Craftsman 917271642 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

16.5 HP ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER AUTOMATIC

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.271642

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Repair Parts

£Z 3

CAUTION: Read and follow all Safety

Rules and Instructions before operating this equipment.

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

Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.comJcraffsman

Foranswersto yourquestions

aboutthis product,Call:

1-800-659-5917

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

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

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

Product Specifications .......................... 6

Assembly .............................................. 8

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

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

LIMITED TWOYEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT PARTS For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipmentis

maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructionsin 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 productis in the United States.

ThisWarranty does notcover:

• 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, suchas nails,

thorns, stumps, or glass.

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, includingbut not limitedto, damage caused by towing objects beyond the capability of the riding equipment, impacting objectsthat bend the frame or crankshaft, or over speeding the engine.

• Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, includingbut 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 offlammable

debris, or the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained 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 withinthirty (30) days of its purchase date.

• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

LIMITED 90 DAYWARRANTY 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

the battery will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge. War-

ranty service is available free of charge by taking your Craftsman riding equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty service isavailable but a trip charge will apply.This warranty applies only while this productis 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

ThisWarranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights whichmay vary from state to state.

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 followingsafety instructions could result in

seriousinjury or death. I. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all instructionsin 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 andthrown bythe blade.

• Besure 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 traileror

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.

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are amajor factor related toloss-of- control and tipover accidents, which can

resultin severe injuryor death. All slopes requireextra caution. Ifyou cannot backup

the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not

mow it. DO:

• Mow up and down slopes, notacross.

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

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps,

Uneven terrain could overtum the machine. Tall grass can hide ob-

stacles.

• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will nothave to stop or shift while on the slope.

• Followthe manufacturer's recommen- dations for wheel weights or counter- weights to improvestability.

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

the stability ofthe 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 turnon slopes unless neces-

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

• Do notmow near dropoffs, ditches, or

embankments. The mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel isover

the edge of a cliffor ditch,or if an edge

caves in.

• Do notmow on wet grass. Reduced

traction could cause sliding.

• Do not try to stabilize the machine by

puttingyour foot on the ground.

• Donotusegrasscatcheronsteep

slopes.

IlLCHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator

isnot 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 sew 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 comers, shrubs,trees, or other objects that may obscure vision,

IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They ere flammable

end vapors ere 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 storethe 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 enterthe area,

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

• Mow up and down slopes (15° Max),

notacross.

• 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 thatyou 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- san/, and then, turn slowly and gradu-

ally downhill, if possible.

_,Look for this symbol to pointout

importantsafety precautions. It means CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR

SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

CAUTION: In order to prevent

accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs, always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark

CAUTION: Do notcoast down a hill

in neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.

_i, CAUTION: Tow onlythe attachments that are recommended by and comply

with specificationsof the manufacturer of your tractor. Use common sense when towing. Operate only at the lowest

possiblespeed 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

ofyour tractor.

_WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of

its constituents, and certain vehicle

components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause

cancer and birthdefects or other repro- ductive harm.

_I_WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and

lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and

birthdefects or other reproductiveharm. Wash hands after handling.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE 1.25 GALLONS

CAPACITY UNLEADED ANDTYPE: REGULAR

OILTYPE SAE 30 (ABOVE 32"F

API-SF-SJ): SAE 5W-30

(BELOW 32"F)

OIL CAPACITY: 3.0 PINTS SPARK PLUG: CHAMPION RC12YC

GAP: .030")

GROUND SPEED FORWARD:5.2

MPH): REVERSE: 2.7

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSi

REAR: 12PSI

CHARGING 3 AMPS BATTERY SYSTEM: 5AMPS HEADLIGHTS

BATTERY: AMP/HR: 25

MIN. CCA: 190 CASE SIZE: U1R

BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT. LBS.

TORQUE:

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new 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 a

Sears or other qualified service center.

We have competent, well-trained techni-

ciansand the proper tools to service or

repair thistractor.

Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will enable you to assemble

and maintainyour tractorproperly. Always observe the "SAFETY RULES".

REPAIR AGREEMENT A 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, cadng for and using your tractor.

• Follow the instructions under "Mainte- nance" and "Storage" sectionsof this

owner's manual.

_kWARNING: 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-coverad 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

workingorder by the operator. In the state ofCalifornia 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 arraster for the muffler is available through your nearest Sears service

center (See REPAIR PARTS sectionof this manual).

Steedng

Wheel Insert

Steering Wheel

(1) Large Flat Washer

I_(1) Hex Bolt

3/8-16 x 1

1) Lockwasher 3/8

(1) Locknut

5/16-18

_ Steering

Wheel Adapter

Seat

(_Washer

C_17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12

Gauge

1) Knob

(1) Hex Bolt

5/16-18 x 1-1/4

t Steering

EhXtaeftns1°n

Slope Sheet

Keys

Video Cassette

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left

unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and properoperation of your tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correcttools 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 betow. (1) 9/16"wrench (1) Pliers

(2) 1/2"wrench (1) Utility knife (1) Tire pressure gauge

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it means, from your pointof view, when you are in the operating

position(seated behind the steering

wheel). TO REMOVETRACTOR FROM

CARTON UNPACK CARTON

1. Remove all accessible loose parts and parts cartons from carton.

2. Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on all four comers of carton, and lay

panels fiat.

3. Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and remove•

BEFORE REMOVINGTRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACHSTEERINGWHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND

BOOT

1. 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.

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

secure.

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

3. Position frontwheels ofthe tractor so they are pointing straight forward.

4. Remove steering wheel adapter from steering wheel and slide adapter

onto steering shaft extension.

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

inside boot and onto adapter.

SteeringWheelS

Adapter-----"--'_

Lower ", Steering _. , J Shaft _,."""- Tab

6. Assemble large flat washer, 3/8 lock

washer, 3/8 hex boltand tighten securely•

7. Snap steering wheel insert into center

of steering wheel.

8. 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.

HOWTO SET UPYOURTRACTOR CHECK BATrERY

1. Lift seat pan to raised positionand

open battery box door.

NOTE: If this battery isput into service

after month and year indicated on label (label located between terminals) charge

battery for minimumof one hour at 6-10 amps. (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance section of this manual for charging instructions).

_--_3/8 HexBolt _3/8 LockWasher

ff _ LargeFiat

• _'_ . , Washer

eedng

Tabs

,/,_ ExtensionShaft

-,.. ,,;, Slots

Boot

Terminal

Batten/ Door

INSTALL SEAT

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob.

1. Remove adjustment knob and fiat

washer secudng seat to cardboard

packing and set aside for assembly of seat to tractor.

2. Pivot seat upward and remove from

the cardboard packing. Remove the cardboard packing and discard.

3. Place seat on seat pan so head of

shoulder bolt is positioned over large s}otted hole in pan.

4. Push down on seat to engage shoulder bolt in slot and pull seat

towards rear of tractor.

5, Pivot seat and pan forward and

assemble adjustment knob and flat washer loosely. Do not tighten.

6. Lower seat into operating positionand sit in seat.

7. Slide seat untila comfortable position is reached which allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

8. Get off seat without moving its adjusted position.

9. Raise seat and tighten adjustment

knob securely.

Seat

Shkoulder

Bolt

NOTE: You may now roll or drive your 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)

1. Press lift lever plungerand raise

attachment liftlever to its highest

position.

2. Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake pedal.

3. Place freewheel control in freewheel-

ing positionto disengage transmis-

sion (See "TO TRANSPORT" in the

Operation section of this manual),

4. Roll tractor forward off skid.

5. Remove banding holding deflector

shield up against tractor.

TO DRIVETRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for location and

function of controls)

_kWARNING: Before starting, read, understand and follow all instructionsin

the Operation section of thismanual. Be

sure tractor isin a welt-ventilated area. Be

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

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

2. Check engine oil level and fill fuel

tank with gasoline.

3. Place freewheel controlin "transmis-

sion engaged" position.

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

the parking brake.

5. Place motioncontrol lever in neutral (N) position.

6. Press lift lever plunger and raise

attachment liftlever to its highest

position.

7. Start the engine. After engine has started, move throttle controlto idle position.

8. Release parking brake.

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

skid.

10.Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking brake and place motion control lever

in neutral position.

11.Turn ignition key to "OFF" position.

Continue with the instructionsthat follow.

INSTALLMULCHERPLATE

(If previously removed)

1. Raise and hold deflector shield in upright position.

2. Place front of mulcher plate over front of mower deck opening and slide into

place, as shown.

3. Hook front latch into hole on front of mower deck.

4. Hook rear latch into hole on back of mower deck.

Deflector Plate Shield

_NLCAUTION: 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. TO CONVERTTO 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 isnot necessary tochange

blades. The mulcher blades are de-

signed for discharging and bagging also. CHECKTIRE PRESSURE The tires on your tractor were overinflated

at the factoryfor 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" inthe

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 sectionof this manual. Verifythat the belts are routed correctly.

Mulcher

Latch

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM After you learn how to operate your

tractor,checkto see that the brake is properly adjusted. See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments

sectlon of this manual.

_ CHECKLIST

Before you operate and enjoy your new tractor,we wish to assure that you receive the best performance and satisfaction from thisquality 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.

,/All tires are properly inflated. (For

shipping purposes, the tires were

overinflated at the factory).

4" Be sure mower deck is properly leveled

side-to-side/front-to-rear for best cutting results. (Tires must be properly inflated for leveling).

`/Check mower and drive belts. Be sure

they are routed properly around pulleys and inside all belt keepers.

`/Check wiring. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are properly

clamped.

`/Before driving tractor, be sure free-

wheel control is in drive position.

While learning how to use your tractor,

pay extra attention to the following important items:

`/Engine oil isat proper level. ,/Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,

regular unleaded gasoline.

,/Become familiar with all controls - their

location and function. Operate them before you start the engine.

,/Be sure brake system is in safe operat-

ing condition.

,/It is important to purge the 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

sectionof this manual).

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

Learn and understand their meaning.

BA]_ERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

WARNING

LIGHT

i I'.,I 0 0

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

LOCKED

_r_R N H L

ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE

CLUTCH ENGAGED

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED

ATrACHMENT

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

MOWERLI_

SLOW

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

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

YOUR TRACTOR Compare the illustrations with yourtractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of

various controlsand adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

Attachment IgnitionSwitch

Clutch

Lever

Ammeter ..... .

Throttle/Choke Attachment

Control Lift Lever

Clutch/Brake Height

Pedal Adjustment

Freewheel Control Parking Brake Lever

Our tractors conformto the safety standardsof the American

National Standards Institute.

Light Switch

J Lever

Plunger

Indicator

MoUon Control

Lever

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, tower, and adjust the mower deck or other attachments mounted to your

tractor.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for declutching and braking the tractor end

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

IGNITION SWITCH - Used for startingand 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 intothe brake position. THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL- Used

for starting and controlling engine speed. FREEWHEEL CONTROL -

Disengagages transmission for pushing

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,

HOWTO USEYOURTRACTOR

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.

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

2. 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.

AttachmentClutchLever Ignition

"Engaged"Position Key

"Disengaged"

Position

Choke

Clutch/ Position Brake

=Disengaged' =Brake" Position Position

Brake

Control

Lever

STOPPING

MOWER BLADES -

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

GROUND DRIVE -

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

• Move 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 throttlecontrol to slow position.

NOTE: Failure to movethrottle 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.

• Never use choketo stop engine.

IMPORTANT: Leavingthe ignitionswitch in any positionother than "OFF" will cause the battery to be discharged, (dead).

NOTE: Under certain conditionswhen

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. _,CAUTION: Always stop tractor com-

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

TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL Always operate engine at full throttle.

• Operating engine at less than full throttle reduces the battery charging

rate.

• Full throttle offers the best bagging and

mower performance. TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD The directionand speed of movement is

controlled by the motion control lever.

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

2. Release parking brake and clutch/ brake pedal.

3. Slowly move motion control lever to desired position.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT The positionof the attachment lift lever

determines the cutting height,

• Grasp lift lever.

• Press plungerwith 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

coolseason and to over 3 inches dudng 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 OPERATE MOWER Your tractor is equipped with an operator

presence sensing switch. Any attempt by

the operator to leave the seat with the

engine runningand the attachment clutch engaged will shut off the engine.

1. Select desired height of cut.

2. Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutchcontrol.

TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disengage attachment clutch control.

_,CAUTION: Do not operate the mower withouteitherthe entire grass catcher, on

mowers so equipped, or the deflector shield in place.

Attachment Attachemnt

"Engaged" , High Position 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 motioncontrol 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.

1. Raise attachment lift to highest

position with attachment lift control.

2. 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,

ete.).

Position

Deflector

*'Shield

TO OPERATE ON HILLS _I, CAUTION: Do not drive up or down

hillswith slopesgreater than 15° and do notdrive 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.

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACH- MENTS

Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and comply with specificationsof 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 STARTINGTHE ENGINE CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

The engine in your tractor has been shipped, from the factory, already filled with summer weight oil.

1. Check engine oil with tractor on level ground.

2. Remove oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe

clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw cap tight, wait for a few seconds,

remove and read oillevel, if neces- sary, add oil until "FULL" mark on

dipstick is reached. Do not overfill.

• For cold weather operationyou should

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

nance sectionof this manual).

• To change engine oil, see the Mainte-

nance section in this manual

ADD GASOLINE

• Fillfuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular

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

wilt increase carbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce valve life).

Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase

fuel in quantitiesthat 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.

a_coWARNING: Experience indicates that

hol blended fuels (called gasohol or

using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and

formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine

problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the

engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel

next season. See Storage Instructions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

_I, CAUTION: Fill to bottomof gas tank filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe offany

spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

TO START ENGINE When startingthe engine for the first time

or if the engine has run outof fuel, it will take extra crankingtime to move fuel from the tank to the engine.

1. Be sure freewheel control is in the

transmission engaged position_

2. Sit on seat inoperating position, depress clutch/breke pedal and set

parking brake.

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

4. Move attachment clutch to "DISEN- GAGED" position.

5. Move throttle control to choke position.

NOTE: Before starting, read the warm

and cold starting procedures below.

6. 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. Ifthe 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)

7. 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)

7. When engine starts, allow engine to run with the throttle control in the

choke position until the engine runs roughly, then move throttle controlto fast position. This may require an engine warm-up period from several seconds to several minutes, depend- ing on the temperature.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP

Before driving the unit in cold weather,

the transmission should be warmed up as follows:

1. Be sure the tractor is on level ground.

2. Place the motion control lever in

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

3. Allow one minute for transmission to

warm up. This can be done dudng the engine warm up period.

• The attachments can also be used duringthe engine warm-up period after

the transmission has been warmed up.

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.

PURGETRANSMISSION

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

running. To ensure proper operation and perfor- mance, it is recommendedthat the

transmissionbe purged before operating tractorfor the flint time. This procedurewill

removeany trapped air inside the trans- missionwhich may have developed during

shippingof your tractor.

IMPORTANT: Should yourtransmission requireremoval for serviceor replacement, it shouldbe purged after reinstallation before operatingthe tractor.

1. Placa tractor safely on level surface with engine off and parking brake set.

2. Disengage transmission by placing

freewheel control in freewheeling

position(See "TO TRANSPORT" in

this section of manual).

3. 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.

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

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

Repeat this procedure three (3) times.

NOTE: Duringthis procedure there will be no movement ofdrive wheels. The air

is being removed from hydraulic ddve system.

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

parking brake.

6. Engage transmission by placing freewheel control in driving position (See "TO TRANSPORT" in this section of manual).

7. 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 disen- gage clutch/brake pedal.

8. 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.

MOWlNGTIPS

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

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

• The left hand side of mower should be usedfor trimming.

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

the cut area tothe rightof the tractor. This will result in a more even distribu-

tion of clippingsand more uniform

cutting.

• When mowing large areas, start by turningtothe rightso 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 end

possiblefire hazard from dried clippings. Make first cut relatively

high;the second to the desired height.

• Do not mow grasswhen it iswet. Wet grass will plug mower and leave undesirable dumps. Allow grass to dry before mowing.

• Always operate engine at full throttle

when mowing to assure better mowing performance and proper discharge of

material. Regulate ground speed by selecting a low enough gear to give the mower cuttingperformance as well as the qualityof cut desired.

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

MULCHING MOWlNGTIPS

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

• The special mulching blade will racut

the grass clippingsmany times and

reduce them insize 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 nutrientsfor the lawn. Always mulch with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will provide the best recutting action of the blades.

• Avoidcuttingyour lawn when it is wet. Wet grass tends to form clumps and

interferes with the mulching action. The best time to mow your lawn isthe eady afternoon. At thistime the grass

has dried and the newly cut area will notbe exposed to the direct sun.

• For best results,adjust the mower cuttingheight 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 ofgrass and grass

conditionsmay require that an area be mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a

second cut, mow across or perpendicu- larto the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from week

toweek. Mow north to south one week then change to east to west the next

week. This will help prevent matting and graining of the lawn.

Max 113"

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS The warrantyon thistractor does not

cover itemsthat have been subjected to operatorabuse or negligence. To receive

full value fromthe warranty, operator must

maintain tractor as instructedin this

manual. Some adjustmentswill need to be made

periodically to propedy maintain your tractor.

All adjustmentsin the Service and Adjustments section ofthis manual 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 andclean air filter

assure properair-fuel mixtureand help your engine run better and last longer.

BEFORE EACH USE

1. Check engine oil level.

2. Check brake operation.

3. Check tire pressure.

4. Check operator presence and

interlock systems for proper opera- tion.

5. Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION CHART

@Spindle_ f'_ -- @Spindle

Zerk i'_: Zerk

@FrontWheel ,-. /

Beadng _ --".......

@Engine,]-_,,,"

@SAE 30 or 10w30 MOTOR OIL @REFERTO Maintenance "ENGINE" SECTION

IMPORTANT: Do notoil or grease the pivot points which have special nylon bearings. Viscous lubricantswill attract

dust and dirtthat will shortenthe lifeof the self-lubricating]bearings. If you feel

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

)FrontWheel

Boadng Zerk

+ 42 hidden pages

Craftsman 917271642 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual