Craftsman 917272264 User Manual LAWN TRACTOR Manuals And Guides L0203201

CRAFTSMAN Lawn, Tractor Manual L0203201 CRAFTSMAN Lawn, Tractor Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Lawn, Tractor installation guides

User Manual: Craftsman 917272264 917272264 CRAFTSMAN LAWN TRACTOR - Manuals and Guides View the owners manual for your CRAFTSMAN LAWN TRACTOR #917272264. Home:Lawn & Garden Parts:Craftsman Parts:Craftsman LAWN TRACTOR Manual

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Owner's

Manual

ICRRFTSMRN'I
LAWN TRACTOR
25.0 HP, 48" Mower
Electric Start
Automatic Transmission

Model No.
917.272264

differently from previously built engines. Before you start the
This
product
has understand
a low emission
operates
engine,
read and
this engine
Owner'swhich
Manual.

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

For answers to your questions

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman

Estates,

about this product, Call:

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

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

II 60179 U.S.A

I
I

Maintenance
Schedule ...................... 18
Service and Adjustments .................... 22
Storage ...............................................
29
Troubleshooting
.................................
30
Repair Parts ........................................
34
Sears Service ...................... Back Cover

Warran T ...............................................
2
Safety Nules .........................................
3
Product Specifications .......................... 6
AssemblyPre-Operation
....................... 8
Operation ............................................
11
Maintenance .......................................
18

LIMITED WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN RIDING EQUIPMENT
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 parts that are found to be
defective in material or workmanship according to the guidelines of coverage listed
below. Sears will also provide free labor for these applicable warranted parts for the
two full years. During the first 30 days of purchase, there will be no charges to service
the product at your home for issues covered by this warranty. (See exclusions below).
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 the Craftsman product is dropped off at an authorizedSears
location. For the nearest authorized
Sears location, please call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.
This warranty applies only while this
product is within the United States.
This Warranty does not cover:
• Expendable items which become worn 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 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 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 30 days of its
purchase date.
• Normal deterioration and wear of the exterior finishes, or product label replacement.
• Riding equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.
LIMITED 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. During the
first 30 days of purchase, there will be no charges to replace the battery at your HOME.
After the first 30 days, for your convenience, IN-HOME warranty service will still be
available but a trip charge will apply. This charge will be waived if the Craftsman
product is dropped of at an authorized Sears location. For the nearest authorized
Sears location, please call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.
This battery 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.,Dept.817WA,

Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

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.
_Look
for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!!
BECOMEALERT!!!
YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
_
CAUTION:
In order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs,
always disconnect spark plug wire and
place wire where it cannot contact spark
plug.
CAUTIONDo not coast down a hill
in neutral, you may lose control of the
tractor.
_
CAUTION: 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
components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause
cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
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

• 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.
•Tum
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 mower-related
injuries. These operators should
evaluate their ability to operate the riding
mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or
other debris build-up which can touch
hot exhaust / engine parts and bum. Do
not allow the mower deck to plow leaves
or other debris which can cause buildup to occur. Clean any oil or fuel
spillage before operating or storing the
machine. Allow machine to cool before
storage.

• 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.

II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-ofcontrol and tipover accidents, which can result in severe injury or death.
All slopes
require extra caution. If you cannot back up
the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not
mow it.

DO:
• Mow up and down slopes, not across.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven
terrain could 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
tiros 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 not try to stabilize the machine by
putting your foot on the ground.
• Do not use grass catcher on steep
slopes.
ill. 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 ff 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
comers, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
IV. SERVICE
• Use extra care in handling gasoline
and other fuels. They are flammable
and vapors are explosive.
-Use only an approved container.
- Never remove gas cap or add fuel
with the engine running. Allow
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.
• Never run a machine inside a closed
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 parts,
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.

• 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.

• 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.

PRODUCT

SPECIFICATIONS

Gasoline
Capacity
and Type:

4 Gallons
Unleaded
Regular

Oil Type
API-SF-SJ):

SAE 30 (Above 32°F)
SAE 5W-30
(Below 32°F)

Oil Capacity:

4.0 Pints

Spark Plug:
GAP: .040")

Champion
-

Ground
(MPH):

Speed

Tire Pressure:
Charging
System:

Forward:
Reverse:

Please read and retain this manual. The
instructionswill enable you to assemble
and maintain your tractor properly.
Always observe the "SAFETY RULES".
REPAIR AGREEMENT
A Repair Agreement is available on this
product. Contact your nearest Sears
store for details.

CUSTOMER
RC12YC

• 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.

5.5
2.4

Front: 14 PSI
Rear: 10PSI

_LWARNING"
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
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 section of
this manual).

16 Amps @ 3600 RPM

Battery:

Amp/Hr.
Min. CCA:
Case Size:

Blade Bolt
Torque:

45-55 Ft. Lbs.

RESPONSIBILITIES

28
230
U1R

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

Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory.
you begin.

ADJUST

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).

CARTON

1. Remove all accessible loose parts
and parts boxes from carton.
2. Cut, from top to bottom, along lines on
all four corners of carton, and lay
panels flat.
3. Check for any additional loose parts
or cartons and remove.
CHECK

SEAT

1. Raise seat and loosen adjustment
knobs.
2. Lower seat into operating position and
sit in seat.
3. Slide seat until a comfortable position
is reached which allows you to press
clutch/brake pedal all the way down.
4. Get off seat without moving its
adjusted position.
5. Raise seat and tighten adjustment
knob securely.
NOTE: You may now roll or drive your
tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate
instruction below to remove the tractor
from the skid.

TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM
CARTON
UNPACK

Review the video cassette before

BATTERY

1. Lift hood to raised position.
NOTE: if this battery is put into service
after month and year indicated on label
(label located between terminals) charge
battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10
amps. (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance
section of this manual for charging
instructions).
_:.',L-:::_.."___

Adjustment

Knob

__Z: _.

2;'

J'2"_

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

TO ROLL TRACTOR
OFF SKID (See
Operation
section for location and
function of controls)
i_ REMOVE THE FOLLOWING BULLET
FOR MODELS WITH ELECTRIC LIFT.

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.

1. Press lift lever plunger and raise
attachment lift lever to its highest
position.
2. Release parking brake by depressing
brake pedal.
3. Place freewheel control in disengaged position to disengage transmission (See "TO TRANSPORT" in the
Operation section of this manual).
4. Roll tractor forward off skid.

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

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION OF
ALL BELTS

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

See the figures that are shown for
replacing motion and mower blade drive
belts in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual. Verify that the
belts are routed correctly.

_, 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.
1. Be sure all the above assembly steps
have been completed.
2. Check engine oil level and fill fuel
tank with gasoline.
3. Place freewheel control in "transmission engaged" position (see "TO
TRANSPORT" in Operation section of
this manual).
4. Sit on seat in operating position,
depress brake pedal and set the
parking brake.
5. Press lift lever plunger and raise
attachment lift lever to its highest
position.
6. Start the engine. 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.Turn ignition key to "STOP" position.
Continue with the instructions that follow.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
After you learn how to operate your
tractor, check to see that the brake is
properly adjusted. See 'q'O ADJUST
BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.

of'CHECKLIST
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. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).
,t Seat is adjusted comfortably and
tightened securely.
•/ All tires are properly inflated. (For
shipping purposes, the tires were
overinflated at the factory).
,/Be sure mower deck is properly leveled
side-to-side/front-to-rear
for best cutting
results. (Tires must be properly inflated
for leveling).
,/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 "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
important items:
,I Engine oil is at proper level.
#" 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

ENGINE

CAUTION OR
WARNING

ENGINE

OFF

REVERSE

supplied with the product.

FORWARD

FAST

LIGHTS ON

OIL PRESSURE

O%_MP I

0
FUEL

CHOKE

MOWER HEIGHT

SLOW

PARKING BRAKE

UNLOCKED

MOWER

LOCKED

R N H L
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH ENGAGED

REVERSE

NEUTRAL

ATTACHMENT
IGNITION

CLUTCH

HIGH

LOW

KEEP AREA CLEAR

DISENGAGED

(SEE SAFETY

PARKING

DRAKE

SLOPE HAZARDS
RULES SECTION)

FREE WHEEL
DANGER,

KEEP HANDS

AND FEET AWAY

(Automatic

Models only)

LIFT

KNOW YOUR TRACTOR
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING
YOUR TRACTOR
Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of
various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
Attachment
Clutch Switch

Ignition Switch

Light Switch

Ammeter
Choke
_" _

Lever
Plunger

Throttle
Control

Attachment
Lift Lever
Forward Drive Pedal
Reverse Ddve Pedal
Height
Adjustment
Indicator

Clutch/Brake
Pedal

Freewheel
Control
Cruise Control Lever

Parking Brake Lever

Our tractors conform to the safety standards of the
American National Standards Institute.
AMMETER - Indicates charging (÷) or
discharging (-) of battery.
ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH - 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.
BRAKE PEDAL - Used for braking the tractor
and starting the engine.
CRUISE CONTROL LEVER - Used to set
forward movement of tractor at desired speed
without holding the forward drive pedal.
FORWARD DRIVE PEDAL - Used for
forward movement of tractor.
REVERSE DRIVE PEDAL - Used for reverse
movement 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 POSITION - Turns the
headlights on and off.
PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks clutch/
brake pedal into the brake position.
THROTTLE CONTROL - Used for controlling
engine speed.
FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Disengagages
transmission for pushing
or slowly towing the tractor with the engine off.
CHOKE CONTROL - Used for starting
engine.

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 standard safety glasses or a
wide vision safety mask worn over spectacles.
HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR
IMPORTANT:
Leaving the ignition switch
in any position other than "STOP" will
TO SET PARKING BRAKE
cause the battery to discharge and go
Your tractor is equipped with an operator
dead.
presence sensing switch. When engine
NOTE: Under certain conditions when
is running, any attempt by the operator to
tractor is standing idle with the engine
leave the seat without first setting the
running, hot engine exhaust gases may
parking brake will shut off the engine.
cause "browning" of grass. To eliminate
1. Depress brake pedal all the way down
this possibility, always stop engine when
and hold.
stopping tractor on grass areas.
2. Pull parking brake lever up and
CAUTION: Always stop tractor comrelease pressure from brake pedal.
pletely, as described above, before
Pedal should remain in brake posileaving the operator's position.
tion. Make sure parking brake will
TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL
hold tractor secure.
"Disengaged"
Always operate engine at full throttle.
Choke
Position_
Attachment Clutch • Operating engine at less than full
Control
\
Switch "Engaged"
throttle reduces the battery charging
Ignition Key\
Position
rate.
Throttle _\ _
/
/
Forward
•
Full throttle offers the best bagging and
Control __)
_
Drive Pedal
mower performance.

O
Pedal

TO USE CHOKE CONTROL
"_ ',__-;_-1 -,_,'_

x_k'-_--k_.
I "h_/J'_
/
... /
'pDoiS_i;g
aged" /
"Brake"
Position

_\'3
\

Drive
Pedal

Parking
\Cruise
Brake
Control
"Engaged"
Lever
Position

STOPPING
MOWER

BLADES -

• To stop mower blades, push attachment clutch switch in to disengaged
position.
GROUND

DRIVE -

• To stop ground drive, depress brake
pedal all the way down.
IMPORTANT: Forward and reverse drive
pedals return to neutral position when not
depressed.
ENGINE • Move throttle control to slow position.
NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to
slow position to allow engine to idle
before stopping may cause engine to
"backfire".
• Turn ignition key to "STOP" position
and remove key. Always remove key
when leaving tractor to prevent
unauthorized
use.
• Never use choke to stop engine.

Use choke control whenever you are
starting a cold engine. Do not use to start
a warm engine.
• To engage choke control, pull knob out.
Slowly push knob in to disengage.
TO MOVE FORWARD

AND

BACKWARD
The direction and speed of movement is
controlled by the forward and reverse
drive pedals.
1. Start tractor and release parking brake.
2. Slowly depress forward or reverse
drive pedal to begin movement.
Ground speed increases the further
down the pedal is depressed.
TO USE CRUISE CONTROL
The cruise control feature can be used for
forward travel only.
1. With forward drive pedal depressed to
desired speed, move cruise control
lever forward to "SET" position and
hold while lifting your foot off the pedal,
then release the cruise control lever.
To disengage the cruise control, pull the
lever backward to "OFF" position, or fully
depress the brake pedal.
TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT

The position of the attachment
determines the cutting height.
• Grasp lift lever.

lift lever

• Press plunger with thumb and move
lever to desired position.
The curing height range is approximately 1-1/2 to 4". The heights are
measured from the ground to the blade
tip with the engine not running. These
heights are approximate and may vary
depending upon soil conditions, height of
grass and types of grass being 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 wheals 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.
NOTE: Be sure tractor is on a flat level
surface.
1. Lower mower and adjust mower to
desired cutting height(See TO
ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT"
in this section of manual).
2. Remove retainer spring and clevis pin
which secure each gauge wheel bar.
3. Lower gauge wheels to ground. Raise
gauge wheels slightly to align holes in
bracket and gauge wheel bar and
insert clevis pin. Gauge wheels
should be slightly off the ground.
4. Replace retainer spring into clevis pin.
5. Be sure all gauge wheels are in the
same setting.
IMPORTANT: Be sure to readjust gauge
wheels if you change the cutting height
of the mower deck.

TO OPERATE

MOWER

Your tractor is equipped with an operator
presence sensing switch. Any attempt by
the operator to leave the seat with the
engine running and the attachment clutch
engaged will shut off the engine.
I. Select desired height of cut.
2. Start mower blades by engaging
attachment clutch control.
TO STOP MOWER BLADES disengage attachment clutch control.
_,CAUTION:
Do not operate the mower
without either the entire grass catcher, on
mowers so equipped, or the deflector
shield in place.
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
CAUTION: Do not drive up or down hills
with slopes greater than 15° and do not
drive across any slope. Use the slope
guide provided at the back of this manual.
• Choose the slowest speed before
starting up or down hills.
• Avoid stopping or changing speed on
hills.
• If stopping is absolutely necessary,
push brake pedal quickly to brake
position and engage parking brake.
• To restart movement, slowly release
parking brake and brake pedal.
• Slowly depress appropriate drive pedal
to slowest setting.
• Make all turns slowly.
TO TRANSPORT
When pushing or towing your tractor, be
sure to disengage transmission by
placing freewheel control in freewheeling
position. Freewheel control is located at
the rear drawbar of tractor.
1. Raise attachment lift to highest
position with attachment lift control.
2. Pull freewheel control out and down
into the slot and release so it is held in
the disengaged position.
• Do not push or tow tractor at more than
two (2) MPH.

Retainer
Spring

Clevis Pin

• To re-engage transmission,
reverse
above procedure.
Transmission Engaged

Transmission

Disengaged

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 ATTACHMENTS
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.
1. Check engine oil with tractor on level
ground.
2. Remove oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe
clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw
cap tight, wait for a few seconds,
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 the
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 to bottom of tank filler
neck. Do not overfill. 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.

ACAUTION:
Wipe off any spilled oil or
fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline
near an open flame.
IMPORTANT: When operating in temperatures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh,
clean winter grade gasoline to help
insure good cold weather starting.
_CAUTION:
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.
TO START ENGINE
When startingthe engine for the firsttime or if
the engine has run out of fuel, it willtake extra
cranking time to move fuel fi'omthe tank to
the engine.
1. Be sure freewheel control is in the
transmission engaged position.
2. Sit on seat in operating position,
depress brake pedal and set parking
brake.
3. Move attachment clutch to disengaged position.
4. Move throttle control to fast position
5. Pull choke control out for a cold
engine start attempt. For a warm
engine start attempt the choke control
may not be needed.
NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and
cold starting procedures below.
6. Insert key into ignition and turn key
clockwise to start position and release
key as soon as engine starts. Do not
run starter continuously for more than
fifteen seconds per minute. If the
engine does not start after several
attempts, push choke control in, wait a
few minutes and try again. If engine
still does not start, pull the choke
control out and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F and
above)
7. When engine starts, slowly push
choke control in until the engine
begins to run smoothly. If the engine
starts to run roughly, pull the choke
control out slightly for a few seconds
and then continue to push the control
in slowly.
• The attachments and ground drive can
now be used. If the engine does not accept
the load, restartthe engine and allow it to
warm up for one minute using the choke
as described above.

PURGETRANSMISSION
CAUTION:
Never engage or disengage
freewheel lever while 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 replacement, it should be purged after reinstallation before operating the tractor.
1. Place tractor safely on level surface
with engine off and parking brake set.
2. Disengage transmission by placing
freewheel control in disengaged
position (See "TO TRANSPORT" in
this section of manual).
3. Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine.
After the engine is running, move
throttle control to slow position.
Disengage parking brake.
4. Depress forward drive pedal to full
forward position and hold for five (5)
seconds and release pedal. Depress
reverse ddve pedal to full reverse
position and hold for five (5) seconds
and release pedal. Repeat this
procedure three (3) times.
NOTE: Dudng this step there will be no
movement of ddve wheels. The air is
being removed from hydraulic drive
system.
5. Shutoff engine and set parking brake.
6. Engage transmission by placing
freewheel control in engaged
position (See "TO TRANSPORT" in
this section of manual).
7. Sitting in the tractor seat, start
engine. After the engine is running,
move throttle control to half (1/2)
speed. Disengage parking brake.
8. Drive tractor forward for approximately five feet then backwards for
five feet. Repeat this driving procedure three times.
Your transmission is now purged and
now ready for normal operation.

COLD WEATHER STARTING (50 ° F and
below)
7. When engine starts, slowly push
choke control in until the engine
begins to run smoothly. Continue to
push the choke control in small steps
allowing the engine to accept small
changes in speed and load, until the
choke control is fully in. If the engine
starts to run roughly, pull the choke
control out slightly for a few seconds
and then continue to push the control
in slowly. 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:
1. Be sure the tractor is on level ground.
2. Release the parking brake and let the
brake slowly return to operating
position.
3. Allow one minute for transmission to
warm up. This can be done during the
engine warm up period.
• The attachments can be used during
the engine warm-up period after the
transmission has been warmed up and
may require the choke control be
pulled out slightly.
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).

MOWING

MULCHING

TIPS

• 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 already 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.
[

MOWING

TIPS

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 grass,
reduce your width of cut on each pass
and mow slowly.
Max 1/3

• 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.

• 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.

REGULAR

SERVICE

c::k;::;O;:::n
Check Operator Presence and

T
R

Interlock Systems
Check for Loose Fasteners

Lubrication

Sharpen/Replace
Check Battery Level
Mower Blades

Clean

Chart

Battery and Terminals

Check Transaxle CoOling
Check

V-Belts

i Check Engine Oil Level

I1_

Change

Engine Oil (with oil filter)

Change

Engine

N
G

Clean Air
Air Screen
Filter
Clean

Inspect Muffler/Spark

V_l_

Oi_ (without oil filter)

_1,=

_#,:

Arrester

Replace Oil Filter (If equipped)
Clean Engine Cooling Fins

I_.= 2

Replace Spark Plug
Replace

Air Filter Paper

Replace

Fuel Filter

I# #
Cartridge

V'2

1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or
in high ambient temperatures.
2 - Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions.

3 - Replace
blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.
4 * Not required
if equipped
with maintenst_c
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Page Layout : SinglePage
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Producer : Goby Monitor Application version 3, 2, 1, 4
Create Date : Tue Aug 14 14:15:41 2007
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Craftsman 917272264 User Manual LAWN TRACTOR Manuals And Guides L0203201

CRAFTSMAN Lawn, Tractor Manual L0203201 CRAFTSMAN Lawn, Tractor Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Lawn, Tractor installation guides

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