Craftsman 917272160 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

CRRFTSMRNo

20.0 HP ELECTRIC START

46" MOWER

AUTOMATIC

LAWN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.272160

, Safety ° Assembly

° Operation ° Maintenance

° Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equip- mento

For answers to your questions

about this product, CalF:

1-800-659-5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line

5 am - 5 pro, Mort - Sat

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

Visit our Craftsman website: www.searsocom/craftsman

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

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

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

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

Operation ................................................... 13

Maintenance Schedule ...................... 20

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANT'( ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT PARTS 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 wilt repair or replace, free of charge, any parts found to be defective in material or workmanship. Warranty service is available free of charge by returning

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.

This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, belts and oil filters°

• Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, 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 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. A product is "used for commercial purpose" if is used for any purpose other than single family household

dwellings or in usage where profit is made.

Maintenance ....................................... 20

Service and Adjustments .................... 24

Storage ............................................... 31

Troubleshooting ................................... 32

Repair Parts ........................................ 36

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

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

equipment proves defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the battery will not hold a charge, Sears wilt replace the battery at no charge. Warranty service is available free of charge by returning 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

IMPORTANT;Thiscuttingmachineiscapableof amputatinghandsandfeetand throwingobjects.Failureto observethe followingsafetyinstructionscouldresultin seriousinjuryor 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

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. o 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

lighL o 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 riding mower- related injuries. These operators

should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to

protect themselves and others from

serious injury.

° 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.

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.

Ilh CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the

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

you last saw them_

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

responsible adult.

° Be alert and turn machine off if children

enter the area.

° Before and when backing, look behind

and down for small children.

° Never carry children. They may fall off

and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.

° Never allow children to operate the

machine.

. Use extra care when approaching blind

corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

IV. SERVICE

. Use extra care in handling gasoline

and other fuels. They are flammable and vapors are explosive.

-Use only an approved container,

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

engine to cool before refueling. Do not smoke.

-Never refuel the machine indoors.

-Never store the machine or fuel

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

° Never run a machine inside a closed

area.

° Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade

attachment bolts, tight and keep equipment in good condition°

° Never tamper with safety devices.

Check their proper operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other 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 took 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 (I5 ° 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.

o Useslowspeed.Choosea low gearso

thatyouwillnot haveto stoporshift

while on the slope.

° Avoidstartingor stoppingonaslope,if

tireslose traction,disengagethe

bladesand proceedslowlystraight downthe slope.

• If machinestopswhile goinguphill, disengageblades,shift into reverse

and backdownslowly.

• Do notturnon slopesunlessneces-

sary,andthen,turnslowlyandgradu- ally downhill,if possible.

,_Look forthissymbolto pointout importantsafetyprecautions.Itmeans CAUTIONHtBECOMEALERT!tfYOUR

SAFETYISINVOLVED. _,CAUTION: Inordertoprevent

acciaenta!startingwhen settingup, transporting,adjustingor makingrepairs, alwaysdisconnectspark plugwire and placewirewhere itcannotcontactspark

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.

_t_sWAR_.ING.." Engine exh.aust,, s.ome of

constituents, and certain ventcle

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

cancer and birth defects or other repro_ ductive harm.

,II_WABNING: 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 3.5GALLONS CAPACITY UNLEADED

&NDTYPE: REGULAR DILTYPE SAE10W30

(ABOVE32°F)

APt-SFiSG/SH):SAE5W-30

(BELOW32°F)

OILCAPACITY': W/FILTER:4.5PINTS

W/OFILTER:4.0PINTS

SPARKPLUG: CHAMPIONRC12YC

GAP:.030")

GROUND SPEED FORWARD:0-5.5 (MPH): REVERSE: 0-2.4

FIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

REAR: I0 PSI

CHARGING SYSTEM: 15 AMPS @ 3600 RPM

BATTERY: AMPiHR: 30

MINo CCA: 240 CASE SIZE: U I R

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 your

nearest authorized service center/ department. We have competent, well.-

trained technicians and the proper tools to

service or repair this tractor. Please read and retain this manual. The

instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor properly. Always observe the "SAFETY RULES".

REPAIR AGREEMENT

A Repair Agreement is available on this product. Contact your nearest Sears

store for details° CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

. Read and observe the safety rules. . Follow a regular schedule in maintain-

ing, caring for and using your tractor.

° Follow the instructions under "Mainte-

nance" and "Storage" sections of this

owner's manual.

_,WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any

unimproved forest-covered, brush- covered or grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with

a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any), If a spark arrester is

used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.

in the state of California the above is

required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code)° Other states may have similar laws.

Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest authorized service center/department (See REPAIR PARTS

section of this manual).

Steering Wheel

Steering

Wheel Insert

Seat

(1) Washer

@ 17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge

(_(1) Knob

Mower

Steering Sleeve

k Assemblies

Steering Sleeve

Extension

_J (1) Shoulder

Bolt 5/16-18

(4) Retainer Springs (single loop)

(2) Shoulder

Bolts

Gauge Wheels

(3) Retainer Springs (double loop)

(2) Washers 3/8

x 7/8 x 14 Gauge

(2) Center-

lock Nuts

'(ournewtractor hasbeenassembledatthe factorywithexceptionofthosepartsleft

unassembledfor shippingpurposes.To ensuresafe andproperoperationofyour

tractorallpartsand hardwareyou assemblemustbe tightenedsecurely°Usethe correcttoolsas necessarytoinsurepropertightness.Reviewthevideocassettebefore

you begin.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY A socket wrench set will make assembly

easier. Standard wrench sizes you need are listed below.

(t) 9/16" wrench (1) 3/4" Socket w/ (I) 1/2" wrench drive ratchet (I) Utility knife (I) Pliers

(t) 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).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

CARTON

UNPACK CARTON I. Remove all accessible loose parts

and parts cartons from carton.

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

panels flat.

3_ Remove mower and packing materi-

als.

4. Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and remove.

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

1, Remove hex bolt, lock washer and

large flat washer from steering shaft.

2. Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing straight forward.

3. Slide the steering sleeve over the steering shaft.

4. Align tabs and press steering sleeve extension into bottom of steering wheel.

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

6. Secure steering wheel to steering shaft with hex bolt, lock washer and

large flat washer previously removed. Tighten securely.

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

Steenng - ,-__&=.-_--. ":_.., Shaft _ //" / --_-->.-z. ",,,

Steering_;' _ ,_ t ,,, Sleeve (".'_3',' 3_:", ,,, ,,,

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.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR

CHECK BATTERY

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).

'÷ '"ii" i" ii+__ _ Lab el,_

_ Wheel Insert

L&---_ Lock Nut

j,'_ .,,. Steering

_4;-,__.__Large Flat

"--r" -Washer

Steering Sleeve

Extension

_t, _ I I tt t

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 and assemble shoulder bolt. Tighten shoulder bolt securely.

4. Assemble adjustment knob and flat washer loosely. Do not tighten.

5. Lower seat into operating position and sit on seat,

6, Slide seat until a comfortable position

is reached which allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

7. Get off seat without moving its adjusted position.

8, Raise seat and tighten adjustment

knob securely,

Seat --_

Shoulder Seat Pan ,______-._ L

__ _ _RatWasher

Adjustment

Knob

NOTE: You may now roll or drive your tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate instruction below to remove the tractor from the skid.

TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section for location and

function of controls) I. 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-

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

4. Roll tractor forward off skid.

TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section for location and

function of controls) _lb 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.

4o 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.

IMPORTANT: For shipping purposes, the mulcher plate was preattached to your

mower. The mulcher plate must only be used with the mulching blades that came packed separately in the carton.

Your mower came factory equipped with high performance blades, which are the

best blades for bagging and discharging. To use your mower with the high perfor-

mance blades the mulcher plate must be removed from the mower.

TO SET UP YOUR MOWER FOR

MULCHING

1. Turn the mower over to allow access

to blades,

2, Remove hex bolt, lock washer and flat

washer and remove high performance

blades. Store in safe place.

3. Install mulcher blades with trailing edge up towards deck as shown,

IMPORTANT" To ensure proper assembly, center hole in blade must align with star on mandrel assembly.

4. Reassemblehex bolt, lockwasher andflatwasherinexactorderas

shown.

5. Tightenboltsecurely(27-35Ft.Lbs. torque).

IMPORTANT: Bladeboltis grade 8 heat

treated. 6_ Install mulcher plate if previously

removed. Mandrel

Trailing Edge Up Center

Blade Hole

Washer-,

Hex Bolt (Grade 8)* Star

(_ Lock

*A GRADE 8 HEAT TREATED BOLT CAN BE IDENTIFIED BY SIX LINES ON THE BOLT HEAD.

TO INSTALL MULCHER PLATE NOTE: If you installed the mulching

blades you will need to install the mulcher plate.

1. Raise and hold deflector shield in upright position.

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

place, as shown.

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

4o 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,

Deflector

Shield

Washer

)

Assembly

Mulcher

Plate

Latch Hooks

TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR

DISCHARGING NOTE: The mulcher blades will discharge

and bag grass, but for best bagging and discharging install the high performance

blades.

1. Remove mulcher plate and mulcher blades and install high performance

blades, (see BLADE REMOVAL in the Maintenance section of this manual)

2. Store mulcher blades and mulcher plate in a safe place. Your mower is

now ready for discharging or installa-

tion of optional grass catcher acces-

sory.

INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT Be sure tractor is on level surface and mower suspension arms are raised with

attachment lift control. Engage parking braker

1. Cut and remove ties securing anti- sway bar and belts. Swing anti-sway

bar to left side of mower deck.

2. Slide mower under tractor with deflector shield to right side of tractor,

IMPORTANT: Check belt for proper routing in all mower pulley grooves.

Install belt into electric clutch pulley

groove.

3. Install one front link in top hole of the R.H. front mower bracket and R.H.

front suspension bracket, Retain with two single loop retainer springs as

shown.

4. Install second front link in L.H. front suspension bracket only and retain

with single loop retainer spring as showm

5. Turn height adjustment knob counter- clockwise until it stops.

6_ Lower mower linkage with attachment

lift control.

7,, Place the Loll, suspension arm on

outward pointing deck pin. If neces- sary, rock and raise front of mower to

align deck pin with the hole in suspension arm. Retain with double loop retainer spring with loops down

as shown.

8. Slide left side of mower back and install the unattached front link in top

hole of the LH. front mower bracket. Retain with single loop retainer spring

as shown°

9. Place the R.H. suspension arm on outward pointing deck pin,, If neces- sary, rock and raise front of mower to

align deck pin with the hole in suspension arm. Retain with double loop retainer spring with loops down

as shown.

10.Connect anti-sway bar to chassis bracket under left footrest and retain

with double loop retainer spring.

11 .Turn height adjustment knob clock-

wise to remove slack from mower suspension,

12.Raise mower to highest position.

1&Assemble gauge wheels (See "TO

ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS" in the Operation section of this manual).

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.

o Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in

"PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" section of this manual.

Double Loop

Chassis Retainer Spring Bracket"_ (Outward pointing

_...deck pins) \

Shoulder Bolt

\\\ Gauge

Wheel

CHECK MOWER LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower should be properly leveled. See "TO LEVEL

MOWER HOUSING" in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manual. CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF

ALL BELTS See the figures that are shown for

replacing motion, mower drive, 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.

Electric

Suspension Clutch Arms Pulley

Front Mower Bracket

Front"_, c. ; Link i! '

318 Washer

3/8-16 Center

Locknut Double Loop

Retainer Spring

Use Pliers for Bar

Retainer Springs

I Antil

DowR

Single Loop Retainer

Spring

Deflector Shield

Idler Pulley

V'CHECKLIST

BEFORE YOU OPERATEAND 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 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)°

v" Check mower and drive belts. Be sure

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

,/Check wiring. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are properly clamped.

¢' Before driving tractor, be sure free-

wheel control is in drive position.

WHILE LEARNING HOW TO USE YOUR

TRACTOR, PAY EXTRAATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT ITEMS:

,/Engine oil is at proper level. v' Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,

regular unleaded gasoline.

v' Become familiar with all controls - their

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

v' Be sure brake system is in safe

operating condition.

¢ It is important to purge the transmis-

sion before operating your tractor for

the first timer Follow proper starting

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

"PURGE TRANSMISSION" in the Operation section of this manual).

Thesesymbolsmayappearon yourtractororin literaturesuppliedwiththe product. Learnandunderstandtheir meaning.

BA't-t'ERY

ENGINE ON

FUEL

ATTACHMENT

CLUTCH ENGAGED

CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD FAST

WARNING

ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS Ol'4 OVER TEMP

CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED

REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH

LOCKED

LOW PARKING BRAKE

LIGHT

SLOW

MOWER LIFT

ATTACHMENT

IGNITION

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Modelsonty)

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING

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

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

Light Switch Position

Choke Control

Ammeter

Ignition Switch

Attachment Clutch Switch

Throttle Control

Clutch!Brake Control

Height

Adjustment

Freewhee! Control

Lift Lever Plunger

Attachment

Lift Lever

Parking Brake

Motion

Control Lever

Approx.

Speed 3mph 2mph

lmph

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American

National Standards Institute.

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH: Used to engage the mower blades, or other

attachments mounted to your tractor.

LIGHT swrf'CH: Turns the headlights on and off. THROTTLE CONTROL - Used to control

engine speed.

CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting

a cold engine.

CLUTCHtBRAKE PEDAL: Used for

declutching and braking the tractor and

starting the engine,

FREEWHEEL CONTROL: Disengages

transmission for pushing or slowly towing

the tractor with the engine off,

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB: Used to adjust the mower cutting height°

MOTION CONTROL LEVER: Selects the speed and direction of the tractor,

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER: Used to raise and lower 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 starting and stopping the engine,

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

PARKING BRAKE: Locks clutch/brake

into the brake position.

Theoperationofanytractorcan resultinforeignobjectsthrownintothe eyes,whichcanresultinsevereeyedamage.Alwayswearsafetyglasses

or eyeshieldswhileoperatingyourtractoror performinganyadjustments or repairs.We recommendawidevisionsafetymaskoverspectacles,or

standardsafetyglasses.

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 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.

Push-In to Attachment Clutch Choke Control

Throttle

"Brake"

Position

Clutch/Brake "Engaged" Motion

Pedal "Drive" Adjustment Position Control Position Knob "Disengaged" Lever

STOPPING

MOWER BLADES -

= To stop mower blades, move attach-

ment clutch switch 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 clutchtbrake 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" Switch Pull Out To

\ Engage"

Position

• 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 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°

p_ICAUTIOI'_: Always stop tractor com-

ely, as aescnuea above, before

leaving the operator's position; to empty grass catcher, etc.

THROTTLE CONTROL Always operate engine at full throttle.

° Operating engine at tess 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 cutting height is controlled by turning the height adjustment knob in desired di-

rection. o Turn knob clockwise (f'_) to raise cut-

ting height.

• Turn knob counterclockwise (F'_)to lower cutting height.

Thecuttingheightrangeis approximately

1-1/2"to4", Theheightsaremeasured fromthegroundto thebladetip withthe enginenotrunning. Theseheightsare

approximateand mayvary depending uponsoilconditions,heightof grassand typesof grassbeingmowed.

• The averagelawnshouldbecutto

approximately2-1/2 inchesduringthe

coolseasonandto over3 inches duringhot months. 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°

1o Adjust mower to desired cutting height

(See "TO 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 appropriate hole with shoulder bolt, 3/ 8 washer, and 3/8-t6 Iocknut and

tighten securely.

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

hole.

Gauge Wheel Mounting

Bracket

3/8-16 Locknut Shoulder Bolt

3/8 Washer Gauge Wheel

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.

1o Select desired height of cut.

2. Lower mower with attachment lift control.

3, 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 placeo

Attachment Clutch Attachment Lift Lever

Switch Pull Out To High 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 provided at the back of this manual. ° Choose the slowest speed before

starting up or down hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills.

° If slowing is necessary, move throttle

control lever to slower position,

. If stopping is absolutely necessary,

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

brake,

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

IMPORTANT; The motion control lever does

not return to neutral (N) position when the clutch/brake pedal Is depressed, ° 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 lift to highest position with attachment lift control.

2. Put! 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) MPHo

_:_ Deflector y Shield

Low

0,_ Position

• To reengage transmission, reverse above procedure°

NOTE: To protect hood from damage

when transporting your tractor on a truck

or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and secured to tractor. Use an appropriate means of tying hood to tractor (rope, cord, 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, Unthread and remove oil fill cap/

dipstick; wipe oil off. Reinsert the dipstick into the tube and rest oil fill

cap on the tube. Do not thread the cap onto the tube. Remove and read

oil level. If necessary, 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 oi!, 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 tem- peratures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to help

insure good cold weather starting. AWARNING: 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.

,_CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

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.

t. 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: Before starting, read the warm and cold starting procedures below.

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,

WARMWEATHERSTARTING(50°Fand above)

8. Whenenginestarts,slowlypush chokecontrolin untiltheengine beginsto runsmoothly,if the engine startsto run roughly,pullthe choke

controloutslightlyfora few seconds andthencontinueto pushthe control in slowly.

o Theattachmentsandgrounddrivecan

nowbeused.Iftheenginedoesnotaccept theload,restarttheengineandallowitto warmupforoneminuteusingthechoke

asdescribedabove.

COLDWEATHERSTARTING(50°Fand below)

8. Whenenginestarts,slowlypush chokecontrolin untiltheengine beginsto runsmoothly.Continueto

pushthechokecontrolinsmallsteps allowingthe engineto acceptsmall changesin speedandload, untilthe

chokecontrolisfully inoIf the engine startsto run roughly,pullthe choke controloutslightlyfora few seconds andthencontinueto pushthe control in slowly.This mayrequirean engine

warm-upperiodfrom severalseconds to severalminutes,dependingon the temperature.

AUTOMATICTRANSMISSIONWARMUP

Beforedrivingthe unitin coldweather,

thetransmissionshouldbewarmedup as follows:

1. Besurethetractoris on level ground.

2. Placethe motioncontrolleverin neutral,Releasethe parkingbrake

andlettheclutch/brakeslowly return to operatingposition°

3. Allowoneminutefor transmissionto warmup.Thiscanbe doneduringthe

enginewarmup period.

° The attachmentscanbe used during

theenginewarm-upperiodafter the transmissionhas beenwarmedup and

mayrequirethechokecontrolbe pulledoutslightly.

NOTE:Ifat a highaltitude(above3000

feet)or in coldtemperatures(below32 F) thecarburetorfuel mixturemay needto

be adjustedfor best engineperformance° See"TOADJUSTCARBURETOR"in the

Service and Adjustments section of this

manual.

PURGE TRANSMISSION

_,_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 for the first time. This procedure will

remove any trapped air inside the trans- mission which may have developed during shipping of your tractor_

IMPORTANT: Should your transmission require removal for service or replacement, it should be purged after reinstaltation before operating the tractor.

I. Place tractor safely on level surface

with engine off and parking brake set.

2. Disengage transmission by placing freewheel control in freewheeling

position (See '%0 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: 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 return the motion control lever to the neutral (N) position. Repeat this procedure with

the motion control lever three (3) times_

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

MOWING TIPS

• Mower should be properly leveled for

best mowing performance° See "TO

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

o The left hand side of mower should be

used for trimming.

o Drive so that clippings are discharged

onto the area that has been cut. Have

the cut area to the right of the tractor. This wilt 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 turns until finished.

o 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 tow 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 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 mulching, reduce your width of cut on each pass

and mow slowly.

o 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.

MAX 1/3

MAINTENAN'CE'SCHEDULE _._

FILL IN DATES ,_O_==_

Check BrakeOperalion if If

Check Tire Pressure V _ If

Check Operator Presence and

T }nterlock Sysiem_ V _

a Check far Loose Fasteners V _' V _,

(_ Sh_;e,_Rep!_,ceMo,_e'r"B1;,_e_........ V'. ...........

T Lubricationchart _ Sf ........................

0 Check Batter,i Level I_B

R Clean Battery and Terminais * ' ' _ '

CheckT,anS,xl,CQor!_g......................................V" ...............

Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension V_s

Adj"stM0ti0.D.vaBa,(s)Tens_an _, ....

CheckEngtne0!*Lever............... V" V"

Change Engine Oit 1_t.2.= V _

E0,eon ,rF,,,er ' ' .................... i i i...........'.....i

N CleanAir Screen _z

Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester

Replace 0ii F{iter (if equipped) . . .

Replace Spark Plug If If

ReplacoAt,F,,orPaperco.,_d_e V'_ ...............

Replace Fuel Filter I_

I - Change mote olter_ when operating under a heavy bad Dr tn high _mhlanl temperalums., ,5,,1I eq_}pped with adjuslabie syslem 2 - Service more olden when operating In d_rtyo_ dusty conditions 6 - Hot mqu!_od tl _qulpped with maintenance*lee bal_enf,

3 - If equipped wllh ol tilter, change oil ovary SO hours 7 - Tighten trent mdt_pivot bo!l Io 35 {I,-Ibs m_lmum 4 - Replace blades more piton when mowing In s_ndy soil Do nat evertlghter_

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this tractor does not cover items that have been subjected to operator

abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, operator must maintain

tractor as instructed in this manual° Some adjustments will need to be made

periodically to properly maintain your tractor°

All adjustments in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual should

be checked at least once each season.

• Once a year you should replace the spark plug, clean or replace air filter, and

check blades and belts for wear° A new spark plug and clean air filter assure

proper air-fuel mixture and help your engine run better and last longer.

BEFORE EACH USE

1. Check engine oil level.

2. Check brake operation.

3. Check tire pressure.

4. Check operator presence and

interlock systems for proper operation.

5. Check for loose fasteners.

O General Purpose Grease ® Refer to Maintenance "ENGINE" Section

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the pivot points which have special nylon bear-tags. Viscous lubricants will attract

dust and dirt that will shorten the life of the self-lubricating bearings. If you feet

they must be lubricated, use only a dry,

powdered graphite type lubricant

sparingly.

LUBRICATION CHART

Spindle

Zerk

Wheel

Bearing

Zerk

Spindle

Zerk

_) Front

Wheel Bearing

Zerk

(_ Engine

+ 44 hidden pages

Craftsman 917272160 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual