Craftsman 917271661 Owner’s Manual

ICRRFTSMRN°I

LAWN TRACTOR

17.0 HP, 42" Mower

Electric Start

Automatic Transmission

Model No.

917.271661

I _ This product has a low emission engine which operates I

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before

operating this equipment.

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, II 60179 U.S.A

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

differently from previously built engines. Before you start the

engine, read and understand this Owner's Manual.

For answers to your questions

about this product, Call:

1-800-659-5917

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

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

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

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

AssemblyPre-Operation ....................... 8

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

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

LIMITED WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT

For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair or replace free of charge any parts that are found to be defective in material or workmanship according to the guidelines of coverage listed below. Sears will also provide free labor for these applicable warranted parts for the two full years. During the first 30 days of purchase, there will be no charges to service the product at your home for issues covered by this warranty. (See exclusions below).

For your convenience, IN HOME warranty service will still be available after the first 30

days of purchase, but a trip charge will apply. This charge will be waived if the Crafts-

man product is dropped off at an authorized Sears location. For the nearest authorized

Sears location, please call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®. This warranty applies only while this

product is within the United States.

This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, including but not limited to blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, belts, and oil filters.

• Standard Maintenance Servicing, oil changes, or tune-ups

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

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

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

• Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, including but not limited to, electrical and mechanical damage caused by impropeF,storage, failure to use the proper grade and amount of engine oil, failure to keep the deck clear of flammable debris, or 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 within 30 days of its

purchase date.

• Normal deterioration and wear of the exterior finishes, or product label replacen_ent.

• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

LIMITED WARRANTY ON BATTERY For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding

equipment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the battery will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge. During the

first 30 days of purchase, there will be no charges to replace the battery at your HOME. After the first 30 days, for your convenience, IN-HOME warranty service will still be available but a trip charge will apply, This charge will be waived if the Craftsman

product is dropped of at an authorized Sears location. For the nearest authorized Sears location, please call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.

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

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

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

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

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

Sears Service ...................... Back Cover

This battery warranty applies only while this product is within the United States. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which

vary, from state to state. Sears, Roebuck and Co.,Dept.817WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in

serious injury or death.

Look for this symbol to point out

important safety precautions. It means CAUTION!t! BECOMEALERT[!! 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 plug.

CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill

in neutral, you may lose control of the

tractor.

_ CAUTION: Tow only the attachments

that are recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use common sense when

towing. Operate only at the lowest

possible speed when on a slope. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is

dangerous. Tires can lose traction with

the ground and cause you to lose control

of your 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 birth defects or other repro-

ductive harm. _JLWARNING: Battery posts, terminals

and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known

to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive

harm. Wash hands after handling. I. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all

instructions in the manual and on the machine before starting.

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

the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,

toys, wire, etc., which could be picked

up and thrown by the blade.

• Be sure the area is clear of other people

before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look clown 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 tuming.

• 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 unload-

ing the machine into a trailer or truck.

• Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are involved in a large

percentage of riding mower-related injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding

mower safely enough to protect them- selves and others from serious injury.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other debris build+up which can touch

hot exhaust / engine parts and burn. Do not allow the mower deck to plow leaves

or other debris which can cause build-

up to occur. Clean any oil or fuel

spillage before operating or storing the

machine. Allow machine to cool before

storage.

II. SLOPE OPERATION

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

sult 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 recommenda-

tions for wheel weights or counter- weights to improve stability.

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

the stability of the machine.

• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and graduaL Do not make sudden

changes in speed or direction.

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

and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

DO NOT:

• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and gradually

downhill, if possible.

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

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

caves in.

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

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

• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.

II1.CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator

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

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

you last saw them.

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

responsible adult.

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

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

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

with safe machine operation.

• Never allow children to operate the

machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects

that may obscure vision.

IV. SERVICE

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

and vapors are explosive.

-Use only an approved container.

- Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow

engine to cool before refueling. Do not smoke.

-Never refuel the machine indoors.

- Never store the machine or fuel

container inside where there is an open flame, such as a water heater.

• Never run a machine inside a closed area.

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

equipment in good condition.

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

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other deb;js 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, i,

• 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 seriousty injured or interfere

with safe machine operation.

• Keep children out of the mowing area

and under the watchful care of another responsible adult.

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

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

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

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

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps.

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

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

while on the slope.

• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If

tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight

down the slope.

• If machine stops while going uphill, disengage blades, shift into reverse

and back down slowly.

• Do not turn on slopes unless neces- sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu- ally downhill, if possible.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS Gasoline 1.25 Gallons

Capacity Unleaded

and Type: Regular Oil Type 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: 12 PSI

Charging 3 Amps Battery System: 5 Amps Headlights

Battery: Amp/Hr: 28

Min. CCA: 230 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-

cians and the proper tools to service or

repair this tractor.

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

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

REPAIR AGREEMENT

A Repair Agreement is available on this

product. Contact your nearest Sears store for details.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

• Follow a regular schedule in maintain-

ing, caring for and using your tractor.

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

owner's manual.

_WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal combustion engine and

should not be used on or near any

unimproved forest-covered, brush- covered or grass-covered land unless the

engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local

or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective

working order by the operator.

In the state of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the

California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws.

Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your-nearest Sears service

center (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

Steering

Wheel Insert

Steering

Boot

(1) kocknut 112-20

Steering Wheel

(1) kocknut

114-28

_ Steering

Wheel Adapter

(1) Large Flat Washer

(1) Hex Bolt

1/4-28 × 1-1/4

Steering

Extension

Shaft

Slope Sheet

;;_ (_Washer

L_,) 17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12

Gauge

l_(1) Knob

For Future Use

Keys

Video Cassette

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with the 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 witl make assembly

easier. Standard wrench sizes you need

are listed below.

(1) 3/4"wrench (1) Pliers (2) 7/16"wrench (1) Utilityknife (1) Tire pressure gauge

6. Assemble large flat washer, 1/2 hex nut and 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. When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it means, from your point of view, when you are in the operating

position (seated behind the steering wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

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

2. Cut, from top to bottom, along lines

on all four corners of carton, and lay panels flat.

3. Check for any additional loose parts

or cartons and remove.

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND BOOT

1. Slide extension shaft onto lower steering shaft. Align mounting holes

in extension and lower shafts and install 1/4 hex bolt and Iocknut.

Tighten securely.

IMPORTANT: Tighten bolt and nut securely to 10-12 ft. Ibs torque.

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

secure.

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

3. Position front wheels of the 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.

1/4 Lockr_t

1/4 Hex

_/Bolt

Steering , "-. Shaft "-.

CHECK BATTERY

1. Lift seat pan to raised position. NOTE: If this battery is put into service

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

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

instructions).

Label

Seat F

Terminal

INSTALL SEAT Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob.

1. Remove adjustment knob and flat

washer securing 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

slotted 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 position and sit in seat.

7. Slide seat until a 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

Seat Pan _.

;:_ Shoulder

Bolt

Washer

Flat _j_f_

Adjustnlent Knob

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 ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section for location and function of controls)

1. Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to its highest

position.

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

3. Place freewheel control in "transmis- sion disengaged" position (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 DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for location and function of controls)

WARNING: Before starting, read,

understand and follow all instructions in the Operation section of this manual. Be

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

other people and objects.

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 control in "transmis-

sion engaged" position. (See "TO TRANSPORT in the Operation

section of this manual).

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

the parking brake.

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

6. Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to its highest

position.

7. Start the engine. After engine has started, move throttle control to 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 "STOP" position.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

INSTALL MULCHER PLATE

(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.

Mulcher

Deflector Shield

CAUTION: Do not remove deflector

shield from mower.

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 is not necessary to change

blades. The mulching blades are designed for discharging and bagging

also.

CHECKTIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is important for best

cutting performance.

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

of this manual.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS For best cutting results, mower housing

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

Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL BELTS

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

belts in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual. Verify that the

belts are routed correctly.

Plate

Latch Hooks

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM After you learn how to operate your

tractor, check to see that the brake is properly adjusted. See ''TO ADJUST

BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual.

V' CHECKLIST

Before you operate your new tractor, we

wish to assure that you receive the best

performance and satisfaction from this quality product.

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

completed.

J 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).

,/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.

,I Check wiring. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are properly clamped.

,I Before driving tractor, be sure freewheel

control is in. "transmission engaged" position (see "TO TRANSPORT" in the

Operation section of this manual).

While learning how to use your tractor, pay extra attention to the following important

items: ,/ Engine oil is at proper level. _,

,/Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,

regular unleaded gasoline.

,/Become familiar with all controls - their

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

,I Be sure brake system is in safe operat-

ing condition.

,,f It is important to purge the transmission

before operating your tractor for the first time. Follow proper starting and trans- mission purging instructions (See "TO START ENGINE" and "PURGE TRANS-

MISSION" in the Operation section of this manual).

These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.

BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

WARNING

LOCKED

LIGHT

MOWER LIFT

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

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

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

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

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

Attachment Clutch

Lever

Ammeter

Throttle/Choke Attachment Control _ Lift Lever

Clutch/Brake

Pedal

Freewheel

Control

IgnitionSwitch Position

Light Switch

Lift

J Lever

Parking Brake Lever

Motion Control Lever

Plunger

Height

Indicator

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the

American National Standards Institute. _,

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

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

attachments mounted to your tractor.

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to

raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck

or other attachments mounted to your

tractor.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for

declutching and braking the tractor and starting the engine.

MOTION CONTROL LEVER - Selects the

speed and direction of tractor.

IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and

stopping the engine.

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to release

attachment lift lever when changing its

position. LIGHT SWITCH POSITION ° Turns the

headlights on and off. PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks clutch/

brake pedal into the 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 standard safety glasses or a

wide vision safety mask worn over spectacles.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE

Your tractor is equipped with an operator

presence sensing switch. When engine

is running, any attempt by the operator to leave the seat without first setting the

parking brake will shut off the engine.

1. Depress clutch/brake pedal all the

way down and hold.

2. Pull parking brake lever up and release pressure from clutch/brake pedal. Pedal should remain in brake position. Make sure parking brake will

hold tractor secure.

Attachment Clutch Lever

"Engaged" Position Ignition Throttle/ Key Choke \

Control\

c Brake

_ Lever

• .Brake ,,_

"Disengaged" Position Position

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 all the way down.

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

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

when the clutch/brake pedal is de- pressed.

ENGINE -

• Move throttle control to slow position.

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

before stopping may cause engine to "backfire".

"Disengaged" Position

Brake Position

Motion Control

• Turn ignition key to "STOP" position and remove key. Always remove key

when leaving tractor to prevent

unauthorized use.

• Never use choke to stop engine.

IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch in any position other than "STOP" will

cause the battery to discharge and go dead.

NOTE: Under certain conditions when

tractor is standing idle with the engine

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

this possibility, always stop engine when stopping tractor on grass areas. _1,CAUTION: Always stop tractor

completely, as described above, before leaving the operator's position. 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 direction and 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.

3. Slowly move motion control lever to desired position.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT The position of the attachment lift lever

determines the cutting height.

• Grasp lift lever.

• Press plunger with thumb and move

lever to desired position.

The cutting height range is approxi-

mately 1-1/2 to 4". The heights are measured from the ground to the blade tip

with the engine not running. These heights are approximate and may vary depending upon soil conditions, height of

grass and types of grass being mowed.

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

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

better looking lawns, mow often and after moderate growth.

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

mowed twice. Make the first cut

relatively high; the second to desired

height.

TO 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.

1. Select desired height of cut.

2. Start mower blades by engaging attachment 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 deflector shield in place.

Attachment Attachemnt

Clutch Lew Lift Lever

"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 motion control lever to slowest setting.

• Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT

When pushing or towing your tractor, be sure to disengage transmission by

placing freewheel control in freewheeling position. Freewheel 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 re-engage transmission, reverse

above procedure.

Transmission Engaged

Low

Position

"Disengaged-- Position

TO OPERATE ON HILLS ='1

_CAUTION: Do not drive up or down hills with slopes greater than 15 ° and do

not drive across any slope. Use the slope guide at the back of this manual.

• 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.

Deflector

Transmission Disengaged

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 ATTACH-

MENTS

Tow only the attachments that are

recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your

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

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

your tractor.

BEFORE STARTING THE 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 oil level. If neces-

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

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

oil viscosity chart in the Maintenance section of this manual).

• To change engine oil, see the Mainte- nance section in this manual.

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler neck. Do not overfill. 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.

_,CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or

fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline

near an open flame. IMPORTANT: When operating in tem-

peratures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh,

clean winter grade gasoline to help

insure good cold weather starting. =q,CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels

(called gasohol or using ethanol or

methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage.

To avoid engine problems, the fuel

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

start the engine and let it run until the fuel

lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage Instruc-

tions for additional information.

Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent

damage may occur.

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.

1. Be sure freewheel control is in the

transmission engaged position.

2. Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake 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. 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)

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 control to 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 during

the engine warm up period.

• The attachments can also be used

during the 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.) PURGE TRANSMISSION

fiAeCA,UTION: Never engage or disengage

ewneel lever while the engine is running. To ensure proper operation and perfor-

mance, it is recommended that the transmission be purged before operating

tractor for the first time. This procedure 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 replacement, it should be purged after reinstallation

before operating the tractor.

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

2. Disengage transmission by placing freewheel control in "transmission

disengaged" 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 fonNard 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 step there will be no movement of drive wheels. The air is

being removed from hydraulic drive system.

5. Move motion control lever to neutral (N) position. Shutoff engine and set

parking brake.

6. Engage transmission by placing

freewheel control in "transmission

engaged" position (See "TO TRANS- PORT' 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 transmission is now purged and ready for normal operation.

If*

MOWING TIPS

• Mower should be properly leveled for

best mowing performance. See "3-O 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 already been cut. Have the cut area to the right of

the tractor. This will result in a more even distribution of clippings and more

uniform cutting.

• When mowing large areas, start by

turning to the right so that clippings will discharge away from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc. After one or two

rounds, mow in the opposite direction making left hand turns until finished.

[

MULCHING MOWING TIPS IMPORTANT: For best performance,

keep mower housing free of built-up grass and trash. Clean after each use.

• The special mulching blade will recut

the grass clippings many times and

reduce them in size so that as they fall onto the lawn they will disperse into the

grass and not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will biodegrade quickly

to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always mulch with your highest engine

(blade) speed as this will provide the best recutting action of the blades.

• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet grass tends to form clumps and

interferes with the mulching action.

The best time to mow your lawn is the

early afternoon. At this time the grass has dried and the newly cut area will not be exposed to the direct sun.

• For best results, adjust the mower

cutting height so that the mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass

blades. For extremely heavy grass, reduce your width of cut on each pass

and mow slowly.

• If grass is extremely tal!, it should be

mowed twice to reduce load and possible fire hazard from dried clip-

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

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

undesirable clumps. Allow grass to dry before mowing.

• Always operate engine at full throttle

when mowing to assure better mowing performance and proper discharge of

material. Regulate ground speed by

selecting a low enough gear to give the mower cutting performance as well as

the quality of cut desired.

• When operating attachments, select a ground speed that will suit the terrain

and give best performance of the attachment being used.

Max 1/3

• Certain types of grass and grass conditions may require that an area be

mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a

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

• Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow north to south one week

then change to east to west the next week. This will help prevent matting

and graining of the lawn.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ,_"__ ..,_/_/,,_/_ /_./'

F,LL,.O*TE

AS YOU COMPLETE /_____R-_._b R.4.,)_ _..j_ ,_,a_ ;a _/_._.

REGU LARSE RVICE _'__///_#" SE RVIC E DATES

Check Brake Operation Check Tire Pressure _1

Check Operator Presence and

T Interlock Systems If R Chock for Loose Fasteners V w

A Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades

V', I,,"

T Lubrication Chart

0 Check Battery Level

R Clean Battery and Terminals

Check Transaxle Cooling Check V-Be]ts

Check Engine Oil Level If

Change Engine Oil (with oil filter)

E Change Engine Oil (without oil filter)

N Clean Air Filtee

V*tr 2 _d_

V',

G Clean Air Screen

NI Inspect Muffler/Spark Arresler

E Replace Oil Filter (If equipped)

Clean Engine Cooling Fins Replace Spark Plug Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge

Replace Fuel Filter

1 °Change more often when operating undera heavy toad or

in highambient temperatures.

2 - Service more often when operating indirty or dusty conditions.

I,/2 I

v'P I

3 - Replace blades more olten when mowing in sandy soil.

4 - Not required if equipped with mainmnancg-free battery.

5 - Tighten front axle pivot bolt to 35 tt.-Ibs, maximum,

DO not ovedlghten.

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

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

your engine run better and last longer•

BEFORE EACH USE

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

O Spindle _ f'_ ,r_ Q Spindle

Zerk ".,_'1""tr I1_'_ Zerk

(_Front W_/ --i (_Front Wheel

Beadng _ ....... j ,_ Bearing Zerk

Zerk /7 ,:,. ::

@Engine _-. ,

• / '" ° "S (_ '

i i t t i *

(i) General Purpose Grease

_) REFER TO Maintenance "ENGINE" SECTION

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

bearings. Viscous lubricants will attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life of

the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel

they must be lubricated, use only a dry,

powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.

+ 42 hidden pages

Craftsman 917271661 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual