Craftsman 917273012 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

[RRFTIMnN

20.0 HP ELECTRIC STAP_

46" MOWER

6 SPEED

GARDEN TRACTOR

Model No.

917.273012

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this equip-

ment.

For answers to your questions about this product, Call:

1-800-659-5917

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

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

Warranty ............... ;_.; .o.;, ........................... 2

Safety Rules ........................................... 2

Product Spacifications ........................... 5

_l_ly ................................................ 8

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

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

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

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

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

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

Repair Parts ......................................... 35

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

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is main-

tainod, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructionsin the owner's manual,

Sears will repair or replace, free ofcharge, any parts found to be defective in matedal or

workmanship. This Warranty does not cover:.

• Expendable items which become wom dudng normal use, such as blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, belts, etc.

• Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails, thoms, stumps, or glass.

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, negligence, improperstorage oracci- dent or the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructionscontained in

the owner's manual.

• Ridingequipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY For ninety (90) days from date of pumhase, if any battery includedwith thisdding equip-

ment proves defective in matedal or workmanship and our testingdetermines the bat- tery will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery at nocharge. In-home warranty service on your Craftsman ridingequipment is available at no charge for30 days from the date of purchase. Please contact your nearest service center. After 30 days from the

date of purchase, warranty service is available by taking your Craftsman dding equip- ment to your nearest Sears Service Center. (In-home warranty service will stillbe avail- able after 30 days from the date of purchase but a standard tdp charge will apply). This warranty applies onlywhile this productis in the United States. This Warranty gives you specific legal rights,and you may also have other rightswhich may vary from state to

state. Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all instruc-

tions 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-_ure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop mp_hine if anyone

enters the area.

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolute- ly necessary. Always lookdown and

behind before and while backing.

• Be aware of the mower discharge direc- tion anddo not point itat anyone. Do

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

• Slow downbefore tuming.

• Never leave a runningmachine unat-

tended. Always tum off blades, set park- ing brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting.

•Tum oftbladeswhen 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 alcoholor drugs.

• Watch for trafficwhen operating near or

crossing roadways.

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

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 overtum 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 notturn 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 sud- denly turn over if a wheel is over the

edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.

• Do _notmow on wet grass. Reduced

traction could cause sliding.

• Do nottry to stabilize the machine by

putting your foot on the ground.

• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.

CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert tothe presence of children.

Children are often attracted to the

machine and the mowing activ'dy.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

responsibleadult.

• Be alert and tum machine off if children

enter the area.

• Before and when becking, look behind

and down for small children.

• Never carry children. They may fall off

and be seriouely 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.

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 en-

gine to cool before refueling. Do not smoke.

Never refuel the machine indoors. Never storethe machine orfuel

container insidewhere 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 belts, tight and keep equip- ment in good condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regulady.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or

other debris build-up.Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to cool before

stodng.

• Stop and inspect the equipment ifyou 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 objectsto be thrown. Frequently

check components and replacewith

manufacturer's recommended pads, 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.

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolute-

ly 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.

ALook for thissymbol to point out impor- tant safety precautions. It means CAU-

TIONI!! BECOME AWAREI!! YOUR SAFE- TY IS INVOLVED.

_,CAUTION: In order to prevent acciden- tal starting when setting up, transporting,

adjusting or making repairs always discon- nect spark plugwire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug.

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

across.

• Remove obstacles such as recks, 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 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.

• Do nottum on slopes unless necessary,

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

_WARNING: The engine exhaust from thisproduct contains chemicals known to

the State of California to cause cancer, birthdefects, or other reproductive harm.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

SASOUNE 3.5 GALLONS CAPACITY

AND TYPE: UNLEADED

REGULAR

OIL TYPE SAE 10W-30

API-SF/SG/SH): (above 32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F) •

OIL CAPACITY: W/FILTER: 4.2 PINTS

W/O FILTER: 3.7 PINTS

SPARK PLUG: Champion RC12YC

GAP: .040")

GROUND SPEED HI: LO:

MPH): 0.7 1.7

1,4 3.3

2.3 5.4

:IEVERSE: 0.9 2,1

TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI

REAR: 10 PSI

CHARGING SYSTEM: 15AMPS@ 3600 RPM

BATrERY: AMP/HR: 35

MIN. CCA: 280 CASE SIZE: UlR

BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT. LBS. TORQUE:

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Craftsman 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 Sears Authorized Service Center.

We have competent, well-trained techni- clans and the proper tools to service or

repairthis tractor. Please read and retain thismanual. The

instructionswill enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor properly.Always

observe the "SAFETY RULES".

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

ASears Maintenance Agreement is avail- able 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, cadng for and using your tractor.

• Followthe instructionsunder =Mainte- nance" and =Storage" sections of this

owner's manual.

,_WARNING: This tractor isequipped with an intemal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unim-

proved 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). Ifa spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.

In the state of Caiifomia the above is

required by law (Section 4442 ofthe Califomia 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 Authorized Service Center (See REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

PARTS BAG CONTENTS SHOWN FULL SIZE

(1) Shoulder Bolt

5/16-18

(1) Washer

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

(1) Knob

(2) Screws

#10 X 5/8 i t

(2) Washers L_

3/16 x 3/4 x 16 Gauge ,

(3) Retainer Springs

(Double Loop)

(4) Retainer Springs

Parts packet separately in carton Parts Bag contents not shownfullsize

Q (2)Washers3/S

• x 7/8 x 14 Ga.

Wheels

(°i', ,,

Seat

,I--I

V'_eo

Cassette

Mulcherj/_

(2) Shoulder

Bo;ts

(2) Centedock

(2) Keys Nuts (2) Gauge

Steering Wheel

Manual

Plate _

(I I

! I

iI I

il I

II i

Parts Bag

Assemblies

_t U (2)Lat_Hook

) FrontLinkAssemblies

Steering

Wheel Insert Steering

Slope Sheet Sleeve

SteedngSleeve

Extension

Yournewtractorhasbeenassembledatthefactorywithexceptionofthosepartsleft

unassembledforshippingpurposes.ToensuresafeandproperoperationofYourtractor allpartsandhardwareyouassemblemustbetightenedsecurely.Usethecorrecttools

asnecessarytoinsurepropertightness.Reviewthevideocassettebefore you begin.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

Asocket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes you need

are listed below. (1) 9/16" wrench

(1) 1/2" wrench (1) Utility knife

(1)Pliers

(1) 3/4" Socket w! drive rachet

(1) Phillips Screw- driver

(1) Tire pressure gauge

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it means, from your pointof

view, when you are in the operating posi- tion (seated behind the steering wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

• Remove all accessible loose parts and parts boxes from shipping carton (See

page 7).

• Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on all four comers of shipping carton, and

lay panels flat.

• Remove mower and package materials.

• Check for any additional loose parts or boxes and remove.

BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

• Remove hex bolt, lock washer and large flat washer from steering shaft.

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

• Slide the steering sleeve over the steer- ing shaft.

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

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

• Secure steering wheel to steering shaft with hex bolt, lock washer and large flat

washer pre_ously removed. Tighten securely.

_Hex Bolt

_....s Lock Washer

Steering Wheel Wheel Adapter

• Snap steering wheel insert into center

of steering wheel.

• Remove protective materials from trac-

tor hood and grill.

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

where tractor is to roll off skid. TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See

Operation section for location and function of controls)

• Press lift lever plunger and raise attach- ment lift lever to its highest position.

• Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake pedal.

• Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) posi- tion.

• Roll tractor forward off skid,

Wheel Insert

Large Flat

Washer

Steering

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR CHECKBATTERY

• Lift hood to raised position.

• If this battery is put into service after month and year indicated on label (label

located between terminals) charge bat- tery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps. (See 'BA'I-I'ERY* in MAINTE-

NANCE section of this manual for charg- ing instructions).

,,:.. :_* _1

_'°°* ..%.°.. ,...i

¢..<

INSTALL SEAT Adjustseat before tightening adjustment

knob.

• Remove cardboard packing on seat pan

• Place seat on seat pan and assemble

shoulder bolt. Tighten shoulder bolt

securely.

• Assemble adjustment knob and flat

washer loosely. Do not tighten.

• Lower seat into operating position and

sit on seat.

• Slide seat until a comfortable position is

reached which allows you to press

clutcWbrake pedal all the way down.

• Get off seat without moving itsadjusted

position.

• Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob

securely.

Seat

Seat Pan

Shoulder Bolt

AdjustmentKnob

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE The tires on your tractor were ovednflated

at the factory for shippingpurposes. Correct tire pressure is important for best

cuttingperformance.

• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in

=PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" onpage 5 of this manual.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM After you leam 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. INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT

Be sure tractor is on level surface and mower suspension arms are raised with

attachment lift control. Engage parking brake.

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

left side of mower deck.

• Slide mower under tractor with dis- charge guard to right side of tractor.

IMPORTANT:Checkbeltforproperrout-

inginallmowerpulleygrooves.Install

belt into electric clutch pulley groove.

• Install one front link in top hole of the

right hand front mower bracket and dght hand front suspension bracket. Retain with two single loop retainer spdngs as

shown.

• Install second front link in left hand front suspension bracket only and

retain with single loop retainer spdng as shown.

• Tum height adjustment knob counter- clockwise until it stops.

• Lower mower linkage with attachment lift control.

• Place the left hand suspension arm on inward pointing deck pin. If necessary,

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,

• Slide left side of mower back and install the unattached front link in top hole of

the left hand front mower bracket. Retain with single loop retainer spring

as shown.

• Place the right hand suspension arm on

inward poinUngdeck pin. If necessary, rockand raise frontof mower to align

deck pin with the hole insuspension arm. Retain with double loop retainer spdng with loops down as shown. Connect anti-sway bar to chassis brack-

et under left footrest and retain with double loop retainer spdng.

Tum height adjustment knob clockwise

to remove slack from mower suspen- sion.

Raise mower to highestposition. Assemble gauge wheels (See "TO

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

CHECK MOWER LEVELNESS For best cutting results, mower should be

propedy leveled. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manual. CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF

ALL BELTS See the figures that are shown for replac-

ing motion, mower drive, and mower blade ddve belts in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual. Verify that the

Chassis

Shoulder Bolt

Gauge Wheel

3/8 Washer 3/8-16

Use Pliers for

Retainer Springs

Bracket

Center Locknut

Double Loop Retainer Spdng (Inward pointing

deck pins)

Double Loop

Retainer Sp.ring

Anti-Sway

Bar

Suspension Arms Front

Front Mower Bracket

Loop

Retainer Springs

Idler Pulley Discharge Guard

belts are routed correct. INSTALL MULCHER PLATE

• Installtwo latch hooks to muIcher plate

using screw, washer, lock washer, and weld nut as shown.

NOTE: Pre-assernble weld nut to latch hook by inserting weld nut from the top

with hook pointing down. Tighten hard-

ware s_",urely,

- • Raise and hold deflector shield in up- right position.

• Place front of mulcher plate over front of

mower deck opening and slide into place, as shown.

• Hook front latch into hole on front of

mower deck.

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

_,CAUTION: Do not remove discharge

guard from mower. Raise and hold guard when attaching mulcher plate and allow it to rest on plate while in operation.

TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR

DISCHARGING

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

discharging or installation of optional grass catcher accessory.

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

for discharging and bagging also.

Weld Nut

Hook Points

Lock

Washer

Weld Hook

Nut

Latch

Nut

Lock

Washer

v"CHECKLIST

Please review the following checklist: ,/ NI 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 tight-

enedsecurely.

/ Aft tires are properly inflated. (For ship-

ping purposes, the tires were ovednflet- ed at the factory).

/ Be sure mower deck is propedy leveled

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

for leveling).

/ Check mower and drive belts. Be sure

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

/ Check widng. See that all connections

are still secure and wires are propedy

clamped. While leaming how to use your tractor, pay extra attention to the following impodant

items:

/ Engine oil is at proper level. 4' Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, regu-

lar unleaded gasoline. / Become familiar with all controls - their

location and function. Operate them

before you stad the engine. / Be sure brake system is in safe operat-

ing condition.

Deflector Shield

Latch

These symbols may appear on yourtractoror inliterature suppli_l withthe product.

Leam and understand their meaning.

BATrERY CAUTION OR

WARNING

REVERSE FORWARD FAST SLOW

ENG,NEONENG,NEOFFO"PRESSO°EOGHTSONO,_,_E_P _I

FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT PARKINGBRAKE UNLOCKED MOWER LIFT

r 'l R N H

ATTACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH

CLUTCH ENGAGED

LOCKED

LOW PARKING BRAKE

ATTACHMENT KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS

IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED (SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

DANGER,KEEPHANDSAND FEET AWAY

FREE WHEEL

(Automatic Mode_ only)

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

TRACTOR

Compare the illustrationswith your tractorto familiarize yourself with the locationsof various controlsand adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

LightSwitch

Ignition Switch

Throttle Control

Pos_on

Attachment Clutch Switch

Clutch/Brake

Pedal

Choke Control

Height Adjustment

Knob

Attachment LiltLever

..... __" Parking Brake

GearShilt

Lever

Range Shilt

Lever

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of theAmerican

National Standards Institute.

Uft Lever Plunger

ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH: Used

to engage the mower blades, or other at-

tachments mounted to your tractor. LIGHT SWITCH: Tums the headlights on

and off. THROTTLE CONTROL: Used to control

engine speed. CLUTCWBRAKE PEDAL: Used for

declutching and braking the tractor and starting the engine. CHOKE CONTROL: Used when starting a

cold engine.

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB: Used to

adjust the mower cutting height.

GEARSHIFT LEVER: Selects the speed and direction of the tractor.

RANGESHIFT LEVER: Allows high (H) and low (L) speed for all forward and

reverse gears. 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.

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, orstan-

dard safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR

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

perking brake willshut off the engine.

TO SET PARKING BRAKE

• Depress dutch/brake pedal into full

=BRAKE" position and hold.

• Place parkingbrake lever in =EN-

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

remain in =BRAKE" position.Make sure

parking brake will holdtractor secure,

Thro_e Push-In to Attachment Clutch

Control "Disengaged" Switch PullOut To

Position i!_J'f __'_

"_.J_--_,_ Position

Clutch/E :e _bisengaged '_ Lever Pedal =Ddve" Position

Position

STOPPING

MOWER BLADES -

• To stopmower blades, move attach-

ment clutch switch to "DISENGAGED"

position.

GROUND DRIVE -

• To stopground ddve, depress clutch/brake pedal into full=BRAKE" po-

sition.

• Move gearshift lever to neutral (N) posi- tion.

ENGINE -

• Move throttlecontrolto slow position.

NOTE: Failure to move throttle controlto

slow position and allowing engine to idle

befq_sstoppingmay cause engine to

=backfire'.

•Tum ignitionkey to =OFF" position and

remove key. Always remove key when leavingtractor 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 run-

ning, hot engine exhaust gases may

cause =browning" of grass. To eliminate this possibility, always stop engine when stopping tractor on grass areas.

A CAUTION: Always stop tractor com-

pletely, as described above, before leaving

the operator's position; to empty grass THROTTLE CONTROL

Always operate engine at full throttle.

• Operating engine at less than full throt-

tle reduces the battery charging rate,

• Full throttle offers the best bagging and

mower performance.

CHOKE CONTROL Use choke control whenever you are start-

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

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

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD The direction and speed of movement is

controlled by the gearshift lever.

• Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal depressed and gearshift lever in neutral (N) position.

• Move gearshift and range shift levers to desired position.

• Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to start movement.

IMPORTANT: Bring tractor to a complete

stop before shifting or changing gears.

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

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT

The cutting height iscontrolled by turn-

ing the height adjustment knob in desired direction.

• Turn knob clockwise (G) to raise cutting

height..

•/um knoe counterclockwise (0) to

lower cutting height.

Thecuttingheightrangeisapproximately

1-1/2"to4=1/2".Theheightsaremea-

suredfromthegroundtothe bladetipwith theenginenot running.Thoseheightsare

approximateandmayvarydepending uponsoilconditions,height of grass and

types of grass being mowed.

• The average lawn should be cut to

approximately 2-1/2 inches duringthe 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 he

mowed twice. Make the first cut rela- tively 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 dock in proper position to help prevent scalping in most terrain condi-

tions.

• Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a flat level surface.

• Adjust mower to desired cuffing height

(See =TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT" in the Operation section of this manual).

• With mower in desired height of cut po-

sition, gauge wheels should be assem- bled so they are slightly off the ground.

Install gauge wheel in appropriate hole

with shoulder bolt, 3/8 washer, and 3/8-

16 Iocknut and tighten securely.

• Repeat for opposite side installing

gauge wheel in same adjustment hole.

Mounting Bracket

3/8-16 Lockout Shoulder Bolt

3/8 Washer .=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.

• Select desired height of cut.

• Lower mower with attachment liftcontrol.

• Start mower blades by engaging attsch- mant clutch control.

• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disen-

£Cge attachment clutchcontrol.

AUTION: Do not operate the mower

without either the entire grass catcher, on mowers so equipped, or the discharge

guard in place.

Attachment Clutch Attachment LiftLever Switch Pug Out To I..aghPos_on

..._Podtion

/;?"Discharge

7'\ Guard

Push In To

"O,sen.g."

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

_CAUTION: Do not ddve up or down hillswith 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 start-

ing up or down hills.

• Avoid stopping or changing speed on

hills.

• Ifslowing is necessary, move throttle

control lever to slower position.

• If stoppingis absolutely necessary, push

clutch/brake pedal quicklyto brake posi- tion and engage parking brake.

• Move gearshift lever to 1st gear and

range shiftlever to low (L) position. Be sure you have allowed roomfortractor to roll slightlyas you restart movement.

• To restart movement, slowly release

parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

• Make all tums slowly.

TO TRANSPORT

• Raise attachment lift to highest position

with attachment lift control.

• When pushing or towing your tractor, be

sure gearshift lever is in neutral (N) position.

• Do not push or tow tractor at more than

five (5) MPH.

NOTE: To protoct 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

ATTACHMENTS Tow onlythe attachments that are recom-

mended by and comply with specifications ofthe 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 groundand

• 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.

• Check engine oil with tractor on level ground•

• Unthread and remove oilfill capldip- stick;wipe oil oft. Reinsert the dipstick

intothe tube and rest oil fillcap on the tube. Do not thread the cap ontothe

tube. Remove and read oil level. If nec- essary, add oil until =FULL" mark on

dipstickis reached. Do not overfill.

• For cold weather operation you should change oilfor easier starting (See "OIL

VISCOSITY CHART- in the Customer

Responsibilitiessection of this manual).

• To change engine oil, see the Customer Responsibilities 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 tempera-

tures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to help insure good _d weather starting.

WARNING: Experience indicates that

alcohol blended fuels (called gesohol 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 emp-

tied 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 _k or permanent damage may occur.

CAUTION: Fillto bottom ofgas tank

filler neck. Do notoverfill.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.

• Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake pedal and set parking brake.

• Place gear shift lever in neutral (N)

position.

• Move attachment clutch to "DISEN- GAGED" position.

• Move throttle control to fast position

• 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.

• 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)

• 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 slight- ly for a few seconds and then continue

to push the control in slowly.

• The attachments and ground ddva can

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

allow it to warm up for one minute using

the choke as described above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING (50 ° F AND BELOW)

• When engine starts, slowly push choke control in untilthe engine begins to run

smoothly.Continue to push the choke control in small steps allowingthe

engine to accept small changes in speed and load, until the choke control

isfully in. If the engine starts to run roughly,pull the choke control out slight- lyfor a few seconds and then continue

to push the control inslowly.This may

require an engine warm-up period from several seconds to several minutes,

depending on the temperature.

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

slightly.

NOTE: 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 _1"OADJUST CARBURETOR" inthe

Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

MOWING TIPS

• Tire chains cannot be used when the

mower housing is attached to tractor.

• Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing performance. See rl'O

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

manual.

• The left hand side of mower should be

used for trimming.

• Drive so that clippings are discharged

onto the area that has been cut. Have

the cut area to the right of the tractor. This will result in a more even distribu-

tion of clippings and more uniform cut- ting.

• When mowing large areas, start by tum-

ing to the dght so that clippings will dis- charge away from shrubs, fences, ddve-

ways, etc. After one or two rounds, mow in the opposite direction maldng left hand tums until finished.

• If grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to reduce load and possi- ble fire hazard from dried clippings.

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 unde-

sirable 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 se- lecting a low enough gear to give the

mower the best 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 at- tachment being used.

MULCHINGMOWINGTIPS IMPORTANT:.Forbestperformance,keep mowerhousingfreeofbuilt.upgrassand

trash.Cleanaftereachuse.

• Thespecialmulchingbladewillrecut

thegrassclippingsmanytimesand reducethemin sizesothat as they fall

onto the lawn they will dispeme into the grass and not be noticed. Also, the

mulched grass will biodegrade quickly to prov'_e nutrients for the lawn. Always

mulch with your highest engine (blade)

speed as this will provide the best recut- ting 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

aftemoon. 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 cut- Ung 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 condi-

tions may require that an area be

mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a sec-

ond cut, mow across or perpendicularto the firstcut path.

• Change your cuttingpattem from week

to week. Mow northto south one week then change to east to west the next

week. This will help prevent matting and graining of the lawn.

.F,LL,NOATES

REGULAR-- ,,_,_,_',_,_'_SE_ICE DATES

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Adjust I_ade Belt(s) Tfmslo_ I_s

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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 manu- al. 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

• Check engine oil level.

• Check brake operation.

• Check tire pressure.

• Check operator presence and interlock systems for proper operation.

• Che_:k for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION CHART

Zerk Zerk

Wheel

Bearin,

• Engine

Clutch i

Pivot(s) ,: "

O SAE 30 or 10w30 Motor OIL

0 General Purpose Grease

O Refer to Maintenance "Engine"Section

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

bear-ings. 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, pew-

dered graphite type lubricant sparingly.

Beadng

Zerk

Front

TRACTOR

Always observe safety rules when per- forming any maintenance.

BRAKE OPERATION

If tractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance at high speed in highest gear, then brake must be adjusted. (See

"TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual).

TIRES

• Maintain proper air pressure in all tires (See "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"

on page 5 of this manual).

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect

control chemicals which can harm rub-

ber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp

objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage.

NOTE: To seal tire punctures and prevent flat tires due to slow leaks, tire sealant

may be purchased from your local parts dealer. Tire sealant also prevents tire dry

rot and corrosion.

OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM Be sure that operator presence and inter-

lock systems are working properly. Ifyour tractor does not function as described

below, repair the problem immediately.

• The engine should not start unless the

clutch/brake pedal is fully depressed and attachment clutchcontrolis in the

disengaged position.

• When the engine is running, any attempt by the operator to leave the seat without firstsettingthe parking brake should shut off the engine.

• When the engine is runningand the attachment clutch is engaged, any

attempt by the operator to leave the

seat should shut offthe engine.

• The attachment clutchshould never

operate unlessthe operator is in the

seat.

BLADE CARE For best results mower blades must be

kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged blades.

BLADE REMOVAL

• Raise mower to highest position to allow

access to blades.

• Remove hex Dolt, lock washer and flat

washer secudng blade.

• Install new or resharpened blade with

trailing edge up towards deck as shown.

IMPORTANT: To ensure proper assembly,

center hole in blade must align with star in

mandrel assembly.

• Reassemble hex bolt, lockWasherand

flat washer in exact order as shown.

• Tightenbolt securely (27-35 Ft. Lbs. torque).

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is Grade 8 heat treated.

Trailing Blade Mandrel

Edge UpS" Cente_ASSsmbly

_. HOI,e

_'Hex Bolt (Grade 8)

*A Grade 8 heat treated bolt can be identifiedbysix lineson the bolthead.

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening blade, but if you do, be sure the blade is

balanced.

Care should be taken to keep the blade balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause

excessive vibration and eventual damage to mower and engine.

• The blade can be sharpened with a file

or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while it is on the mower.

• To check blade balance, you will need a

5/8" diameter steel bolt, pin, or a cone balancer. (When using a cone balancer,

follow the instructions supplied with bai-

ancer).

NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing blade. The lobes of the center hole may appear to be centered, but are not.

• Slide blade onto an unthreaded portion

of the steel bolt or pin and hold the bolt

or pin parallel with the ground. If blade

is balanced, it should remain in a hori-

zontal position. If either end of the blade

moves downward, sharpen the heavy

end until the blade is balanced.

Center,_g..=\ .<")'H°le//

5/8" Bolt _ Blade

orPin

BATTERY

Your tractor has a battery charging system which is sufficient for normal use.

However, pedodic charging of the battery with an automotive charger will extend its

life.

+ 44 hidden pages

Craftsman 917273012 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual