Craftsman 917289453 Owner’s Manual

Operator's Manual

CRI FTSMRN°

GAR E

26.0 HR* 54"

TRACTO

Mower

Electric Start

6 Speed Transaxle

Model No.

917.28945

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.

Gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol (EIO) is acceptable for use in this machine.

The use of any gasoline exceeding 10% ethanol (EIO) will void the product warranty.

SEARS, ROEBUCKAND CO., HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL 60179 U.S.A.

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

For answers to your questions about this product, Call:

1-800-659-5917

Sears Craftsman Help Line

5 am - 5 pm, Mon- Sat

441 773

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Service and Adjustments ....................... 25

Storage .................................................. 30

Troubleshooting ..................................... 31

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

Craftsman Riding Equipment Warranty: Lawn Tractors, Garden Tractors, Zero Turn Riders

CRAFTSMAN TWO YEAR FULL WARRANTY

FOR TWO YEARS from the date of purchase, if any non-expendable part of this riding equipment fails due to a defect in material or workmanship, visit www.craftsman.com or

call 1-800-659-5917 to arrange for free in-home repair.

The frame and front axle will be repaired free of charge for five years from the date of

purchase if defective in material or workmanship. In all cases, if repair proves impossible, the riding equipment will be replaced free of

charge with the same or an equivalent model.

The battery will be replaced free of charge for 90 days from the date of purchase if

defective in material or workmanship (our testing proves that it will not hold a charge).

This warranty is void if this product 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 items 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 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 orderto 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.

_,WARNING: Do not coast down a hill in

neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.

_I, 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.

_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 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 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.

• 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 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 ifyou 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

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 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 ofthetowed 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.

• Neverstorethe machine orfuel container

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. Ifthis 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.

GENERAL SERVlCE

• Never operate machine in a closed area.

• Keep all nuts and boltstight to be sure the 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 fueFsoaked de-

bris. Allow machineto cool before storing.

• If you strike a foreign object, stop and inspectthe machine. Repair, if necessary,

before restarting.

• Never make any adjustments or repairs

with the engine running.

• Checkgrasscatchercomponentsandthe discharge chute frequently and replace

with manufacturer's recommended parts, when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp. Wrapthe blade or wear gloves, and use extra caution

when servicing them.

• Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as required.

• Maintain orreplace safetyand 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.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Gasoline Capacity 4 Gallons and Type: Unleaded Regular

Oil Type SAE 10W30(above 32°F) (API-SG-SL): SAE 5W30(below 32°F

Oil Capacity: 64 oz Spark Plug: Champion RC12YC

(Gap: .030")

Ground Speed Forward: (MPH): 1st 1.0

2nd 1.4 3rd 2.1

4th 3.1 5th 4.0

6th 5.1

Reverse: 1.6

Charging System: 15 Amps @ 3600 RPM Battery: Amp/Hr: 28

Min. CCA: 230

Case size: U1R

Blade Bolt Torque: 45-55 Ft. Lbs.

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor. It has been designed, engi-

neered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance. Should you experience any problem you

cannot easily remedy, please contact a Sears or other qualified service center. We have competent, well-trained technicians

and the proper tools to service or repair

this tractor.

Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will enable you to assemble

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

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

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

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

owner's manual.

_,WARNING: This tractor is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not

be used on or near any unimproved forest- covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is

equipped with a spark arrester meeting ap- plicable 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 yourself from unexpected

hassle and expense.

Here's what's included in the Agreement:

• Expert service by our 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 ser-

vice and service-related parts not covered

by the agreement; also, 10% off regular price of preventive maintenance check.

• Fast help by phone - phone support from

a Sears representative on products requir- ing in-home repair, plus convenient 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 appoint-

ment 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®

Mower

Mower Front Wheel

(2) Rear

(5) 1-3/16 Assemblies _

O.D. Washers

(1) Small

Retainer Springs

(5) Large

Retainer Springs

if Equipped

(1) Anti=Sway Bar (1) 3/40.D.

(1) Small Retainer

Springs

Lift Link

(1) Front

Lift Link \_

Assembly

Washers

(1) Shoulder Bolt

(1) Wheel

(1) Oil Drain Tube

Keys

(2) Keys

(i) 1-i/40.D.

Washer

(1) 3/8-16

Locknut

Slope Sheet

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

unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools

as necessary to insure proper tightness. ADJUST SEAT TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

1. Sit in seat.

2. Lift up adjustment lever (A) and slide seat

A socket wrench set will make assembly

easier. Standard wrench sizes are listed. (2) 7/16" wrenches Utility knife

(1) 1/2" wrench Tire pressure gauge

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.

(1) 3/4" wrench Pliers (1) 3/4" socket w/drive ratchet

(1) 9/16" wrench Flashlight

When right or left hand is mentioned in this

manual, itmeanswhen you are inthe operating position (seated behind the steering wheel).

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON

UNPACK CARTON

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

• Cut along dotted lines on all four panels

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

• Remove mower and packing materials. Check for any additional loose parts or

cartons and remove.

BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR

FROM SKID TO CHECK BATTERY

1. Lift hood to raised position.

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

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).

• Forbatteryand batterycableinstallationsee "REPLACING BATTERY" inthe "Service

and Adjustments" section inthis manual.

Label

NOTE: You may now roll your tractor offthe skid. Follow the instructions below to remove

the tractor from the skid. Ai_ 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 clutch/brake pedal.

3. Place gearshift lever in neutral position.

4. Roll tractor forward off skid.

Continue with the instructions that follow.

TO iNSTALL MOWER

1. SET PARKING BRAKE LEVER AND LOWER ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER

• Depress clutch/brake pedal all the way down and hold.

Pull parking brake lever up and hold, release pressure from clutch/brake pedal,

then release parking brake lever. Pedal

should remain in brake position. Ensure parking brake will hold tractor secure.

Brake

_,CAUTION: Lift lever is spring loaded. Have a tight grip on lift lever, lower it slowly and engage in lowest position. Lift lever is

located on left side of fender.

2. ASSEMBLE FRONT GAUGE WHEEL

(W) TO FRONT OF MOWER

1il

H. Front Mower Bracket

W, Front Gauge Wheel

X, Shoulder Bolt

Y, 1-1/40.D. Washer

Z, 3/8-16 Locknut

3. TURN STEERING WHEEL LEFT AND POSITION MOWER

• Turn steering wheel to the left as far as it will go and position mower on right side of

tractor with deflector shield (Q) to the right.

Front

iEngine

"--'J Back

Deflector Shield

4. SLIDE MOWER UNDER TRACTOR

• 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 sliding

mower under tractor.

• Slide mower under tractor until it is centered under tractor.

(

A. Mower Side Suspension Arms

B. Retainer Spring C. Rear Lift Link(S)

D. Right Side Rear Mower Bracket E. Front Lift Link Assembly R Front Suspension Bracket

H, Front Mower Bracket

I. Left Side Rear Mower Bracket K. Belt Tension Rod

L, Locking Bracket M, Engine Clutch Pulley

Q, Deflector Shield S, Anti-Sway Bar

W, Front Gauge Wheel

A. Mower Side Suspension Arms Q. Deflector Shield

5. INSTALL ANTI-SWAY BAR (S) (IF EQUIPPED)

ANTI-SWAY BAR (S)

_ Towards Towards

Transaxle Mower Deck

• Pivot the integrated washer end of anti- sway bar (S) towards mower deck bracket

on right side of mower. Insert integrated

washer end of bar into hole in rear mower

bracket (D). Move mower as needed to insert integrated washer end of bar into

rear mower bracket (D).

• Secure with small washer and small retainer spring as shown.

90° End Integrated Washer End

From right side of mower, first insert

90 ° end of anti-sway bar (S) into hole in transaxle bracket (T), located near left

rear tire in front of transaxle.

NOTE: Flashlight may be helpful.

Anti-Sway _i

Bar (S)

Transaxle Bracket (T)

Located Between Rear Tires

NOTE: Depending on model, bracket (T) may be different than shown but hole for anti-sway bar will be in same position/location.

6. ATTACH MOWER SIDE SUSPENSION

ARMS (A) TO CHASSIS

• Position front hole in side suspension arm (A) over pin on outside of tractor chassis and secure with large washer and large

retainer spring (B).

• Repeat on opposite side of tractor.

Mower Side Suspension Arms

Retainer Spring

Right Side Rear Mower Bracket

7. ATTACH REAR LIFT LINKS (C)

• Insert rod end of rear lift link (C) into hole (U) in tractor lift shaft suspension arm

and pivot link down to mower.

• Lift rear corner of mower and position slot in link assembly over pin on rear mower

bracket (D) and secure with large washer and large retainer spring.

• Repeat on opposite side of tractor.

C. Rear Lift Link(s)

D. Right Side Rear Mower Bracket

'U. Hole

9 INSTALL BELT ON ENGINE CLUTCH

PULLEY (M)

• Disengage belt tension rod (K) from locking bracket (L).

• Install belt onto engine clutch pulley (M).

8 ATTACH FRONT LINK (E)

• Turn steering wheel to position wheels straight forward.

• From front of tractor, insert rod end of front link (E) through front hole in tractor front suspension bracket (F).

• Move to left side of mower and and insert large retainer spring (G) through hole in

front link (E) behind front suspension bracket (F).

• Insert other end of link (E) into hole in front mower bracket (H) and secure with

washer and small retainer spring (J).

NOTE: Requires deck lifting.

Front Link

Location,

M,Engine

Clutch Pulley

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

mandrel covers.

* Engage belt tension rod (K) on locking

bracket (L).

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

slowly. , Raise attachment lift lever to highest

position.

, If necessary, adjust gauge wheels

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

MOWER DRIVE BELT INSTALLATION Follow procedure described in "TO

REPLACE MOWER BLADE DRIVE BELT" in the "Service and Adjustments" section of

this manual.

E. Front Lift Link Assembly

R Front Suspension Bracket

G, Large Retainer Spring

H, Front Mower Bracket

J. Small Retainer Spring

M, Engine Clutch Pulley

+ 25 hidden pages

Craftsman 917289453 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual