Craftsman 917271662 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

ICRAFTZHAX°I

LAWN TRACTOR

17.0 HP, 42" Mower

Electric Start

AutomaticTransmission

Model No.

917.271662

[_ This product has a low emission engine which operates

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 authodzed 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 dudng 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 improper 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 replacement.

• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes. LIMITED WARRANTY ON BA-I-FERY

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!!! 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.

WARNING: 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 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 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, tum 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.

IlL 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

comers, 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 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 tum 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: 14PSI

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 road 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.

_I, 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 Wheel

_(1) Locknut _

1/2-20 _ _/)4!28cknut

Steering

Boot

_ Steering

Wheel Adapter

Seat

(_Washer 17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12

Gauge

(1) Large Flat Washer

(1) Hex Bolt

1/4-28 x 1-1/4

Steering

Extension

Shaft

Slope Sheet

_(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 will 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

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).

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.

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.

CHECK BA'I-rERY

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

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

Shoulder Bolt

Fiat WasherI

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)

_k. 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

Plate

Latch

Hooks

_1, 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 ol this

manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL BELTS

See the figures that are shown for

replacing motion and mower blade drive

belts in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual. Verify that the belts are routed correctly.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM After you learn how to operate your

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

BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual.

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.

,/No remaining loose parts in carton.

,/Battery is propedy prepared and

charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

•/ Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened securely.

,I All tires are properly inflated. (For

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

/ Be sure mower deck is properly leveled

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

for leveling).

/ Check mower and drive belts. Be sure

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

,/Check wiring. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are properly clamped.

,/Before driving tractor, be sure 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 tilled 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.

v" It is important to purge the transmission

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

mission purging instructions (See 'q-O

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.

I- ;I

BATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD

WARNING

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON

FAST SLOW

ov,%_.P I

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT

R N H L

ATrACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE

CLUTCH ENGAGED

PARKING BRAKE

LOCKED

UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT

ATTACHMENT KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

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

YOUR TRACTOR

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

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

Throttle/Choke Control

Clutch/Bmke Pedal

Freewheel Control

Ammeter

Attachment

Clutch

Ignition Switch

Light Switch

Lift

J Lever

Parking Brake Lever

Motion Control

Lever

Plunger

Attachment Lift Lever

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

_ ;_aesS_ev_hichcan result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety

I The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the

adjustments or repairs, We recommend standard safety glasses or a

wide vision safety mask worn over spectacles.

or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any

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"

Clutch/

Brake

Pedal

....... Position

-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

Motion Control

Lever

• 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 THRO'n'LE 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 cut to approximately 2-112 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 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

Position

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 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.

• ]f 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.

[I_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.

_,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 _, CAUTION: Never engage or disengage

freewheel 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 dudng 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

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: Dudng this step there will be no

movement of drive wheels. The air is being removed from hydraulic ddve

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.

MOWINGTIPS

• Mower should be propedy leveled for

best mowing performance. See _'1"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 tall, it should be mowed twice to reduce load and

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

second to the desired height.

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

undesirable clumps. Allow grass to dry before mowing.

• Always operate engine at full throttle

when mowing to assure better mowing performance and proper discharge of

material. Regulate ground speed by selecting a low enough gear to give the mower cutting performance as well as the quality of cut desired.

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

and give best performance of the attachment being used.

• 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 j_ _._'._'e,_'_'_/_ __._"

FILL,.O,TEB

ASYOUCOMPLETE _ _jv 9.1'/; _.j_ _ _.j_

REOU RBERV,CE O TEO

Check Brake Operation

Check Tire Pressure _

Check Operator Presence and

T Interlock Systems I/ R Ch,_k for Loose Fasteners If I_s II_

Sharpe_'Replace Mower Blades 1_3

T Lubrication Chart _ If

0 Check Battery Level

; R Clean Battery and Terminals V'

Check Transaxle Cooling V* Check V-Belts V'

Check Engine Oil Level II/ V' Change Engine Oi_(with oil filter) 1_1_2 If

E Change Engine Oii (without oil filter) V'_.2 If

N Clean Air Filter _I_:

G Clean Air Screen

Inspect Muffler/Spark

E Replace Oil Filter (If equipped) 1_i.2

Clean Engine Cooling Fins V'z

Replace Spark Plug _= i1 #

Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge Replace Fuel Filter t# #

1 - Change more oflen when operating under a heavy load or

In high ambient temperatures.

2 - Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions.

Arrester

3 * Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil 4 - Not required if equipped with maintenance-free bailery.

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

DO not overlighten.

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

manuaJ.

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

_) Spindle _'-_7._(-------_r--- (DSpindle

Zerk i-_- ' ___Zerk

_)Front Wheel.1__-/ _-_l_Front Wheel

Bearing _ ..... I L Beadng Zerk

(_Eno ne .. ,

,, ,, [

b J _

_ a r

@ 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 917271662 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual