Craftsman 917272452 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

JCRIIFTSMRN"I

LAWN TRACTOR

21.5 HP, 42" Mower Electric Start

6 Speed Transaxle

Model No.

917.272452

[_] his product has a low emission engine which operates

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before

operating this equipment.

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

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

differently from previously built engines. Before you start the engine, read and understand this Owner's Manual.

For answers toyour questions aboutthis product,Call:

1-800-659-5917

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

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

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

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

Assembly/Pre-Operation ....................... 8

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

Maintenance Schedule ....................... 17

LIMITED WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT

Maintenance ........................................ 17

Service and Adjustments..................... 21

Storage ................................................ 27

Troubleshooting .................................. 28

Repair Parts......................................... 32

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

For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is maintained, lubdcated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair or replace free of charge any parts that are found to be defective in material or workmanship according to the guidelines of coverage listed

below. Sears will alsoprovide free labor for these applicable warranted pads for the two full years. Dudng the first 30 days of purchase, there will be no charges to service

the product at your home for issues covered by this warranty. (See exclusions below). For your convenience, IN HOME warranty service will still be available after the first 30

days of purchase, but a tdp charge will apply. This charge will be waived ifthe Crafts- man product is dropped offat an authorized Sears location. For the nearest authorized Sears location, please call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®. This warranty applies only while this product is withinthe United States.

This Warranty does not cover"

• Expendable items which become wom dudng normal use, including but not limited

to blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, belts, and oil filters.

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

• Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails,

thorns, stumps, or glass. caused by towing objects beyond the capability of the nding equipment, impacting

i Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, includin_ but not limited to, damage

objects that bendthe frame or crankshaft or over-speedin._ the engine.

Rapa rs necessary because of operator negligence, including but not limited to,

electrical and mechanical damage caused by improper storage, failure to use the proper grade and amount of engine oil, failure to keep the deck clear of flammable debris, or failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained in

the owner's manual.

• Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs caused by fuel determined to be contami-

nated or oxidized (stale). In general, fuel should be used within 30 days of its purchase date.

• Normal deterioration and wear of the extedor finishes, or product label replacement.

• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

LIMITED WARRANTY ON BATTERY

For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding equipment proves defective in matedal or workmanship and our testing determines the battery will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge. During the

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

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

This battery warranty applies only while this product is within the United States.

This warranty gives you specific legal dghts, and you may also have other rights, which vary,from state to state.

Sears, Roebuck and Co.,Dept.817WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

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

serious injury or death.

• Be sure the area is clear of other people

4BkLookfor this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means CAUTIONI!! BECOMEALERTI!! 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.

before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unlessabsolutely

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

• Be aware of the mower discharge directionand do not point it at anyone.

Do not operate the mower withouteither

the entire grass catcheror the guard in

place.

,_ CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill in neutral, you may lose controlof the

tractor.

CAUTION: Tow onlythe attachments

that are recommended by and comply with specificationsof 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. _res can lose tractionwith the ground and cause you to lose control

of yourtractor. _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.

• Slow down before tuming.

• Never leave a runningmachine

unattended. Always tum off blades, set

parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting.

•Tum off blades when not mowing.

• Stop engine before removinggrass catcher or uncloggingchute.

• Mow only in daylightor good artificial

light.

• Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcoholor drugs.

• Watch for trafficwhen operating near or

crossing roadways.

• Use extra care when loading or unload- ing the machine into atrailer or truck.

• Data indicatesthat operators, age 60 years and above, are involvedin a large

percentage of riding mower-related injuries. These operators should

evaluate their ability to operate the riding

_,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.

mower safely enough to protect them- selves and othersfrom seriousinjury.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other debris build-upwhich can touch

hot exhaust / engine parts and bum. Do not allow the mower deck to plow leaves or other debris which can cause build-

I, GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all instructionsin the manual and on the

machine before starting.

up to occur. Clean any oilor fuel spillage before operating or storing the

machine. Allow machine to cool before storage.

• Only allow responsibleadults, who are

familiar with the instructions,to operate the machine.

• Clear the area of objectssuch as rocks,

toys,wire, etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the blade.

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

control and tipover accidents, which can re- suit in severe Injury or death. All slopes

require extra caution. Ifyou 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 overtum the machine. Tall

grass can hide obstacles.

• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so

thatyou willnot have to stop or shift while on the slope.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommenda- tions for wheel weights or counter-

weights to improve stability.

• Use extra care with grass catchers or

other attachments. These can change

thestabilityofthemachine.

• Keep allmovement on theslopesslow and gradual.Do notmake sudden

changesinspeed or direction.

• Avoidstartingorstoppingon a slope.If tireslosetraction,disengagetheblades

and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

DO NOT:

• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary,

and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches,or

embankments. The mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the

edge of a cliffor ditch,or ifan edge

caves in.

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

• Do not tryto stabilizethe machine by

puttingyour foot on the ground.

• Do not use grasscatcher on steep

slopes.

III. CHILDREN Tragic accidentscan occurif the operator

is notalert to the presence ofchildren. 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 sedously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.

• Never allow children to operate the

machine.

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

that may obscure vision.

IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care in handling gasoline

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

-Use only an approved container.

- Never remove gas cap or add fuel

with the engine running. Allow engine to cool before refueling. Do

not smoke.

-Never refuel the machine indoors.

- Never store the machine or fuel

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

• Never run a machine inside a closed

area.

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade

attachment bolts, tight and keep equipment in good condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices.

Check their proper operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel

spillage. Allow machine to cool before storing.

• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, ifnecessary,

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 seriouslyinjured or interfere

with safe machine operation.

• Keep children out of the mowing area

and under the watchful care of another responsible adult.

• Be alert and tum machine off if children

enter the area.

• Before and when backing, look behind

and down for small children.

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

Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps.

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

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

while on the slope.

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

blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.

If machine stops while going uphill,

disengage blades, shift into reverse

and back down slowly. Do not turn on slopes unless neces-

sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu- ally downhill, if possible.

PRODUCT SPECIRCATIONS

"_asoline

Capacity and

rype: _)ilType

_,PI-SF-SJ):

3.5 Unleaded and

Regular SAE 30

(above 32°F) SAE 5W-30

(below 32°F)

3il Capacity: 3park Plug:

4.0 Pints Champion RC12YC

',Gap: .030")

3round Speed (MPH):

Forward:

Reverse: 1.5

Tire Pressure: Front: 14 PSI

Rear: 10 PSI

Charging 3 Amps Battery System: 5 Amps Headlights

Battery: Amp/Hr: 28

Min. CCA: 230

Case Size: UIR

Blade Bolt Torque: 27-35 Ft. Lbs.

1st 1.2 2nd 1.5 3rd 2.4 4th 3.5

5th 4.8

6th 5.3

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 expedence any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact a

Sears or other qualified service center. We have competent, well-trained techni-

cians and the proper tools to service or

repair thistractor. Please read and retain this manual. The

instructionswill enable you to assemble

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

REPAIR AGREEMENT A Repair Agreement is available on this

product. Contact your nearest Sears store for details.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

• Follow a regular schedule in maintain-

ing, caring for and using your tractor.

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

owner's manual.

_,WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal combustion engine and

should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-

covered or grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with

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

used, it should be maintained in effective

working order by the operator.

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

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

Federal laws apply on federal lands. A

spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest Sears service center (See REPAIR PARTS section of

this manual).

Steering

Wheel Insert

Steering Wheel

(1) Large Flat Washer

(1) Hex Bolt 1/4-28 x 1-1/4

_ Steedng Wheel

Adapter

(1) Locknut 1/2-20

Seat

17132x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge

_(1) Knob

_St_eo_g

(1) Washer

(1) Locknut

114-28

Steedng Extension

Shaft

Keys

(2) Keys

(_1_(1) O_ DrainTub_

For Future Use

Slope Sheet

Video Cassette

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts

left unassambled 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

_ Insert

A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes you need

I( )1 HexNut

are listed below.

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

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it means when you are in the

operating position (seated behind the

Whee,

steering wheel). TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

1. Remove all accessible loose parts

and parts boxes from carton.

2. Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on

all four comers of carton, and lay

panels flat.

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

Adapter_ --

Extension

Shaft

1/4 Locknut-------_

_'_"_1/4 Hex Bolt

Lower , _. --._ --.. Steenng _ ,_-,

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM SKID

ATTACHSTEERINGWHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND BOOT

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

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

Tighten securely.

IMPORTANT: "13ghtanbolt and nut securely to 10-12 ft. Ibs torque.

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

secure.

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

3. Position frontwheels of the tractor so they are pointing straight forward.

4. Remove steedng wheel adapter from steering wheel and slide adapter onto steedng 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, 1/2 hex

nut and tighten securely.

_'-_. ",,;/ Slots

7. Snap steering wheel insert into center of steedng 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 off skid. 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).

_:_"i.;':::::':, __be,

INSTALL SEAT Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob.

1. Remove adjustment knob and fiat 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 bolts are positioned over the

large slotted holes in pan.

4. Push down on seat to engage shoulder bolts in slots and pull seat

towards rear of tractor.

5. Pivot seat and pan forward and

assemble adjustment knob and flat washer loosely. Do not tighten.

6. Lower seat into operating position and sit in seat.

7. Slide seat until a comfortable position is reached which allows you to press

clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

8. Get off seat without moving its adjusted position.

9. Raise seat and tighten adjustment

knob securely.

Seat

Seat Pan

Shoulder Bolts

Flat Washer

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 ROLLTRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for location and function of controls)

1. Press lift lever plunger and raise

attachment lift lever to its highest

position.

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

3, Place gearshift lever in neutral (N)

position.

4. Roll tractor forward off skid.

5. Remove banding holding deflector

shield up against tractor.

TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for location and

function of controls) _WARNING: Beforestarting, read,

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

sure tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be sure the area in front oftractor 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 inneutral (N) position.

5. Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment liftlever to its highest

position.

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

position.

7. Depress clutch/brake pedal into full "BRAKE" positionand hold. Move gearshift lever to 1st gear.

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

9. Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking brake and place gearshift lever in

neutral position.

10.Turn ignition key to "STOP" position.

Continue with the instructionsthat follow.

INSTALL MULCHER PLATE (If previously removed)

I. Raise and hold deflector shield in

upright position.

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

place, as shown.

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

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

Deflector Shield _ Plate

Mulcher

Latch Hooks

_CAUTION: Do notremove 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 isnow ready for discharging or installation of optional

grass catcher accessory.

NOTE: It is not necessary to change

blades. The mulcher blades are de- signed for discharging and bagging also.

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

Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF ALL BELTS

See the figures that are shown for

replacing motion and mower blade drive

belts in the Service and Adjustments section ofthis manual. Varifythat 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 ='1"OADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual.

/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).

•f Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened securely.

/ All tires are properly inflated. (For

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

•/ Be sure mower deck is properly leveled

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

•/ Check mower and drive belts. Be sure

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

,/Check wiring. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are properly clamped.

While teaming 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

operating condition.

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

Learn and understand their meaning.

BATTERY CAUTIONOR REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP t

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKING BRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT

WARNING

UGHT

LOCKED

R N H L

ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW PARKING BRAKE

CLUTCH ENGAGED

ATTACHMENT KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Models only)

KNOWYOURTRACTOR READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING

YOUR TRACTOR

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

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

Ught Switch Position

Ammeter

Attachment Ignition Clutch Lever

Choke Control

Throttle

Clutch/Brake Pedal

Height Adjustment Kno

.lift

Lever

Plunger

Attachment Uft Lever

Brake Lever

Gearshift

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the

American National Standards Institute.

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

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

attachments mounted to your tractor.

ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to

raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck

or other attachments mounted to your tractor.

CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL - Used for

declutching and braking the tractor and starting the engine.

GEARSHIFT LEVER - Selects the speed and direction of tractor.

IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting and stopping the engine.

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

position. LIGHT SWITCH POSITION - Turns the

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

brake pedal into the brake position.

THROTTLE CONTROL - Used for

starting and controlling engine speed. HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB - Used to

adjust the mower cuttingheight. CHOKE CONTROL - Used when starting a cold engine.

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 USEYOUR 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 firstsetting the

parkingbrake will shut off the engine.

1. Depress clutch/brake pedal all the

way down and hold.

2. Pull parking brake lever up and

release pressure from clutch/brake

pedal. Pedal should remain in brake

position. Make sure parking brake will holdtractor secure.

Attachment Clutch Lever =Engaged" Position

Choke

Control\ _-_,. _/_,_ IgnitionKey

.__//=Disengaged"

Th_L _ ,.__ Position

Controt--....._,'_yi ParkingBrake

/-_ ",.-_ ',"_ _V ".Engaged"

cl ,tc Position

Pedal , ,

"D_eight _ake" Lever Position Adjustment Position

Knob

STOPPING MOWER BLADES -

• To stop mower blades, move attach- ment clutch lever to "DISENGAGED"

position.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive, depress clutch/ brake pedal all the way down.

• Move 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".

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

when leaving tractor to prevent

unauthorized use.

• Never use choke to stop engine.

IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch

in any position other than "STOP" will

cause the battery to discharge and go dead.

NOTE: Under certain conditions when

tractor is standing idle with the engine

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

this possibility, always stop engine when stopping tractor on grass areas.

A0&CAUTION: Always stop tractor completely, as described above, before

leaving the operator's position. TO USE THROI-rLE 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 gearshift lever.

1. 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: Bringtractor to a complete stop before shifting or changing gears.

Failure to do so will shorten the useful life of your transaxle.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT

The cutting height is controlled by turning the height adjustment knob in

desired direction.

• Turn knob clockwise (F_I) to raise

cutting height.

• Turn knob counterclockwise (P-_)to

lower cutting height.

Thecuttingheightrangeis approximately

1-1/2"to4". Theheightsaremeasured

from the ground to the blade tip with the

engine not running. These heights are approximate and may vary depending

upon soil conditions, height of grass and types of grass being mowed.

• The average lawn should be cut to

approximately 2-1/2 inches dudng the cool season and to over 3 inches

during hot months. For healthier and better looking lawns, mow often and

after moderate growth.

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

mowed twice. Make the first cut relatively high; the second to desired

height.

TO 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 "TO ADJUST MOWER CUI-rlNG HEIGHT" in this section of manual).

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

ground. Install gauge wheel in appropriate 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.

Gauge Wheel Mounting

Bracket

3/8-16

3/8

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.

1. Select desired height of cut.

Shoulder

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 place.

Attachment

Clutch Lever Uft Lever High =Engaged" Position

Low Position

Position

Deflector 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. Use the slope

guide at the back of this manual.

• Choose the slowest speed before

starting up or down hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on

hills.

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

• If stopping is absolutely necessary, push clutch/brake pedal quickly to

brake position and engage parking brake.

• Move gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be sure you have allowed room for tractor to roll slightlyas you restart movement.

• To restart movement, slowly release

parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

• Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT

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

• When pushingor 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 protecthoodfrom 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,

14etc.) -

TOWINGCARTSANDOTHERATTACH-

MENTS

Towonlythe attachmentsthatare

recommendedbyandcomplywith

specifications of the manufacturer of your

tractor. Use common sense when towing. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is dangerous. "liras can losetraction with

the ground and cause you to lose control

ofyour tractor.

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

The engine in your tractor has been

shipped, from the factory, already filled

with summer weight oil.

1. Check engine oil with tractor on level ground.

2. Remove oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe clean, reinsert the dipstickand 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 coldweather operationyou should

change oil for easier starting(See the oil viscositychart inthe Maintenance

section ofthis manual).

• To change engine oil, see the Mainte-

nance section in this manual.

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank to bottom of filler neck. Do

not overfill. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of

87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline

will increase carbon and lead oxide

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

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

,_CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline

near an open flame. IMPORTANT: When operating in

temperatures below32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to help

_Ucre good cold weather starting.

AUTION: 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, startthe engine and let it run untilthe fuel lines

and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage Instructionsfor

additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel

tank or permanent damage may occur.

TO START ENGINE When startingthe engine for the firsttime or if

the engine has run out of fuel, it will take extra cranking time to move fuel from the tank to the engine.

1. 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 control may not be needed.

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

6. Insert key into ignition and turn key clockwise to start position and release key as soon as engine starts.

Do not run starter continuously for more than fifteen seconds per minute.

If the engine does not start after several attempts, 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 drive can

now be used. If the engine does not accept the load, restart the engine and

allow it to warm up for one minute using the choke as described above.

COLDWEATHERSTARTING(50°Fand below)

7. Whenenginestarts,slowly push chokecontrolin untilthe engine

beginsto runsmoothly.Continueto pushthe chokecontrolin smallsteps allowingthe engineto acceptsmall

changesin speedand load,untilthe chokecontrolis fully in.If the engine

startsto runroughly,pullthe 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.

• The attachments can be used dudng the engine warm-up pedod and may require the choke control be pulled out slighti[ly..

NOTE: fiat a highaltitude(above3000 feet) or in cold temperatures(below32 F)the carburetorfuelmixturemay needto be adjustedforbest engine performance (see

"TO ADJUST CARBURETOR' intheService and Adjustmentssectionof _is manual).

MOWING TIPS

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

LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" inthe Service and Adjustments section of this

manual.

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

• Drive so that clippings are discharged

onto the area that has already been cut. Have the cut area tothe right ofthe

tractor. This will result ina more even

distribution of clippings and more uniform cutting.

• When mowing large areas, start by

tuming to the right so that clippings wilt

discharge away from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc. After one or two

rounds, mow in the opposite direction

making left hand tums untilfinished.

[

• Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet

grass will plug mower and leave undasirabte 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 suitthe 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 iswet.

Wet grass tends to form clumpsand

interferes with the mulching action. The best time to mow your lawn isthe

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

cuttingheight so that the mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass blades. For extremely heavy grass, reduce your width of cut on each pass

and mow slowly. ,

'_ _MAX 1/3

C--,--_el. -- w

• 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.

• 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 northto south one week then change to east to west the next

week. This will help prevent matting

16 and graining of the lawn.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE _,_'f_;_,_#_'_'_ J,,_J

Fi,,,.o. 8

AS YOU COMPLETE __O_J "_l,_'l_. _ _-_J,_ ._d_" "_ _-

IIIllllI

Check Operator _ and

i T Interlock Systems

R CheckforLoo_Fasteners I/ Vss V!

T L_.a.on Chart V °

A Sharpa_Replace Mower Blades _s

0 Check Battery Level

R c_m Battery and Terminals V*

CheckTmnsaxleCooling

c_._v-e_ i_/

c_ _O.LM, W' V'

c_ F._ og(w_ o=hr) i,_,_ iVe

NEC._rFaterChangeeng_neO_(w_°ut°U"_er)Ik/uk_: V'

S Ck_. _r Screen

Inspect

NI Muffler/Spark Attester

E Re_ OUFilter(Ifequipped) ll_t=

Clean Engine Cooling Fins If=

Replace Spark Plug _1= _ ! Replace All Fitter Paper Cartridge

Replace Fuel Filter

1 - C_ange morn often when opera,rig under a heavy load _r

in high ambient temperatureS.

2 - Servk;e more olten when opem_ng In dirty or dusty condltinns.

3 - Replace b_adesmorn o_tenwhen mow_ In sandy soil. 4 - Not requin)d If equipped with maintenance-frse battery.

5 - "r_ front axle pivo_bolt to 35 It.-Ib_. maximum.

DOnot over_ghten.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS The warrantyon this tractordoes not cover

items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value

from the warranty,operator mustmaintain tractoras instructedin this manual.

Some adjustmentswill need to be made periodicallyto properly maintainyour

tractor. All adjustments in the Service and

Adjustmentssectionof this manual should

be checkedat least once each season.

• Once a year you should replace the

spark plug,clean or replace air filter, and check blades and beltsfor wear. A new

spark plugand clean airfilter 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.

LUBRICATION CHART

_) Spindle -_) Spindle

Zerk Zerk

_)Front Wheel Wheel

Bearing Bearing Zerk

Zerk

_SAE 30 or 10w30 MOTOR OIL _)GENERAL PURPOSE GREASE

(_REFER TO Maintenance "ENGINE" SECTION

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

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

the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel they must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered graphite type lubricant

17sparingly.

+ 39 hidden pages

Craftsman 917272452 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual