Craftsman 917280151 Owner’s Manual

Operator's Manual

(RRFT$14RN°

LAW TRACTO

17.5 HR*38" Mower

Electric Start

6 Speed Transaxle

Model No.

917.28015

5O0O

This product has a low emission engine which operates

differently from previously built engines. Before you start the

engine, read and understand this Owner's Manual.

IMPORTANT:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before

operating this equipment.

Sears Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.

Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman *As rated by the engine manufacturer

580871 726

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

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

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

AssemblyPre-Operation ........................ 8

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

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

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

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

Storage ................................................ 26

Troubleshooting ................................... 27

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

Craftsman Riding Equipment Warranty CRAFTSMAN FULL WARRANTY

FOR THREE YEARS from the date of purchase, all non-expendable parts of this riding equipment are warranted against any defects in material or workmanship. A defective non-expendable part will receive free in-home repair or replacement if repair is impossible.

FOR FIVE YEARS from the date of purchase, the frame and front axle of this riding equipment are warranted against any defects in material or workmanship. A defective frame or front axle will receive

free in-home repair or replacement if repair is impossible.

FOR 90 DAYS from the date of purchase, the battery (an expendable part) of this riding equipment is warranted against any defects in material or workmanship (our testing proves that it will not hold a charge). A defective battery will receive free in-home replacement.

ADDITIONAL LIFETIME LIMITED WARRANTY on CAST IRON FRONT AXLE (if equipped)

FOR AS LONG AS IT IS USED by the original owner after the fifth year from the date of purchase, the cast iron front axle (if equipped) of this riding equipment is warranted against any defects in material or workmanship. With proof of purchase, a defective cast front axle will receive free in-home replacement.

WARRANTY SERVICE

For warranty coverage details to obtain free repair or replacement, call 1-800-659-5917 or visit the web site: www.craftsman.com

In all cases above, if part repair or replacement is impossible, the riding equipment will be replaced free of charge with the same or an equivalent model.

All of the above warranty coverage is void if this riding equipment is ever used while providing commercial services or if rented to another person.

This warranty covers ONLY defects in material and workmanship. Warranty coverage does NOT include:

• Expendable parts (except battery) that can wear out from normal use within the warranty period,

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.

• Tire or wheel replacement or repair resulting from normal wear, accident, or improper operation or

maintenance.

• 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, axle assembly 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 failure to maintain the riding equipment according to the instructions contained in the operator's manual.

• Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs caused by fuel determined to be contaminated or oxidized

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

• Normal deterioration and wear of the exterior finishes, or product label replacement. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from

state to state.

Sears Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

_DANGER: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and

throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result

in serious injury or death.

_I, WARNING: In order to prevent acciden- tal starting when setting up, transporting,

adjusting or making repairs, always discon-

nect spark plug wire and place wire where

it cannot contact spark plug. _I, WARNING: Do not coast down a hill in

neutral, you may lose control of the tractor. _WARNING: 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. _I, WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of

its constituents, and certain vehicle compo-

nents contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and

birth defects or other reproductive harm. _I, WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and

related accessories contain lead and lead

compounds, chemicals known tothe State of

California to cause cancer and birth defects

or other reproductive harm. Wash hands

after handling.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and followall instruc- tions on the machine and in the manual

before starting.

• Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the machine. Keep clear

of the discharge opening at all times.

• 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 blades.

• Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before operating. Stop machine if anyone

enters the area.

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind

before and while backing.

• Never direct discharged materialtoward anyone. Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Material

may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop the blades when crossing gravel

surfaces.

• Do not operate machine without the en-

tire grass catcher, discharge chute, or

other safety devices in place and working.

• Slow down before turning.

• Never leave a running machine unat-

tended. Always turn off blades, set

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

• Disengage blades when not mowing. Shut off engine and wait for all parts to come to a complete stop before cleaning

the machine, removing the grass catcher,

or unclogging the discharge chute.

• Operate machine onlyin daylight or good artificial light.

• Do not operate the machine while under

the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.

• Use extra care when loading or unloading

the machine into a trailer or truck.

• AIways wear eye protection when operat- ing machine.

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

percentage of riding mower-related inju- ries. These operators should evaluate

their ability to operate the riding mower

safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury.

• Followthemanufacturer'srecommenda-

tion for wheel weights or counterweights.

• 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 to plow leaves or other debris which can cause build-up to oc- cur. Clean any oil or fuel spillage before

operating or storing the machine. Allow machine to cool before storage.

li. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and tip-over accidents, which can

result in severe injury or death. Operation on all slopes requires extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.

• Mow up and down slopes, not across.

• Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass

can hide obstacles.

• Choose a low ground speed so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the

slope.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Tires may lose

traction. Always keep the machine in gear when

going down slopes. Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill.

• Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. Ifthetires Iosetraction, disengage

the blades and proceed slowly straight

down the slope.

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

could cause the machine to roll over.

• Use extra care while operating machine with grass catchers or other attachments;

they can affect the stability of the ma-

chine. Do no use on steep slopes.

• Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the ground.

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The machine could

suddenly roll over if a wheel is over the edge or if the edge caves in.

Iii. CHILDREN

_,WARNING: CHILDREN CAN BE INJURED BY THIS EQUIPMENT, The American Acade-

my of Pediatrics recommends that children be a minimum of 12 year of age before op- erating a pedestrian controlled lawn mower

and a minimum of 16 years of age before operating a riding lawn mower.

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 in the watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.

• Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the area.

• Before and while backing, look behind and down for small children.

• Nevercarrychildren, even withthe blades shut off. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine

operation. Children who have been given rides in the past may suddenly appear in the mowing area for another ride and be

run over or backed over by the machine.

• Never allow children to operate the ma- chine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may block your view of a child.

IV. TOWING

• Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for towing. Do not attach towed

equipment except at the hitch point.

• Followthemanufacturer'srecommenda- tion for weight limits for towed equipment

and towing on slopes.

• Never allow children or others in or on towed equipment.

• On slopes, the weight ofthe towed equip- ment may cause loss of traction and loss

of control.

• Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.

V. SERVICE

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

To avoid personal injury or property dam-

age, use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the

vapors are explosive.

• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other sources of ignition.

• Use only approved gasoline container.

• Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow engine to cool before refueling.

• Never fuel the machine indoors.

• Neverstorethemachineorfuelcontainer where there is an open flame, spark, or

pilot light such as on a water heater or other appliances.

• Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with plastic liner.

Always place containers on the ground away from your vehicle when filling.

• Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the

ground. If this is not possible, then refuel such equipment with a portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser

nozzle.

• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.

• Iffuel is spilled on clothing, change cloth- ing immediately.

• Never overfill fueltank. Replace gas cap and tighten securely.

GENERALSERVlCE

• Never operate machine in a closed area.

• Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be surethe equipment is in safe working condition.

• Nevertamperwithsafetydevices. Check their proper operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or

other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage and remove any fuel-soaked de- bris. Allow machine to cool before storing.

• If you strike a foreign object, stop and

inspect the machine. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.

• Never make any adjustments or repairs with the engine running.

• Checkgrasscatchercomponents andthe

discharge chute frequently and replace

with manufacturer's recommended parts, when necessary.

• Mower blades aresharp. Wrapthe blade

or wear gloves, and use extra caution

when servicing them.

• Check brake operation frequently. Adjust

and service as required.

• Maintain orreplacesafetyand instruction labels, as necessary.

• Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before operating. Stop machine if anyone

enters the area.

• Never carry passengers.

• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.

• Never carry children, even with the blades shut off. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe

machine operation. Children who have been given rides in the past may suddenly appear in the mowing area for another ride and be run over or backed over by

the machine.

• Keep children out of the mowing area and in the watchful care of a responsible

adult other than the operator.

• Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the area.

• Before and while backing, look behind and down for small children.

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

• Choose a low ground speed so that you

will not have to stop or shift while on the

slope.

• Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. Ifthetires Iosetraction, 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 necessary, and then, turn slowly and gradually

downhill, if possible.

• When loading or unloadingthis machine, do not exceed the maximum recom-

mended operation angle of 15 °.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Gasoline Capacity 1.25 Unleaded

and Type: Regular Oil Type SAE 30 (above 32°F)

API-SG-SL): SAE 5W-30(below 32°F

Oil Capacity: 48 oz.

Spark Plug: Champion RC12YC

(Gap: .030")

Ground Speed (MPH):

Charging System: 3 Amps Battery

Battery: Amp/Hr: 28

Blade Bolt Torque: 45-55 Ft. Lbs.

Forward:

1st 1.0

2nd 1.4 3rd 2.1

4th 3.1 5th 4.0

6th 5.1

Reverse: 1.6

5 Amps Headlights

Min. CCA: 230 Case Size: U1R

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor. It has been designed, engi- neered and manufactured togive you the best

possible dependability and performance. Should you experience any problem you can-

not easdy remedy, please contact a Sears or other qualified service center. We have com-

petent, well-trained representatives 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".

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

• Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and using your !ractor.

• Follow instructions under Maintenance" and "Storage" sections of this manual.

• Wear proper Personal Protective Equip-

ment (PPE) while operating this machine, including (at a minimum) sturdy footwear,

eye protection, and hearing protection.

Do not mow in shorts and/or open toed

footwear.

• Always let someone know you are outside

mowing.

_i_WARNING: This tractor is equipped with

an internal combustion engine andshould not be used on or near any unimproved

forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-

covered land unless the engine's e;_haust 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 manual).

REPAIR PROTECTION AGREEMENTS

Congratulations on making a smart pur- chase. Your new Craftsman® product is

designed and manufactured for years of dependable operation. But like all products, it may require repair from time to time. That's

when having a Repair Protection Agreement can save you money and aggravation.

Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement now and protect yourseff from unexpected

hassle and expense.

Here's what's included in the Agreement:

• Expert service byour 12,000 professional

repair specialists.

Unlimited service and no charge for parts and labor on all covered repairs.

Product replacement if your covered product can't be fixed.

Discount of 10% from regular price of service and service-related parts not covered bythe agreement; also, 10% off

regular price of preventive maintenance check.

Fast help by phone - phone support

from a Sears representative on products

requiring in-home repair, plus convenient repair scheduling.

Once you purchase the Agreement, a simple phone call is all that it takes for you to sched-

ule service. You can call anytime day or night, or schedule a service appointment online.

Sears has over 12,000 professional repair specialists, who have access to over 4.5

million quality parts and accessories. That's the kind of professionalism you can count on

to help prolong the life of your new purchase for years to come. Purchase your Repair

Protection Agreement today! Some limitations and exclusions apply.

For prices and additional information call

1-800=827=6655.

SEARS INSTALLATION SERVICE

For Sears professional installation of home appliances, garage door openers, water heaters, and other major home items, in the

U.S.A. call 1-800=4-MY=HOME®

/ \

\ I

\ /

Steering Wheel

Steering

Wheel Insert

-_=====1-=

I J

(1) Hex Bolt

5/16-18 x 4

Steering Wheel

Adapter

(1) Seat

I .... I

l l

Seat

(1) Large Fiat Washer

(1) 5/16 Lock Washer

Steering

Boot

@ (1) Washer

_(1) Knob

Steering

Extension

Shaft

Keys Oil Drain Extension

(2) Keys

Slope Sheet

Battery

(2) Hex Bolts (2) Nut Keps

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

unassemb[ed 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 ensure proper tightness.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY A socket wrench set will make assembly

easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed.

(1) 5/16" wrench (2) 7/16" wrenches (2) 1/2" wrenches (1) 9/16" wrench

When right or left hand is mentioned in this

manual, itmeans when you are in the operating position (seated behind the steering wheel).

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

operating position (seated behind the steer- ing wheel).

Utility knife

Tire pressure gauge

Pliers

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

1. Remove all accessible loose parts and parts boxes from carton.

2. Cut along dashed lines on all four panels

of carton. Remove end panels and lay side panels flat.

3. Check for any additional loose parts or

cartons and remove.

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR

FROM SKID

ATTACH STEERING WHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND

BOOT

1. Slide extension shaft onto lower steering

shaft.

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

INSTALL STEERING WHEEL

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

4. Remove steering wheel adapter from

steering wheel and slide adapter onto steering shaft extension.

5. Position steering wheel so cross bars are

horizontal (left to right) and slide inside boot and onto adapter.

6. Assemble large flat washer, 5/16 lock washer, 5/16 hex bolt and tighten se-

curely.

7. Snap steering wheel insert into center of

steering wheel.

8. Remove protective materials from tractor

hood and grill.

INSERT ........_: _::_i

5/16 HEX BOLT-.._.

5/16 LOCK ._/_:_ WASHER _ :_<_,

LARGE FLAT -- _ WASHER

ADAPTER "

LOWER STEERING SHAFT

\ \ _ y f---_ _77---------__STEERING

_+_ _-........:_j_ WHEEL

STEERING

BOOT

SHAFT

IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any

staples in skid that may puncture tires where tractor is to roll off skid.

INSTALL SEAT

Adjust seat before tightening adjustment

knob.

1. Remove adjustment knobandflatwasher 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 card-

board packing and discard.

3. Place seat on seat pan and assemble sh- oulder 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.

CHECK BATTERY

1. Lift seat pan 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).

Seat

Label

Terminal

NOTE: You may now roll your tractor off

the skid. Follow the appropriate instruction

below to remove the tractor from the skid.

Seat

Seat _'an

Shoulder _ \r--r---_\. ' \\ Bolt/ _-_--_ _,,\_./k_\ \ '\. ! /

//_ _ _----_" Fiat Washer

Adjustment Knob

WARNING: Before starting, read, un-

derstand 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.

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

function of controls)

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

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

3. Place gearshift lever in neutral position.

4. Roll tractor forward off skid.

5. Remove banding holding the deflector shield up against tractor.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

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 on tires.

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 of this man- ual. 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 operating properly. See "TO CHECK BRAKE" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

V"CHECKLIST

Before you operate and enjoy your new

tractor, we wish to assure that you receive the best performance and satisfaction from

this Quality Product.

Please review the following checklist:

_/AII assembly instructions have been com-

pleted.

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

charged.

_/Seat is adjusted comfortably and

tightened securely.

V/All tires are properly inflated. (For ship-

ping 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. While learning how to use your tractor, pay extra attention to the following important

items: _/Engine oil is at proper level.

v/Fue! tank is filled with fresh, clean, regular

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

location and function. Operatethem before

you start the engine. _/Be sure brake system is in safe operating

condition. _/Be sure Operator Presence System and

Reverse Operation System (ROS) are

working properly (See the Operation and

Maintenance sections in this manual).

+ 22 hidden pages