Craftsman 917.27184 User Manual

Owner's Manual

ICRRFTSMRNel

21.0 HP

ELECTRIC START

42" MOWER

AUTOMATIC

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.271840

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Repair Parts

Thls product has a low emlsslon englne which operates differently from prevlously bullt englnes. Before you start the en- glne, read and understand thls Owner's Manual.

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety

Rules and Instructions before

operating this equipment.

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

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

Foranswers to your questions

about this product, Call:

1-800-659-5917

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

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

SafetyRoles .........................................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

LIMITEDTWOYEARWARRANTYON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT PARTS Fortwo(2) years from the dateofpumhase,ifthisCraftsmanRidingEquipmentis

maintained,lubricatedand tuned up accordingto the instructionsin the owner's manual,Searswillrepairor replace,free of charge,anypartsfound to be defectivein

materialor workmanship.Warrantyserviceis availablefree ofchargebytakingyour CraftsmanridingequipmenttoyournearestSearsService Center. In-homewarranty serviceis availablebuta tripchargewillapply.This warrantyappliesonlywhilethis

productisin theUnitedStates.

This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark

plugs, air cleaners, hers and oil fiRers.

• 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 dding 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 the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions

contained in the owner's manual.

• Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs caused by fuel determined to be contami- nated or oxidized (stale). In general, fuel should be used within thirty (30) days of its

purchase date.

• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY

For ninety (90) days from date of pumhase, ff 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. tn-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

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.

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 carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless abso-

lutely necessary. Always look down

and behind before and while backing.

• Be aware of the mower discharge

direction and do not point it at anyone.

Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher or the guard in place.

• Slow down before turning.

• Never leave a running machine

unattended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and

remove keys before dismounting.

• Turn off blades when not mowing.

• Stop engine before removing grass

catcher or unclogging chute.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificial

light.

• Do not operate the machine while

under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Watch for traffic when operating near or

crossing roadways.

• Use extra care when loading or

unloading the machine into a trailer or

truck.

• Data indicates that operators, age 60

years and above, are involved in a

large percentage of dding mower- related injuries. These operators

should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from

serious injury.

I|. SLOPE OPERATION Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-

control and tipover accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes

require extra caution. If you cannot back up

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

DO:

• Mow up and down slopes, not across.

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree

limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps.

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

• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear

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

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

weights to improve stability.

• Use extra care 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-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.

III. 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

notsmoke.

-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 debds build-up. Clean oil or fuel

spillage. Allow machine to cool before stodng.

• 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 detedoration,

which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with

manufacturer's recommended parts, when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and

use extra caution when servicing them.

• Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as required.

• Be sure the area is clear of other

people before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers or children

even with the blades off.

• Do not mow in reverse unless abso-

lutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.

• Never carry children. They may fall off

and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.

• Keep children out of the mowing area

and under the watchful care of another

responsible adult.

• Be alert and turn machine off if children

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.

_bLook 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.

_lj 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.

_kWARNING: 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.

PRODUCTSPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE 3.5GALLONS

CAPACITY UNLEADED

ANDTYPE: REGULAR OILTYPE SAE30

API-SF-SJ): (ABOVE32°F)

SAE5W-30 (BELOW32°F)

OILCAPACITY:3.0PINTS

SPARKPLUG: CHAMPION

3AP: .030") RJt9LM OR J19LM

VALVE INTAKE: .004"-.006"

ADJUSTMENT EXHAUST: .007"-.009"

GROUND FORWARD: 5.5

SPEED (MPH): REVERSE: 2.4

TIRE FRONT: 14 PSI

PRESSURE: REAR: 10 PSI

CHARGING 3 AMPS BA'I-rERY SYSTEM: 5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS

BATTERY: AMP/HR: 30

MIN. CCA: 240 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 technio

clans 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 RepairAgreementis availableonthis

product, Contactyour nearestSears

storefor 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).

_e Steering Wheel =_

Steering _ Steering

I I (.) I I Wheel Adapter I I _-xtension

eervi;g __(1)Locknut _ I°1 Shaft

/ -

/ _ _ Steering (1) Hex Bolt

/ "__ Wheel Insed 3/8-16 x 1

_, / (1) Hex Bolt

/ 5/16-18 x 1-1/4

'_11_1__(1 ) _rge Flat

Washer _ ....................

Keys

(2) Keys

(1) Washer 17/32x 1-3/16x 12Gauge

_(1) Knob

For Future Use

Video Cassette

Slope Sheet

Yournewtractorhasbeen assembledat the factory withexceptionofthosepartsleft unassembledfor shippingpurposes. To ensuresafe and properoperationofyour tractorallparts and hardwareyou assemblemustbe tightenedsecurely. Use the

correcttoolsas necessaryto insurepropertightness. TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socketwrenchsat willmake assembly

easier. Standardwrenchsizesyou need

are listedbelow.

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

(1) Tire pressure

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

8. Remove protective materials from tractor hood and gdll.

IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any staples in skid that may puncture tires where tractor is to roll offskid.

gauge When rightor lefthandismentionedin thismanual,it means whenyou are inthe

operatingposition(seated behindthe steeringwheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

1. Remove all accessiblelooseparts

SteedngwheelF _

,_F Wheel Insert

'_x Bolt

_k Washer

,,-_- Large Flat

.... ) Washer

_ _eering Boot

Steedng

and partscartons from carton.

2. Cut, from topto bottom,alonglineson

allfour cornersofcarton,and lay panelsflat.

3. Checkfor any additionallooseparts

,.epter

or cartonsand remove.

BEFORE REMOVINGTRACTOR 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 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.

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

Lower /'_" _ ' I" Steering _ _! _ ab

Shaft '" _ , Sots

HOWTO SET UPYOURTRACTOR CHECK BA'I-rE RY I. 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}.

INSTALL SEAT Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob. I. 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.

8. Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely.

Seat

Flat Wa%_

_. _\\\_,_ \__ I\1

Adju = nt

NOTE: You may now roll or drive your

tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate

instruction below to remove the tractor

from the skid.

TO ROLLTRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation secUon for location and

funcUon 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 freewheel-

ing position to disengage transmis-

s=on(See "TO TRANSPORT" in the

Operation section of this manual).

4. Roll tractor forward off skid.

5. Remove banding holding deflector shield up against tractor.

TO DRIVETRACTOR OFF SKID (See

OperaUon section for location and

function of controls)

WARNING: Before starting, read

understand and follow all ins'tructons 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.

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 "OFF" position.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

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

Forbestcuttingnesults,mowerhousing

shouldbe properlyleveled. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING"inthe

Serviceand Adjustmentssectionof this manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL BELTS

See the figuresthat are shownfor replacingmotionand mowerblade drive beltsin the Serviceand Adjustments

sectionofthismanual. Verifythatthe beltsare routedcorrectly.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM Afteryou learn howto operateyour

tractor,checkto see thatthe brakeis preperlyadjusted. See "TO ADJUST

BRAKE"intheService and Adjustments sectionof thismanual.

INSTALL MULCHER PLATE

(If previously removed)

I. Raise and hold deflector shield in

upright position.

2. Place front of musher 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.

_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.

Mulcher

Shield

Latch Hooks

TO CONVERT TO BAGGINGOR DISCHARGING

Simplyremovemulcher plateand storein a safe place.Yourmoweris nowreadyfor

dischargingor installationof optional grasscatcheraccessory.

NOTE: Itisnotnecessaryto change b_ades.The mulcher bladesare de-

signedfor dischargingand baggingalso.

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 REVIEWTHE FOLLOWING

CHECKLIST: 4 All assembly instructions have been

completed.

J No remaining loose parts in carton. #" Battery is properly prepared and

charged. (Minimum I hour at 6 amps).

4 Seat is adjusted comfortably and

tightened securely.

J" 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 drive belts. Be sure

they are routed properly around pulleys

and inside all belt keepers.

J Check wiring. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are properly

clamped.

,/Before driving tractor, be sure free-

wheel control is in drive position.

WHILE LEARNING HOWTO 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.

4 Be sure brake system is in safe

operating condition.

/ It is important to purge the transmission

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

transmission purging instructions (See "TO START ENGINE" and "PURGE

TRANSMISSION" in the Operation section of this manual).

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

Learn and understand their meaning.

A ÷

8ATTERY CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

WARNING

ENG.NEONENG,NEOPPO,LPRESSUREL,G.TSONOV_.P _

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT

LOCKED

_r_'lR N H L (®)_I

ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE

CLUTCH ENGAGED

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

ATTACHMENT KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic ModeLsonly)

KNOWYOURTRACTOR

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

Comparethe illustrationswithyourtractorto familiadzeyourselfwiththe locationsof variouscontrolsand adjustments.Save thismanualfor future reference.

Attachment Igni_on Clutch Lever Switch

Ammeter

ChokeControl Plunger

Lever

Throttle

Clutch/ BrakePedal

Free Wheel Control

Lift Lever

Height

Adjustment

Indicator

Brake Lever

Motion Lever

Ourtractorsconformto thesafetystandardsofthe AmedcanNationalStandards

Institute.

AMMETER - Indicatescharging(+) or discharging(-) of battery.

ATTACHMENTCLUTCH LEVER- Used to engagethe mowerblades, orother attachmentsmountedtoyourtractor.

ATrACHMENT LIFT LEVER- Usedto raise,lower,and adjustthe mowerdeck

or otherattachmentsmountedto your tractor.

CHOKE CONTROL - Usedwhen starting a coldengine.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Usedfor declutching and brakingthetractorand

startingthe engine. MOTION CONTROL LEVER- Selectsthe

FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengages

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

IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and stopping the engine.

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

position.

LIGHT SWITCH - Turns the headlights on

and off.

PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks clutch/

brake pedal into the brake position. THRO'I-rLE CONTROL - Used to control

engine speed.

speedand directionoftractor.

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety

glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask over

spectacles or standard safety glasses.

HOWTO USEYOURTRACTOR

TO SET PARKING BRAKE Your tractor is equipped with an operator

presence sensing switch. When engine

is running, any attempt by the operator to

leave the seat without first setting the parking brake will shut off the engine.

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

2. Place parking brake lever in =EN-

GAGED" position and release pressure from clutch/brake pedal.

Pedal should remain in =BRAKE" position. Make sure parking brake will

hold tractor secure.

AttachmentClutch Lever

Choke Control .Ignition Key

Throttle

Control

Clutch/

Brake

"Disengaged" Motion Control Position Lever

Position

Parking Brake

"Engaged"

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 into full "BRAKE" position.

• Move motion control lever to neutral (N)

position.

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

when the clutch/brake pedal is de- pressed.

ENGINE -

• Move 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".

• Turn 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 s_nding 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. A_ilLCAUTION: Always stop tractor

completely, as described 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 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 and clutch/ brake pedal.

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.

• Theaveragelawnshouldbecutto approximately2-1/2inchesduringthe

coolseasonandtoover3inches duringhotmonths.Forhealthierand betterlookinglawns,mowoftenand

aftermoderategrowth.

• 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 ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS Gauge wheels are properly adjusted

when they are slightly off the ground when mower is at the desired cutting

height in operating position. Gauge wheels then keep the deck in proper

position to help prevent scalping in most terrain conditions.

NOTE: Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a flat level surface.

1. Adjust mower to desired cutting height

(See 'q'O ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT" in the Operation section of

this manual).

2. With mower in desired height of cut

position, gauge wheels should be assembled so they are slightly off the

ground. Install gauge wheel in appropdata hole with shoulder bolt, 3/ 8 washer, and 3/8-16 Iocknut and

tighten securely,

3. Repeat for opposite side installing

gauge wheel in same adjustment hole.

3/8-16 -_-_ Locknut\ .

Gauge Wheel

Mounting Bracket

3/8 Washer Shoulder

GaugeWheel

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 Clutch

Lever "Engaged" Attachemnt Lift Position Lever High

Low PosRion

"Disengaged"

Pos_ee

Shield

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

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

not drive across any slope.

• Choose the slowest speed before starting up or down hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on

hills.

• If slowing is necessary, move throttle control lever to slower position.

• If stopping is absolutely necessary,

push clutch/breke pedal quickly to brake position and engage parking

brake.

• 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.

• 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. Free wheel control is located at the rear drawbar of tractor.

1. Raise attachment liftto highest

position with attachment lift control.

2. Pull freewheel control out and down

into the slot and release so it is held in

the disengaged position.

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

• To reengage transmission, reverse

above procedure.

NOTE: To protect hood from damage when transporting your tractor on a truck

or a trailer, be sure hood is dosed and secured to tractor. Use an appropriate

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

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER A'I-FACH 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 theMainte-

nance section of this manual).

• To change engine oil, see the Mainte-

nance section in this manual.

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular

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

will increase carbon and lead oxide

deposits and reduce valve life). Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in

quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.

IMPORTANT: When operating in temperatures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh,

clean winter grade gasoline to help insure good cold weather starting.

_WARNING: 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. _IeCAUTION: Fill.to bottom of gas.tank

r neck. uo not overfill. Wipe on any

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

TO START ENGINE When startingthe engine for the firsttimeor if

the engine has run out of fuel, if willtake extra crankir_ time to move fuelfrom the tankto

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 fast position

6. Pull choke control out for a cold

engine start attempt. For a warm engine start attempt the choke control

may not be needed,

NOTE: Beforestarling,read the warm and coldstarting proceduresbelow.

7. 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, 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)

8. 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 attachmentsand grounddrivecan

now be used. Ifthe engine does net accept the load, restartthe engine and allow itto warm upforone minute usingthe choke

as described above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING (50° F and

below)

8. When engine starts, slowly push choke control in until the engine

begins to run smoothly. Continue to push the choke control in small 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 period from several seconds to several minutes, depending on the

temperature.

AUTOMATICTRANSMISSION WARM UP Before driving the unit in cold weather,

the transmission should be warmed up as

follows:

1. Be sure the tractor is on _evel 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 pedod.

• The attachments can be used during

the enQine warm-up period after the transmission has been warmed up and

may require the choke control be

pulled 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.

PURGETRANSMISSION

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

running.

To ensure proper operation and perfor-

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

tractor forthe firsttime.

This procedure will remove any trapped air inside the transmission which reay 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 freewheeling

position (See "TO TRANSPORT" in

this section of manual).

3. Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine.

After the engine is running, move throttle control to stow 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: During this procedure 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. Shut- off engine and set

parking brake.

6. Engage transmission by placing freewheel control in driving position

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

7. Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. After the engine is running, move throttle control to half (1/2) speed. With

motion control lever in neutral (N) position, slowly disengage 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 retum the motion control lever to the neutral (N)

position, Repeat this procedure with the motion control lever three (3) times.

Your tractor is now purged and now ready for normal operation.

MOWINGTIPS

• Mower should be properly 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 tractor.

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 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.

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 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 willprov_le 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 eftemoon. At this time the grass

has dried and the newly cut area will

notbe 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 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.

4p.

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Craftsman 917.27184 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual