Craftsman 917.271121 User Manual

Owner's Manual

CRAFTSMAN"

16.5 HP

ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER AUTOMATIC

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.271121

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this equip-

ment.

Foranswers to yourquestions

aboutthis product,Call:

1-800-659-5917

Sears Crahsmn Help Une 5 am-5 pro, Mon - Sat

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

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

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

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

Assembly........................... _.................... 8

_ ._Qpgr_ion,;: ........_......;..................... .......12

Maintenance Schedule ......................... 19

Maintenance ......................................... 19

Service and Adjustments...................... 23

Storage................................................. 29

Troubleshooting.................................... 30

Repair Parts ................................... ......34

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

EtMtTE_-"FWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT

._For _o_(.2.)years. from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is main-

tained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructionsin the owner's manual,

._Searswill-repair-or.replace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective inmaterial or

workmanship.

--This Warrantydoes'not cover:.

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

• Tire replacement or repaircaused by puncturesfrom outsideobjects, such as nails,

thoms, stumps, or glass.

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, negligence, improperstorage or acci-

dent or the failure to maintain the equipment accordingto 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 batteryat no charge. In-home warranty service on your Craftsman ridingequipment isavailable at nocharge for 30 days from the date of purchase. Please contact your nearest servicecenter. After 30 days fromthe date of purchase, warranty service is available by takingyour Craftsman dding equip- ment to your nearest Sears Service Center. (In-home warranty service will still beavail-

able after 30 days from the date of purchase but a standard tripcharge willapply). 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 rightswhich may vary from state to

state.

Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman 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 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 lookdown and behind before and while backing.

• Be aware ofthe mower discharge direc-

tion and do not point it at anyone. Do

notoperate the mower without either

the entire grasscatcher or the guard in place.

• Slow downbefore tuming.

• Never leave a running machine unat-

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

keys before dismounting.

•Tum offblades when not mowing.

• Stop engine before removing grass

catcher or uncloggingchute.

• Mow only in daylight orgood artificial

light. . .

• Do not operate the machine wni e unaer

the influence of alcoholor 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 withgrass 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.

• Avoidstarting or stopping on a slope. If

tiros lose traction, disengage the blades

and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

DONOT:

• Donotturnonslopesunlessnecessary, and then, turn slowly arid gradually

downhill, if possible.

• Do notmow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The mower could sud-

denly turn over if a wheel is over the edge Of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge

caves in.

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

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

• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.

CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator

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

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 cam/children. They may fall off

and be senously 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 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 equ=p- ment in good condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices.

Check their proper operation rogulady.

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

spillage.Allow machine to cool before storing.

• Stop and inspectthe equipment ifyou 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 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 lookdown and behind before and whilebacking.

@@@@@

• Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously injuredor interferewith safe machine operation.

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

responsible adult.

• Be alert andturn 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.

,A Look for this symbol to point out impor- tant safety precautions. It means CAU-

TIONif! BECOME AWARE!!! YOUR SAFE- TY IS INVOLVED.

,_CAU'_'I;?N: In order to prevent acciden-

tal startingwhen settingup, transporting, adjusting or making repairs always discon- nect spark plug wire and=place wire where

it cannot contact spark plug=".

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

• Donottumonslopesunlessnecessary,

and then, tum slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.

_.WARNING: The engine exhaust from .

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

birthdefects, or other reproductive harm.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE 1.25 GALLONS CAPACITY UNLEADED

AND TYPE: REGULAR OIL TYPE SAE 10W-30

_.PI-SF/SG/SH): (above 32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (below 32°1=)

OIL CAPACITY: W/FILTER: 4.0 PINTS

W/O FILTER: 3.5 PINTS

SPARK PLUG: Champion RC12YC

3AP: .040")

GROUND SPEED FORWARD: 0- 5,5

_IPH): REVERSE: 0 - 2.4

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

REAR: 10 PSi

CHARGING

SYSTEM: 15AMPS @ 3600RPM

'BATTERY: AMP/HR: 30

MIN. CCA: 240

CASE SIZE: UIR

BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT. LBS.

TORQUE:

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase ofa 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 instructionswill enable you to assemble

and maintain your tractor properly.Always observe the "SAFETy RULES".

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT A Sears Maintenance Agreement is avail-

able on this product. Contact your nearest Sears store for details.

CUSTOMER RESPONSlBILmES

• 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 an'ester 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) Large Flat Washer

(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-16 x I

(1) Lockwasher

3/8

(1) Shoulder

Bolt

5/16-18

(1) Hex Bolt

5/16-18x 1-1/4

(1) Locknut

5/16-18

(1) Knob

(1) Washer

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

PARTS BAG CONTENTS SHOWN FULL SIZE

#10 X5/8 Washers #10

(_ (2) Screws _ (2) Lock

+w+++

#10 12)Washers

3/16 x3/4 x 16 Gauge

Parts packet separately in carton

Seat

Mulcher _/,

Plate@

Steermg Whee_

; Steering

Boot

Manual

Video

Cassette

Parts Bag

i I

i i

Parts Bag contentsnot shown full size

(2) Shoulder x 718x 14 Ga.

B°lts (2) Ce_nterl°ck _Nuts

._ (2) Gauge Wheels

Steedng Wheel

Adapter

Steering (2) Keys

Wheel Insert

I I

Slope Sheet

(_ (2) Washers 3/8

U (2) Latch Hook

Assemblies

Steering

Extension

: Shaft

Yournewtractorhasbeenassembled at the factory with exception of those parts left

unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools

as necessary to insure proper tightness. Review the video cassette before you begin. TOOLS REQUIRED FOR

ASSEMBLY A socket wrench set will make assembly

easier. Standard wrench sizes you need are listed below.

(1) 9/16" wrench (1) 3/4" Socket w/ (1)Pliers drive rachet

(2) 1/2" wrench (1) Phillips Screw- (1) Utility knife 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.

washer, 3/8 hex bolt and tighten securely.

• Snap steedng wheel insert into center

of steering wheel.

• Remove protective materials from trac- tor hood and gdll.

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

where tractor is to roll off skid.

BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND

BOOT

• Slide e_.',__sion 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 _olt and nut secure- ly to 18-22 ft. Ibs. torque.

• Place tabs of steedng 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 steedng 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.

• Assemble large fiat washer, 3/8 lock

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

function of controls)

• Press lift lever plunger and raise attach-

ment lift lever to its highest position.

• Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake pedal.

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

section of this manual).

• Roll tractor forward off skid.

• Remove banding holding discharge

guard up against tractor.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR CHECK BA'I-rERY

• Lift seat pan to raised position and open battery box door.

• Ifthis battery is put into service after

month and year indicated on label (label located between terminals) charge bat- tery for minimum of one hourat 6-10

amps. (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance section of this manual for charging instructions).

Label

Terminal

INSTALL SEAT

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob.

• Remove cardboard packing on seat pan.

• Place seat on seat pan and assemble shoulder bolt. "13ghtenshoulder 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

Shoulder Bolt

Rat Washer

AdjustmentKnob

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE The tires onyour tractorwere overinflated

at the factory for shippingpurposes.

Correct tire pressure is importantfor best cutting performance.

° Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in

=PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" on page

5 of this manual.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS For best cutting results, mower housing

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

correctly.

CHECKBRAKESYSTEM Afteryoulearnhowto operateyourtrac-

tor,checktoseethatthebrakeis properly adjusted.See=TO ADJUST 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 hole on back of

mower deck.

A, CAUTION: Do not remove discharge

guard from mower. Raise and hold guard when attaching mulcher plate and allow it to rest on plate while in operation. TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR

DISCHARGING Simply remove mulcher plate and store in

a safe place. Your mower is now ready for discharging or installation of optional

grass catcher accessory. NOTE: It is not necessary to change

blades. The mulcher blades are designed for discharging and bagging also.

Weld Nut From The Top

Lock

Weld Washer

Latch

Washer

Mulcher ',t,,1. Screw

Plate

Deflector

Shield

Hook Points Down

Latch

Lock Washer

Washer

Latch Hooks

ASSEMBLE GAUGE WHEELS TO

MOWER DECK

The gauge wheels are designed to keep the mower deck inproper positionwhen

operating mower. Be sure they are proper-

ly adjusted to ensure optimum mower per- tormance.

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

• Adjust mower to desired cuttingheight (See "TO ADJUST MOWER CU'I-I'ING HEIGHT" inthe Operation section of this manual),

• With mower indesired height of cut po- sition, gauge wheels shouldbe assem-

bled so they are slightlyoff the ground.

Install gauge wheel in appropriate hole

with shoutder bolt, 3/8 washer, and 3/8-

16 Iocknutand tighten securely.

• Repeat for opposite side installing gauge wheel in same adjustment hole.

Gauge Wheel

Mounting_Bracket\\

3/8"16:°_:n_ het_ _ a_uge_WW_Wh_/e°_lder B°lt

VCHECKUST

PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING

CHECKLIST: i/ All assembly instructionshave been

completed.

v' No remaining loose parts in carton. v' Battery is propedy prepared and

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

v' Seat is adjusted comfortablyand

tightened'securely.

i/ All tires are propedy inflated. (For

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

V' Be sure mower deck isproperly leveled

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

results. (Tires must be properly inflated

for leveling).

!/ Check mower and drive belts. Be sure

they are routed propedy around pulleys

and insideall belt keepers.

v' Check wiring. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are properly clamped.

v' Before ddving tractor,be sure free-

wheel control is in drive position.

WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR, PAY EXTRAATTENTION TO

THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:

/ Engine oil is at proper level. / Fuel tank is filledwith fresh, clean,

regular unleaded gasoline.

,/ Become familiar with all controls - their

locationand function. Operate them before you start the engine.

4" Be sure brake system is in safe operat-

ing condition.

•/ It is important to purge the transmission

before operating your tractor for the first time. Follow proper starting and

transmission purging instructions(See

"TO START ENGINE" and "PURGE

TRANSMISSION" in the Operation

section of this manual).

Thesesymbolsmayappearonyourtractororin literaturesuppliedwiththeproduct. Learnandunderstandtheirmeaning.

BATTERY CAUTION OR

WARNING

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT

REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

OIL PRESSURE

LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

LIGHT

LOCKED

R N H L

ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE

CLUTCH ENGAGED

• ATTACHMENT KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

FREEWHEEL

(AutomaticModelsonly)

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR

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

TRACTOR •

Compare the illustrationswith your tractor to familiarize yourself withthe locations of vadous controls and adjustments. Save this manual for futurereference.

Ught Switch

Attachment Ignition Clutch Lever Switch

Ammeter

Throttle/Choke

Control

Clutch/Brake Control

Height

Adjustment

Indicator

Position

Lift Lever Plunger

Attachment Uft Lever

Parking Brake

Freewheel Control

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American

National Standards Institute.

ATrACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Used to

engage the mower blades, or other attach- ments mounted to your-,_raq_or.

LIGHT SWITCH: Tums 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.

FREEWHEEL CONTROL: Disengages

transmission for pushing or slowly towing the tractor with the engine off.

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB: Used to adjust the mower cutting height.

Motion Control Lever

MOTION CONTROL 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 lilt lever when changing its position. IGNITION SWITCH: Used for starting and

stopping the engine. AMMETER: Indicates battery charging (+) or discharging (-).

PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutch/brake into the brake position.

The operation of any tractor can result in foreignobjects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage, Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating yourtractor orperforming any adjustments or

repairs. We recommend a widevision safety mask over spectacles, or stan- dard safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR Yourtractor is equipped with an operator

presence sensing switch. When engine is running, any attempt by the operator to

leave the seat withoutfirst setting the parkingbrake 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 perking brake will hold tractor secure.

Attachment Clutch

Throttle/Choke Lever "Engaged" Control Position

=Disengaged"

"Brake" ', Parking Brake Position

J ",

Pedal =Drive" "Disengaged" Control Position Position Lever

STOPPING MOWER BLADES -

•_To stop mower blades, move attach- ment clutch Lev_ to =DISENGAGED"

position.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground ddve, depress

clutch/brake pedal into full "BRAKE" po- sition.

• Move motion control lever to neutral (N)

position.

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

when the clutch/Drake pedal is depressed.

ENGINE -

• Move throttle control to slow position.

Position

Motion

NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to slow position and allowing engine to idle

before stopping may cause engine to

=backfire'.

• Turn ignitionkey to "OFP position and

remove key. Always remove keywhen 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 cedain 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

_pping tractor on grass areas.

CAUTION. Always stop tractor com- pletely, as described above, before leaving the operator's position, to empty grass

catcher, etc.

THROTTLE CONTROL

Always operate engine at full throttle.

• Operating engine at less than full throt- 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 motion control lever.

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

• Release parking brake and clutch/brake

pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever to

desired position.

NOTE: The effort to move the motion con-.

trel lever will reduce alter the first few

hours of use. This is normal. TO ADJUST MOWER CU'I-FING HEIGHT The cutting height is control!ed by turning

the height adjustment knob m desired

direction.

• Tum knob clockwise (G) to raise cutting

height.

•Tum knob counterclockwise (,_)to

lower cuttin_l height.

The cutting hezght 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 he=ghts are ap-

proximateandmayvarydependingupon soilconditions,heightof grassandtypes

of grassbeingmowed.

• 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 oft the engine.

• Select desired height of cut.

• Lower mower with attachment lift con-

trol.

• Start mower blades by engaging attach-

ment clutch control.

• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disen-

,_age 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"

Attachment Lift Lever High Position

• Ifstopping is absolutely necessary, push clutch/brake pedal quicklyto brake posi- tion and engage parking brake.

• Move motion control lever to neutral (N)

position.

IMPORTANT: The motion control lever does not retum to neutral (N) position when the clutch/brake pedal is depressed.

• To restart movement, slowly release

parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

• Slowly move motioncontrol lever to

slowest setting.

• Make all turnsslowly. TO TRANSPORT

When pushing or towing your tractor, be sure to disengage transmissionby placing freewheel control infreewheeling position.

Freewheel control is located at the rear

drawbar of tractor.

• Raise attachment liftto highest position

with attachment lift control.

• Pull freewheel control knob out and hold

in position by inserting retainer spring intoforward hole of control rod.

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

• To reengage transmission, reverse

above procedure.

NOTE: To protect hoodfrom damage when

transportingyour tractor on a truck or a trailer, be sure hood isclosed and secured

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

"Disengaged" Y

Low

Guard

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

_CAUTION: Do not drive up or down

hills with slopes greater than 15° and do

not drive across any slope. Use the slope

guide provided at the back of this manual.

• Choose the slowest speed before start-

ing up or down hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on

hills._

• If slowing is necessary, move throttle

control lever to slower position.

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS

Tow only the attachments that are recom- mended by and comply with specifications

of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use common sense when towing. Too heavy of

a load, 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 ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

• The engine in your tractor has been shipped, from the factory, already tilled 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 till 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 ovedilL

• 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.

ADD GASOLINE

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

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

mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.

IMPORTANT: When operating in tempera- tures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean

winter grade gasoline to help insure good

,_d weather starting.

WARNING: Expedence indicates that

alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids dudng storage. Acidic gas can d_,_nage 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 an_carburetor are

empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See

Storage Instructions for additional informa-

tion. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or perma-

znt damage may occur.

CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank

tiller 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 clutchlbrake pedal and set parking brake.

• Place motion control lever in neutral (N) position.

• 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 turn key clockwise to _3TART" 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 and above)

• 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 pedod from several seconds to sev- eral minutes, depending on the temper-

ature.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP

• Before ddvingthe unitin cold weather,

the transmission shouldbe warmed up as follows:

• Be sure the tractor ison level qround.

• Place the motion controllever =nneutral.

Release the parkingbrake and let the clutch/brake slowly ratum to operating position.

• Allow one minute fortransmissionto warm up. This can be done dudng the

engine warm up period.

• The attachments can also be used dur-

ing the engine warm-up pedod after the transmissionhas been warmed up.

NOTE: At a highaltitude (above 3000 feet) or incold temperatures (below 32 F) the carburetor fuelmixture may need to be

adjustedfor bestengineperformance, See"TOADJUSTCARBURETOR"inthe

ServiceandAdjustmentssectionofthis manual.

PURGETRANSMISSION

,_CAUTION: Never engage or disen- gage freewheel lever while the engine is

running. To ensure proper operation and perfor- mance, it is recommended that the trans-

mission be purged before operating tractor for the first time. This procedure will

remove any trapped air inside the trans- mission which may have developed during

shipping of your tractor.

IMPORTANT: Should your transmission require removal for service or replace-

ment, it should be purged after reinstalla-

tion before operating the tractor.

• Place tractor safely on level surface with engine off and parking brake set.

• Disengage transmission by placing free-

wheel control in freewheeling position

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

• Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. After the engine is running, move throt-

tle control to slow position. With motion control lever in neutral (N) position,

slowly disengage clutcl',Jbrake 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 sys-

tem.

• Move motion control lever to neutral (N)

position. Shut off engine and set parking brake.

• Engage transmission by placing free- wheel control in ddvTng=position (See

=TO TRANSPORT" in this section of manual).

• Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. After the engine is running, move throt-

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

motion control lever in neutral (N) posi-

tion, slowly disengage clutch/brake

pedal.

• Slowly move motion control lever for-

ward; after the tractor moves approxi-

mately five (5) feet, slowly move 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 pro- cedura with the motion control lever

three (3) times.

• Your tractor is now purged and ready for

normaloperation.

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 cut- ting.

• When mowing large areas, start by turn-

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-upgrass and

trash. Clean after each use.

• The special mulchingblade will recut

the grass clippingsmany times and reduce them in size so that as they fall

onto the lawn they will disperse intothe grass and not be noticed.Also, the

mulched grass will biodegrade quickly

to provide nutrientsfor the lawn.Always

mulch with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will provide the best recur-

ting action of the blades.

• Avoid cutting your lawnwhen itiswet. Wet grass tends to form clumps and

interferes with the mulchingaction. The best time to mow your lawn isthe early afternoon. At this time the grass has dried and the newly cut area will not be exposed to the directsun.

• For best results, adjust the mower cut-

ting heightso 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 doinga sec-

ond cut, mow across or perpendicularto the firstcut path.

• Change yourcuttingpattern from week

toweek. Mow northto southone week then change to east to west the next week. This willhelp prevent mattingand

grainingof the lawn.

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Craftsman 917.271121 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual