Craftsman 917.270840 User Manual

Owner’s Manual

CRflFTSMHN^

20.5 HP

ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER AUTOMATIC

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.270840

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this equip

ment.

differently

ngine, read

For answers to your questioi 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

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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Warranty..............................

Safety Rules Product Specifications ...

Assembly

Operation Maintenance Schedule...

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12 Repair Parts

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19 Paris Ordering.........................

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

Service and Adjustments....

5 Storage....................................

8 Troubleshooting.......................

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...........19

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;...........23

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.................,34

....Back Cover

WARRANTY

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT

For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is main

tained, 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 coven

• 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 acci

dent or the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained in the owner’s manual.

• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes. LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY

For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding equip ment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the bat

tery will not hold a charge. Sears will replace the battery at no charge. In-home warranty senrice on your Craftsman riding equipment is available at no charge for 30 days from the date of purchase. Please contact your nearest service center. After 30 days from the date of purchase, warranty service is available by taking your Craftsman riding equip

ment to your nearest Sears Service Center. (In-home warranty sen/ice will still be avail

able after 30 days from the date of purchase but a standard trip charge will apply). This

warranty applies only while this product is in the United States. This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to

state.

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

SAFETY RULES

GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all instruc

tions 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 direc tion 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 unat

tended. Always turn off blades, set park

ing brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting.

SAFETY RULES

• 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 unload ing the machine into a trailer or truck.

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 necessary,

and then, turn slowly and gradually 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 cavHS in.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced

traction could cause sliding.

• Do noftrytb 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 ^r smalt 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

comers, 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.

• Never tamper with safety devices.

Check their proper operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or otiier 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.

SAFETY RULES

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.

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. 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.

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.

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

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.

Do nof turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.

.^Look for this symbol to point out Impor

tant safety precautions. It means CAU

TION!!! BECOME AWARE!!! YOUR SAFE TY IS INVOLVED.

.^CAUTION: In order to prevent acciden

tal starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs always discon nect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug.

il^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 SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE CAPACITY AND TYPE:

OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):

OIL CAPACITY: SPARK PLUG:

(GAP: .030")

VALVE CLEARANCE: INTAKE: .005-.007

GROUND SPEED

(MPH):

TIRE PRESSURE:

CHARGING SYSTEM:

BATTERY:

BUDE BOLT

TORQUE:

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Craftsman Tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured

to give you the best possible dependability and performance. Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Authorized Service Center. We have competent, well-trained techni cians and the proper tools to service or repair this tractor.

3.5 GALLONS UNLEADED REGUUR

SAE30 (above 32“F) SAE 5W-30 (below 32“F)

3.0 PINTS Champion RJ19LM

ORJ19LM

EXHAUST: .009-.011

FORWARD: 0-5.5 REVERSE: 0-2.4

FRONT: 14PSI REAR: 10PSI

3AMPS BATTERY SAMPS HEADLIGHTS

AMP/HR:30 MIN. CCA:240 CASE SIZE: U1R

27-35 FT. LBS.

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 avail 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.

il^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 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 throug! your nearest Sears Authorized Service Center (See REPAIR PARTS section of

this manual).

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK

(1) Large Flat Washer

Parts Bag corttents shown full size

Ct) Locknut 5/16-ia

(2) Washers 3/16 X 3/4 X16 Gauge

(2) Weld

Nuts #10

(1) Shoulder

Bolt 5/16-18

(1) Washer

17/32x1-3/16x12 Gauge

(2) Lock Washers #10

(2) Screws #10x5/8

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACK

Parts packed separately in carton

Seat

Video

Mulcher

Plate

Cassette

Manual

(2) Shoulder

Bolts

I. „ ,,

^—I I—^

Steering Wheel Adapter

Parts Bag

Parts Bag contents not shown full size

(2) Washers 3/8 X 7/8x14 Gauge

(2) Keys

(2) Gauge Wheels

Wheel Insert

(2) Center

lock Nuts

Steering

Extension Shaft

(2) Latch Hook

Assemblies

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. 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 (1) 3/4" wrench (2) 1/2" wrench (1) Utility knife (l)Pliers

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 rächet (1) Phillips Screw driver {1)Tire pressure gauge

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

• Remove all accessible loose parts and parts boxes from shipping carton (See

page 6).

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

• 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 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.

Insert

BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND

BOOT

• Slide extension shaft onto lower steer ing shaft. Align mounting holes in exten sion and lower shafts and install 5/16 hex bolt and locknut. Tighten securely.

IMPORTANT: Tighten bolt and nut secure

ly 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 fonward.

• Slide steering wheel adapter onto steer ing shaft extension.

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

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for location and

function of controls)

• Press lift lever plunger and raise attach ment lift lever to its highest position.

• Release parking brake by depressing

clutch/brake pedal.

• Place freewheel control in freewheeling position to disengage transmission (See “TO TRANSPORT in the Operation

section of this manual).

• Roll tractor forward off skid.

• Remove banding holding discharge

guard up against tractor.

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 (label

located between terminals) charge bat tery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps. (See "BATTERY" in MAINTE NANCE section of this manual for charging instructions).

Label

INSTALL SEAT

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment knob.

• Remove cardboard packing on seat pat

• 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 i£ reached which allows you to press ciutch/brake pedal all the way down.

• Get off seat without moving its adjuster position.

• Raise seat and tighten adjustment knot securely.

Seat

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 designed

for discharging and bagging also.

Weld Nut From The Top

Weld Nut.

Latch Hook

Washer

Mulcher Plate

Hook Points Down

Lock

Washer

Latch Hook

Weld Nut

Lock Washer

Washer

Screw

ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELS TO MOWI^R DECK

The gaiUge wheels are designed to keep the mower deck in proper position when operating mower. Be sure they are proper

ly adjusted to ensure optimum mower per

formance.

• Assemble 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 po

sition, gauge wheels should be assem

bled 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.

Gauge Wheel

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is important for best cutting performance.

• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in “PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” on

page 5 of this manual.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower housing

should be properly leveled. See “TO

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the

Senrice 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 rout ed 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.

^CHECKLIST

PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST:

✓ All assembly instructions have been

completed.

i/ 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 operat

ing 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 Op eration 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

CAUTION OR

WARNING

|STOH

REVERSE FORWARD

'fir

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE

FUEL CHOKE

S* R N H L ®)|

ATTACHMENT REVERSE

CLUTCH ENGAGED

l\l

MOWER HEIGHT

NEUTRAL HIGH LOW

LIGHTS ON

PARKING BRAKE

LOCKED

FAST

OVER TEMP

LIGHT

UNLOCKED

PARKING BRAKE

SLOW

MOWER LIFT

ATTACHMENT

IGNITION

DANGER. KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

K-is I

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.

Attachment

Light Switch Position

National Standards Institute.

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

mounted to your tractor. LIGHT SWTCH: Turns the headlights on and

off. CHOKE CONTROL: Used when starting a cold

engine. THROTTLE CONTROL: Used to control engine

speed.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Used for declutch ing and braking the tractor and starting the engine.

FREEWHEEL CONTROL: Disengages trans mission for pushing or slowly towing the tractor

with the engine off.

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB: Used to adjust the mower cutting height. MOTION CONTROL LEVER: Selects die

speed and direction of the tractor.

attachment lift LEVER: Used to rais-’ anc

lower the mower deck or other attachments mounted to your tractor. LIFT LEVER PLUNGER: Used to release attachment lift lever when changing its position. IGNITION SWITCH: Used for starting and stop ping the engine.

AMMETER: Indicates battery charging (-1-) or

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

brake position.

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objecte 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 stan dard safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch. When engine is running, any attempt by the operator to leave №e seat without first setting the parking brake will shut off the engine.

TO SET PARKING BRAKE

• 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 Control

Throttle Control

“Brake” Position

Clutch/Brak^ / " Motion Pedal “Drive” “Disengaged” Control Position Position Lever

STOPPING MOWER BLADES-

• To stop mower blades, move attach

ment clutch lever to “DISENGAGED” position.

GROUND DRIVE-

• To stop ground drive, depress clutchAjrake pedal into full “BRAKP

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 depressed.

ENGINE -

• Move throttle control to slow position.

Attachment Clutch Lever “Engaged” Position

“Disengaged”

'Position

Parking Brake “Engaged" 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 “OFP will cause the battery to be discharged, (dead).

NOTE: Under certain conditions when tractor is standing idle with the engine run ning, hot engine exhaust gases may cause “browning” of grass. To eliminate this possibility, always stop engine when stopping tractor on grass areas.

A CAUTION: Always stop tractor com

pletely, as described above, before leaving the operator's position; to empty grass catcher, etc. THROTTLE CONTROL Always operate engine at full throttle.

• Operating engine at less than full throt-

tie reduces the battery charging rate.

• Full throttle offers ttie best bagging and

mower performance.

CHOKE CONTROL Use choke control whenever you are start

ing a cold engine. Do not use to start a warm engine.

• To engage choke control, pull knob out

Stowiy 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 brake and clutch/brake

. pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever to

desired position.

NOTE: The effort to move the motion con trol lever vrill reduce after the first few

hours of use. This is normal.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT The cutting height is controlled by turning the height adjustment knob in desired

direction. i

• Turn knob clockwise (C) to raise cutting

height.

• Turn knob counterclockwise (0) to

lower cutting height.

The cutting height range is approximately

1-1/2" to 4". The heights are measured

frorn the ground to the blade tip with the engine not running. These heights are ap proximate 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 coot 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 rela

tively high; the second to desired height.

TO OPERATE MOWER

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

• Select desired height of cut.

• 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.

Attachment Clutch Lever “Engaged" Position

Attachment Lift Lever High Position

• If slowing is necessary, move throttle

control jever .to slower position.

• If stopping isjabsolutely necessary, push

dutch/brake pedal quickly to brake posi tion 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 dutch/brake pedal is depressed.

• To restart movement, slowly release

parking brake and dutch/brake pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever to

slowest setting.

• Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT

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

freewheel control in freewheeling position.

Freewheel control is located at the rear drawbar of tractor.

• Raise attachment lift to highest position

with attachment lift control.

• Pull freewheel control knob out and hold in position by inserting retainer spring

into fonward hole of control rod.

• Do not push or tow tractor at more than

two (2) MPH.

• To reengage transmission, reverse

above procedure.

NOTE: To proted 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.).

“Disengaged’ Position

' Low

' ' Position

Discharge Guard

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

.^CAUTION: Do not drive up or down

hills 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 start ing up or down hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills.

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS

Tow only the attachments that are recom

mended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use common sense when towing. Too heavy of a load, white on a slope, is dangerous.

Tires can lose tradion 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.

• 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 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 CHARr 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 freshness.

IMPORTANT: When operating in tempera

tures below 32‘’F(0"C), use fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to help insure good cold weather starting.

A.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 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 informa tion. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or perma nent damage may occur.

^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 clutch/brake pedal and set pai1<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

release key as soon as engine starts. Do not run starter continuously for more

than fifteen seconds per rninute. 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 thé engine starts to run roughly, pull the choke control out slight ly 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 slight ly 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 coid weather, the transmission should be warmed up as follows:

• Be sure the tractor is on ievei 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

wann 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.

I^RGE 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 trans mission be purged before operating tractor

for the first time. This procedure will

remove any trapped air inside the trans mission 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 parfring brake set.

• Disengage transmission by placing free wheel 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 throt tle control to slow position. With motion control lever in neutral (N) position,

slowly disengage clutch/brake pedal.

• Move motion control lever to full fonward

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 b(

no movement of drive wheels. Thej air is

being removed from hydraulic drivé sys tem. ■

• Move motion control lever to neutral (N position. Shut off engine and set parkin 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 throt tle 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 motioi control lever to reverse position.^After the tractor moves approximately five (£ feet return the motion control lever to the neutral (N) position. Repeat this pn cedure with the motion control lever three (3) times.

• Your tractor is now purged and ready ft normal operation.

MOWING TIPS

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

• Mower should be property leveled for best mowing performance. See TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Service and Adjustments section of thh 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 tur ing to the right so that clippings will dir charge away from shrubs, fences, driv ways, etc. After one or two rounds, mo\ in the opposite direction making left hand turns until finished.

• If grass is extremely tall, it shoüid be mowed twice to reduce load and possi ble fire hazard from dried clippings. Make first cut relatively high; the secón to the desired height.

Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet

grass v\nll plug mower and leave unde sirable 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 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.

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 recut ting 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 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.

Max 1/3

+ 42 hidden pages

Craftsman 917.270840 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

CRflFTSMHN^

LAWN TRACTOR

WARRANTY

SAFETY RULES

ASSEMBLY

S* R N H L ®)|