Craftsman 917270851 Owner’s Manual

Qwner's Manual

£RRFTSMAN°

20.5HP ELECTRIC START 42" MOWER

6 SPEED TRANSAXLE

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.270851

• 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 pro, Mon - Sat

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, II60179

Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.corn/craftsm_n

Warranty _.............................................. 2

Safety Rules .......................................... 2

P_'oduct Specifications .......................... 5

Assembly ..................... :........................ 8

Operation ........................................... 1-1

Maintenance Schedule ..................... 17

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

maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair or replace, free of charge, anyparts found to be detective in

material or workmanship.

This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during normatuse, such as blades, spark p!ugs, air cleanerS, belts, etc.

• Tire replacement or repair caused by puncturesfrom 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 BAI-f'ERY

For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this rid!ng

equipment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the

battery will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the bakery at no charge. In-home

warranty 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 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

Maintenance .: ................................... 17

Service andAdjustments .................... 21

Storage ............................................... 27

Troubleshooting ................................ 28

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

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

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is

capable of amputating hands and feet

and throwing objects. Failure to observe _he following safety instructions could

-esult in serious injury or death. _ENERAL OPERATION

• ;_ead, understand, and follow all in-

structions in the manuai and on the machine before starting.

. Only allow responsible adults, who are

familiar with the instructions, to oper- ate the machine•

C!ear 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.

, De not mow in reverse unless abso-

iutety necessary• Always took 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.

, ,Glow down _efore turning.

• Never leave a running machine unat-

tended. Always turn off blades, set

parking brake, stop engine, and re-

2 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 intoa trailer or

truck.

SLOPE OPERATION Slopes are a major factor related to loss-

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

slopes require extra caution. If you can- not back up the slope or if you feel un- easy on it, do not mow it. DO:

• Mow up and down slopes, not across.

• Remove obstacles such as 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 notturn on slopes unless neces-

sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu- ally downhill, if possible.

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

embankments. The mower could sud- denly turn over if a wheel is over the

edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced

traction could cause sliding.

• Do nottry to stabilize the machine by puttingyour 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 chil-

dren 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

notsmoke. Never refuel the machine indoors.

Never store the machine or fuel container inside where there is an open flame, such as a water heat-

er.

° Never run a machine insidea closed

area.

• Keep nuts and bolts,especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep equip-

ment in good condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices.

Check their proper operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or

other debris build-up. Clean oil orfuel 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 al-

low objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with

manufacturer's recommended parts, when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp a_l Can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and

use extra caution when servicing them.

• Check brake operation frequently. Ad- just and service as required,

• Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop machine

if3nyone 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 chil- dren enter the area.

• Before and when backing, |ook behind

and down for small children.

• Mow up and down slopes (15 ° Max),

not across.

_Look for this symbol to point out ira-

, portant safety precautions, ttmeans

CAUTION!!! BECOME AWARE!!! YOUR

SAFETY tS INYOLVED.

_IkCAUTION: In,order toprevent acci-

dental starting when setting up, trans-

porting, adjusting or making repairs al-

ways disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark

plug.

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree

limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Un- even terrain could overturn the ma-

chine. Taft 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 nottum on slopes unless neces-

sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu- ally downhill, if possible.

WARNING: The engine exhaust from

this product contains chemicals known to the State-of Califomia to cause-cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS _

GASOLINE 3.5 GALLONS CAPACITY UNLEADED

AND TYPE: REGULAR OILTYPE SAE 30(ABOVE 32°F

_,PI-SF/SG/SH): SAE 5W-30

(BELOW 32°F)

31LCAPACITY: 3.5 PINTS 3PARK PLUG: CHAMPION

-_AP:.030") RC12YC

CALVE INTAKE: .004"-.006" 3LEARANCE: EXHAUST:.004"-.006" 3ROUND SPEEDFORWARD:

(MPH): 1ST 1.2

2ND 1.5 3RD 2.4

4TH 3.5

5TH 4.8 6TH 5.4

REVERSE: 1.5

TIRE FRONT: 14 PSI PRESSURE: REAR: 10 PSI

CHARGING 16 AMPS @3600RPM SYSTEM:

BA'I-I'ERY: AMP/HR: 30

MIN. CCA: 240

CASE SIZE:U1R

3LADE BOLT 27-35 FT. LBS

FORQUE:

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

A SearsMaintenance 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-cevered 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

through your nearest Sears Authorized

Service Center/Department (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

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

designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependabil-

ity and performance. 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 instructionswill enable you to assemble

and maintain your tractor properly. .

Always observe the "SAFETY RULES".

Parts Bag contents shown full size

(1) Locknut 5/16-18

(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-16 x 1

(1) Lockwasher 3/8

(1) Large Flat Washer

(I)Knob

(2) Screws #10x5/8

(1) Hex Bolt

5/16-18 x 1-1/4

{1) Shoulder Bolt 5/16-18

(1) Washer

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

(2) Lock Washers #10

(2) Washers 3/16 x 3/4 x 16 Gauge

(2] Weld Nuts #10

Parts packed separately in carton

b I--I Video

Cassette

Seat

Mulcher

pP,atei/ofo_ )

Steering

Parts Bag contents not shown full size

_ teering

Wheel

Insert

Steering Wheel

Adapter

(_l ' ' <:_ (2) Keys

(2) I,.atch I-:10ok

P_ssemDIleS

_ _J Wheel

Steering _

Boot

Manual

I I

Parts Bag

I I

• Steering Extension

Shaft

Slope Sheet

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.

(t) 9/16" wrench (1) Pliers (2) 1/2"wrench (1) Utility knife

(1) 3/4" socket with

drive ratchet

(1) Tire pressure gauge

(1) Phillips screwdriver

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

view, when you are in the operating

position (seated behind the steering

wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

• Remove all accessible loose parts and parts boxes from shipping carton.

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

• Remove mower and packing materials.

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

BEFORE ROLUNG TRACTOR OFF

SKID A'n'ACH 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.

IMPORTANT: _ghten bolt and nut securely to 18-22 ft, Ibs. 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 inside boot and onto adapter.

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

securely.

• Snap steering wheel insert into center of steedng wheel.

• Remove protective materials from tractor hood and gdU.

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 BA'B'ERY

• Lift hood to raised position.

• 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 "BATIERY' in Maintenance section of this manual

for charging instructions).

• • Remove banding holding discharge

: . guard up againsttra<_tor

,o • ,,=.J, "_J.

Label

INSTALL SEAT Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob.

• Remove cardboard packing on seat pan.

• 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

Shoulder Seat Pan

TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFFSKID

WARNING: Before starting, read,

understand and follow all instructions in

the Operation section of this manual. Be

sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be sure the area in front of tractor is

clear of other people and objects.

• Be sure all the above assembly steps have been completed.

• Check engine oil level and fill fuel tank with gasoline.

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

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

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

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

position.

• Depress clutch/brake pedal into full

"BRAKE_' position and hold. Move gearshift lever to 1st gear.

• Slowly release clutch/brake pedal and

slowly drive tractor off skid.

• Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking

brake and place gearshift lever in

neutral position.

• Turn ignition key to "OFF" position. Continue with the instructions that follow.

Bo_._..

Rat Washer

Adjustment Knob

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for location and

function of controls)

• Press lift lever plunger and raise

attachment lift lever to its highest position,

• Release parking brake by depressing

clutch/brake pedal,

• Place gearshift lever in neutral (N)

position.

• Roll tractor foward off skid.

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

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.

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.

Weld Nut Down

Lock

Weld Nut Latch

Latch

Mulcher Plate '_b,'_ew

Shield

Hook Points

Hook

Nut

Washer

Latch 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.

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overin- fiated at the factory for shipping pur-

poses. Correct tire pressure is important

for best cutting performance.

• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"

section of this manual.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower housing should be properly leveled. See "TO

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Service and Adjustments section of this

manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL BELTS

See the figures that are shown for replacing motion and mower blade drive

belts in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual. Verifythat 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.

/CHECKLIST

BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY

YOUR NEW TRACTOR, WE WISH TO ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE

BEST PERFORMANCE AND SATISFACTION FROM THIS QUALITY

PRODUCT.

PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING

CHECKLIST:

/" All assembly instructions have been

completed.

,# No remaining loose parts in carton. ,/Battery is properly prepared and

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6

arnps).

/ Seat is adjusted comfortably and

tightened securely.

4' All tiros are properly inflated. (For

shipping purposes, the tires were overinflated at the factory).

4' 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.

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.

These symbois may appea_rOnyour tractor:or in literature supplied with_theproduct.

Learn andunderstand their meaning.

BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT

WARNING

LIGHT,

LOCKED

N H L

ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE

CLUTCH ENGAGED

ATTACHMENT KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models o_ly)

KNOWYOURTRACTOR

READ THIS 0WNER;S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING

" YOUR TRACTOR

Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familladze yourself with the locations of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

Attachment Clutch Lever

Ignition

Pedal

Ammeter

Choke Control_

Height Adjustment

Knob

---...:.

Plunger

Lift Lever

Brake Lever

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

Institute.

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

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

attachmehts mounted to your tractor. AI-I'ACHMENT 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.

GEARSHIFT LEVER - Selects,the speed and direction of tractor.

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB - Used to

adjust the mower cutting height. IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and stopping the engine,

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release attachment lift lever when

changing its position. UGHT SWITCH - Turns the headlights on

and off. PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks

clutch/brake pedal into the brake position. THROTI'LE 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 ever spectacles or standard safety glasses:

HOWTO USE ;YOURTRACTOR

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.

Choke

Throttle

"Disengaged

Position

Adjustment

Attachment Clutch Lever

"Disengaged" Position

Brake

=Engaged"

Position "

Lever

Position

Knob

STOPPING

MOWER BLADES -

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

position.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive, depress clutch/

brake pedal into full =BRAKE" position.

• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N) position.

ENGINE -

• Move throttle control to slow position., NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to

slow pos'rtion 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 _pping 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

BACKWARD The direction and speed of movement is

controlled by the gearshift lever.

• Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal

depressed and gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.

• Move gearshift lever to desired position.

• Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to start movement.

IMPORTANT: Bring tractor to a complete stop before shifting or changing gears.

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

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING

HEIGHT

The cutting height is controlled by turning the height adjustment knob in

desired direction.

• Turn knob clockwise (FN) to raise cutting height.

• Turn knob counterclockwise (P_) to lower cutting height.

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

measured from the ground to the blade

tip with the engine not running. These

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

of grass and types of grass being

mowed.

• The average lawn should be cut to

approximately 2-1/2 inches during the cool season and to over 3 inches

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

• For best cutting performance, grass

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

relatively high; the second to desired height.

TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS

Gauge wheels are properly adjusted when they are slightly off the ground

when mower is at the desired cutting

height in operating position. Gauge

wheels then keep the deck in proper

position to help prevent scalping in most

terrain conditions.

• Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a

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 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 Brack

3/8 ;houlder

Gauge Wheel Bolt

TO OPERATE MOWER

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch. Any attempt by

the operator to leave the seat withthe engine running and the attachment

clutch engaged will shut off the engine.

• Select desired height of cut.

• Lower mower with attachment !ift control.

• Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch control.

• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disen-

__gage attachment clutch control.

CAUTION: Do not operate the mower

without either the entire grass catcher, on

mowers so equipped, or the discharge

guard in place.

Attachment Clutch Lever "Engaged" Positionsltion_,__--_/ /Attachemnt Lift

7ZJtJ

eL_n_ _ jj'/_ Lever High

Posit_n" t-..

_ e

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

_CAUTION: Do not drive up or down

hills with slopes greater than 15° and do

not drive across any slope.

• Choose the slowest speed before starting up or down hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills.

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

• If stopping is absolutely necessary,

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

brake.

• Move gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be

sure you have allowed room for tractor

to roll slightly as you restart movement.

• To restart movement, slowly release

parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

• Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT

• Raise attachment lift to highest

position with attachment lift control.

• When pushing or towing your tractor,

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

• Do not push or tow tractor at more than

five (5) MPH.

NOTE: To protect hood from damage

when transporting your tractor on a truck

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

cord, etc.).

V.-_ ''_-_ Position

TOWING CARI'SAND OTHER

ATTACHMENTS Tow only the attachments that are

re,commended 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. _res can lose traction with the ground and cause you to lose control

of your tractor. BEFORE STARTING THE ENIGNE CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

• The engine in your tractor has been shipped, from the factory, already filled

with summer weight oil.

• Check engine oil with tractor on level ground.

• Remove oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw

cap tight, wait for a few seconds, remove and read oil level. If neces-

sary, add oil until =FULL" mark on dipstick is reached. Do not overfill.

• For cold weather operation you should

change oil for easier starting (See =OIL VISCOSITY CHART" in the Mainte-

nance section of this manual).

• To change engine oil, see the Mainte-

nance section in this manual.

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular

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

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

not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used

within 30 days to assure fuel fresh- ness.

IMPORTANT: When operating in temperatures below 32°F(0°C), use

fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to

help insure good cold weather starting. a_coWARNING: Experience indicates that

hol 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 io bottom of gas tank filler neck; Do not overfill. Wipe off any

spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or _

use gasolinenear an open flame.

TO START ENGINE •

When starting the engine for the first time

or if the engine has run out of fuel, it will take extra cranking time to move fuel

from the tank to the engine.

• Sit on seat in operating position,

depress clutch/brake pedal and set

parking brake.

• Place gear shift lever in neutral (N)

position.

• Move attachment clutch to =DISEN-

GAGED" position.

• Move throttle control to 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 fn'leen 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

15 starts to run roughly, pull the choke

controloutslightly for a faw secondsand

=then continueto push the control in :

: slowly. This may require an engine

• ,_,arm_up period from several'seconds. to several minutes, depending on the

itemperature,

• The attachments can be used during

the engine warm-up,period 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 bast engine perfor-

mance. See "TO ADJUST CARBURE-

TOR" in the Service and AdjUstments

section of this manual.

:MOWING TIPS

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

• Mower should be propedy 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 untilfinished.

• 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 itis wet. Wet

grass will plug mower and leave undesirable dumps. 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 wil[ 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 dumps and

interferes with the mulching action.

The best time to mow your lawn is the

eady 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"

c___oo_,,o,Check Tire Pressure

Check Operator Presence and

T Interlock Systems if R Check for Loose Fasteners I_ 1_7 liS

T Lubrk_a,o_Chart I/

cA Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades _ll_e4

0 Check Battery Leve!

R Clean Battery and Terminals i/

Check Transaxle Cooling ll_ Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension tiiP's

Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension

Check Engine Oil Level _ I1_ i I_S

Change Engine Oil _,3

; Clean Air Screen

InspeCtMuffler/Spark Arrester I_

Replace Oil Filter (If equipped) I1_,=

N Clean Engine Cooling Fins

Replace Spark Plug _= IdP

Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge I¢_'= Replace Fuel Filter

1 -Chsngemoreoftenwhenoperm_ingundersheawk_dorinhlghamb_enttem_. 5-1fequippedwltha_ustableeystem, 2 - Se f_tce morn ofter, when o_era_ng kl didy or dus_y _ndttion_ 6 - Not mquirlKI # equipf:ed with maint_Pance-f_ee battery.

3 - If equipped with oi_fllb_r, ©hange od _ty 50 hours. 7,33ghten front axle pivot bolt to 35 ft.-Ib=, maximum. 4 - Repk_ce b_d_ more olten when mowklg In imndy •oil. DO not ov_rtighten.

" GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS.

LUBRICATION CHART

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

_FrontWheel

Beadng

Ze_

tractor. All adjustments in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manual

_Engine'

should be checked at least once each season•

• Once a year you should replace the

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

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

help your engine run better and last• longer.

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level.

• Check brake operation.

• Check tire pressure.

• Check operator presence and intedock systems for proper operation.

• Check for loose fasteners.

(])SAE 30 or 10w30 MOTOR OIL G_X_ENERALPURPOSE GREASE _REFER TO Maintenance =ENGINE" SECTION

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

Viscous lubricants will attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life of the self-lubdcat-

ing bearings. If you feel they must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.

•_) Spindle

Bearing Zerk

Zerk

Wheel

+ 39 hidden pages

Craftsman 917270851 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual