER: Indicates battery charging (+) or

discharging (-). PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutch/brake into the brake position.

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safe^ glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safe^ 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 pressure

from clutch/brake pedal. Pedal should

remain in “BRAKE” position. Make sure parking brake will hold tractor secure.

Choke

Throttle

Control

Height Adjustment Knob

“Brake”

Control

Position

Clutch/Brake Pedal “Drive" Position

“Disengaged” 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 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

bbfore 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.

Attachment Clutch

Lever“Engaged” Position

“Disengaged"

Position

Parking Brake "Engaged" Position

Motion Control Lever

• 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.

ACAUTION; Always stop tractor com-

^tely, as described above, before leav ing the operator's position; to empty grass

catcher, etc.

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.

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 disengage.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD

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 brdke and clutch/

brake pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever to de sired position.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT

The cutting height is controlled by turning

the height adjustment knob in desired di rection.

• Turn knob clockwise (<><) to raise cutting

height.

• Turn knob counterclockwise (r^) to

lower cutting height.

The cutting height range is approximately

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 ap

proximately 2-1/2 inches during the cool season and to over 3 inches dur ing hot months. For healthier and bet

ter looking lawns, mow often and after

moderate growth.

• For best cutting performance, grass over 6 inches in height shouid be mowed twice. Make the first cut rela

tively 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 po sition to help prevent scalping in most ter

rain conditions.

• Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a fiat 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 po sition, gauge wheels should be as sembled so they are slightly off the ground. Install gauge wheel in appro

priate 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.

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

■CAUTION: Do not drive up or down

iHs with slopes greater than 15° and do

not drive across any slope. Use the slope

guide provided at the back of this manual.

• 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,

3ush clutch/brake pedal quickly to Drake position and engage parking Drake.

• 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.

Attachment Clutch

Lever “Engage^ Position '

“Disengaged”

Position

Attachment Lift Lever High Position

Low Position

3/8-16 Locknu

Gauge Wheel Mounting Bracket—

3/8 Washer

Gauge Wheel

TO OPERATE MOWER

Your tractor is equipped with an operator

presence sensing switch. Any attempt by

the operator to leave the seat with the en

gine running and the attachment clutch engaged will shut off the engine.

• Select desired height of cut.

• Lower mower with attachment lift con trol.

• Start mower blades by engaging attach

ment clutch control.

• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disen

gage attachment clutch control.

i^CAUTION: Do not operate the mower

without either the entire grass catcher, on

mowers so equipped, or the discharge

guard in place.

Discharge Guard

TOTRANSPOFTT

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

ing freewheel control in freewheeling po

sition. Freewheel 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 se cured 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 recom

mended by and comply with specifica tions of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use common sense when towing. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is dan gerous. Tires can lose traction with the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor,

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

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.

temove oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe

clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw cap tight, wait for a few seconds, re move and read oil level. If necessary, 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 depos its and reduce valve life). Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quanti ties that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.

IMPORTANT: When operating in tem

peratures below 32°F(0“C), use fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to help in sure good cold weather starting.

i^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 en gine while in storage. To avoid engine

problems, the fuel system should be emp tied 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 in formation. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or per

manent damage may occur.

CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas"tank

5r 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, de

press clutch/brake pedal and set park ing 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 re lease 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 at tempts, 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

rou^ly, pull the choke control out

slightly for a few seconds and then con tinue to push the control in slowly.

• The attachments and ground drive can

now be used. If the engine does not ac cept the load, restart the engine and al low 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 en gine 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 neu

tral. 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: 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 performance. See ‘TO ADJUST CARBURETOR” in the Service and Adjustments section of this

manual.

PURGE TRANSMISSION i^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 trans mission be purged before operating trac

tor for the first time. This procedure will re

move any trapped air inside the transmis sion which may have developed during shipping of TOur 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 posi tion (See “TO TRANSPORT” in this sec tion 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) posi

tion, slowly disengage clutch/brake

pedal.

• Move motion control lever to full for ward position and hold for five (5) sec onds. Move lever to full reverse positiot 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 park ing brake.

• Engage transmission by placing free wheel 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) posi

tion, slowly disengage clutch/brake

pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever for

ward; after the tractor moves approxi

mately five (5) feet, slowly move motior 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 levei three (3) times.

• Your tractor is now purged and ready

for normal operation.

MOWING TIPS

• Mower should be properly leveled for

best mowing performance. See ‘TO

MOWER HOUSING" in tlLEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Ser

vice 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 cut ting. When mowing large areas, start by turning to the right so that clippings wil

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 pos sible 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 unde sirable clumps. Allow grass to dry be fore mowing.

Always operate engine at full throttle

when mowing to assure better mowing

performance and proper discharge of material. Regulate ground speed by se lecting a low enough gear to give the

mower the best 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 at tachment being used.

Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet.

Wet grass tends to form clumps and in terferes 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 cut ting 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 condi tions may require that an area be

mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a sec ond cut, mow across or perpendicular

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.

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 re duce 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 re cutting action of the blades.

Max 1/3

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

FILL IN DATES AS YOU COMPLETE

MAINTENANCE

Check Brake Operation Check Tire Pressure

Check Operator Presence and Interlock Systems

Check for 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 Engine Oil Clean Air Filter Clean Air Screen Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester Replace Oil Filter (If equipped) Clean Engine Cooling Fins Replace Spark Plug Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge Replace Fuel Rlter

1 ■ Changg more oRen wtien operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures. S - M equipped wtth adjustable system 2 ' Service more often when operating in dltly or dusty conditions 3 - tt equipped wtth oil flter, chartge oil every 50 hours. 4 - Replace blades more often when mowing In sartdy soil.

✓ ✓ ✓

✓

✓ ✓ ✓ r

✓

✓ e ✓ ✓

✓ s

✓ ✓

1^.3

✓ 2 ✓ 2

✓

1^,2

✓ 2

✓ ✓

✓ 2

✓

6 - Not required if equipped with maintenarwe-free batter 7 - Tighten front axle pivot bolt 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. Ail adjustments in the Service and Adjust ments 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 as sure 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

® Front

Wheel

Bearing Zerk

® SAE 30 OR 10W30 MOTOR OIL @ Refer to Maintenance “ENGINE"

Section

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the

pivot points which have special nylon bear-ings. 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, pow dered graphite type lubricant sparingly.

0 Spindle

Zerk

Engine ®

+ 42 hidden pages

Craftsman 917.270822 User Manual

917.270822

TABLE OF CONTENTS

WARRANTY

SAFETY RULES

GENERAL OPERATION

SLOPE OPERATION

CHILDREN

SERVICE

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

ASSEMBLY

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

BEFORE ROLUNG TRACTOR OFF SKID

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

OPERATION

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR

TOTRANSPOFTT

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

ADD GASOLINE

MOWING TIPS

MAINTENANCE

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

BEFORE EACH USE

LUBRICATION CHART