Craftsman 917.28746 User Manual

geeratotsMan ual

CRAFTSMAN-

Your Home

For repair - in your home - of all major brand appliances,

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no matter who made it, no matter who sold it!

For the replacement parts, accessories and

, .. owner's manuals that you need to do-it-yourself.

'"'~r- , .

For Sears professional installation of home appliances

and items like garage door openers and water heaters.

1-800-4-MY -HOM E@

(1-800-469-4663) (U.S.A. and Canada)

www.sears.com www.sears.ca

?-;t,/i:~ ~.

OurHome

For repair of carry-in products like vacuums, lawn equipment,

and electronics, call or go on-line for the nearest

Sears Parts and Repair Center.

1-800-488-1222

Anytime, day or night (U.S.A. only)

www.sears.com

Anytime, day or night

.~---------------------=="~-

To purchase a protection agreement (U.S.A.)

or maintenance agreement (Canada) on a product serviced by Sears:

1-800-827 -6655

-----------_.=' -------.-~

(u.S.A.)

1-800-361-6665

(canada)

GARDEN TRACTOR

26.0 Electric Start

Automatic Transmission

Model No.

917.28746

• Espanal, p. 35

54" Mower

Para pedirserviciode reparaci6n

a domicifio,y para ordenarpiezas:

1-888-SU-HOGAR@

(1-888-784-6427)

@SearsBrands, l.l..C

Registered Trademark

Marca Registrada

Me Marque de commerceIMD Marque deposee de Sears Brands, LLC

409496 10.26.06 AP

Au Canada pourservice enfranyais:

1-800-lE-FOYERMC

(1-800533-6937)

www.sears.ca

Sea~

1M TrademarkISM Service Mark of Sears Brands, LLC

1M Milrca de FabricaISM Marca de Servicio de Sears Brands, LLC

Printed in U.S.A.

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, ROEBUCK AND CO., HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL

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

For answers to your questions about this product, Call:

1-800-659-5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line

5 am - 5 pm,Mon - Sat

60179

U.S.A.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

.Warranty 2

Safety Rules 3

Product Specifications; 6 Assembly/Pre-Operation 8 Operation 12

Maintenance Schedule 20

Maintenance ;;.: ;

Service and Adjustinents 24

Storage : ,.•...... 31

Troubleshooting :, ; : 32 Sears Service Back Cover

WARRANTY

LIMITED WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN TRACTOR AND BATTERY

2-YEAR ON TRACTOR

When used and maintained according to the operator's manual instructions; if this tractor fails due to a defect in material or workmanship within two years from the date of pur- chase, call 1-800-4-MY-HOME@ to arrange for free repair. During the first 30 days of purchase, there will be no charge to service the product in

your home. For your convenience, in-home warranty service will still be available after the first 30 days of purchase, but a trip charge will apply. This charge will be waived if you transport the product to an authorized Craftsman drop-off location. For the nearest

authorized location, call 1-800-4-MY-HOME@. Tractor warranty coverage does not include:

Expendable items which become wom during 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.

Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, including but not limited to damage caused by towing objects beyond the capability of the tractor, impacting objects that bend the frame or crankshaft, or over-speeding the engine.

Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, including but not limited to electri- cal 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 operator's manual.

Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs necessary because of 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. The tractor battery, which is covered for only 90 days as stated below.

90-DAYS ON BATTERY

For ninety (90) days from the date of purchase, if the battery included with this tractor is defective in material or workmanship (our testing proves it will not hold a charge), it will be replaced free of charge.

During the first 30 days of purchase, there will be no charges to replace the battery in your home. For your convenience, in-home warranty service will still be available after the first 30 days of purchase, but a trip charge will apply. This charge will be waived if you transport the battery to an authorized Craftsman drop-off location. For the nearest authorized location, call 1-800-4-MY-HOME@. All tractor and battery warranty coverage is void if this product is used for commercial or rental purposes.

This warranty applies only while this product is within the United States. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which

vary, from state to state.

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

SAFETY RULES

ADANGER: 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.

AWARNING: In order to prevent ac- cidental starting When setting up, trans- porting, adjusting or making repairs, always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug.

AWARNING: Do not coast down a hill in

neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.

AWARNING: 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.

AWARNING: Engine exhaust, some of

its cOnstituents, and certain vehicle com- ponents contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

AWARNING: 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.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

Read, understand, and follow all 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 bystand- ers before operating. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers.

Do not mow in reverse unless abso- lutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.

Never direct discharged material toward 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 entire grass catcher, discharge guard. or other safety devices in place and work- ing.

Slow down before turning.

o Never leave a running machine unat-

tended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and keys before dismounting.

Disengage blades when not mowing. Shut off engine and wait for all parts to come to a complete stop before clean- ing the machine, removing the grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard.

Operate machine only in daylight or good artificial light.

Do not operate the machine while under

the influence of alcohol or drugs.

o Watch for traffic when operating near or

crossing roadways.

Use extra care when loading or unload-

ing the machine into a trailer or truck.

Always wear eye protection when oper- ating machine.

Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-related in- juries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury.

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

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 occur. Clean any oil or fuel spillage before operating or storing the machine. Allow machine to cool before storage.

remove

SAFETY RULES

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and tip-over accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. Opera- tion 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 either 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 neu-

tral and coast downhill.

• Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a

slope. If the tires lose traction, disen- gage 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 attach-

ments; they can affect the stability of the machine. 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

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.

• Never carry children, even with the blades shutoff. 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 machine.

• 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.

• Follow the manufacturer's recommenda.

tion for weight limits for towed equip- ment and towing on slopes.

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

• On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment 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 damage, 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.

• Never store the machine or fuel con-

tainer 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.

SAFETY RULES

• 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. If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately. Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas cap

and tighten securely.

GENERAL SERVICE

• Never operate machine in a closed area.

• Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condi- tion.

• Never tamper with safety devices.

Chec~ their proper operation regularly.

@~~~~

• Be sure the area is clear of bystand- ers before operating. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

• Never carry passengers. Do not mow in reverse unless abso- lutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.

• 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 .ofthe mowing area and in the watchful care of a responsible

adult other than the operator.

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

.spillage and remove any fuel-soaked

debris. Allow machine to cool before storing.

• If you strike a foreign object, stop and inspect the machine. Repair, if neces-

sary, before restarting. Never make any adjustments or repairs

with the engine running. Check grass catcher components and the discharge guard frequently and re- place with manufacturer's recommended parts, when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear gloves, and use extra cau-

tion when servicing them. Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as required. Maintain or replace safety and instruc- tion labels, as necessary.

• 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 (150Max), 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. If the tires lose traction, disen-

gage 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 gradually downhill, if possible .

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Gasoline Capacity 4 Gallons

and Type:

Oil Type (API-SG-SL):

Oil Capacity: Spark Plug:

Gap: .030") Ground Speed

Charging System: 15 Amps@3600 RPM Battery:

Blade Bolt Torque: 45-55 Ft. Lbs.

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase

of a new tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance. Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact

Sears or other qualified service center. We have competent, well-trained repre- sentative and the proper tools to service or repair this tractor.

Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will enable and maintain your tractor properly. Always observe the "SAFETY RULES".

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

Read and observe the safety rules.

o Follow a regular schedule in main-

taining, caring for and using your tractor.

Follow the instructions under "Mainte- nance" and "Storage" sections of this owner's manual.

AWARNING: This tractor is equipped

with an internal 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). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.

Unleaded Regular

SAE 10W30 (above32°F) SAE 5W30

(below 32°F)

WI Filter: 58 oz.

Champion RC12YC

Forward: 0-5.8 Reverse: 0-2.1

Amp/Hr: Min. CCA: 280 Case size:

Y0l.!

U1R

to assemble

In the state of Califomia the aboveisre- .. q~ired by law (Section 444~ofthe'QalifijXS- ma Public Resources COde).Othe(states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester forthe 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.

PurchaseaRepair Protection Agreement now and protect yourself from unexpected hassle and expense.

Here's what's included in thE!Agreement:

Expert service by our 12,000 profesion-

al 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.

o Discount of1 0% from regular price of

service and service-related parts not covE!red by the agreement; also, 10% off regular price of preventive maintenance check.

o Fast help by phone - phone support

from a Sears representative on products requiring in-home repair, plus conve- nient repair scheduling.

Once you purchase the Agreement, a

simple phone call is all that it takes for you to schedule service. You can call anytime day or night, or schedule a service ap- pointment 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. call1-800-4-MY-HOME@

(1) Whee!

(5) Large Retainer

(5) 1-3/16 0.0. Washers

(i)

(1) Shoulder Bolt

~i"'---'.

Springs - 7/16

(1) Oil Drain Tube For Future Use

UNASSEMBLED PARTS

Mower Front Wheel

(1)

1-1/40.0.

Mower

Washer

(1) 3/4

0.0.

Washers

(2) Small Retainer

Springs - 5/16

Mower Install

(2) Keys

Sheet

(1) Locknut 3/8-16

(2) Rear Lift Link

Assemblies

Slope Sheet

ASSEMBLY/PRE-OPERATION

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with the exception. of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes you need are listed below. (1) 3/4" wrench (1) Pliers (1) 9/16"wrench (1) Utility knife (1) Tire pressure gauge

When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it means, from your point of view, when you are in the operating posi- tion (seated behind the steering wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM

.CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

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

2. Cut along dashed lines on all four pan- els of carton. Remove end panels and lay side panels flat.

3. Remove mower and packing materials.

4. Check for any additional loose aprts or

cartons and remove.

CHECK BATTERY

1. Uft hood to raised position.

NOTE: If this battery is put into service after month and year indicated on label (L) (label is located between terminals) charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps. (See "BATIERY" in Mainte- nance section of this manual for charging instructions).

ADJUST SEAT

1. Sit in seat.

2. Lift up adjustment lever (A) and slide seat until a comfortable position is reached which allows you to press clutch/brake pedal all the way down.

3. Release lever to lock seat in position.

NOTE: You may now roll or drive your

tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate

instruction below to remove the tractor

from the skid.

A 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. Raise attachment lift lever to its highest position. . .

2. Release parking brake by depressing brake pedal.

3. Place freewheel control in "trans- mission disengaged position" (See "TO

TRANSPORT" in the Operation section of this manual).

4. Roll tractor forward off skid.

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

function of controls)

1. Be sure all the above steps have been

completed.

2. Check en~ine oil level and fill fuel tank with gasoline.

3. Place freewheel control in "trans- mission engaged" position (see "TO

TRANSPORT" in Operation section of this manual).

4. Sit on seat in operating position, de- press brake pedal and set the parking brake.

5. Raise attachment lift lever to its highest position.

6. Remove key from bag and start the

engine (see "TO START ENGINE" in the Operation section of this manual). After engine has started, move throttle control to idle position.

7. Release parking brake. .

8. Slowly depress forward drive pedal and drive tractor off skid.

9. Apply brake to stop tractor and set parking brake.

10.Tum ignition key to "STOP" position.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

ASSEMBLE FRONT WHEEL TO MOWER

1. Using shoulder bolt, washer and

locknut from parts bag, assemble front wheel to mower as shown. Tighten securely.

INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT

See MOWER AND DRIVE BELT AS- SEMBLY Supplement Sheet for additional guidance on this assembly. Be sure tractor is on level surface and

engage parking brake.

1. Lower attachment lift lever to it's lowest position.

A CAUTION: Lift lever is spring loaded.

Have a tight grip on lift lever, lower it

slowly and engage in lowest position.

2. Turn steering wheel to the left as far as it will go and position mower on right

side of tractor with deflector shield to the right.

3. Remove plastic tie securing belt, bring

belt forward and check belt for proper routing in all mower pulley grooves.

NOTE: Be sure mower side suspension arms (A) are pointing forward before slid- ing mower under tractor.

4. Slide mower under tractor until it is

centered under tractor.

5. FIRST INSTALL ANTI-SWAY BAR (S).

- From right side of mower, insert ant-sway bar into hole in transmission bracket (T).

- Pivot bar towards you and insert oth- er end of bar into hole in rear mower bracket (D). Move mower as needed to insert bar.

- Secure with washer and retainer

spring as shown.

6. ATIACH MOWER SIDE SUSPENSION ARMS (A) TO CHASSIS - Position hole in arm over pin (B) on outside of tractor chassis and secure with washer and retainer spring.

7. Repeat on opposite side of tractor.

'-"

ATIACH REAR LIFT LINKS (C) -Insert rod end of link assembly into hole in trac- tor lift shaft suspen:;:;ionarm (L) and pivot link down to mower. Uft rear comer of mower and position slot in link assembly over pin on rear mower bracket (D) and secure with washer and retainer spring.

9. Repeat on opposite side of tractor.

10.Tum steering wheel to position wheels .straight forward ..

11.ATIACH FRONT LINK (E) - Work from

left side oftractor. Insert rod end of link

assembly through front hole in tractor front suspension bracket (F) and secure with retainer spring (G) through hole in link located behind the bracket.

12. Insert other end of link (E) into hole in front mower bracket (H) and secure with washer and retainer spring

13.Disengage belt tension rod (K) from lock- ing bracket (L).

14.Install belt onto engine clutch pulley (M).

IMPORTANT:

in all mower pulley grooves. .

15. Engage belt tension rod (K) on locking bracket (L).

CAUTION: Belt tension rod is spring loaded. Have a tight grip on rod and engage slowly.

16. Raise attachment lift lever to highest position. -

17. If necessary, adjust gauge wheels

before operating mower as shown in the Operation section of this manual.

Check belt for proper routing

(J).

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes. Cor- rect tire pressure is important for best cutting performance.

• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown on tires.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower hous-

ing should be properly leveled. See "TO

LEVEL MOWER" 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 and mower blade drive belts

in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual. Verify thatthe belts are routed correctly.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM

After you learn how to operate your trac- tor, check to see that the brake is operat- ing properly. See "TO CHECK BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of .

this manual.

.ICHECKLIST

Before you operate 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. .

~ Seat is adjusted comfortably and tight-

ened securely.

~ All tires are properly inflated. (For ship-

ping purposes, the tires were overin- flated 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.

.I Before driving tractor, be sure freewheel

control is in "transmission engaged" position (see "TO TRANSPORT" in the

Operation section of this manual). While learning how to use your tractor, pay extra attention to the following impor-

tant items:

.I Engine oil is at proper level . .I Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,

regular unleaded gasoline.

.I Become familiar with all controls, their

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

.I Be sure brake system is in safe ope rat-

ing condition.

.I Be sure Operator Presence System

and Reverse Operation System (ROS) are working properly (See the Opera- tion and Maintenance sections in this manual) .

.I It is important to purge the transmission

before operating your tractor for the first time. Follow proper starting and transmis- sion purging instructions (See ''TO START

ENGINE" and "PURGE TRANSMISSION"

in the Operation section of this manual).

+ 12 hidden pages