Craftsman 917271062 User Manual TRACTOR Manuals And Guides L0030185

CRAFTSMAN Lawn, Tractor Manual L0030185 CRAFTSMAN Lawn, Tractor Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Lawn, Tractor installation guides

User Manual: Craftsman 917271062 917271062 CRAFTSMAN TRACTOR - Manuals and Guides View the owners manual for your CRAFTSMAN TRACTOR #917271062. Home:Lawn & Garden Parts:Craftsman Parts:Craftsman TRACTOR Manual

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Owner's Manual

£RAFTSMAN
15.5 HP

ELECTRIC START
42" MOWER
AUTOMATIC

LAWN TRACTOR
Model No.
917.271062

• Safety
• Assembly
• Operation
• Maintenance
• Repair Parts

CAUTION:
Read and follow all Safety
Rules and Instructions before
operating this equipment.

For answers to your questions
about this product, Call:

1-800-659-5917
Sears Craftsmen Help Line
5 am - 5 pro, Mon- Sat

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, II 60179
Visit our Craftsman

website:www.sears.com/craftsman

Warranty ...............................................2
Safety Hules .........................................3
Product Specifications ..........................5
Assembly ..............................................7
Operation ............................................10
Maintenance Schedule ...................... 17

Service and Adjustments....................21
Storage ...............................................27
Troubleshooting .................................28
Repair Paris ........................................34
Parts Ordering .....................Back Cover

LIMITEDTWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENTPARTS
For two (2) years from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Riding Equipment is
maintained, lubricated and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner's
manual, Sears will repair or replace, free of charge, any paris found to be defective in
material or workmanship. Warranty service is available free of charge by taking your
Craftsman riding equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty
service is available but a trip charge will apply. This warranty applies only while this
product is in the United States.
This Warranty does not cover:
• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark
plugs, air cleaners, belts and oil filters.
• 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 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 the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained in the owner's manual.
• Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs caused by fuel determined to be contaminated or oxidized (stale). In general, fuel should be used within thirty (30) days of its
purchase date.
• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.
LIMITED 90 DAY WARRANTY ON BATTERY
For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with this riding
equipment proves defective in material or workmanship
and our testing determines the
battery will not hold a charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge. Warranty
service is available free of charge by taking your Craftsman riding equipment to your
nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty service is available but a trip charge
will apply. This warranty applies only while this product is in the United States.
TO LOCATE THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER OR TO SCHEDULE IN-HOME
WARRANTY SERVICE, SIMPLY CONTACT SEARS AT 1-800-4-MY-HOME
This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which
may vary from state to state.
Sears, Roebuck

and Co., D/617 WA, Hoffman

Estates, IL 60179

SLOPE OPERATION

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is
capable of amputating hands and feet
and throwing objects. Failure to observe
the following safety instructions could
result in serious injury or death.
GENERAL OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to lossof-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:

• Read, understand, and follow all
instructions 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 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 absolutely necessary. Always look down
and behind before and while backing.
• Be aware of the mower discharge
direction and do not point it at anyone.
Do not operate the mower without
either the entire grass catcher or the
guard in place.
• Slow down before turning.
• Never leave a running machine
unattended. Always turn off blades, set
parking brake, stop engine, and
remove keys before dismounting.
• Turn off blades when 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 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.
° Data indicates that operators, age 60
years and above, are involved in a
large percentage of riding mowerrelated injuries. These operators
should evaluate their ability to operate
the riding mower safely enough to
protect themselves and others from
serious injury.

• Mow up and down slopes, not across.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps.
Uneven terrain could overturn the
machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear
so that you will not have to stop or shift
while on the slope.
• Follow the manufacturer's
recommendations for wheel weights or counterweights 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 not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and
gradually downhill, if possible.
• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or
embankments.
The mower could
suddenly turn over if a wheel is over
the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge
caves in.
• Do not mow 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 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 under the watchful care of
another responsible adult.
° Be alert and turn machine off if
children enter the area.
• Before and when backing, look
behind and down for small children.
• Never carry children. They may fall off
and be seriously injured or interfere
with safe machine operation.
• Never allow children to operate the
machine.
• Use extra care when approaching
blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other
objects that may obscure vision.
SERVICE

• Never run a machine
area.

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep
equipment in good condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regularly.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
storing.
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you
strike an object. Repair, 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 objects to be thrown. Frequently
check components and replace with
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.

Use extra care in handling gasoline
and other fuels. They are flammable
and vapors are explosive.
Use only an approved container.
Never remove gas cap or add fuel
with the engine running. Allow
engine to cool before refueling. Do
not smoke.
Never refuel the machine indoors.
Never store the machine or fuel
container inside where there is an
open flame, such as a water
heater.

• Be sure the area is clear of other
people before mowing. Stop machine
if anyone enters the area.
• Never carry passengers or children
even with the blades off.
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely 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.
• Mow up and down slopes (15 ° Max),
not across.

inside a closed

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps.
Uneven terrain could overturn the
machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
Use slow speed. Choose a low gear
so that you will not have to stop or shift
while on the slope.
Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the
blades and proceed slowly straight
down the slope.
If machine stops while going uphill,
disengage blades, shift into reverse
and back down slowly.
Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and
gradually downhill, if possible.

_l, Look for this symbol to point out important samty precautions. It means CAuTION!!! BECOME AWARE!!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

A, CAUTION: Tow only the attachments
that are recommenoe_ 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.

d_eCA,UTIO.N: In order to.prevent.accinta_ marring when semng up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs always disconnect spark plug wire and
place wire where it cannot contact spark
plug.
_I=CAUTION: Do not coast down a hill in
neutral, you may lose control of the trac-

AWARN.ING: The engine exhaust from
this proauct contains cnemicals Known
to the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

tor.
PRODUCT

SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE
CAPACITY
ANDTYPE:

1.25 GALLONS
UNLEADED
REGULAR

OILTYPE

SAE 10W30 (ABOVE
32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW
32°F)
W/FILTER: 4.0 PINTS
W/OFILTER: 3.5 PINTS

API-SF/SG/SH):
:)IL CAPACITY:

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

REPAIR AGREEMENT
A Sears Repair Agreement is available
on this product. Contact your nearest
Sears store for details.

CUSTOMER

• Read and observe the safety rules.
• Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and using your tractor.
• Follow the instructions under "Maintenance" and "Storage" sections of this
owner's manual.

SPARK PLUG:
CHAMPION
RC12YC
GAP: .030")
3ROUND SPEED FORWARD:5.5
',MPH):
REVERSE: 2.4
TIRE PRESSURE: FRONT: 14 PSI
REAR:
10PSI
CHARGING
SYSTEM:

3 AMPS BATTERY
5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS

BATTERY:

AMP/HR:
30
MIN. CCA: 240
CASE SIZE: U1R

BLADE BOLT
TORQUE:

27-35

RESPONSIBILITIES

AWARNING:
This tractor is equipped
with an internal combustion engine and
should not be used on or near any
unimproved forest-covered,
brushcovered or grass-covered land unless
the engine's exhaust system is equipped
with a spark arrester meeting applicable
local or state laws (if any). If a spark
arrester is used, it should be maintained
in effective working order by the operator.
In the state of California the above is
required by law (Section 4442 of the
CaUfomia 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 authorized service
center/department
(See REPAIR PARTS
section of this manual).

FT. LBS.

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 authorized service center.
We have competent, well-trained
technicians and the proper tools to
service or repair this tractor.

Steering Wheel

Steering
Wheel Insert

]_(1)

(1) Large Flat Washer

Hex Bolt
(1) Lock 3/8
washer

(1) Hex Bolt
5/16-18 x 1-1/4

3/8-16 x 1
(1)
Locknut
5/16-18
Steering
Boot
, _

Steering
, Wheel Adapter

Extension
Shaft
Steering

Seat

(_)

1_(1)

(1)Washer
17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12
Gauge

_) Shoulder
olt 5/16-18

Knob

Keys

Slope Sheet

Video Cassette

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. Review the video cassette before
you begin.

TOOLS REQUIRED
ASSEMBLY

FOR
_i-_--_---3/8
_.._
_3/8

A socket wrench set will make assembly
easier. Standard wrench sizes you need
are listed below.
(1) 9/16" wrench
(1) Pliers
(2) 1/2"wrench
(1) Utility knife
(1) 3/4" socket with
drive ratchet
(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
position (seated behind the steering
wheel).

Hex
Bolt
Insert
Lock Washer
Large Flat

Washer
_-'_

JSteering

Boot

Steering Wheel
Tabs
Adapte r------'---_
msion Shaft

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM
CARTON
UNPACK

CARTON

• Remove all accessible loose parts
and parts boxes from shipping carton.
• Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on
all four corners of shipping carton, and
lay panels flat.
• Remove mower and packing materials.
• Check for any additional loose parts or
boxes and remove.

BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR
SKID
ATTACH

STEERING

Tab
Slots

• Position steering wheel so cross bars
are horizontal (left to right) and slide
inside boot and onto adapter.
• Assemble large flat washer, 3/8 lock
washer, 3/8 hex bolt and tighten
securely.
• Snap steering wheel insert into center
of steering wheel.
• Remove protective materials from
tractor hood and grill.
IMPORTANT:
Check for and remove any
staples in skid that may puncture tires
where tractor is to roll off skid.

OFF

WHEEL

ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND
BOOT
• Slide extension shaft onto lower
steering shaft. Align mounting holes
in extension and lower shafts and
install 5/16 hex bolt and Iocknut.
Tighten securely.
• Place tabs of steering boot over tab
slots in dash and push down to
secure.
INSTALL

STEERING

• Position
they are
• Remove
steering
steering

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR
CHECK BATTERY
• Lift seat pan to raised postion and
open battery box door.
• 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 610 amps. (See "BATTERY" in MAINTENANCE section of this manual for

WHEEL

front wheels of the tractor so
pointing straight forward.
steerng wheel adapter from
wheel and slide adapter onto
shaft extension.

charging

structions.)

TO ROLL TRACTOR
OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)

Seat

• Press lift lever plunger and raise
attachment lift lever to its highest
position.
• Release parking brake by depressing
clutch/brake pedal.
• Place freewheel control in freewheeling position to disengage transmission
(See "TO TRANSPORT" in the Operation section of this manual).
• Roll tractor forward off skid.
• Remove banding holding discharge
guard up against tractor.

Terminal
Battery
Door

INSTALLSEAT
Adjust seat before tightening adjustment
knob.
• Remove adjustment knob and flat
washer securing seat to cardboard
packing and set aside for assembly of
seat to tractor.
• Pivot seat upward and remove from
the cardboard packing. Remove the
cardboard packing and discard.
• 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
clutch/brake pedal all the way down.
• Get off seat without moving its adjusted
position.
• Raise seat and tighten adjustment
knob securely.

TO DRIVE

OFF SKID

_I, WARNING: Before starting, read,
understand 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.
• Be sure all the above assembly steps
have been completed.
• Check engine oil level and fill fuel tank
with gasoline.
• Place freewheel control in "transmission engaged" position.
• Sit on seat in operating position,
depress clutch/brake pedal and set the
parking brake.
• Place motion control lever in neutral
(N) position.
• Press lift lever plunger and raise
attachment lift lever to its highest
position.
• Start the engine. After engine has
started, move throttle control to idle
position.
• Release parking brake.
• Slowly move the motion control lever
forward and slowly drive tractor off
skid.
• Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking
brake and place motion control lever in
neutral position.
• Turn ignition key to "OFF" position.
Continue with the instructions that follow.

Seat

Shoulder
Bolt

TRACTOR

Seat Pan

Flat Washer
Adiustment
Knob

NOTE:
You may now roll or drive your
tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate
instruction below to remove the tractor from
the skid.

INSTALL

MULCHER

PLATE

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

(If previously removed)
• Raise and hold deflector shield in
upright 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.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
After you learn 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.

v' CHECKL IST

ACAUTION:
Do not remove deflector
shield from mower. Raise and hold
shield when attaching mulcher plate and
allow it to rest on plate while in operation.
Mulcher

Deflector_

Plate

Shield

Latch
Hooks

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.

CHECKTIREPRESSURE
The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is important
for best cutting performance.
• Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in
"PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"
section of this manual.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS
For best cutting results, mower housing
should be properly leveled. See "TO
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the
Service and Adjustments section of this
manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER
OF ALL BELTS

POSITION

See the figures that are shown for
replacing motion and mower blade drive

Before you operate and enjoy your new
tractor, we wish to assure that you receive the best performance and satisfaction from this quality product.
Please review the following checklist:
,/ All assembly instructions have been
completed.
•/ No remaining loose parts in carton.
/ Battery is properly prepared and
charged.
(Minimum 1 hour at 6
amps).
,/Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened securely.
,/All tires are properly inflated. (For
shipping purposes, the tires were
overinflated at the factory).
4' Be sure mower deck is properly leveled side-to-side/front-to-rear for best
cutting results. (Tires must be properly
inflated for leveling).
4' 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.
•/ Before driving tractor, be sure freewheel control is in drive position.
While learning how to use your tractor,
pay extra attention to the following important items:
/ Engine oil is at proper level.
4" Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean,
regular unleaded gasoline.
/ Become familiar with all controls - their
location and function. Operate them
before you start the engine.
,/Be sure brake system is in safe operating condition.
/ It is important to purge the transmission before operating your tractor for
the first time. Follow proper starting
and transmission purging instructions
(See "TO START ENGINE" and
=PURGE TRANSMISSION"
in the Operation section of this manual).

These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature
Learn and understand their meaning.

BATTERY

CAUTION OR
WARNING

REVERSE

supplied with the product.

FORWARD

FAST

SLOW

IE
FUEL

A'I-rACHMENT
CLUTCH ENGAGED

CHOKE

REVERSE

MOWER

HEIGHT

NEUTRAL

PARKING BRAKE
LOCKED

HIGH

LOW

KEEP AREA CLEAR
IGNITION

ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH DISENGAGED

(SEE SAFETY

UNLOCKED

MOWER

LIFT

PARKING BRAKE

SLOPE HAZARDS
RULES

SECTION)

FREE WHEEL

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

(Automatic

Models only)

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR
READ THIS OWNER'S
YOUR TRACTOR

MANUAL

AND SAFETY

RULES BEFORE

OPERATING

Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of
various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

Light Switch
Attachment
Clutch

Ignition Switch

Lever _
Ammeter

Throttle

Lift
..._-_---....

Lever
Plunger
Attachment
Lift Lever

Control

i
Clutch/Brake
Pedal

o Height
Adjustment
Indicator

Freewheel
Control

"Parking Brake Lever

Motion Control
Lever

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the American
National Standards Institute.
AMMETER - Indicates charging (+) or
discharging (-) of battery.
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH LEVER - Used
to engage the mower blades, or other
attachments mounted to your tractor.
ATTACHMENT LIFT LEVER - Used to
raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck
or other attachments mounted to your
tractor.
CLUTCH/BRAKE
PEDAL - Used for
declutching and braking the tractor and
starting the engine.
MOTION CONTROL LEVER - Selects the
speed and direction of tractor.

IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting
and stopping the engine.
LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to
release attachment lift lever when
changing its position.
LIGHT SWITCH - Turns the headlights on
and off.
PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks
clutch/brake pedal into the brake
position.
THROTTLE/CHOKE
CONTROL - Used
for starting and controlling engine speed.
FREEWHEEL CONTROL Disengagages
transmission for pushing
or slowly towing the tractor with the
engine off.

The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into
the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety
glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any
adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask
over spectacles or standard safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR
TO SET PARKING

BRAKE

Your tractor is equipped with an operator
presence sensing switch. When engine
is running, any attempt by the operator to
leave the seat without first setting the
parking brake will shut off the engine.
• Depress clutch/brake
pedal into full
"BRAKE" position and hold.
• Place parking brake lever in "ENGAGED" position and release pressure from clutch/brake pedal. Pedal
should remain in "BRAKE" position.
Make sure parking brake will hold
tractor secure.
Attachment Clutch Lever
Position
gaged"
Position

Thn

ed"
Position

Control
Lever

"Disengaged'
Position
STOPPING
MOWER

Position

BLADES -

• To stop mower blades,move attachment clutch lever to "DISENGAGED"
position.
GROUND

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
running, hot engine exhaust gases may
cause "browning" of grass. To eliminate
this possibility, always stop engine when
stopping tractor on grass areas.
ACAUTION:
Always stop tractor
completely, as described above, before
leaving the operator's position; to empty
grass catcher, etc.

TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL

Parking
Brake

Clutch/
Brake

•Tum
ignition key to "OFF" position and
remove key. Always remove key when
leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized

DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive, depress clutch/
brake pedal into full "BRAKE" position.
• Move motion control lever to neutral
(N) position.
IMPORTANT: The motion control lever
does not return to neutral (N) position
when the clutch/brake pedal is depressed.

Always operate engine at full throttle.
• Operating engine at less than full
throttle reduces the battery charging
rate.
• Full throttle offers the best bagging
and mower performance.
TO MOVE FORWARD AND
BACKWARD
The direction and speed of movement is
controlled by the motion control lever.
• Start tractor with motion control lever in
neutral (N) position.
• Release parking brake and clutch/
brake pedal.
• Slowly move motion control lever to
desired position.
TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING
HEIGHT

The position of the attachment lift lever
determines the cutting height.
• Grasp lift lever.
• Press plunger with thumb and move
lever to desired position.
The cutting height range is approxiENGINE mately 1o112 to 4". The heights are
• Move throttle control to slow position.
measured from the ground to the blade
NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to
tip with the engine not running. These
slow position and allowing engine to idle
heights are approximate and may vary
before stopping may cause engine to
depending upon soil conditions, height
"backfire".
of grass and types of grass being
12 mowed.

• The average lawn should be cut to
approximately
2-1/2 inches during the
cool season and to over 3 inches
during hot months.
For healthier and
better looking lawns, mow often and
after moderate growth.
• For best cutting performance, grass
over 6 inches in height should be
mowed twice. Make the first cut
relatively high; the second to desired
height.
TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS
Gauge wheels are properly adjusted
when they are slightly off the ground
when mower is at the desired cutting
height in operating position. Gauge
wheels then keep the deck in proper
position to help prevent scalping in most
terrain conditions.
• Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a
flat level surface.
• Adjust mower to desired cutting height
(See "TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING
HEIGHT" in the Operation section of
this manual).
• With mower in desired height of cut
position, gauge wheels should be
assembled 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.

Gauge
Whae

"1\ \

Mounting'--.2
Bracket
_
Locknu_

_
_--,_

_ _'¢_"_

"_.dP_" _
_//
_."_..

....

{; _)J Shoulder Bolt

3/8W har
TO OPERATE

_i_CAUTION:
without either

Do not operate the mower
the entire grass catcher, on

mowers so equipped,
shield in place.
Attachment
Clutch Lever
"En(
Position

or the deflector

Attachemnt
High
Position
Low
Position

"Disengaged_
Position

Deflector
Shield

TO OPERATE

ON HILLS

_I,CAUTION:
Do not drive up or clown
hills with slopes greater than 15° and do
not drive across any slope.
• Choose the slowest speed before
starting up or down hills.
• Avoid stopping or changing speed on
hills.
• If slowing is necessary, move throttle
control lever to slower position.
• If stopping is absolutely necessary,
push clutch/brake
pedal quickly to
brake position and engage parking
brake.
• Move motion control lever to neutral
(N) position.
IMPORTANT: The motion control lever
does not return to neutral (N) position
when the clutch/brake pedal is depressed.
• To restart movement, slowly release
parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.
• Slowly move motion control lever to
slowest setting.
• Make all tums slowly.
TO TRANSPORT

When pushing or towing your tractor, be
sure to disengage transmission by
placing freewheel control in freewheeling position. Free wheel control is
located at the rear drawbar of tractor.
• Raise attachment lift to highest
position with attachment lift control.
• Pull freewheel control knob out and

Gauge Wheel
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.
• Start mower blades by engaging
attachment clutch control.
• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disengage attachment clutch control.

hold in position by inserting retainer
spring into forward hole of control rod.
• Do not push or tow tractor at more
than two (2) MPH.
• To reengage transmission, reverse
above procedure.

NOTE: To protect 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
A'I-rACHMENTS
Tow only the attachments that are
recommended by and comply with
specifications of the 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 ground and cause you to lose control
of your 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 oil fill cap/
dipstick; wipe oil off. Reinsert the
dipstick into the tube and rest oil fill
cap on the tube. Do not thread the cap
onto the tube. Remove and read oil
level. If necessary, add oil until
"FULL" mark on dipstick is reached.
Do not overfill.
• For cold weather operation you should
change oil for easier starting (See "OIL
VISCOSITY CHART" in the Maintenance section of this manual).
• To change engine oil, see the Maintenance 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
temperatures below 32°F(0°C), use
fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to
help insure good cold weather starting.
_WARNING:
Experience indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage. Acidic
gas can damage the fuel system of an
engine while in storage. To avoid engine
problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage of 30 days or
longer. Drain the gas tank, 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 tank or permanent damage may
Occur.

_CAUTION:
Fill to bottom of gas tank
filler neck. Do not overfill. 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.
• Be sure freewheel control is in the
transmission engaged position.
° Sit on seat in operating position,
depress clutch/brake pedal and set
parking brake.
• Place motion control lever in neutral
(N) position.
• Move attachment clutch to "DISENGAGED" position.
• Move throttle control to choke position.
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, move throttle control
to fast position, wait a few minutes and
try again. If engine still does not start,
move the throttle control back to the
choke position and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50 ° F and
above)
• When engine starts, move the throttle
control to the fast position.
• The attachments and ground drive can
now be used. If the engine does not
accept the load, restart the engine and
allow it to warm up for one minute
using the choke as described above.
COLD WEATHER STARTING ( 50 ° F and
below)
• When engine starts, allow engine to
run with the throttle control in the
choke position until the engine runs
roughly, then move throttle control to
fast position. This may require an
engine warm-up period from several
seconds to several minutes, depending on the temperature.
AUTOMATIC

TRANSMISSION

WARM UP

• Before driving the unit in cold weather,
the transmission should be warmed up
as follows:
• Be sure the tractor is on level ground.
• Place the motion control lever in
neutral. Release the parking brake
and let the clutch/brake slowly return
to operating position.
• Allow one minute for transmission to
warm up. This can be done during the
engine warm up period.
• The attachments can also be used
during the engine warm-up period
after the transmission has been
warmed up.
NOTE: If at 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 "TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.

PURGE TRANSMISSION
_kCAUTION:
Never engage or disengage rreewneel lever wnJne the engine
is running.
To ensure proper operation and
performance, it is recommended
that the
transmission be purged before operating tractor for the first time. This procedure will remove any trapped air inside
the transmission which may have
developed during shipping of your
tractor.
IMPORTANT:
Should your transmission
require removal for service or replace-

ment, it should be purged after reinstallation before operating the tractor.
• Place tractor safely on level surface
with engine off and parking brake set.
• Disengage transmission
by placing
freewheel control in freewheeling
position (See "TO TRANSPORT"
in
this section of manual).
• Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine.
After the engine is running, move
throttle control to slow position. With
motion control lever in neutral (N)
position, slowly disengage clutch/
brake pedal.
• Move motion control lever to full
forward position and hold for five (5)
seconds. Move lever to full reverse
position and hold for five (5) seconds.
Repeat this procedure three (3) times.
NOTE: During this procedure there will
be no movement of drive wheels. The air
is being removed from hydraulic drive
system.
• Move motion control lever to neutral
(N) position. Shut- off engine and set
parking brake.
• Engage transmission by placing
freewheel control in driving position
(See "TO TRANSPORT"
in this section
of manual).
• Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine.
After the engine is running, move
throttle control to half (1/2) speed. With
motion control lever in neutral (N)
position, slowly disengage clutch/
brake pedal.
• Slowly move motion control lever
forward, after the tractor moves
approximately five (5) feet, slowly
move motion control lever to reverse
position. After the tractor moves
approximately five (5) feet return the
motion control lever to the neutral (N)
position. Repeat this procedure with
the motion control lever three (3)
times.
• Your tractor is now purged and now
ready for normal operation.

MOWING TIPS

MULCHING

• Tire chains cannot be used when the
mower housing is attached to tractor.
• Mower should be properly leveled for
best mowing performance. See "TO
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 distribution of clippings and more uniform
cutting.
• When mowing large areas, start by
turning to the right so that clippings will
discharge away from shrubs, fences,
driveways, etc. After one or two
rounds, mow in the opposite direction
making left hand turns until finished.
• If grass is extremely tall, it should be
mowed twice to reduce load and
possible 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
undesirable clumps. Allow grass to
dry before mowing.
• Always operate engine at full throttle
when mowing to assure better mowing
performance and proper discharge of
material. Regulate ground speed by
selecting a low enough gear to give
the mower cutting performance as well
as the quality of cut desired.
• When operating attachments, select a
ground speed that will suit the terrain
and give best performance of the
attachment being used.

IMPORTANT:
For best performance,
keep mower housing free of built-up
grass and trash. Clean after each use.
• The special mulching blade will recut
the grass clippings many times and
reduce them in size so that as they fall
onto the lawn they will disperse into
the grass and not be noticed. Also, the
mulched grass will biodegrade quickly
to provide nutrients for the lawn.
Always mulch with your highest
engine (blade) speed as this will
provide the best recutting action of the
blades.
• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet.
Wet grass tends to form clumps and
interferes with the mulching action.
The best time to mow your lawn is the
early afternoon. At this time the grass
has dried and the newly cut area will
not be exposed to the direct sun.
• For best results, adjust the mower
cutting 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
conditions may require that an area be
mulched a second time to completely
hide the clippings. When doing a
second cut, mow across or perpendicular to the first cut path.
• Change your cutting pattern from week
to week. Mow north to south one week
then change to east to west the next
week. This will help prevent matting
and graining of the lawn.

i__
,

tL
16

MOWING

TIPS

_,._'_7_'-_
+

Max 113"
P

MAINTENANCE

SCHEDULE

FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE

REGULAR SERVICE
Check Brake Operation

Check Operator

i T

R
IT
i _0

Presence

and

IntedockSystems

Check for Loose Fasteners

Chart

Check
Battery Levet
LubrlcatlonSharpen/Replace
Mower Blades

Clean Battery and Terminals

Check Traneaxla Cooling

Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension

II_s

Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension
Check Engine Oil Level

Ks
V'

Change Engine Oil

l_t2,=

E
N

Clean Air Filter
Clean Air Screen

Inepect Muffler/Spark Arrester
Replace Oil Filter (If equipped)

Clean Engine Cooling Fins

Replace Spark Plug

I_
I_t2

ll_

Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge
Replace Fuel Filter

1 * change more often when operating under • heavy Io=d or in high •mb_ent temperatur*=.

5 - if _luipp•d

2 - Service mo_• often when operating in dirty or du•ty cond_tionl.
3 - II equipped wifh o_ filter, change oil •very 50 houri,
4 - Replace blades rnorl often when mowing in ==ndy =oiL

6 - NOt te
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Craftsman 917271062 User Manual TRACTOR Manuals And Guides L0030185

CRAFTSMAN Lawn, Tractor Manual L0030185 CRAFTSMAN Lawn, Tractor Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Lawn, Tractor installation guides

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