Craftsman 917273061 User Manual GARDEN TRACTOR Manuals And Guides L9910387

CRAFTSMAN Lawn, Tractor Manual L9910387 CRAFTSMAN Lawn, Tractor Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Lawn, Tractor installation guides

User Manual: Craftsman 917273061 917273061 CRAFTSMAN GARDEN TRACTOR - Manuals and Guides View the owners manual for your CRAFTSMAN GARDEN TRACTOR #917273061. Home:Lawn & Garden Parts:Craftsman Parts:Craftsman GARDEN TRACTOR Manual

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Owner's Manual

£RI:IFTZMAN
20.0HP
ELECTRIC START
50" MOWER
AUTOMATIC

GARDEN TRACTOR
Model No.
917.273061

• Safety
• Assembly
• Operation
• Maintenance
• Repair Parts

CAUTION:
Read and follow all Safety
Rules and Instructions before

about this product,

operating this equipment.

Sears Craftsman Help Line
5 am - 5 pro, Mon- Sat

For answers

to your questions

1-800-659-5917

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

Call:

website:www.sears.com/craftsman

Warranty...............................................
2
SafetyRules..........................................
2
ProductSpecifications..........................5
Assembly...............................................
8
Operation............................................
12
MaintenanceSchedule......................19

Maintenance.......................................
19
Serviceand Adjustments....................23
Storage...............................................
31
Troubleshooting.................................
32
RepairParts........................................
36
PartsOrdering.....................Back Cover

LIMITEDTWOYEARWARRANTYONCRAFTSMANRIDINGEQUIPMENT
Fortwo (2) yearsfromthe date of purchase,if this CraftsmanRidingEquipmentis
maintained,lubricatedandtuned up accordingto the instructionsin the owner's
manual,Searswill repairor replace,free of charge,any partsfoundto be defectivein
materialor workmanship.
This Warrantydoes not cover:
• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as blades, spark
plugs, air cleaners, belts, etc.
• Tire replacement
or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails,
thorns, stumps, or glass.
• Repairs necessary
because of operator abuse, negligence,
improper storage or
accident or the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions
contained in the owner's manual.
• Riding

equipment

used for commercial

LIMITED

90 DAY WARRANTY

or rental purposes.

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. In-home
warranty service on your Craftsman riding equipment is available at no charge for 30
days from the date of purchase. Please contact your nearest service center. After 30
days from the date of purchase, warranty service is available by taking your Craftsman
riding equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center. (In-home warranty service will
still be available after 30 days from the date of purchase but a standard trip charge will
apply). This warranty applies only while this product is in the United States. 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/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

Be sure the area is clear of other

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

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.

OPERATION

• 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.

•

•
•
•
•

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.

SLOPE 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:
• 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.
stacles.

Tall grass can hide ob-

• 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 notturn 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
• 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.

• Before and when backing, look behind
and down for small children.
• Mow up and down slopes (15 ° Max),
not across.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps.
Uneven terrain could overturn the

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

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.
• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and
gradually downhill, if possible.

lutely 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
children enter the area.

off if

Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions.
It means
CAUTION!!! BECOME AWARErlf YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

WARNING: The engine exhaust from
this product contains chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

At_ 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.

PRODUCT

MAINTENANCE

SPECIFICATIONS

GASOLINE
CAPACITY
ANDTYPE:

3.5 GALLONS
UNLEADED
REGULAR

OIL-I-YPE

SAE 10W-30

API-SF/SG/SH):

A Sears Maintenance Agreement is
available on this product. Contact your
nearest Sears store for details.
CUSTOMER

32°F)

OILCAPACITY:

W/FILTER:
4.2PINTS
W/O FILTER:3.TPINTS

SPARK PLUG:
GAP: .030")

Champion

VALVE
CLEARANCE:

NON-ADJUSTABLE

GROUND

SPEED

RC12YC

FORWARD:

5.8

(MPH):

REVERSE:

2.1

TIRE PRESSURE:

FRONT: 14 PSi
REAR:
t0PSI

CHARGING
_YSTEM:

15 AMPS@

BA'I-FERY:

AMP/HR:
35
MIN. CCA:
280
CASE SIZE: U1R

BLADE BOLT
TORQUE:

27--35 FT. LBS.

CONGRATULATIONS
of a Craftsman Tractor.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• 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.

(above 32°F)
SAE 5W-30
(below

AGREEMENT

_0_WARNING:
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

3600RPM =

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 Authorized
Service Center/Department
(See
REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

on your purchase
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 Sears Authorized 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".

Parts Bag contents

shown full size

(1)ShoulderBolt 5/16-18
(1) Knob

Washer

17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge

(3) Retainer
J
(4) Retainer

Springs

(single loop)

Springs

(double

loop)

Parts packed separately

in carton

Parts Bag contents

not shown full size

F_
2) Shoulder
Bolts

(2) Washers L._
3/8 x 7/8 x 14 Gauge
(2) Centerlock Nuts

Seat
_

Steering

%- Video

Insert
(

I--4 'Cassette
(2) Front Link Assemblies

Steering
Wheel
I J

(2) Keys

Manual

Steering Sleeve

Wheel

Parts Bag

Slope Sheet

Steering Sleeve
Extension

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

FOR ASSEMBLY

.J"'_

Steering

_.-_"

Wheel Insert

A socket wrench set will make assembly
easier. Standard wrench sizes you need
are listed below.
(1) 9/16" wrench
(1) 1/2" wrench
(1) 3/4" socket with
drive ratchet

_---_Lock

(1) Pliers
(1) Utility knife

Steering

TRACTOR

asner
Wheel

_Adapter
Steering -_
,
Sleeve _=:==,--Tabs
Extension
I
Steering Shaft _

....

Sleeve

FROM

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.

• 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.

HOW TO SET UPYOUR TRACTOR

BEFORE ROLLING TRACTOR OFF
SKID
A'I'FACH

w_rg.e Flat

_jSteering

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).

UNPACK

Wheel_j_

(1) -13re pressure
gauge
(1) Phillips screwdriver

TO REMOVE
CARTON

Hex Bolt
Washer

STEERING

CHECK

BATTERY

• Lift hood to raised position.
• 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).

WHEEL

• Remove hex bolt, lock washer and
large fiat washer from steering shaft.
• Position front wheels of the tractor so
they are pointing straight forward.
• Slide the steering sleeve over the
steering shaft.
• Align tabs and press steering sleeve
extension into bottom of steering
wheel.

• Position steering wheel so cross bars
are horizontal (left to right) and slide
onto steering wheel adapter.
• Secure steering wheel to steering
shaft with hex bolt, lock washer and
large flat washer previously removed.
Tighten securely.

Label

INSTALL SEAT

TO DRIVE

Adjust seat before tightening
knob.

adjustment

• Remove cardboard packing on seat
pan.
• 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.
Seat

Shoulder
Bolt

Seat Pan

Flat Washer
Adjustment
Knob
TO ROLL

TRACTOR

Operation section
function

OFF SKID
for location

(See
and

of controls)

• 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.

TRACTOR

OFF SKID

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 gearshift lever in
neutral position.
• Turn ignition key to "OFF" position.
Continue with the instructions that follow.

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 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.

INSTALL

MOWER

AND DRIVE

BELT

Be sure tractor is on level surface and
mower suspension arms are raised with
attachment lift control (see Know Your
Tractor in Operation section). Engage
parking brake.
• Cut and remove ties securing antisway bar and belts. Swing anti-sway
bar to left side of mower deck.
• Slide mower under tractor with
discharge guard to right side of tractor.
IMPORTANT:
Check belt for proper
routing in all mower pulley grooves.
Install belt into electric clutch pulley
groove.
• Install one front link in top hole of the
left hand front mower bracket and left
hand front suspension bracket. Retain
with two single loop retainer springs
as shown.
• Install second front link in right hand
front suspension bracket and retain
with single loop retainer spring as
shown.

• Place the suspension
arms on
outward pointing deck pins. If necessary, rock and raise front of mower to
align deck pins with the holes in
suspension
arms, Retain with double
loop retainer springs with loops down
as shown.
• Connect anti-sway bar to chassis
bracket under left footrest and retain
with double loop retainer spring.
• Turn height adjustment
knob clockwise to remove slack from mower
suspension.
• Raise deck to highest position.
• Assemble gauge wheels as shown
using long shoulder bolts, 3/8 washers, and 3/8-16 center Iocknuts.
Tighten securely.
• Adjust gauge wheels before operating
mower as shown in the Operation
section of this manual.
CHECK

MOWER

LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower should be
properly leveled. See 'q'O LEVEL
MOWER HOUSING" in the Service and

• Slide right side of mower back and
install link in top hole of right hand
front mower bracket. Retain with

Adjustments

section of this manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER
ALL BELTS

single loop retainer spring as shown.
• Turn height adjustment knob counterclockwise until it stops.
• Lower mower linkage with attachment
lift control.

POSITION

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

Double Loop
Retainer Spring (Inward
pointing deck pins)
Double Loop
Retainer S "

Chassis
Bracket

Front
Links

Suspension
Brackets

Suspension
Arms

Left Hand Gauge
Wheel Bar,

Shoulder
Bolt
Gauge
Wheel
3/8 Washer
Use Pliers For
Retainer Springs

Single Loop
Retainer Springs
3/8-16
Center
Locknut
Discharge

Anti-Sway
Bar
Idler
Pulley

_CHECKUST
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
arnps).
,/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 drive position.
While learning how to use your tractor,
pay extra attention to the following
important items:
,/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
Learn and understand their meaning.

or in literature

supplied

with the product.

A
BATTERY

CAUTION OR
WARNING

REVERSE

FORWARD

FAST

SLOW

ENG,NEON
ENG,NEOFF
O,'PRESSURE
",GHTSON
O%_MP

FUEL

CHOKE

MOWER HEIGHT

PARKING BRAKE
LOCKED

UNLOCKED

MOWER LIFT

N H L
ATTACHMENT
CLUTCH ENGAGED

REVERSE

NEUTRAL

A'I-rACHMENT
IGNITION

CLUTCH DISENGAGED

HIGH

LOW

PARKING BRAKE

KEEP AREA CLEAR
SLOPE HAZARDS
(SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION)

FREE WHEEL
(Automatic Modelsonly)

DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY

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,
Ammeter

Ignition Switch

Attachment
Clutch
Switch
Plunger

Throttle Control,

Clutch/Brake
Pedal
Attachment
Lift Lever

Choke Control
Ig Brake Lever
Height
Adjustment
Knob

Motion Control
Lever

Free Wheel

Our tractors

AI-rACHMENT

conform to the safety standards of the American
Institute.
CLUTCH

SWITCH

ATTACHMENT

Used to engage the mower blades, or
other attachments mounted to your
tractor.
LIGHT SWITCH - Turns the headlights on
and off.
THROTTLE CONTROL
- Used to control

National Standards

LIFT LEVER - Used to

raise, lower, and adjust the mower deck
or other attachments mounted to your
tractor.
LIFT LEVER PLUNGER - Used to
release attachment lift lever when
changing its position.
AMMETER
- Indicates charging (+) or
discharging (-) of battery.
PARKING BRAKE LEVER - Locks

engine speed.
CLUTCH/BRAKE
PEDAL - Used for
declutching and braking the tractor and
starting the engine,
CHOKE CONTROL
- Used when starting
a cold engine.
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
KNOB - Used to

clutch/brake pedal into the brake
position,
MOTION CONTROL
LEVER - Selects the
speed and direction of tractor.
FREEWHEEL
CONTROL
- Disengages
transmission for pushing or slowly
towing the tractor with the engine off.

adjust the mower cutting height,
IGNITION SWITCH - Used for starting
and stopping the 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 a wide vision safety mask
over spectacles or standard safety glasses.

HOWTO USEYOUR
TO SET PARKING

TRACTOR

• 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

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.
Push-In to
Attachment Clutch
Choke
Switch Pull Out to
"Engage"

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
_kopping tractor on grass areas.
CAUTION:
Always stop tractor
completely, as described above, before
leaving the operator's position; to empty
grass catcher, etc.
TO USE THROTTLE
CONTROL
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 USE CHOKE
CONTROL

Throttle

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.

Brake
aged" Position
Clutc/h/Brake Pedal
"Drive" Position

"Disengaged" Position

STOPPING
MOWER

BLADES

TO MOVE FORWARD
BACKWARD

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

The direction and speed of movement is
controlled by the gearshift lever.
• Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal
depressed and gearshift lever in
neutral (N) position.
• Move gearshift lever to desired
position.
• Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to
start movement.
IMPORTANT:
Bring tractor to a complete
stop before shifting or changing gears.
Failure to do so will shorten the useful
life of your transaxle,

• To stop ground drive, depress clutch/
brake pedal into full BRAKE" position.
• Move motin 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.
ENGINE • Move throttle control to slow position.
NOTE: Failure to move throttle control to
slow position and allowing engine to
idle before stopping may cause engine
to "backfire".
• Turn ignition key to "OFF" position and
remove key. Always remove key
when leaving tractor to prevent
unauthorized
use.

AND

TO ADJUST

MOWER

CUTTING

HEIGHT
The cutting height is controlled by
turning the height adjustment knob in
desired direction,
• Turn knob clockwise (FN) to raise
14

cutting height.

• Turn

• Select desired height of cut.
• Lower mower with attachment lift
control.
• Start mower blades by engaging
attachment clutch control.
• TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disen-

knob counterclockwise (_)
to
lower cutting height.
The cutting 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

gage attachment clutch control.
_IbCAUTION:
Do not operate the mower
without either the entire grass catcher, on
mowers so equipped, or the discharge
guard 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.
• 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 slowest

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.

setting.
IMPORTRANT:

• Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a
flat level surface.
• Adjust mower to desired cutting height.
• Lower mower with lift control.
Remove
rear retainer spring and clevis pin
which secure each gauge wheel.
• Lower gauge wheels to ground.
Raise
gauge wheels slightly to align holes in
bracket and gauge wheel bar and
insert clevis pins. Gauge wheels
should be slightly off the ground.
• Replace retainer springs into clevis
pins.
Retrainer
Spring_
Gauge

TO OPERATE

Push-_n to

Clevis Pin
_ L_
_._/_._

"Disengaged"

Guard

TO TRANSPORT
When pushing or towing your tractor, be
sure to disengage transmission by
placing freewheel control in freewheeF
ing position. Free wheel control is
located at the rear drawbar of tractor.
• Raise attachment lift to highest
position with attachment lift control.
• Remove retainer spring from freewheel control rod.
• Push control rod in to disengage
transmission and reinsert retainer

/
_
Bracket
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.

control lever

Position

Wh?els _
Gauge
Wheel

The motion

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 motin control lever to
slowest setting.
• Make all turns slowly.
Attachment Clutch
Switch Pull Out to
Lift
Lever High

spring into control rod hole now on
back side of the bracket.

•

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
ATrACHMENTS
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 ENIGNE
CHECK

ENGINE

OIL LEVEL

ADD

GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regul_
unleaded gasoline with a minimum ol
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 freshBess.
IMPORTANT:
When operating in
temperatures
below 32°F(0°C), use
fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to
help insure good cold weather starting.
/I, 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.
_I_AUTION:
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 fl'eewheel control is in the

• 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.
• 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 "OIL
VISCOSITY
CHART' in the Customer
Responsibilities
section of this
manual).
• To change engine oil, see the Maintenance section in this manual.

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 "DISEN-

GAGED" position.
• Move throttle control to fast position
• 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.

• 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.

• 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 CARBURE-

WARM WEATHER
above)

TOR" in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual.

STARTING

(50 ° F and

PURGE

• 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, restart the engine and
allow it to warm up for one minute
using the choke as described above.
COLD WEATHER
below)

STARTING

_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.
• 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

(50 ° F and

• 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

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

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.

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

• 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
mowed twice to reduce load and
possible fire hazard from dried
clippings.
Make first cut relatively
high; the second to the desired heir
• Do not mow grass when it is wet. W
grass will plug mower and leave
undesirable clumps.
Allow grass to
dry before mowing.
• Always operate engine at full throttl
when mowing to assure better mowin
performance and proper discharge of
material.
Regulate ground speed by
selecting a low enough gear to give
the mowe, 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.

MAINTENANCE

SCHEDULE

FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR
SERVICE

SERVICE

Check

Brake

Check

Tire Pressure

Operation

DATES

_
_

Check Operator Presence and
Interlock Systems

I1_

Check

Sharpen/Replace

for Loose Fasteners
M°wer

11_7

Blades

Lubrication Chart
Batte_j

Check

Clean Battery
andCooling
Terminals
Check
Trans_xfe

Level

_1_

I_'

Adjust Blade Belt(s) Tension

I_s

Adjust Motion Drive Belt(s) Tension

I##'s

Check
Change

Engine Oil Level
Engine

I# #

II_

Oil

i_1.2r3

Clean Air Filter

I_z

Clean Air Screen

Idlz

Inspect Muffler/Spark Arrester
Replace

I1_

Oil Filter (If equipped)

Replace Spark Plug
Clean Engine Cooling

_,=

Fins

_11_2

Repiace Air Filter Paper Cartridge
Replace Fuel Filter
1 - Ch_ge
2 - Service

more often when operating ur)der e heavy load or in high ambient
mo(e often when ope_atir)g in dirty or dusty conditions.

temperatures.

3 - If equipped with 0_l fire*', c_ange oil every 50 bourn.
4 - Rel;Jace blad_ more often when mowing in Sandy soil.

GENERAL

•
•
•
•

Do not overtighten.

LUBRICATION
CHART
(D Tie Rod Ball Joints

RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this tractor does not
cover items that have been subjected to
operator abuse or negligence. To
receive full value from the warranty,
operator must maintain tractor as
instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your
tractor.
All adjustments in the Service and
Adjustments
section of this manual
should be checked at least once each
season.
• Once a year you should replace the
spark plug, clean or replace air filter,
and check blades and belts for wear.
A new spark plug and clean air filter
assure proper air-fuel mixture and
help your engine run better and last
longer.
BEFORE EACH USE
Check engine oil level.
Check brake operation.
Check tire pressure.
Check operator presence and
interlock systems for proper operation.
• Check for loose fasteners.

5 - ff equipped with adjustable system.
•
6 - Not requited if equipped with rneinter)au_c_free
bat_er_,
7 - Tighten ffo_t axle pivot her to 35 lt.-Ibe, ma_rnum

_) Spindle

_) Spindle--.-----]
Irk._,_=t t=-i

Zer_
(_Front Wheel.
Bearing _

_)Steering"
Sector
Gear

/
,_

Teeth

[

Zer

"t=-=_t=-=

............

"=_r oni_kheel

__-_h_ -.N_
N

Bearing Zerk

_ 'k

_; ,,,,;-,;
_, "--J" j

@Engine

_)SAE 30 or 10w30 motor oil
_)General

purpose

grease

(_Refer to Maintenance "ENGINE" section
IMPORTANT:
Do not oil or grease the
pivot points which have special nylon
bearings.
Viscous lubricants will attract
dust and dirt that will shorten the life of
the self-lubricating
bearings.
If you feel
they must be lubricated, use only a dry,
powdered graphite type lubricant
19 sparingly.

TRACTOR
Always observe safety rules when
performing any maintenance.
BRAKE OPERATION

IMPORTANT:
To ensure proper assembly, center hole in blade must align with
star on mandrel assembly.
• Reassemble hex bolt, lock washer and
flat washer in exact order as shown.

If tractor requires more than six (6) feet
stopping distance at high speed in
highest gear, then brake must be
adjusted. (See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" in
the Service and Adjustments
section of
this manual).
TIRES

• Tighten bolt securely (27-35 Ft. Lbs.
torque).
IMPORTANT:
Blade bolt is Grade 8 heat
treated.
Edge Up
Blade

• Maintain proper air pressure in all tires
(See "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"
section of this manual).
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or
insect control chemicals which can
harm rubber.

Flal
Lock Washer
• _----I-lex Bolt (Grade)
•A Grade 8 heat treated bolt can be identified
by so
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Craftsman 917273061 User Manual GARDEN TRACTOR Manuals And Guides L9910387

CRAFTSMAN Lawn, Tractor Manual L9910387 CRAFTSMAN Lawn, Tractor Owner's Manual, CRAFTSMAN Lawn, Tractor installation guides

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