Craftsman 917270923 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

£RAFTSMI:INo

19.5 HP ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER AUTOMATIC

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.270923

. Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Repair Parts

d_fferently from previously budt engmesl Before you start the en-

This product has a low emiss!.on en.gine which operates

gine, read and understand this Owner's Manual,

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety

Rules and Instructionsbefore

For answers to your questions

about this product, Call:

1-800-659-5917

operating this equipment

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, II60179

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

Sears Craftsman Help Line

5 am - 5 pro, Mon- Sat

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

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

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

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

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

Maintenance Schedule ......................18

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

maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair or replace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in material or workmanship. Warranty service is available free of charge by taking your Craftsman riding equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty service is available but a trip charge will apply. This warranty applies only while this product is in the United States. This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, belts and oil filters.

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

thorns, stumps, or glass.

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, including but not limited to, damage caused by towing objects beyond the capability of the riding equipment, impacting

objects that bend the frame or crankshaft, or over speeding the engine.

• Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, including but not limited to, electrical and mechanical damage caused by improper storage, failure to use the proper grade and amount of engine oil, failure to keep the deck clear of flammable debris, or the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions con-

tained in the owner's manual.

• Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs caused by fuel determined to be contami- nated or oxidized (stale). In general, fuel should be used within thirty (30) days of its

purchase date.

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

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

battery will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge. Warranty service is available free of charge by taking your Craftsman riding equipment to your

nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty service is available but a trip charge

will apply. This warranty applies only while this product is in the United States. To locate the nearest sears service center or to schedule in-home warranty service,

simply contact sears at 1-800-4-my-home

This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights whicP may vary from state to state.

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

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

Storage ............................................... 2

Troubleshooting ................................. 3

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

Parts Ordering ..................... Back Cov_

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

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet

and throwing objects. Failure to observe

the following safety instructions could

result in serious injury or death. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all

instructions in the manual and on the machine before starting.

• Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the instructions, to operate

the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the blade.

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

anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless abso-

lutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.

• Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not point it at anyone.

Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher or the guard in place.

• Slow down before turning.

• Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and

remove keys before dismounting.

• Turn off blades when not mowing.

• Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging chute.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

• Do not operate the machine while

under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Watch for traffic when operating near or

crossing roadways.

• Use extra care when loading or

unloading the machine into a trailer or

truck.

• Data indicates that operators, age 60

years and above, are involved in a

large percentage of riding mower- related injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from

serious injury.

SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss- of-control and tipover accidents, which

can result in severe injury or death. All

slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.

DO:

• Mow up and down slopes, not across.

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

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

machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will not have to stop or shift

while on the slope.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommen- dations for wheel weights or counter-

weights to improve stability.

• Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments. These can change

the stability of the machine,

• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction.

• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

DO NOT:

• Do not turn on slopes unless neces-

sary, and then, turn slowly and gradual- ly downhill, if possible.

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The mower could

suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge

caves in.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause sliding.

• Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the ground.

• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.

CHILDREN Tragic accidents can occur if the operator

is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the

machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where

you last saw them.

• Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of another

responsible adult.

• Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.

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

• Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere

with safe machine operation.

• Never allow children to operate the machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind

corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

SERVICE

Use extra care in handling gasoline

and other fuels. They are flammable

and vapors are explosive.

Use only an approved container. Never remove gas cap or add fuel

with the engine running. Allow engine to cool before refueling. Do

not smoke. Never refuel the machine indoors.

Never store the machine or fuel container inside where there is an

open flame, such as a water heater.

• Never run a machine inside a closed area.

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

equipment in good condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel

spillage. Allow machine to cool before storing.

• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary,

before restarting.

• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running.

• Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and deterioration,

which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with manufacturer's recommended parts,

when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.

• Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as required.

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

anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers or children even with the blades off.

• Do not mow in reverse unless abso-

lutely necessary. Always look down

and behind before and while backing.

• Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere

with safe machine operation.

• Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of another

responsible adult.

• Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.

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

• Mow up and down slopes (15 ° Max),

not across.

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps.

Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.

• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the

blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

• If machine stops while going uphill,

disengage blades, shift into reverse

and back down slowly.

• Do not turn on slopes unless neces- sary, and then, turn slowly and gradual-

ly downhill, if possible.

_Look for this symbol to point out importantsafety precautions. It means

CAUTION!!!BECOMEAWARE!!!YOUR _FETY ISINVOLVED.

CAUTION: Inorder to preventacciden- tal startingwhen setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs always

disconnect sparkplug wire and place wire _l_ere it cannot contact spark plug.

CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill in

neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.

•0A,CAUTION: Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and comply

with specifications of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use common sense when towing. Operate only at the lowest possible speed when on a slope. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is dangerous. Tires can lose traction with

the ground and cause you to lose control _YwAOUr tractor.

RNING: 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

ANDTYPE: OIL TYPE

API-SF/SG/SH):

OIL CAPACITY:

SPARK PLUG:

(GAP: .030")

VALVE

ADJUSTMENT GROUND

SPEED (MPH):

TIRE

PRESSURE:

CHARGING SYSTEM:

BATTERY:

BLADE BOLT

TORQUE:

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase

of a Craftsman Tractor. It has been

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

ty and performance.

Should you experience any problem you

cannot easily remedy, please contact

your nearest authorized service center.

3.5 GALLONS UNLEADED

REGULAR

SAE 30

(ABOVE 32°F) SAE 5W-30

(BELOW 32°F)

3.0PINTS CHAMPION

RJ19LM OR J19LM

INTAKE: .004"-.006" EXHAUST: .007"-.009"

FORWARD: 5.5 REVERSE: 2.4

FRONT: 14 PSI REAR: 10 PSI

3AMPS BATTERY 5AMPS HEADLIGHTS

AMP/HR: 30 MIN. CCA: 240

CASE SIZE:U1R 27-35 FT. LBS

We have competent, well-trained techni- cians and the proper tools to service or

repair this tractor. Please read and retain this manual. The

instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor properly. Always

observe the "SAFETY RULES".

REPAIR AGREEMENT

A Sears Repair 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.

_t,WARNING: This tractor is equipped

with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush- covered or grass-covered land unless the

engine's exhaust system is equipped with

a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is

used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the 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 authorized service center (See REPAIR PARTS section of

this manual).

' L_ ' Steering Extension

Steering Sleeve Shaft Wheel

Adapter

Steering Wheel t

(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-16 x 1

Wheel

Insert

(_ (1) Lock

(1) Hex Bolt

5/16-18 x 1-1/4

(1) Large Flat _ (1)

Washer I1__1[t_1[1_1_1_1 ! Locknut

washer

3/8

5/16-18

Seat

(1) Shoulder

Bolt 5/16-18

(1) Washer

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

(1) Knob

Keys

(2) Keys

Video Cassette

F-3

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.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes you need

are listed below. (1) 9/16" wrench

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

drive ratchet

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

view, when you are in the operating

position (seated behind the steering wheel).

(1) Pliers

(1) Utility knife

(1) Tire pressure

gauge

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

• Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering wheel.

• Remove protective materials from tractor hood and grill.

IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any staples in skid that may puncture tires

where tractor is to roll off skid.

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

• Remove all accessible loose parts and

parts boxes from shipping carton.

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

• Check for any additional loose parts or

boxes and remove.

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND BOOT

• Slide extension shaft onto lower steering shaft. Align mounting holes in

extension and lower shafts and install

5/16 hex bolt and Iocknut, Tighten

securely.

• Place tabs of steering boot over tab slots in dash and push down to secure.

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

• Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing straight forward.

• Remove steering wheel adapter from steering wheel and slide adapter onto

steering shaft extension.

• Position steering wheel so cross bars are horizontal (left to right) and slide

inside boot and onto adapter.

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 battery for minimum of one

hour at 6-10 amps. (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance section of this manual for

charging instructions).

Label

INSTALLSEAT

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob.

• Remove adjustment knob and flat washer securing seat to cardboard packing and set aside for assembly of

seat to tractor.

• Pivot seat upward and remove from the cardboard packing. Remove the cardboard packing and discard.

• Place seat on seat pan and assemble shoulder bolt. Tighten shoulder bolt

securely.

• Assemble adjustment knob and flat washer loosely. Do not tighten.

• Lower seat into operating position and sit on seat.

• Slide seat until a comfortable position is reached which allows you to press

clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

• Get off seat without moving its adjusted position.

• Raise seat and tighten adjustment

knob securely.

Seat

Seat Pan

NOTE: You may now roll or drive you tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate

instruction below to remove the tractor from the skid.

TO ROLLTRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for location and

function of controls)

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

position.

• Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake pedal.

• Place freewheel control in freewheel- ing position to disengage transmission

(See "TO TRANSPORT" in the Opera- tion section of this manual).

• Roll tractor forward off skid.

• Remove banding holding discharge guard up against tractor.

TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section for location and

function of controls)

_,WARNING: Before starting, read, understand and follow all instructions in

the Operation section of this manual. Be sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be

sure the area in front of tractor is clear of other people and objects.

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

• Check engine oil level and fill fuel tank

with gasoline.

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

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

• Place motion control lever in neutral

(N) position.

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

position.

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

position.

• Release parking brake.

Shoulder

Bolt _ -_.

Flat

Adjustment Washer

Knob 8

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

• Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking brake and place motion control lever in

neutral position.

• Turn ignition key to "OFF" position.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were 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" section

of this manual.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS For best cutting results, mower housing

should be properly leveled. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF

ALL BELTS See the figures that are shown for

replacing motion and mower blade drive

belts in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual. Verify that the

belts are routed correctly.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM

After you learn how to operate your tractor, check to see that the brake is

properly adjusted. See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual.

INSTALL MULCHER PLATE

(If previously removed)

• Raise and hold deflector shield in

upright position.

• Place front of mulcher plate over front

of mower deck opening and slide into place, as shown.

• Hook front latch into hole on front of

mower deck.

• Hook rear latch into hole on back of

mower deck.

4_CAUTION: Do not remove deflector shield from mower. Raise and hold shield

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

Mulcher

Shield

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.

I/CHECKLIST BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY YOUR NEW TRACTOR, WE WISH TO

ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVE THE BEST PERFORMANCE AND SATISFACTION

FROM THIS QUALITY PRODUCT. PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST:

,/ All assembly instructions have been

completed.

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

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

,/Seat is adjusted comfortably and

tightened securely.

,I 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 HOWTO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY EXTRAATTENTION TO

THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS: ,I Engine oil is at proper level.

,/Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,

regular unleaded gasoline.

4' 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.

,I It is important to purge the transmissior

before operating your tractor for the fir_ time. Follow proper starting and transmission purging instructions (See

"TO START ENGINE" and "PURGE TRANSMISSION" in the Operation

section of this manual).

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

Learn and understand their meaning.

MA =,

BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

WARNING

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PF_ESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP t_

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING 8RAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT

LOCKED

LIGHT

r 'l R N H L

ATTACHMENT REVERSE

CLUTCH ENGAGED

'__(_) _r_ KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

ATTACHMENT

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

NEUTRAL HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

KNOWYOUR TRACTOR READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING

YOUR TRACTOR Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of

various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

Light Switch

Attachment Ignition Clutch Lever Switch

Ammeter . - --_-

" •- "- "- Lever

Choke Contro Plunger

Throttle

Clutch/ Brake Pedal

Free Wheel Control

• \

( ) Lift Lever

Height Adjustment

Indicator

Brake Lever

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

Institute.

AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or

discharging (-) of battery. ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER - Used

to engage the mower blades, or other attachments mounted to your tractor.

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to

raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck

or other attachments mounted to your tractor.

CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting a cold engine.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for

declutching and braking the tractor and starting the engine.

MOTION CONTROL LEVER - Selects the speed and direction of tractor.

FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengages transmission for pushing or slowly towing

the tractor with the engine off.

IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and stopping the engine.

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release attachment lift lever when changing its position.

LIGHT SWITCH - Turns the headlights on and off.

PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks clutch/ brake pedal into the brake position.

THROTTLE CONTROL - Used to control

engine speed.

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety

glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask over spectacles or standard safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch. When engine is running, any attempt by the operator to

leave the seat without first setting the parking brake will shut off the engine.

• Depress clutch/brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position and hold.

• Place parking brake lever in "EN- GAGED" position and release pressure

from clutch/brake pedal. Pedal should

remain in "BRAKE" position. Make sure parking brake will hold tractor

secure. Attachment Clutch Lever

Choke

Control _ ._

Control_ I '_i

cfut

Brake \

"Disengaged". Control

Position "Brake" Lever STOPPING Position

MOWER BLADES -

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

position.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive, depress clutch/ brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position.

• Move motion control lever to neutral (N) position.

IMPORTANT: The motion control lever does not return to neutral (N) position

when the clutch/brake pedal is de- pressed.

ENGINE -

• Move throttle control to slow position.

NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to

slow position and allowing engine to idle

before stopping may cause engine to

"backfire".

• Turn ignition key to "OFF" position and

remove key. Always remove key when leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized

use.

"Engaged" Position

"Disengaged"

Position

J Parking

Brake "Engaged"

....._Position

Motion

• 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.

_kCAUTION: Always stop tractor

completely, as described above, before leaving the operator's position; to empty

grass catcher, etc. TO USE THRO'I-rLE 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 disengage.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACK- WARD

The direction and speed of movement is

controlled by the motion control lever.

• Start tractor with motion control lever in neutral (N) position,

• Release parking brake and clutch/ brake pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever to desired position.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING

HEIGHT

The position of the attachment lift lever determines the cutting height.

• Grasp lift lever.

• Press plunger with thumb and move lever to desired position.

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

measured from the ground to the blade

tip with the engine not running.

These heights are approximate and may

vary depending upon soil conditions,

height of grass and types of grass being mowed.

• The average lawn should be cut to approximately 2-1/2 inches during the

cool season and to over 3 inches during hot months. For healthier and

better looking lawns, mow often and after moderate growth.

• For best cutting performance, grass over 6 inches in height should be

mowed twice. Make the first cut relatively high; the second to desired height.

TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS

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

height in operating position. Gauge wheels then keep the deck in proper

position to help prevent scalping in most terrain conditions.

• Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a flat level surface.

• Adjust mower to desired cutting height

(See "TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT" in the Operation section of

this manual).

• With mower in desired height of cut position, gauge wheels should be

assembled so they are slightly off the ground. Install gauge wheel in appro-

priate hole with shoulder bolt, 3/8 washer, and 3/8-16 Iocknut and tighten

securely.

• Repeat for opposite side installing

gauge wheel in same adjustment hole.

3/8-16

Locknut\

Gauge Wheel

Mounting Bracket

3/8

Gauge Wheel

Shoulder

Bolt

TO OPERATE MOWER

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch. Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat with the

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

• Select desired height of cut.

• Lower mower with attachment lift control.

• Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch control.

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

AUTION: Do not operate the mower

without either the entire grass catcher, on mowers so equipped, or the deflector

shield in place.

Attachment Clutch Lever "Engaged" Position

__-_ Lift

O' Lever High

.... Position

_Low

Position

"Disengaged_

Position --

Shield

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

_3AUTION: Do not drive up or down

hills with slopes greater than 15° and do not drive across any slope.

• Choose the slowest speed before

starting up or down hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on

hills.

• If slowing is necessary, move throttle

control lever to slower position.

• If stopping is absolutely necessary,

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

brake.

• Move motion control lever to neutral (N)

position.

IMPORTANT; The motion control lever does not return to neutral (N) position

when the clutch/brake pedal is de-

pressed.

• To restart movement, slowly release

parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever to

slowest setting.

• Make all turns slowly. TO TRANSPORT When pushing or towing your tractor, be

sure to disengage transmission by placing freewheel control in freewheeling

position. Free wheel control is located at the rear drawbar of tractor.

• Raise attachment lift to highest position with attachment lift control.

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

the disengaged position.

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

• To reengage transmission, reverse above procedure.

NOTE: To protect hood from damage when transporting your tractor on a truck

or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and

secured to tractor. Use an appropriate

means of tying hood to tractor (rope, cord, etc.).

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER

ATrACHMENTS

Tow only the attachments that are

recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your

tractor. Use common sense when towing. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is

dangerous. Tires can lose traction with the ground and cause you to lose control

of your tractor.

BEFORE STARTING THE ENIGNE CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

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

with summer weight oil.

• Check engine oil with tractor on level ground.

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

cap tight, wait for a few seconds,

remove and read oil level. If neces-

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

• For cold weather operation you should change oil for easier starting (See "OIL

VISCOSITY CHART" in the Mainte-

nance section of this manual).

• To change engine oil, see the Mainte-

nance section in this manual.

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

temperatures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh,

clean winter grade gasoline to help insure 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 engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or

longer. Drain the gas tank, start the

engine and let it run until the fuel lines

and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage Instructions for

additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel

tank or permanent damage may occur. _,CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas 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

parking brake.

• Place motion control lever in neutral

(N) position.

• Move attachment clutch to "DISEN-

GAGED" position.

• Move throttle control to fast position

• Pull choke control out for a cold engine start attempt. For a warm engine start attempt the choke control may not be

needed.

NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and cold starting procedures below.

• Insert key into ignition and turn key clockwise to "START" position and release key as soon as engine starts.

Do not run starter continuously for more

than fifteen seconds per minute. If the engine does not start after several

attempts, push choke control in, wait a

few minutes and try again. If engine still

does not start, pull the choke control out and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50 ° F and above)

• When engine starts, slowly push choke control in until the engine begins to run

smoothly. If the engine starts to run roughly, pull the choke control out slightly for a few seconds and then continue to push the control in slowly.

• The attachments and ground drive can now be used. If the engine does not accept the load, restart the engine and allow it to warm up for one minute

using the choke as described above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING (50 ° F and

below)

• When engine starts, slowly push choke control in until the engine begins to run smoothly. Continue to push the choke control in small steps allowing the engine to accept small changes in

speed and load, until the choke control is fully in. If the engine starts to run

roughly, pull the choke control out slightly for a few seconds and then continue to push the control in slowly. This may require an engine warm-up

period from several seconds to several

minutes, depending on the tempera-

ture.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP

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

as follows:

• Be sure the tractor is on level ground.

• Place the motion control lever in neutral. Release the parking brake

and let the clutch/brake slowly return to operating position.

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

engine warm up period.

• The attachments can be used during the engine warm-up period after the

transmission has been warmed up and may require the choke control be

pulled out slightly.

NOTE: If at a high altitude (above 3000 feet) or in cold temperatures (below 32 F)

the carburetor fuel mixture may need to

be adjusted for best engine performance. See "TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

PURGE TRANSMISSION

_kCAUTION: Never engage or disen-

gage rreewneel lever wn,e the engine is

running.

To ensure proper operation and perfor-

mance, it is recommended that the transmission be purged before operating tractor for the first time. This procedure wil

remove any trapped air inside the

transmission which may have developed

during shipping of your tractor.

IMPORTANT; Should your transmission

require removal for service or replace- ment, it should be purged after reinstalla- tion before operating the tractor.

• Place tractor safely on level surface

with engine off and parking brake set.

• Disengage transmission by placing freewheel control in freewheeling

position (See "TO TRANSPORT" in this section of manual).

• Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine.

After the engine is running, move throttle control to slow position. With

motion control lever in neutral (N) position, slowly disengage clutch/brake

pedal.

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

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

Repeat this procedure three (3) times.

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

is being removed from hydraulic drive system.

• Move motion control lever to neutral (N) position. Shut- off engine and set

parking brake.

• Engage transmission by placing freewheel control in driving position

(See "TO TRANSPORT" in this section of manual).

• Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine.

After the engine is running, move

throttle control to half (1/2) speed. With

motion control lever in neutral (N) position, slowly disengage clutch/brake

pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever forward, after the tractor moves

approximately five (5) feet, slowly move

motion control lever to reverse position. After the tractor moves approximately five (5) feet return the motion control

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

lever three (3) times.

• Your tractor is now purged and now

ready for normal operation.

MOWING TIPS

• Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing performance. See "TO

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

manual.

• The left hand side of mower should be used for trimming.

• Drive so that clippings are discharged onto the area that has been cut. Have

the cut area to the right of the tractor, This will result in a more even distribu-

tion of clippings and more uniform

cutting.

• When mowing large areas, start by turning to the right so that clippings will discharge away from shrubs, fences,

driveways, etc. After one or two rounds, mow in the opposite direction

making left hand turns until finished.

• If grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to reduce load and

possible fire hazard from dried clip- pings. Make first cut relatively high; the

second to the desired height.

• Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet

grass will plug mower and leave undesirable clumps. Allow grass to dry

before mowing.

• Always operate engine at full throttle

when mowing to assure better mowing

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

mower cutting performance as well as

the quality of cut desired.

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

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-up grass and trash. Clean after each use.

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

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

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

Always mulch with your highest engine

(blade) speed as this will provide the

best recutting action of the blades.

• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet grass tends to form clumps and interferes with the mulching action.

The best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon. At this time the grass

has dried and the newly cut area will

not be exposed to the direct sun.

• For best results, adjust the mower cutting height so that the mower cuts of 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 perpendicu. lar 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.

F,,L,NOATES

REGULAR SERVICE

Check Tire Pressure Check Operator Presence and

T Interlock Systems If

R Check for Loose Fasteners if 1##7

Sha pen Rep,oceMowerBlades

T Lubrication Chart

0 Check Battery Level _s R Clean Battery and Terminals _

v'Check Transaxle Cooling

Adjust Blade Be_t(s) Tension _s

Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension V'_

Check Engine Oii Level V P I1_

Change Engine Oil II1_1 213 V w

E CleanAirFi'ter _Vf_

N Clean Air Screen

Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester V p Replace Oil Filter (If equipped) ._z

N Clean Engine Cooling Fins

Replace Spark Plug if

Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge V'2 Replace Fuel Filter V p

1 - Change more ofte_ when operating under a heavy load or irl high ambient temperatures. S - If equipped with adjustable system.

2 - Sewice more oft ei'_when operating in dirty or dusty conditions, 6 - Not required if 0quipped with maintenance free batter

3 - If equipped wi_ oil filter, change off every 50 hours. 7 o Tighten front axle pivot bog to 35 ft.-Ibs, maximum, 4 - Replace blades more oftetl when mowing in sandy _oil Do r_otovertighte_,

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.

_Front Wheel

Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to properly maintain your

tractor. All adjustments in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual

_Er

should be checked at least once each season.

• Once a year you should replace the spark plug, clean or replace air filter,

and check blades and belts for wear. A new spark plug and clean air filter

assure proper air-fuel mixture and help your engine run better and last longer.

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level.

• Check brake operation.

• Check tire pressure.

• Check operator presence and

interlock systems for proper operation.

• Check for loose fasteners.

(_General Purpose 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-lubricating bearings. If you feel

they must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.

V'2

LUBRICATION CHART

Spindle-

Zerk Zerk

Bearing

Zerk

1eel Zerk

+ 42 hidden pages

Craftsman 917270923 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual