Craftsman 917.271830 User Manual

Owner's Manual

21.0 HP ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER 6 SPEED TRANSAXLE

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917,271830

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equip- ment.

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

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

For answers to your questions about this product, Call:

1-800-659-5917

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

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

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

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

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

Operation ............................................ 12

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LIMITEDTWOYEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT PARTS Fortwo(2) yearsfrom the date of purchase,ifthisCraftsmanRidingEquipmentis

maintained,lubricatedand tunedup accordingtothe instructionsin the owner's manual,Searswill repairor replace,free of charge,any partsfound tobe defectivein

material or workmanship.Warrantyserviceis availablefree of chargeby takingyour Craftsmanridingequipmentto your nearestSears ServiceCenter. In-homewarranty

serviceisavailable but a trip chargewillapply.Thiswarrantyappliesonlywhilethis productisintheUnitedStates.

This Warranty does notcover:

• Expendableitemswhichbecomeworn duringnormaluse, suchas blades,spark

plugs,air cleaners,beltsand oil filters.

• Tire replacementor repair causedby puncturesfrom outsideobjects,suchas nails,

thorns,stumps,or glass.

• Repairsnecessarybecauseof operatorabuse,includingbutnotlimitedto, damage

caused bytowingobjectsbeyondthe capabilityofthe ridingequipment,impacting objectsthat bendthe frame or crankshaft,or overspeedingthe engine.

• Repairsnecessarybecauseof operatornegligence,includingbutnot limitedto, electricalend mechanicaldamage causedby improperstorage,failure to use the

propergrade and amountof engineoil, failureto keep the deck clear offlammable

dabris, or the failure to maintainthe equipmentaccordingto the instructions

containedinthe owner'smanual.

• Engine(fuelsystem)cleaningor repairscausedby fuel determinedtobe contami-

natedor oxidized(stale). In general,fuel shouldbe used withinthirty(30) days of its purchasedate.

• Ridingequipmentusedfor commercialor rentalpurposes.

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 is available but a trip

charge will apply. This warranty applies only while this product is 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

This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights

which may vary from state to state. Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

tMPORTANT: Th s cult ng machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and

throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in sedous injury or death.

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

recks, 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 camj 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 perking brake, stop engine, and

remove keys before dismounting.

•Tum 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

cross'rag roadways.

• Use extra care when loading or

unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.

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

large bementage of riding mower- related injudes. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate

the dding mower safely enough to

protect themselves and others from serious injury.

n. SLOPE OPERATION Slopesarea maiorfactorrelatedtoloss-of-

controland tipover accidents,which can resultinsevere injuryordeath. Allslopes

requireextracaution,if youcannotbackup theslopeor ifyoufeel uneasyon 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 ob-

stacles.

• Usa slow speed. Choose a low gear

so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommen- dations for wheel weights or counter-

weights to improve stability.

• Use extra care with grass catchers or

other attachments. These can change the stability of the machine.

• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction.

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

blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

DO NOT:

• Do not turn on slopes unless neces-

sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu-

ally downhill, if possible.

• Do not mow near drop-otis, 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.

III. CHILDREN

Tragicaccidentscan occurif theoperator

isnotalertto thepresenceofchildren.

Childrenare oftenattractedto the

machineandthe mowingactivity.Never

assumethat childrenwillremain where you lastsaw them.

• Keepchildrenout ofthe mowingarea and underthe watchfulcare of another

responsibleadult.

• Be aled and tum machineoff ifchildren

enterthe area.

• Beforeand when backing,lookbehind

and downfor small children.

• Nevercarrychildren.They mayfall off

and be seriouslyinjuredor interfere with safe machineoperation.

• Never allowchildrento operatethe machine.

• Use extra care when approachingblind comers,shrubs,trees, or otherobjects thatmay obscurevision.

IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care in handlinggasoline and otherfuels. They are flammable and vaporsare explosive.

-Use onlyan approvedcontainer.

- Neverremovegas cap or add fuel

withthe enginerunning. Allow engineto coolbeforerefueling. Do

notsmoke,

- Never refuelthe machineindoors.

- Never storethe machineor fuel

containerinsidewherethere is an openflame, suchas 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

stdke 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 • Be alert and tum machine off if children people before mowing. Stop machine if

anyone enters the area.

• Never cam/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.

enter the area.

• Before and when backing, look behind

and down fopsmall children.

• Mow up and dowa 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.

_.Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions, it means

CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

A_. 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.

_L 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

ofyour tractor.

_LWARN!NG: Engine exhaust, some of

its constituents, and certain vehicle component_ contain or emit chemicals

known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other repro-

ductive h_lrm. _.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.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE 3.5 GALLONS CAPACITY UNLEADED

ANDTYPE: REGULAR OILTYPE SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F

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

(BELOW 32°F) )IL CAPACITY: 3.0 PINTS ;PARK PLUG: CHAMPION RJ19LM SAP: .030") OR J19LM

VALVE INTAKE: .004"-.006" CLEARANCE: EXHAUST: .007"-.009"

3ROUND SPEED FORWARD: IMPH): 1sT 1.2

2N_ 1.5 3RO 2.4

4TM 3.5 5TM 4.8 6TM 5.3

REVERSE: 1.5

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

REAR: 10 PSI

CHARGING 3 AMPS BATTERY SYSTEM: 5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS

BATTERY: AMP/HR: 30

MIN. CCA: 240 CASE SIZE: U'l R

BLADE BOLT 27--35 FT. LBS, TORQUE:

CONGRATULATIONS on your pumhase of a new tractor. It has been designed,

engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and

performance.

Shouldyou experienceany problemyou cannoteasilyremedy,please contacta

Searsor otherqualifiedservicecenter.

We have competent,well-trainedtechni-

clansand the propertoolsto serviceor repairthistractor.

Please readand retainthis manual. The instructionswillenable you to assemble

and maintainyourtractorproperly. Alwaysobservethe "SAFETY RULES".

REPAIR AGREEMENT

A RepairAgreementis availableon this product, ContactyournearestSearsstore

for details. CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observethe safetyrules.

• Followa regular schedulein maintain- ing,caringfor and usingyourtractor.

• Followthe instructionsunder"Mainte- nance"and"Storage"sectionsofthis

owner's manual.

WARNING: Thistractorisequipped

withan internalcombustionengineand shouldnotbe usedon or near any

unimprovedforest-covered,brush- coveredor grass-coveredland unlessthe

engine'sexhaustsystemis equippedwith a spark arrestermeeting applicablelocal

orstatelaws(if any). Ifa sparkarresteris used, it shouldbe maintainedineffective

workingorderby theoperator. In the stateof Califomiathe above is

requiredby law (Section4442 of the CaliforniaPublicResourcesCode), Other

statesmay havesimilarlaws, Federal laws applyon federal lands. A spark arresterfor the muffleris available

throughyournearestSears servicecenter

(See REPAIRPARTSsectionofthis manual).

i TM

$tsedng

Wheel Insert

Steering Wheel

Flat

(1) Large Washer

(1)HexBolt 5/16-18x1-1/4 (1) Looknut 5/16-18_ (1)Lockwasher 3/8 1

,' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ', Adapter / // Steedng Shaft

Steedng Wheel / / / Extension

(1) Washer

_ 7/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge

(1) Knob

Keys

For Future Use

Slope Sheet

/ -,,.T_ j Steedng

_ Boot

Video Cassette

€

(2) Keys

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your

tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness. Review the video cassette before

you begin.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY A socketwrenchset will makeassembly

easier.Standardwrenchsizesyou need are listedbelow.

(1) 9/16"wrench (2) 1/2"wrench (t) Utilityknife (1) Pliers

(1) Tire pressuregauge

When rightor left handis mentionedin

thismanual,it means,from your pointof view,whenyou are in the operating position(seatedbehindthe steering

6. Assemble large flat washer, 3/8 lock washer, 3/8 hex bolt and tighten

securely.

7. Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering wheel.

8. Remove protective materials from tractor hoed and grill.

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

where tractor is to roll off skid.

Insert

wheel). TO REMOVETRACTOR FROM

CARTON UNPACK CARTON

_,_ Lockwasher

_ Large Flat

1. Remove all accessibleloosepads

and partscartons from carton.

2. Cut, fromtoptobottom,alonglineson

all four cornersof carton,and lay panelsflat.

3. Check for any additionalloosepads

or cartonsand remove.

BEFORE REMOVINGTRACTOR FROM SKID

A'I-rACH 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 5/16 hex bolt and Iocknut.

Tighten securely.

2. Place tabs of steedng 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.

Steering _ Steering Wheel _Boot

Extension I_..,.._(f"/

Locknut _ - Lower , --_.---._ -.

Steering_ _ ,", ",

Sha.

HOWTO SET UPYOURTRACTOR CHECK BA'n'ERY

1. Lift hood 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).

/:'_:_y _Tabs

Adapter

Hex Bolt

._% __L ,'I

, , Tab

J - • i

;" -' ' Label

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_

Bolt

NOTE: Youmay nowrollordriveyour tractorofftheskid. Followtheappropriate

instructionbelowtoremovethetractor from theskid.

TO ROLLTRACTOR OFF SKID (_;ee Operatlon section for location and

funcUon of controls)

I. Press lift lever plunger and raise

attachment lift lever to its highest position.

2. Release parking brake by depressing

clutch/brake Redal.

3. Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.

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) AWARNING: Before starting read

understand and fo ow a nstructions n 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. Sit on seat in operating position,

depress clutch/brake pedal and set

the parking brake.

4. Place gear shift lever in neutral (N)

position.

5. Press lift lever plunger and raise

attachment lift lever to its highest position.

6. Start the engine. After engine has started, move throttle control to idle

position.

7. Depress,clutch/brake pedal into full

BRAKE position and hold. Move

gearshift lever to 1st gear.

8. Slowly release clutch/brake pedal and slowly drive tractor off skid.

9. Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking

brake and place gearshift lever in neutral position.

10.Turn ignition key to 'OFF" position.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

Flat Wa__

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 frontof mower deck.

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

_CAUTION: 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 CONVERT TO BAGGING OR

DISCHARGING

Simply remove mulcher plate and store in a safe place. Your mower is now ready for

discharging or installation of optional grass catcher accessory.

NOTE: It is not necessary to change blades. The mulcher blades are designed

for discharging and bagging also.

Deflector

Mulcher

CHECK TIRE 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 propedy 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 ofthis 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.

Latch

Hooks

v'CHECKLIST

Before you operate and enjoy your new tractor, we wish to assure that you receive

the best performance and satisfaction from this quality product.

Please review the following checklist:

/ All assembly instructions have been

completed.

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

charged.(Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).

,/Seat is adjusted comfortably and

tightened securely.

/ All tires are propedy inflated. (For

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

,/Be sure mower deck is propedy leveled

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

results. (Tires must be propedy inflated

for leveling).

,/Check mower and ddve belts. Be sure

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

,/Check wiring. Bee that all connections

are still secure and wires are propedy clamped.

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.

,/Be sure brake system is in safe operat-

ing condition.

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

Learn and understand their meaning.

=, I

BATTERY CAUTION OR

WARNING

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF

FUEL CHOKE

REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP lr

MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT

LOCKED

LIGHT

r_'= R _N H L

ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE

CLUTCH ENGAGED

ATTACHMENT KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS i:::

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION) :

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Modelsonly)

KNOWYOURTRACTOR READTHIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING

YOURTRACTOR Comparethe Illustrationswithyourtractortofamiliarizeyourself withthe locationsof

variouscontrolsandadjustments.Save thismanualfor future reference.

Choke Control

Throttle

Control_

Clutch/

Brake Pedal

Attachment ClutchLever Ignition

Ammeter Switch

•.-""-" Lift Lever

Light

Plunger

Attachment LiftLever

,_Height

Adjustment

Indicator

Parking Brake

Gearshift

Lever

Our tractorsconformto thesafetystandardsoftheAmerican

NationalStandardsInstitute.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER: Used to engage the mower blades, or other attachments mounted to your tractor.

LIGHT SWITCH: Turns the headlights on and off.

THROTTLE CONTROL: Used for starting and controlling engine speed.

CHOKE CONTROL: Used when starting a cold engine.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL: Used for declutching and braking the tractor and

starting the engine. PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutch/brake

pedal into the brake position.

GEARSHIFT LEVER: Selects the speed and direction of tractor.

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Used to raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck

or other attachments mounted to your tractor.

LIFT LEVER PLUNGER: Used to release attachment lift lever when changing its

position. IGNITION SWITCH: Used for startingand

stopping the engine. AMMETER: Indicates battery charging

(+) or discharging (-).

Theoperationofanytractorcanresultinforeign objectsthrownintothe

eyes,whichcan resultinsevere eye damage. Alwayswear safety

glassesor eye shieldswhileoperatingyourtractoror performingany adjustments or repairs.We recommenda widevisionsafetymaskover

spectacles,orstandardsafetyglasses.

HOWTO 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 oft 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.

Choke Attachment Clutch Lever Control "Engaged" Position

\ -_=_ IgnitionKey

Throttle _ "DisenQa ed"

Control Positio_g

Clutch/Brake\ __\ t/_ ....

,, . _i J=::ngageo

Pedal Di_lve_'-_ \'_> .,(JPositon Position ._, "

•Disengaged" 'Brake = Lever

Position Position STOPPING MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades,move attachment

clutch lever to "DISENGAGED" position.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive, depress clutch/

brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position.

• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N)

position.

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".

" Gearshift

•Tum ignition key to =OFF" 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 "OFF" will cause

the battery to be discharged, (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. ,_CAUTION: Always stop tractor

completely, as descdbed above, before leaving the operator's position; to empty

grass catcher, etc.

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 USE CHOKE CONTROL Use choke control whenever you are

starting a cold engine. Do not use to start a warm engine.

• To engage choke control, pull knob out. Slowly push knob in to disengage.

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACK- WARD

The direction and speed of movement is controlled by the gearshift lever.

I. Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal

depressed and gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.

2. Move gearshift lever to desired

position.

3. Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to

start movement.

IMPORTANT: Bring tractor to a complete stop before shifting or changing gears. Failure to do so will shorten the useful life

of your transaxle.

TOADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT The position ofthe attachment liftlever

determinesthe cuttingheight.

• Grasp liftlever.

• Pressplungerwiththumband move leverto desiredposition.

The cutting height rangeis approxi-

mately1-1/2 to 4". The heightsare measuredfromthe groundtothe bladetip

withthe enginenotrunning. These

heightsare approximateand may vary dependinguponsoil conditions,heightof

grassand typesof grassbeingmowed.

• The average lawnshouldbe cutto

approximately2-1/2 inches dudngthe coolseasonand to over 3 inches

duringhot months. Forhealthierand betterlookinglawns,mow oftenand

aftermoderategrowth.

• Forbest cuttingperformance,grass over6 inches in heightshouldbe

mowedtwice. Makethe firstcut relativelyhigh;the secondto desired height.

TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS

Gauge wheels are properlyadjusted whentheyare slightlyoffthe ground

whenmower isat the desiredcutting heightin operatingposition.Gauge wheelsthen keepthe deck inproper

positionto help preventscalpingin most terrainconditions.

NOTE: Adjustgaugewheelswithtractor on a flat levelsurface.

1. Adjustmowerto desiredcuttingheight

(Bee"TO ADJUST MOWERcuTrlNG HEIGHT"inthe Operationsectionof

this manual).

2. With mower in desired height of cut position, gauge wheels should be assembled so they are slightlyoffthe

ground. Install gauge wheel in appropriate hole with shoulderbolt, 3/ 8 washer, and 3/8-16 Iocknut and

tighten securely.

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

GMauntg_inW_l_ _ ..

3/8 16 Locknut /\_ /

," 3/8wk::th_\_r

GaugeWheel.---"_'_'_'_'- Bolt

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,

_bCAUTION: Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher, on

mowers so equipped, or the deflector shield in place,

Attachment Clutch

Position

Position Position

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

_kCAUTION: Do notdrive up or down hills with slopes greater than 15° and do

not drive across any slope. A slope guide at the back of your manual is provided for

your use.

• 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 gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be

sure you have allowed room for tractor to roll slightly as you restart movement.

• To restart movement, slowly release

parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

• Make all turns slowly.

Attachment LiftLever High Position

Low

TO TRANSPORT

• Raise attachment lift to highest position with attachment lift control.

• When pushing or towing your tractor, be sure gearshift lever is in neutral (N)

position.

• Do not push or tow tractor at more than

five (5) MPH.

NOTE: To protect hood from damage

when transporting your tractor on a truck or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and secured to tractor. Use an appropriate

means of tying hood to tractor (rope, cord, etc.). TOWING CARTS AND OTHER 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 ofyour 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 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 "OIL VISCOSITY CHART" in the Mainte-

nance section of this manual).

• To change engine oil, see the Mainte-

nance section in this manual.

ADD GASOUNE

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of

87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will increase carbon and lead oxide

deposits and reduce valve life). Do not

mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in

quantities that can be used within 30

days to assure fuel freshness.

IMPORTANT: When operating in tem- peratures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to help

insure good cold weather starting. _kWARNING: Experience indicates that

alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract

moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an

engine while in storage. To avoid engine

problems, the fuel system should be 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.

_kCAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any

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

TO START ENGINE When starlthgthe engineforthe firsttime orif

the engine has runout offuel, itwil take extra crankingtime to move fuelfrom the tankto the

engine.

1. Sit on seat in operating position,

depress clutch/brake pedal and set parking brake.

2. Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) position.

3. Move attachment clutch to =DISEN-

GAGED" position.

4. Move throttle control to fast position

5. Pull choke control out for a cold

engine start attempt. For a warm engine start attempt the choke contro!

may not be needed. NOTE: Before starting,read the warm and coldstartingprocedures 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, push choke control

in, wait a few minutes and try again. If

engine still does not start, pull the

choke control out and retry. WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F and above)

7. When engine starts, slowly push

choke control in until the engine

begins to run smoothly. If the engine

starts to run roughly, pull the choke

control out slightly for a few seconds

and then continue to push the control

in slowly.

• The attachments and ground ddve 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, slowly push choke control in until the engine begins to run smoothly. Continue to

push the choke control insmall steps allowing the engine to accept small

changes in speed and load, until the choke control is fully in. If the engine starts to run roughly, pull the choke

control out slightly for a few seconds and then continue to push the control

in slowly. This may require an engine warm-up pedod from several seconds

to several minutes, depending on the temperature.

• The attachments can be used dudng the engine warm-up period and may require the choke control be pqllsd out

slightly.

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.

MOWINGTIPS

• Mower should be propedy leveled for best mowing performance. See "TO

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Service and Adjustments section of this

manual.

• The left hand side of mower should be used for trimming.

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

the cut area to the dght of the machine. This will result in a more even distribu-

tion 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 tums until finished

• 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 the best cutting performance as

welt 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.

MULCHING MOWINGTIPS

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 end 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 biodegmde 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 dded 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 mulching, reduce your width of cut on each pass

and mow slowly.

• 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 pattem 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.

i , I t ,

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Craftsman 917.271830 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual