Craftsman 917271111 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

£RRFTXMRNo

16.5 HP ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER 6 SPEED TRANSAXL_

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.271111

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equip- ment.

Foranswersto yourquestions

aboutthisproduct, Call:

1-800-659-5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line 5 am - 5 pm,Mon - Sat

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

Warranty:'..:._,;.....;: ...... _.......... ::;..._.. ....... 2

Safety Rules_, ............. ........... ......:_:........ 2

Product.Specifications .. ,i_.......... :.:........ 5

Assembly ...... ;...... ;......:.....÷.....,......_ ....... 8

Operation ...... _...... :............ J...... _.....;.....12

Maintenance Scheduie......:......i..... "!''''"18

Maintenance ......................................... 18

Service and Adjustments ...................... 22

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

Troubleshooting .................................... 29

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

Parts Ordedng ....................... Back Cover

,MITEDTwO VARRA TYbNCRA SMANRIDINaEQUIPMENT

For two (2) years from the date!of pbrchase, if this Craftsman Rtdmg Equipment is main-

tained, lubdcated &nd |une_l up!according to the instructions n the owner's manual,

Sears will repair o}" replace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in matedal or

workmanship, This Warranty does not cover:

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

• Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails, thorns, stumps, or glass.

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, negligence, improper storage or 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 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 dding equip-

ment to your nearest Sears Service Center. (In-home warranty service 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 dghts, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to

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

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 isclear 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 tuming.

• Never leave a running machine unat-

tended. Always turn off blades, set park- ing brake, stop engine, and remove

keys before dismounting.

• Turnoffbladeswhennotmowing.

• 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 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 stra_i=ghtdown the slope.

DO NOT:

• Donottumonslopesunlessnecessary, 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 caves in.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced

traction-could cause sliding.

• Do nottry 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 tum 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 en-

gine to cool before refueling. Do not smoke.

Never refuelthe machine indoors. Never store the machine or fuel

container insidewhere 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 belts, 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 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.

• 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.

A.Look for this symbolto_point out impor-

tant safety precautions. It means CAU- TION!!f BECOME AWARE!!! YOUR SAFE-

TY IS INVOLVED.

ACAUTION: 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.

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

• Remove obstacles such as recks, 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 nottum on slopes unless necessary,

and then, turn slowly and gradually

downhill, if possible.

_,WARNING- The engine exhaust from

this productcontains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer,

birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

3ASOUNE 1.25 GALLONS

CAPACITY AND TYPE: UNLEADED

REGULAR

OIL TYPE SAE 10W-30

API-SF/SG/SH): (above 32°F)

SAE 5W-30

(below 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: W/RLTER: 4.0 RNTS

WiO RLTER: 3.5 RNTS

;PARK PLUG: Champion RC12YC GAP: .040")

VALVE

CLEARANCE: NOT ADJUSTABLE GROUND SPEED FORWARD:

(MPH): 1sT 1.1

2ND 1.4 3RD 2.3

4TM 3.5

5TM 4.5

6TM 6.0

REVERSE: 1.7

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

REAR: 10 PSI

CHARGING SYSTEM: t5AMPS @ 3600 RPM

BA'FrERY: AMP/RR: 30

MIN. CCA: 240 CASE SIZE: UtR

BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT. LBS. TORQUE:

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

designed, engineered and manufactured

to give you the best possible 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.

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 isavail- able on thisproduct. 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 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 through

your nearest Sears Authorized Service Center (See REPAIR PARTS section of

this manual).

Parts Bag contents shown full size

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

(1) Lockwasher 3/8

(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-16 x 1

(1) Large FlatWasher

(1) Knob

(2) Washers

3/16 x 3/4x 16 Gauge

(1) Locknut 5/16-18

(1) Shoulder

Bolt 5/16-18

(1) Washer

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

_#10 x 5/8

(2) Weld

Nuts #10 _ (2) Lock

Washers #10

Partspackedseparatelyincarton

Manual

(2) Shoulder

Bolts

Seat

Video

Mulcher

Plate

Cassette

I' ii

Parts Bag

Steedng

Boot

Steering

Wheel

_(2) Center-

lockNuts

SlopeSheet

(2) Washers 3/8 x 7/8 x 14 Gauge

Parts Bag contents not shown full size

<_ _ Steering

(2) Keys Insert

___ I I I

(2) Latch Hook Steering I_

Assemblies Extension II

, _, Shaft iIM

(2) Gauge Steering Wheel Iol Wheels Adapter I 1

Wheel

Yournewtractorhasbeenassembledatthefactory 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 socketwrench set will make assembly

easier. Standard wrench sizes you need

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

(1) Utility knife

(2) 1/2" wrench (1)Pliers

(1) 3/4" Socket w/ drive rachet

(1) Phillips Screw- driver

(1) Tire pressure gauge

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).

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 comers of shipping carton, and

lay panels flat.

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

• Assemble large fiat 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

Hox o,

_.- 3/8 Lockwasher

vars, 2'a'

Stee_teering

Wheel

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 Iocknut. Tighten securely.

IMPORTANT: Tighten bolt and nut secure- ly to 18-22 ft. Ibs. torque.

• Place tabs of steering beet 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 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 gearshift lever in neutral (N) posi- tion.

• Roll tractor forward off skid.

• Remove banding holding discharge guard u'p against tractor.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR CHECKBATTERY

• Liftseatpanto raisedpositionand open

battery box door.

• 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

MAINTENANCE section of this manual for charging instructions).

Battery ,Label Box Door

Terminal

INSTALL SEAT Adjustseat before tighteningadjustment

knob.

• Remove cardboard packing on seat pan.

• Place seat on seat pan and assemble

shoulder bolt.Tighten shoulderbolt securely.

• Assemble adjustment knoband flat washer loosely.Do not tighten.

• Lower seat intooperating positionand sit on seat.

• Slide seat untila comfortable position is

reached which allowsyou to press

clutch/brake pedal allthe way down.

• Get off seat withoutmoving itsadjusted position.

• Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely.

Seat

Seat Pan

Shoulder

Bolt

AdjustmentKnob

. Flat Washer

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tireson your tractor were ovednflated

at the factory for shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is important for best cuttingperformance.

• 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

Service 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 mut-

ed correctly. CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM

After you learn how to operate your trac- tor, check to see that the brake is properly

adjusted. See ='1"OADJUST BRAKE" in

the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

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 holeOn back of

mower deck.

Weld Nut From Hook Points The Top Down

Lock

Weld Washer

Latch Latch

Washer

Mulcher

Plate

Deflector Shield

_,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.

'_V.l. Screw

Lock Washer

Washer

Latch Hooks

ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELS TO MOWER DECK

The gauge wheels are designed to keep the mower deck in proper position when

operating mower. Be sure they are proper-

lyadjusted to ensure optimum mower per-

formance.

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

• Adjust mower to desired cuttingheight

(See =TOADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT" in the Operation section of this

manual).

• With mower in desired height ofcut 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 Iocknutand tighten securely.

• Repeat for opposite side installing

gauge wheel in same adjustment hole.

Gauge Wheel

Bracket

3/8-16 Locknut'

3/8-16 Washer

Wheel

,/CHECKLIST

BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY

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

BEST PERFORMANCE AND SATISFAC-

TION FROM THIS QUALITY PRODUCT.

Please review the following checklist: ,[ All assembly instructions have been

completed.

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

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

,/Seat is adjusted comfortably and tight-

ened securely.

,/All tires are properly inflated. (For ship-

ping purposes, the tires were overinflat- ed at the factory).

,/Be sure mower deck is properly leveled

side-to-side/front-to-rear for best cutting

results. _ires 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 propedy clamped.

WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY EXTRAA'I-I-ENTION TO

THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:

,/Engine oil is at proper level.

,/Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, regu-

lar 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.

These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literaturesupplied withthe product.

Learn and understand their meaning.

BAI-rERY CAUTION OR

WARNING

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT

REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

OIL PRESSURE

LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

LIGHT

PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT

LOCKED

R N H L

ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE

CLUTCH ENGAGED

ATTACHMENT

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR READTHISOWNER'SMANUALANDSAFETYRULESBEFOREOPERATINGYOUR

TRACTOR

Comparetheillustrationswithyourtractortofamiliarizeyourselfwiththelocationsof

variouscontrolsandadjustments.Savethismanualfor future reference.

Light Switch

Attachment Ignition Clutch Lever Switch

Throttle/Choke

Control

Clutch/Brake Control

Position

LiftLever Plunger

Attachment Lift Lever

Height

Adjustment

Indicator

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American

National Standards Institute.

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

ments mounted to your tl"actor. LIGHT SWITCH: Turns the headlights on

and off. THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL: Used to

control engine speed.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Used for

declutching and braking the tractor and starting the engine.

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB: Used to

adjust the mower cutting height.

Parking Brake

Gearshift

Lever

GEARSHIFT LEVER: Selects the speed and direction of the tractor.

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Used tO

raise and 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

stopping the engine.

AMMETER: Indicates battery charging (+) or discharging (-). PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutch/brake

into the brake position.

Theoperationofanytractorcanresultinforeignobjectsthrownintothe eyes,whichcanresultinsevereeyedamage.Alwayswearsafetyglasses oreyeshieldswhileoperatingyourtractoror performinganyadjustmentsor repairs.Werecommendawidevisionsafetymaskover spectacles,or standardsafetyglasses.

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 the seat withoutfirst setting the paddngbrake 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.

Throttle/Choke Attachment Clutch Conb'ol Position

"Brake" ', Perking Brake Position

Pedal "Ddve" --- =Dise_jaged -'_'_ Position Position

STOPPING MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades, move attach-

ment clutch lever to "DISENGAGED" position.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stol_ ground drive, depress clutch/brake pedal into full =BRAKE"

position.

• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N) posi- tion.

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

Lever "Engaged"

=Disengaged"

Position

Gear Shift Lever

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 run-

ning, hot engine exhaust gases may cause =browning" of grass. To eliminate

this possibility, always stop engine when stopping tractor on grass areas.

_, CAUTION: Always stop tractor com-

pletely, as described above, before leav- ing the operator's position; to empty grass

catcher, etc. THROTTLE CONTROL

Always operate engine at full throttle.

• Operating engine at less than full throt-

tle reduces the battery charging rate.

• Full throttle offers the best bagging and mower performance.

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 posi- tion.

• 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 (0) to raise cutting height.

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

The cutting height range is approximately

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

from the ground to the blade tip with the engine not running. These heights are 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 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 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 - disengage

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" Position

"Disengaged"

_ 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 start-

ing 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 posi- tion and engage parking brake.

Attachment Lift Lever High Position

Low Position

3uard

• Move gearshift lever to 1stgear. Be

sure you have allowed room for tractor to rollslightlyas you restart movement.

° To restart movement, slowlyrelease

parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

• Make all turnsslowly.

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.). TOWING CARTS AND OTHER

ATTACHMENTS

Tow only the attachments that are recom-

mended by and complywith 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 controlof 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.

• Unthread and remove oil fill cap/dip- stick; wipe oil off. Reinsert the dipstick

into the tube and rest oil fill cap on the

tube. Do not thread the cap onto the tube. Remove and read oil level. If nec-

essary, 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 Customer Responsibilities section of this manual).

• To change engine oil, see the Customer

Responsibilities section in this manual.

ADDGASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will

increase carbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce valve life). Do not

mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30

days to assure fuel freshness.

IMPORTANT: When operating in tempera-

tures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to help insure good

,_dwAweather starting.

RNING: 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 information. Never use engine or carbure-

tor cleaner products in the fuel tank or per-

_lanent 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.

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

• Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) posi-

tion. :,

,; Move attachment clutch to "DISEN-

GAGED" position.

• Move throttle control to choke position.

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

• Insert key into ignition and tum 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, move throttle control to fast position, wait a few minutes and try

again. If engine still does not start, move the throttle control back to the

choke position and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50 ° F

ANDABOVE)

• When engine starts, move the throttle

control to the fast position.

• 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, allow engine to run with the throttle control in the choke

position until the engine runs roughly, then move throttle control to fast posi- tion. This may require an engine warm- up period from several seconds to sev- eral minutes, depending on the temper-

ature.

• The attachments can also be used dur- ing the engine warm-up period.

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 "1"O ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the Service and Adjustments section of this

manual.

MOWINGTIPS

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

• 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 fight 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 tum-

ing to the right so that clippings will dis- charge away from shrubs, fences, drive-

ways, 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 possi- ble fire hazard from dried clippings. Make first cut relatively high; the second to the desired height.

• Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet grass will plug mower and leave unde-

sirable clumps. Allow grass to dry 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 clipping_l"0any times and

reduce them in si_e 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.

FILL IN DATES _€,_ _

REGULARSERVICE ,_Y_,_P_CZ_._d_/_'_SERVICE DATES

Check Brake Opera,on _ _

Check Tire Pressure

Check Operator Presence and

T Interlock Systems V'

R Checkf_ LooseFastenere ll_ II_7 I_

Shar_nfftep_ce Mower Blades

Lubrication Chart V'

oT Check Batter/Level

R Clean Battery end Terminals I_

Check Transaxle Cooling V w

Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension li_s

Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension I_s

Check Engine Oil Level V' V' Change Engine Oil II_I_2,3 li_

cleanAi Fi.r

Clean Air Screen

IG Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester

Clean Engine Cooling Fins

N Replace Oil Filter (if equipped) _:

Replace Spark Plug 14# Replace Air Filter Paper Car_idge I1_2

Replace Fuel Filter

1 - Change rno_ oflen when operating undM a heavy load o5 in h_h aw,_erd tempera_e$. 5 - If equ_0p_d with adjustable system.

2 ° Se_;ce more often when operating in dkly or dusty conditions. 6 - Not requt;ed if equipped with maintermnce-_-ee batterl. 3 - If equipped with oil filt_, char4;e oil _efy 50 hours. 7 - Tighten front axle pivot bolt to 35 fL-Ibs, meximum.

4 - _e hi=des morn often when n_wing In sandy =o#. Do not over_hten.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

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

abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, operator must maintain

tractor as instructed in this manual. Some adjustments will need to be made periodi-

cally to properly maintain your tractor. All adjustments in the Service and Adjustments.section of this manual should

be checked at least once each season.

• Once a year you should r-gplace 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.

• Checktire pressure.

• Check operator presence and interlock

systems for proper operation.

• Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION CHART

Zerk

Front

O Front Wheel Wheel BearingZerk Bearing

Zerk

O Attachment : Clutch

Pivot(s)

T-" Shift

.... PivotS

O SAE 30 or 10w30 Motor OIL

@General Purpose Grease

O Referto Maintenance =Engine" Section

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the pivot

points which have special nylon bear-ings. Viscous lubricants will attract dust and dirt

that will shorten the life of the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel they must be lubricated,

use only a dry, powdered graphite type lubri-

cant sparingly.

+ 42 hidden pages

Craftsman 917271111 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual