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Craftsman 917.273373 User's Manual

1. aj 3 Clean Engine Cooling Fins Replace Spark Plug v Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge 2 Replace Fuel Filter A 1 Change more often when operating under a heavy load or 3 Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil in high ambient temperatures 4 Not required if equipped with maintenance free battery 2 Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions 5 Tighten front axle pivot bolt to 35 ft Ibs maximum Do not overtighten GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS LUBRICATION CHART The warranty on this tractor does not cover items that have been subjected to 2 Spindle Spindle operator abuse or negligence To receive Zerk Zerk full value from the warranty operator a oes Cine must maintain tractor as instructed in this A manual Front Wheel Front Wheel Some adjustments will need to be made Bearing Bearing Zerk periodically to broperly maintain your Zerk or tractor At least once a season check to see if you should make any of the adjustments Engine described in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual s Atleast once a year you should replace the spark plug clean or replace air filter ee and check blades and belts for wear SAE 30 or 10w30 Motor Oil A new spark plug and clean air filter General Purpose Grease assure proper air fuel mixture and help Refer to Maintenance ENGINE Section your engine run better and last longer Gearshif
2. essary Check adjustment as described below before loosening cable If adjust ment is necessary proceed as follows 1 With engine not running move throttle control lever from slow to choke posi tion Slowly move lever from choke to fast position 2 Check that holes A in governor control lever and hole in governor plate line up If holes A are not aligned loosen clamp screw and move throttle cable until holes are aligned Tighten clamp screw securely Governor ie Control Plate Governor Control Lever Throttle Cable TO ADJUST CARBURETOR NOTE The carburetor on this engine is low emission Itis equipped with an idle fuel adjusting needle with a limiter cap which allows some adjustment within the limits allowed by the cap Do not attempt to remove the limiter cap The limiter cap cannot be removed without breaking the adjusting needle The carburetor has been preset at the factory and adjustment should not be nec essary However minor adjustment may be required to compensate for differences in fuel temperature altitude or load If the carburetor does need adjustment proceed as follows In general turning idle mixture valve in clockwise decreases the supply of fuel to the engine giving a leaner fuel air mix ture Turning the idle mixture valve out counterclockwise increases the supply of fuel to the engine giving a richer fuel air mixture IMPORTANT Damage to the needle valve and
3. Ignition Switch Light Switch Attachment Position Clutch Lever Ammeter BG ASS og Lift Lever lt S j Plunger te AG J Attachment Throttle Choke LU N Lift Lever Control A 1 7 a jp o me HE o Height Clutch Brake pbs Phage Sarena TH Adjustment Pedal Se Lever Gearshift Lever Parking Brake Lever 01946 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 at tachments 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 GEARSHIFT 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 POSITION 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 12 WEAR YOUR The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes which can result i
4. 183900 72140406 73680400 74780416 165623 17490510 165492 165580 187414 169613 169593 72110614 145212 DESCRIPTION Bolt Hex 7 16 20 x 4 Gr 5 1 5 Washer Keeper Belt Engine Hydro Screw Hex Wsh Hi Lo 1 4 x 1 2 unc Keeper Belt Engine Spacer Washer 25 32 x 1 1 4 x 16 Ga E Ring Key Square Washer 25 32 x 1 5 8 x 16 Ga Key Woodruff Arm Shift Shaft Asm Cross Tapered Spring Torsion Washer 17 32 x 3 4 x 16 Ga Link Transaxle Nut Lock Center 1 4 20 Console Shift Retainer Spring 1 Zinc Cad Washer 9 32 x 3 4 x 10 Ga Strap Torque 90 Degrees Bolt Rdhd Saneck 3 8 16 x 1 25 Nut Lock Fig 3 8 16 Bolt Hex FLGHD 5 16 18 x Gr 5 Spacer Retainer Washer 13 32 x 2 x 10 Ga Washer Srrted 5 16 ID x 1 125 Bracket Shift Mount Hub Shift Bolt Rdhd Sqnk 1 4 20 x 3 4 Gr 5 Nut Crownlock 1 4 20 unc Bolt Hex Fin 1 4 20 unc x 1 Gr 5 Bracket Pivot Lever Screw 5 16 18 x 5 8 Bolt Shoulder 5 16 18 x 561 Plate Fastening Keeper Belt T A Nyliner Snap In 5 8 ID Washer Nyl 7 81D x 105 Hyd Bolt Carr Sh 3 8 16 x 1 3 4 Gr 5 Nut Hex Fig Lock NOTE All component dimensions given in U S inches 1 inch 25 4 mm TRACTOR MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 STEERING ASSEMBLY RS steering_pl lt_42 Nr 38 TRACTOR MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 STEERING ASSEMBLY KEY PART NO NO 1 186780 2 175131 3 169840 4 169839 5 6266H 6 121748X 7 19272016 8 12000029 9 3366R 10 175121 11 10040600 12 73940800 13
5. After one or two rounds mow in the opposite direction making left hand turns until finished 00272 If grass is extremely tall it should be mowed twice to reduce load and pos sible 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 at tachment being used MULCHING MOWING TIPS IMPORTANT For best performance keep mower housing free of built up grass and trash Clean after each use e 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 recut ting action of the blades e Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet Wet grass tends to form clumps and interferes with the mulching action The best tim
6. MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 SCHEMATIC RE BLACK olililie BATTERY RED AMMETER OPTIONAL Las i t s SOLENOID LUTCH BRAKE PEDAL UP L C IGNITION SWITCH STARTER SEAT SWITCH NOT OCCUPIED 1 BLACK GROUNDING CONNECTOR BLACK SPARK PLUG GAP e e TWIN CYL ENGINES CHARGING SYSTEM OUTPUT 3 AMP DC 3600 RPM FUEL SHUT OFF SOLENOID 2 PLUGS ON 28 VOLTS AC MIN 3600 RPM CHARGING SYSTEM DISCONNECTED IF SO EQUIPPED ORANGE LIGHTING SYSTEM OUTPUT 5 AMP AC 3600 RPM a DIODE NOTE YOUR TRACTOR IS BROWN 14 VOLTS AC MIN 3600 RPM LIGHTS OFF BLACK EQUIPPED WITH A SPECIAL ALTERNATOR SYSTEM THE LIGHTS ARE NOT CONNECTED TO THE BATTERY BUT HAVE THEIR OWN ELECTRICAL SOURCE BECAUSE OF THIS THE BRIGHTNESS OF THE LIGHTS WILL CHANGE WITH ENGINE SPEED AT IDLE THE LIGHTS WILL DIM AS THE ENGINE IS SPEEDED UP THE LIGHTS WILL BECOME THEIR BRIGHTEST IGNITION SWITCH POSITION CIRCUIT make WIRING INSULATED CLIPS NONE RUN LIGHT PROPERLY SECURE YOUR WIRING 02363 31 HEADLIGHTS 177 g NON REMOVABLE CONNECTIONS REMOVABLE CONNECTIONS NOTE IF WIRING INSULATED CLIPS WERE REMOVED FOR SERVICING OF UNIT THEY SHOULD BE REPLACED TO N ise ise N N N cc 2 En sa M
7. Washer Governor Crank Elbow Intake Filter Air Cleaner Cartridge Washer Starter Cable Alternator Strap Starter Nut Governor Control Lever Drive Starter Drive Starter Clutch Drive Dipstick Seal Dipstick Tube Tube Dipstick Starter Armature Starter Armature Bushing Governor Crank Bolt Governor Control Lever Nut Starter Cable Cover Breather Passage Clamp Hose Pin Cotter Crank Governor Seal O Ring Intake Manifold Spring Seal Assembly Manual Choke Spring Seal Assembly Choke A Matic Boot Spark Plug Retainer Air Filter Nut Carburetor Seal Governor Shaft Screw Drive Cap Pin Locating Clip Wire Gear Timing Link Counterweight Counterweight Pin Counterweight Gear Pinion Gear Pinion Harness Wiring Nut Brush Retainer Cap Drive Cap Drive Cap End Cap End Housing Starter Housing Starter Stud Rocker Arm Seal O Ring Dipstick Tube Dipstick Tube Assembly 53 KEY PART NO NO DESCRIPTION 851 692424 Terminal Spark Plug 868 690968 e Seal Valve 876 495877 Kit Pinion Spring 877 393456 Wire Connector Alternator 896 691641 Pin Drive Retainer 914 690960 Screw Rocker Cover 947 694393 Solenoid Fuel 950 691657 Screw Float Bowl 967 697015 Filter Pre Cleaner 968 698403 Cover Air Cleaner 975 495933 Bowl Float 977 690192 Gasket Set Carburetor 987 691326 Seal Throttle Shaft 1005 697853 Fan Flywheel 1019 697143 Kit Label 1022 272475 Gasket Rocker Co
8. 2 Place gear shift lever in neutral N position The rear wheels must lock and skid when you try to manually push the tractor for ward If the rear wheels rotate the brake needs to be adjusted or the pads need to be replaced TO ADJUST BRAKE 1 Depress clutch brake pedal all the way down and engage parking brake 2 Measure distance between brake oper ating arm and nut A on brake rod 3 If distance is other than 1 1 2 loosen jam nut and turn nut A until distance becomes 1 1 2 Retighten jam nut against nut A 4 Road test tractor for proper stopping distance as stated above Readjust if necessary If stopping distance is still greater than five 5 feet in highest gear further maintenance is neces sary Replace brake pads or contact a Sears or other qualified service center With Parking Brake Engaged TO REPLACE MOTION DRIVE BELT Park the tractor on level surface Engage parking brake For assistance there is a belt installation guide decal on bottom side of left footrest BELT REMOVAL 1 Remove mower See TO REMOVE MOWER in this section of manual NOTE Observe entire motion drive belt and position of all belt guides and keepers 2 Remove belt from stationary idler and clutching idler 3 Remove belt downward from around engine pulley 4 Pull belt slack toward rear of tractor Remove belt upwards from transaxle pulley by deflecting belt keepers 5 Remove
9. Do not allow the mower deck to plow leaves or other debris which can cause build up to occur Clean any oil or fuel spillage before operating or storing the machine Allow machine to cool before storage il SLOPE OPERATION Slopes are a major factor related to loss of 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 SAFETY RULES DO e Mow up and down slopes not across e Remove obstacles such as rocks tree limbs etc e Watch for holes ruts or bumps Un even 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 e Follow the manufacturer s recommend ations for wheel weights or counter weights to improve stability e Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments These can change the stability of the machine e Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction e Avoid starting or stopping on a slope If tires lose traction disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope DO NOT e Do not turn on slopes unless neces sary and then turn slowly and gradually downhill if possible e Do not mow near drop offs ditches or embankments The mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over
10. Extrusion 26 STD541437 Nut 28 188636 Grille Lens Asm Laser Includes Key Nos 29 and 212 29 174332X599 Lens Laser 30 188571X558 Fend Ftrest Pnt STLT 31 139976 Bracket Fender Support 37 17490508 Screw Thdrol 5 16 18 x 1 2 Tyt 38 175710 Bracket Asm Pivot Mower Rear 39 174714 Bracket Pivot Laser 60 72140606 Bolt Rdhd Sank 3 8 16 unc x 3 4 64 154798 Dash Lower STLT 74 73680600 Nut Crownlock 3 8 16 unc 142 175702 Plate Reinforcement STLT 143 186689 Bracket Swaybar Chassis 144 175582 Bracket Pnt Footrest STLT 145 156524 Rod Pivot Chassis Hood 206 170165 Bolt Shoulder 5 16 18 TT 207 17670508 Screw Thdrol 5 16 18 x 1 2 TYTT 208 17670608 Screw Thdrol 3 8 16 x 1 2 209 17000612 Screw Thdrol 3 8 16 x 3 4 212 175143 Insert Lens Reflective 278 191611 Screw 10 x 3 4 Single Lead Hex 5479J Plug Button 187801 Plug Dome Plastic NOTE All component dimensions given in U S inches 1 inch 25 4 mm 35 TRACTOR MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 GROUND DRIVE drive fender stlt_35 36 TRACTOR MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 GROUND DRIVE KEY PART NO NO qs Meee due 2 146682 3 123666X 4 12000028 5 121520X 6 17000512 8 165866 10 STD561210 11 105701X 13 74550412 14 10040400 16 STD541431 18 74780616 19 STD541437 21 106933X 22 130804 24 73350600 25 106888X 26 STD551037 27 STD561210 28 175765 29 71673 30 174973 32 74760512 34 175578 35 120183X 36 19211616 37 1572H 38 179114
11. Rear Tire Not Provided Service em Only 11 104757X428 Cap Axle 144334 Sealant Tire 10 oz NOTE All component dimensions given in U S inches 1 inch 25 4 mm TRACTOR MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 LIFT ASSEMBLY lift rh 1 piece_3 KEY PART KEY PART NO NO DESCRIPTION NO NO DESCRIPTION 1 159460 Lif Lever Inner Wire Assembly 15 173288 Link Front 2 159471 Shaft Assembly Lift 16 73350800 Nut Hex Jam 1 2 13 unc 3 105767X Pin Groove 17 175689 Trunnion 4 12000002 E Ring 18 73800800 Locknut Hex with Washer Insert 5 19211621 Washer 21 32 x 1 x 21 Ga 12 13 unc 6 120183X Bearing Nylon 19 139868 Arm Suspension Rear 7 125631X Grip Handle Fluted 20 163552 Retainer Spring 8 122365X Button Plunger Red 31 169865 Bearing Pvt Lift 11 139865 Link Lift LH 32 73540600 Nut Crownlock 3 8 24 12 139866 Link Lift R H 13 STD624008 Retainer Spring NOTE All component dimensions given in U S inches 1 inch 25 4 mm 43 TRACTOR MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 MOWER DECK _stlt 3 path 42 D man 44 MOWER DECK KEY PART NO NO 1 165892 2 STD533107 3 138017 4 165460 5 STD624008 6 178024 8 850857 9 STD551137 10 140296 11 134149 139775 138971 13 1387645 14 128774 15 110485X 16 174493 18 72140505 19 132827 20 159770 21 STD541431 23 177563 24 105304X 25 123713X 26 110452X 27 130968X428 28 19111016 29 131491 30 173984 31 18
12. Tighten nut E on both front links an equal num ber of turns The two front links must remain equal in length When distance D is 1 8 to 1 2 lower at front than rear tighten nut F against trunnion on both front links Recheck side to side adjustment Nut F Trunnion Que Front Links TO REPLACE MOWER BLADE DRIVE BELT The mower blade drive belt may be re placed without tools Park the tractor on level surface Engage parking brake BELT REMOVAL 1 Remove mower from tractor See TO REMOVE MOWER in this section of manual 2 Work belt off both mandrel pulleys and idler pulleys 3 Pull belt away from mower BELT INSTALLATION 1 Work belt around both mandrel pulleys and idler pulleys 2 Make sure belt is in all pulley grooves and inside all belt guides 3 Install mower See To Install Mower in this section of this manual Mandrel dler Pulley Mandrel Pulley TO CHECK AND ADJUST BRAKE Your tractor is equipped with an adjustable brake system which is mounted on the right side of the transaxle If tractor requires more than five 5 feet to stop at highest speed in highest gear on a level dry concrete or paved surface then brake must be checked and adjusted TO CHECK BRAKE 1 Park tractor on a level dry concrete or paved surface depress clutch brake pedal all the way down and engage parking brake
13. 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 c Seat is adjusted comfortably and tight ened securely All tires are properly inflated For ship ping purposes the tires were overin flated at the factory Be sure mower deck is properly leveled side to side front to rear for best cutting results Tires must be properly inflated for leveling Check mower and drive belts Be sure they are routed properly around pulleys and inside all belt keepers Check wiring See that all connections are still secure and wires are properly clamped 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 regu lar 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 oper ating condition OPERATION These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product Learn and understand their meaning R N H L N REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW CHOKE FAST SLOW IGNITION 6 o g ENGINE OFF LIGHTS ON ENGINE ON ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE PARKING BRAKE PARKING BRAKE LOC
14. capable of amputating hands and feet and throw ing objects Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death 4 WARNING In order to prevent ac cidental starting when setting up trans porting adjusting or making repairs always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug AWARNING Do not coast down a hill in neutral you may lose control of the tractor 4 WARNING Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your tractor Use common sense when towing Operate only at the lowest possible speed when on a slope Too heavy of a load while on a slope is dangerous Tires can lose traction with the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor A WARNING Engine exhaust some of its constituents and certain vehicle com ponents contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm AAWARNING 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 e Read understand and follow all instruc tions in the manual and on the machine before starting e Only allow responsible adults who are familiar with the instructions to operate the
15. 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 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 PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS Gasoline 1 25 Capacity and Unleaded Type Regular Oil Type SAE 30 above 32 F API SG SL SAE 5W 30 below 32 F Oil Capacity 3 0 Pints Spark Plug Gap 030 Ground Speed Forward MPH 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th Reverse Front Rear Charging System 3 Amps Battery 5 Amps Headlights Battery Amp Hr 28 Min CCA 230 Case Size U1R Blade Bolt Torque 27 35 Ft Lbs _ CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor It has been designed engi neered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy please contact a Sears or other qualified service center We have competent well trained techni cians and the proper tools to service or repair thi
16. lt E a ce lt A W c EF cc x or NNN NN ELECTRICAL 32 TRACTOR MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 ELECTRICAL KEY PART NO NO 1 163465 2 74760412 8 176689 16 176138 21 183759 22 4152d 24 47995 25 146147 26 175158 27 73510400 28 4207J 29 121305X 30 175566 33 140403 40 179720 41 71110408 42 131563 43 178861 45 121433X 52 141940 90 180499 DESCRIPTION Battery Bolt Hex Hd 1 4 20 unc x 3 4 Box Battery Fender Switch Interlock Harness Asm Light W 4152j Bulb Light 1156 Cable Battery 6 Ga 11 red Cable Battery 6 Ga w 16 wire red Fuse 20 AMP Nut Keps Hex 1 4 20 unc Cable Ground 6 Ga 12 black Switch Plunger Nc Gray Switch Ign Key Ign Molded Craftsman Harness Ign Bolt BIk Fin Hex 1 4 20 unc x 1 2 Cover Terminal Red Solenoid Ammeter Rectangular 6 Amp Protection Wire Loop Cover Battery Terminal NOTE All component dimensions give in U S inches 1 inch 25 4 mm 33 TRACTOR MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 CHASSIS AND ENCLOSURES chassis Laser It stlt_27 34 TRACTOR MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 CHASSIS AND ENCLOSURES KEY PART NO NO DESCRIPTION 1 174619 Chassis Stamping 2 176554 Drawbar 5 155272 Bumper Hood Dash 9 187846X013 Dash 10 STD533710 Bolt Carriage 3 8 16 x 1 11 174996 Panel Dash L H 13 172105X010 Panel Dash R H 14 17490608 Screw Thdrol 3 8 16 x 1 2 17 185682X558 Hood Assembly Laser 18 184924 Bumper
17. mower Mower drive belt worn Blades improperly installed 10 Improper blades used 11 Clogged mower deck vent holes from buildup of grass leaves and trash around mandrels Switch is OFF Bulb S or lamp s burned out Faulty light switch Loose or damaged wiring Blown fuse Bad battery cell s Poor cable connections Faulty regulator if so equipped Faulty alternator 1 Engine throttle control not set at SLOW position for 30 seconds before stopping engine 30 Remove obstruction 2 Replace mower drive belt Replace idler pulley Contact a Sears or other qualified service center Place throttle control in FAST position Shift to slower speed Allow grass to dry before mowing Level mower deck Check tires for proper air pressure Replace sharpen blade Tighten blade bolt Clean underside of mower housing Replace mower drive belt Reinstall blades sharp edge down 10 Replace with blades listed in this manual 11 Clean around mandrels to open vent holes PO RCI Cea O Turn switch ON Replace bulb s or lamp s Check replace light switch Check wiring and connections Replace fuse Replace battery Check clean all connections Replace regulator Replace alternator Move throttle control to SLOW position and allow to idle for 30 seconds before stopping engine TRACTOR
18. or other qualified service center Loose damaged part s Tighten loose part s Replace damaged parts Engine continues 1 Faulty operator safety Check wiring switches and to run when presence control system connections If not corrected operator leaves contact Sears or other seat with attach qualified service center ment clutch engaged Poor cut uneven 11 Worn bent or loose blade Replace blade Tighten blade bolt Mower deck not level Level mower deck Buildup of grass leaves Clean underside of mower and trash under mower housing Bent blade mandrel Contact a Sears or other qualified service center Clogged mower deck vent Clean around mandrels to holes from buildup of grass open vent holes leaves and trash around mandrels 29 TROUBLESHOOTING CHART See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Obstruction in clutch Mower blades will not rotate Poor grass discharge Headlight s not working if so equipped Battery will not charge Engine backfires when turning engine OFF mechanism Worn damaged mower drive belt Frozen idler pulley Frozen blade mandrel 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Engine speed too slow Travel speed too fast Wet grass Mower deck not level Low uneven tire air pressure Worn bent or loose blade Buildup of grass leaves and trash under
19. system The other vehicle must also be a 12 volt system Do not use your tractor battery to start other vehicles TO ATTACH JUMPER CABLES 1 Connect one end of the RED cable to the POSITIVE terminal of each battery A B taking care not to short against tractor chassis 24 2 Connect one end of the BLACK cable 1 Connect the other end of the BLACK Terminal Cover to the NEGATIVE terminal C of fully charged battery cable D to good chassis ground away from fuel tank and battery TO REMOVE CABLES REVERSE eae ORDER BLACK cable first from chassis and vane eee Black then from the fully charged battery 2 RED cable last from both batteries TO REPLACE HEADLIGHT BULB Weak or Dead Battery Fully Charged Battery REPLACING BATTERY A WARNING Do not short battery terminals by allowing a wrench or any other object to contact both terminals at the same time Before connecting battery remove metal bracelets wristwatch bands rings etc Positive terminal must be connected first to prevent sparking from accidental grounding 1 Lift seat pan to raised position 2 Disconnect BLACK battery cable first then RED battery cable and carefully remove battery from tractor 3 Install new battery with terminals in same position as old battery 4 First connect RED battery cable to positive terminal with hex bolt and keps nut as shown Tighten securely Slide terminal c
20. the edge of a cliff or ditch or if an edge caves in e Do not mow on wet grass Reduced traction could cause sliding e Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the ground e Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes lil CHILDREN Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children Children are often attracted to the ma chine and the mowing activity Never as sume that children will remain where you last saw them s Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of another responsible adult s Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area Before and when backing look behind and down for small children s Never carry children They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation Never allow children to operate the machine e Use extra care when approaching blind corners shrubs trees or other objects that may obscure vision IV SERVICE e 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 especi
21. tractor and mower SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS WARNING TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY BEFORE PERFORMING ANY SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS Depress clutch brake pedal fully and set parking brake Place gearshift lever in neutral N position Place attachment clutch in DISENGAGED position Turn ignition key to STOP and remove key Make sure the blades and all moving parts have completely stopped Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with plug TRACTOR 7 Disconnect suspension arms from rear TO REMOVE MOWER deck brackets by removing retainer springs ET it eve ene 8 Disconnect front links from deck by 1 Place attachment clutch in DISEN EY SRE GAGED position Raise aa to raise SN 2 Move attachment lift lever forward to ere Ge NG Wer OUTIFORT nee Pepe en position IMPORTANT If an attachment other than a the mower deck is to be mounted on the 4 Remove small retainer spring and __ femove clutch spring of pulley ok Remove large retainer spring slide collar off and push housing guide out TO INSTALL MOWER nd of bracket 1 Raise attachment lift lever to its highest 6 Disconnect anti sway bar from chassis position bracket by removing retainer spring Small Retainer Spring Clutch Spring Small Retainer Spring SX 3 sere Flat PT He Washer ez s Square Hole Clutch Spring Suspension C2 Engine Pulle
22. 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 re move and read oil level If necessary add oil until FULE mark on dipstick is reached Do not overfill s For cold weather operation you should change oil for easier starting See the oil viscosity chart in the Maintenance section of this manual e To change engine oil see the Mainte nance section in this manual ADD GASOLINE Fill fuel tank to bottom of 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 quan tities 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 temper atures below32 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 separa tion and formation of acids during storage
23. 06X 134796 105925X 2228J 170987 174255 124639X TRACTOR MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 DANA TRANSAXLE MODEL NUMBER D4360 140 DESCRIPTION Housing Upper Screw Tapping 1 4 20 X 734 Ball Detent Spring Detent Screw Tapping No 10 24 X 482 Assy Kit Shifter V Ring Bearing Flange Seal Oil Ring Retaining Assy Kit Shim 625 Shaft Bearing Flange Washer Plain 632 X 1 38 X 046 Key Woodruff No 9 Assy Kit Input Shaft Pinion Bevel 12T Ring Retaining Chain 24 Pitches Cover Detent Gear Spur 1 2T Collar Clutch Assy Kit Clutch Keys Nut Lock 5 16 24 Shaft Intermediate Key Woodruff No 61 Ring Retaining Sprocket 1 8T Spacer 1 131 X 1 45 X 494 Gear Spur 37T Gear Spur 35T Gear Spur 30T Gear Spur 25T Gear Spur 22T Gear Spur 19T Washer Plain 640 X 1 37 X 061 Washer Plain 632 X 1 00 X 046 Washer Plain 632 X 1 00 X 031 Assy Gear Comb 12T amp 30T Shaft Idler 47 KEY PART NO NO 40 120472X 41 105928X 42 170988 43 134394 44 120473X 45 142678 46 143697 47 124641X 48 106589X 49 120408X 50 105937X 51 2226J 52 134401 53 2264J 54 160946 55 170990 56 160948 57 110071X 58 120952X 59 170991 60 160950 61 170992 62 7294J 63 108989X 64 160952 65 120954X 66 160953 67 138244 68 108996X 69 160954 70 120951X 71 174256 72 120416X DESCRIPTION Spacer 633 X 87 X 755 Sprocket 9T Gear Bevel 36T Assy K
24. 136518 15 145212 17 180641 26 126847X 28 19131416 29 17000612 30 STD561210 32 130465 36 155099 37 152927 38 186781 39 19183812 40 73540600 41 186737 42 145054x428 43 121749X 44 180640 46 121232X 47 183226 51 73540400 54 71130420 65 160367 67 72110618 68 169827 71 175146 82 169835 85 133835 88 175118 91 175553 95 188967 DESCRIPTION Steering Wheel Axle Assembly STMP Dropped STL Spindle Assembly L H Spindle Assembly R H Bearing Race Thrust Hardened Washer 25 32 x 1 5 8 x 16 Ga Washer 27 32 x 1 1 4 x 16 Ga Ring Klip Bearing Steering Column Draglink Washer Lock Nut Hex Jam Toplock 1 2 20 unf Spacer Brg Axle Front Nut Hexflange Lock Shaft Assembly Steering Bushing Link Drag Washer 13 32 x 7 8 x 16 Ga Screw 3 8 16 x 3 4 Pin Rod Tie Bushing Steering Screw Insert Steering Wheel Washer 9 16 x 2 3 8 Nut Crownlock 3 8 24 Adaptor Steering Wheel Boot Steering Shaft Washer 25 32 x 1 1 4 x 16 Ga Extension Shaft Steering Cap Spindle Fitting Grease Nut Crownlock 1 4 28 Bolt Hex 1 4 28 unf x 1 1 4 Gr 8 Spacer Brace Axle Bolt Rdhd Sank 3 8 16 x 2 1 4 Axle Brace Steering Asm Bracket Susp Chassis Front Fastner Christmas Tree Bolt Shoulder 7 16 20 Clip Steering Washer Hardened NOTE All component dimensions given in U S inches 1 inch 25 4 mm 39 ENGINE TRACTOR MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT Spark Arrester KEY PA
25. 39 72110622 41 175556 47 127783 48 154407 49 123205X 50 72110612 51 STD541437 52 STD541431 53 105710X 55 105709X 56 17060620 57 160855 59 169691 61 17120614 62 8883R 63 175410 DESCRIPTION Transaxle Dana D4360 140 See Breakdown Spring Brake Return Pulley Transaxle Ring Retainer Strap Torque 30 Degrees Screw 5 16 18 x 3 4 Rod Shift Fender Adjust Pin Cotter 1 8 x 1 CAD Washer Plate Shift Bolt 1 4 28 unf Gr 8 W Patch Washer Lock Hvy Helical Nut Lock Hex W Ins 5 16 18 unc Bolt Fin Hex 3 8 16 x 1 Gr 5 Nut Lock Hex W Wsh 3 8 16 unc Knob Rod Brake Nut Hex Jam 3 8 16 unc Spring Brake Rod Washer 13 82 x 13 16 Ga Pin Cotter 1 8 x 3 4 CAD Rod Parking Brake Cap Parking Brake Bracket Transaxle Bolt Hex Hd 5 16 18 unc x 3 4 Shaft Foot Pedal Bearing Nylon Washer Pin Roll Pulley Composite Flat Bolt Fin Hex 3 8 16 x 2 3 4 Keeper Belt Idler Pulley Idler V Groove Bellcrank Clutch Retainer Belt Bolt Carr 3 8 16 x 1 1 2 Nut Crownlock 3 8 16 unc Nut Crownlock 5 16 18 unc Link Clutch Spring Return Clutch Screw 3 8 16 x 1 1 4 V Bel Keeper Center Span Screw 3 8 16 x 875 Cover Pedal Pulley Engine 37 202 212 PART NO 173937 STD551143 154778 142432 134683 109502 121749X STD581075 123583X 121748X 2228M 131488 165594 165711 19171216 166229 150360 188310X428 4497H 19091210 127285X 72140608 73900600 74490544 175456 19133210 166002 165589
26. 69583 DESCRIPTION Bolt Shoulder 5 16 18 unc Arm Assembly Brake Washer Hardened Arm Idler Spacer Retainer Guard TUV Idler Knob Custom Oval V Bel Nut Lock Hex w Ins 3 8 16 Mulcher Cover Screw Pan Hd Phillips 10 24 x 5 8 Washer 10 Washer Lock 10 Latch Assembly Bagger Nut Weld Washer 13 82 x 13 16 x 12 Ga Bolt Fin Hex 3 8 16 unc x1 Gr 5 Bolt Rdhd Sqnk 3 8 16 unc x 1 Arm Spring Brake Mower Bracket Arm Idler 42 Keeper Belt 42 Clutch Cable Pulley Idler Flat Bolt Carriage Idler Spring Extension Spring Return Idler Retainer Spring Yellow Zinc Washer 9 32 x 3 4 x 16 Ga Cable Clutch 42 In Screw Hex Thd Cut 1 4 20 x 5 8 Bolt Rdhd Sqn 3 8 16 Une x 1 3 4 Washer 13 32 x 7 8 x 10 Ga Head Asm Cable Clutch Mandrel Assembly Includes housing shaft and shaft hardware only pulley not included Replacement Mower Complete Std Deck Order separately mul cher cover components key nos 101 106 NOTE All component dimensions given in U S inches 1 inch 25 4 mm TRACTOR MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 DANA TRANSAXLE MODEL NUMBER D4360 140 46 KEY Go SO Z O ND 13 PART NO 170981 2274J 134400 105904X 160940 138235 108727X 148266 148269 2225J 134793 148268 120415X 142674 170983 170986 105909X 105910X 160942 160943 148267 138236 73810500 142676 22445 105916X 12047OX 110070X 142677 142681 124644X 108980X 1204
27. 7690 32 153535 33 178342 34 STD533717 36 131494 40 73900600 44 140088 45 STD624003 46 137729 48 133944 TRACTOR MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 DESCRIPTION Mower Deck Assembly 42 Bolt Bracket Assembly Sway Bar Front Bracket Sway Bar 38 42 eck Retainer Spring Bar Sway Deck Bolt Hex 3 8 24 x 1 25 Gr 8 Washer Lock Washer Hardened The following blades are available Blade 42 Mulching STD For mulching mowers only Blade 42 Mulching Premium For better wear when mulching Blade 42 Hi Lift For bagging or discharging Shaft Assembly Mandrel Vented Housing Mandrel Vented Bearing Ball Mandrel Stripper Mower Deck Bolt Carriage 5 16 18 x 5 8 Bolt Shoulder Baffle Vortex Nut Crownlock 5 16 18 unc Bracket Deflector Cap Sleeve Spring Torsion Deflector Nut Push Shield Deflector Washer 11 32 x 5 8 x 16 Ga Rod Hinge Screw Thdrol DOD PT Hex Washer Spacer Pulley Mandrel Nut Toplock Flanged Bolt Pulley Idler Flat Nut Lock Fig 3 8 16 unc Guard Mandrel L H Retainer Screw Thd Roll 1 4 20 x 5 8 Washer Hardened 45 145 146 147 148 149 150 152 158 159 184 185 PART NO 139888 184907 178515 155046 165723 141043 149846 144959 73800600 136420 71081010 19061216 10071000 160793 2029J 19131312 74780616 72140608 165890 157109 158634 165888 171977 131335 169022 165898 19091216 169676 17720408 72140614 19131410 188234 130794 1
28. 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 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 1 Sit on seat in operating position depress clutch brake pedal and set parking brake Place gear shift lever in neutral N position Move attachment clutch to disengaged position 4 Move throttle control to choke position NOTE Before starting read the warm and cold starting procedures below 2 3 15 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 80 F and above 6 When engine starts move the throttle control to the fast positi
29. BATTERY AND TERMINALS in the Maintenance section of this manual e After cleaning leave cables discon nected and place cables where they cannot come in contact with battery terminals e If battery is removed from tractor for storage do not store battery directly on concrete or damp surfaces ENGINE FUEL SYSTEM IMPORTANT It is important to prevent gum deposits from forming in essential fuel system parts such as carburetor fuel hose or tank during storage Also 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 dam age the fuel system of an engine while in storage e Empty the fuel tank by starting the en gine and letting it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty e Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur e Use fresh fuel next season NOTE Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable alternative in minimizing the formation of fuel gum deposits during storage Add stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or stor age container Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizer container Run engine at least 10 minutes after adding stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to reach the car buretor Do not empty the gas tank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer ENGINE OIL Drain oil with engine warm and replace with clean engine oil See ENGIN
30. E in the Maintenance section of this manual CYLINDER S 1 Remove spark plug s 2 Pour one ounce of oil through spark plug hole s into cylinder s 3 Turn ignition key to START position for a few seconds to distribute oil 4 Replace with new spark plug s OTHER e Do not store gasoline from one season to another Replace your gasoline can if your can starts to rust Rust and or dirt in your gasoline will cause problems e If possible store your tractor indoors and cover it to give protection from dust and dirt s Cover your tractor with a suitable pro tective cover that does not retain mois ture Do not use plastic Plastic cannot breathe which allows condensation to form and will cause your tractor to rust IMPORTANT Never cover tractor while engine and exhaust areas are still warm 27 TROUBLESHOOTING CHART See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Will not start Out of fuel Fill fuel tank l Engine not CHOKED See TO START ENGINE properly in Operation section Engine flooded Wait several minutes before attempting to start Bad spark plug Replace spark plug Dirty air filter Clean replace air filter Dirty fuel filter Replace fuel filter Water in fuel Empty fuel tank and carbure tor refill tank with fresh gas oline and replace fuel filter Loose or damaged wiring Check all wi
31. ILTER Replace the engine oil filter every season or every other oil change if the tractor is used more than 100 hours in one year AIR FILTER Your engine will not run properly using a dirty air filter Replace pre cleaner after every 25 hours of operation or every season Service paper cartridge every 100 hours of operation or every season whichever occurs first Service air cleaner more often under dusty conditions 1 Pull up on air filter cover handle and rotate towards engine Remove cover Carefully remove air filter cartridge and pre cleaner from base Clean base carefully to prevent debris from falling into carburetor NOTE If very dirty or damaged replace cartridge 5 Place new pre cleaner and cartridge firmly in base 6 Align tabs on cover with slots in blower housing and replace cover 7 Hook handle on cover and push down on handle to close IMPORTANT Petroleum solvents such as kerosene are not to be used to clean the cartridge They may cause deterio ration of the cartridge Do not oil car tridge Do not use pressurized air to clean cartridge 2 3 4 Handle 20 CLEAN AIR SCREEN Air screen must be kept free of dirt and chaff to prevent engine damage from overheating Clean with a wire brush or compressed air to remove dirt and stub born dried gum fibers ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM Debris may clog the engine s air cool ing system Remove blower hous
32. KED UNLOCKED Ol va t amp Mm OVER TEMP FUEL OIL PRESSURE BATTERY REVERSE FORWARD MOWER HEIGHT MOWER LIFT a TACHMENT CLUTCH ENGAGED CLUTCH DISENGAGED DANGER KEEP HANDS KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS AND FEET AWAY SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION DANGER indicates a hazard which if not avoided will result in death or serious injury WARNING indicates a hazard which if not avoided could result in death or serious injury gt gt gt FREE WHEEL Automatic Models only CAUTION indicates a hazard which if not avoided might result in minor or moderate injury A CAUTION when used without the alert symbol indicates a situation that could result in damage Failure to follow instructions to the tractor and or engine could result in serious injury or 2y HOT SURFACES indicates a hazard which death The safety alert symbol nt If not avoided could result in death serious injury is used to identify safety inform SS and or property damage ation about hazards which can Mg FIRE indicates a hazard which if not avoided result in death serious injury 4 could result in death serious injury and or and or property damage property damage 11 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
33. L NUMBER 917 273373 BRIGGS ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 31C707 TYPE NUMBER 0230 E1 6 305A 5104 896 7 783A bee NOTE For Replacement Starter Motor See Reference 309 51 KEY NO 26 PART NO 697174 399265 391086 697106 698147 692410 697109 697157 697113 697110 690360 690946 697127 690947 692125 693557 222698 697159 697160 697162 697163 697164 697165 697171 697172 697100 697099 697126 692852 495856 495857 691279 691279 697352 691752 691968 690564 697687 697761 690193 692137 690227 691148 697384 697987 690582 691003 690602 498030 691636 495800 690525 231855 690577 690464 692344 694352 e e Ta 2 TRACTOR MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 BRIGGS ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 31C707 TYPE NUMBER 0230 E1 DESCRIPTION Cylinder Assembly Kit Bushing Seal Magneto Side Seal Oil Magneto Side Sump Engine Head Cylinder Gasket Cylinder Head Gasket Breather Screw Breather Assembly Tube Breather Gasket Crankcase Screw Cylinder Head Plug Oil Drain Crankshaft Seal Oil PTO Side Screw Crankcase Cover Sump Flywheel Key Flywheel Piston Assembly Standard Piston Assembly 010 Over size Piston Assembly 020 Over size Piston Assembly 030 Over size Ring Set Standard Ring Set 010 Oversize Ring Set 020 Oversize Ring Set 030 Oversize Lock Piston Pin Pin Piston Ro
34. Owner s Manual CRAFTSMAN LAWN TRACTOR 17 5 HP 42 Mower Electric Start 6 Speed Transaxle Model No 917 273373 This product has a low emission engine which operates LlI differently from previously built engines Before you start the engine read and understand this Owner s Manual IMPORTANT For answers to your questions about Read and follow all Safety this product Call Rules and Instructions before 1 800 659 5917 operating this equipment Sears Craftsman Help Line 5 am 5 pm Mon Sat Sears Roebuck and Co Hoffman Estates IL 60179 U S A Visit our Craftsman website www sears com craftsman TABLE OF CONTENTS MV 2 Maintenance ace en nid einen 17 Safety Rules ane oes PF 3 Service and Adjustmenis 21 Product Specifications 6 OO 21912 27 Assembly Pre Operation 8 Troubleshooting meer 28 Operation SR enr 11 Repair PAS c ccisssagsevsceraasiavi messes 32 Maintenance Schedule 17 Sears Service Back Cover WARRANTY 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 guide
35. RT NO NO 1 170545 2 17720408 Be maid thas 4 137352 13 165291 14 148456 16 STD551237 23 169837 29 137180 31 184900 32 140527 DESCRIPTION Control Throttle Choke Screw Hex Head Thread Cutting 1 4 20 x 5 8 Engine Briggs Model No 31C707 0230 E1 See Breakdown Muffler Gasket Tube Drain Oil Easy Washer Shield Brn Dbr Guard Arrestor Spark Tank Fuel Cap Assembly Fuel 40 KEY PART NO NO 33 123487X 37 137040 38 181654 40 124028X 44 17670412 45 17000612 46 19091416 72 183906 78 17060620 81 73510400 engine bs tcyl_17 DESCRIPTION Clamp Hose Line Fuel Plug Drain Oil Easy Bushing Snap Screw Hex Washer Head Thd Roll 1 4 20 x 3 4 Screw Hex Wsh Thdr 3 8 16 x 3 4 Washer 9 32 x 7 8 x 16 Ga Screw Socket Head 5 16 18 x 1 Screw 3 8 16 x 1 1 4 Nut Keps Hex 1 4 20 unc NOTE All component dimensions given in U S inches 1 inch 25 4 mm TRACTOR MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 SEAT ASSEMBLY 17 seat It knob 9 KEY PART KEY PART NO NO DESCRIPTION NO NO DESCRIPTION 1 188716 Seat 13 121248X Bushing Snap 2 180166 Bracket Pivot Seat 14 72050412 Bolt Carriage 1 4 20 x 1 1 2 3 71110616 Bolt 15 134300 Spacer Split 28 x 88 4 19131610 Washer 13 32 x 1 x 10 Ga 16 121250X Spring 5 145006 Clip Push In Hinged 17 123976X Locknut Flange 1 4 Gr 5 6 STD541437 Nut 21 171852 Bolt Shoulder 5 16 18 unc 7 124181X Spring Seat 22 STD541431 Nut 8 17000616 Scre
36. ally blade attachment bolts tight and keep equip ment 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 Ad just and service as required SAFETY RULES 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 abso 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 off if children enter the area Before and when backing look behind and
37. belt from center span keeper and pull belt away from tractor BELT INSTALLATION 1 Carefully work new belt down between transaxle belt keepers and onto the input pulley 2 Slide belt into the center span keeper 3 Pull belt toward front of tractor and roll around the top groove of engine pulley Install belt through stationary idler and clutching idler T 23 5 Make sure belt is in all pulley grooves and inside all belt guides and keepers 6 Install mower See TO INSTALL MOWER in this section of manual Engine Pulley Clutching Idler Stationary Idler Transaxle Pulley TRANSAXLE GEAR SHIFT LEVER NEU TRAL ADJUSTMENT The transaxle should be in neutral when the gear shift lever is in neutral N lock gate position The adjustment is preset at the factory however if adjustment is needed proceed as follows 1 Make sure transaxle is in neutral N NOTE When the tractor rear wheels move freely the transaxle is in neutral 2 Loosen adjustment bolt in front of the right rear wheel 3 Position the gear shift lever in the neu tral N position 4 Tighten adjustment bolt securely NOTE If additional clearance is needed to get to adjustment bolt move mower deck height to the lowest position Neutral Lock Gate Gearshift Lever Adjustment Bolt TO ADJUST STEERING WHEEL ALIGN MENT If steering wheel crossbars are not horizontal left to right when wheels are posit
38. ck 4 Hook rear latch into hole on back of mower deck Deflector Shield Mulcher Plate 4 CAUTION Do not remove deflector shield from mower 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 CHECK TIRE PRESSURE The tires on your tractor were overin flated 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 hous ing 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 See the figures that are shown for replac ing motion and mower blade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual Verify that the belts are routed correctly CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM After you learn how to operate your trac tor check to see that the brake is properly adjusted See TO ADJUST BRAKE in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual y CHECKLIST Before you operate and enjoy your new tractor we wish to assure that you receive the best performance
39. d Care should be taken to keep the blade balanced An unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration and eventual damage to mower and engine e The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grinding wheel Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower s To check blade balance you will need a 5 8 diameter steel bolt pin or a cone balancer When using a cone balancer follow the instructions supplied with balancer NOTE Do not use a nail for balancing blade The lobes of the center hole may appear to be centered but are not e Slide blade on to an unthreaded portion of the steel bolt or pin and hold the bolt or pin parallel with the ground If blade is balanced it should remain in a horizontal position If either end of the blade moves downward sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced Se 5 8 Bo Pin 18 BATTERY Your tractor has a battery charging system which is sufficient for normal use How ever periodic charging of the battery with an automotive charger will extend its life e Keep battery and terminals clean e Keep battery bolts tight e Keep small vent holes open s Recharge at 6 10 amperes for 1 hour NOTE The original equipment battery on your tractor is maintenance free Do not attempt to open or remove caps or covers Adding or checking level of electrolyte is not necessary TO CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS Corrosion and dirt on the battery and terminals can cause the ba
40. d Connecting Standard Screw Connecting Rod Valve Exhaust Valve Intake Spring Valve Intake Spring Valve Exhaust Guard Flywheel Retainer Valve Slinger Governor Oil Tappet Valve Camshaft Short Block 31C707 0230 E2 Replacement Engine art not available Manifold Intake Gasket Intake Stud Carburetor Screw Intake Manifold Screen Rotating Screw Rotating Screen Washer Flywheel Screw Flywheel Guard Bushing Throttle Shaft Kit Idle Mixture Screw Throttle Valve Kit Idle Speed Pin Float Hinge Valve Float Needle Seat Inlet Valve Choke Manual Choke Valve Choke Choke A Matic Jet Main Standard 52 KEY PART NO NO DESCRIPTION 118 697492 Jet Main High Altitude 121 697241 Kit Carburetor Overhaul 125 697190 Carburetor 127 695005 Plug Welch 130 691750 Valve Throttle 131 494379 Kit Throttle Shaft 133 494381 Float Carburetor 137 281165 OI Gasket Float Bowl 141 495097 Kit Choke Shaft Manual Choke 141A 495931 Kit Choke Shaft Choke A Matic 142 697140 Nozzle Carburetor 146 691639 Key Timing 186 692317 Connector Hose 187 691050 ine Fuel Cut to Required ength 188 691693 Screw Control Bracket 192 691986 Adjuster Rocker Arm 202 691841 Link Mechanical Governor 209 692208 Spring Governor 216 691840 ink Choke 222 694042 Bracket Control 227 691374 ever Governor Control 231 691636 Screw Choke Valve 232 691842 Spring Governor 238 691843 Cap Valve 240 394358 F
41. de of mower only e To raise one side of mower tighten lift link adjustment nut on that side e To lower one side of mower loosen lift link adjustment nut on that side NOTE Each full turn of adjustment nut will change mower height about 1 8 e Recheck measurements after adjusting Bottom edge Bottom edge of of mower to pr Wer to ground ground NE if A 7 Suspension Arm Lift Link Adjustment Nut FRONT TO BACK ADJUSTMENT IMPORTANT Deck must be level side to side If the following front to back adjust ment is necessary be sure to adjust both front links equally so mower will stay level side to side To obtain the best cutting results the mower housing should be adjusted so that the front is approximately 1 8 to 1 2 lower than the rear when the mower is in its highest position Check adjustment on right side of trac tor Measure distance D directly in front and behind the mandrel at bottom edge of mower housing as shown Before making any necessary adjust ments check that both front links are equal in length If links are not equal in length adjust one link to same length as other link To lower front of mower loosen nut E on both front links an equal number of turns When distance D is 1 8 to 1 2 lower at front than rear tighten nuts F against trunnion on both front links To raise front of mower loosen nut F from trunnion on both front links
42. e or damaged wiring Check all wiring Faulty solenoid or starter Check replace solenoid or starter 28 TROUBLESHOOTING CHART See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Loss of power Cutting too much grass too Raise cutting height reduce fast speed Throttle in CHOKE position 2 Adjust throttle control Build up of grass leaves Clean underside of mower and trash under mower housing Dirty air filter Clean replace air filter Low oil level dirty oil Check oil level change oil Faulty spark plug Clean and regap or change spark plug Dirty fuel filter Replace fuel filter Stale or dirty fuel Empty fuel tank and refill tank with fresh clean gasoline Water in fuel Empty fuel tank and carbure tor refill tank with fresh gas oline and replace fuel filter 10 Spark plug wire loose 10 Connect and tighten spark plug wire 11 Dirty engine air screen fins 11 Clean engine air screen fins 12 Dirty clogged muffler 12 Clean replace muffler 13 Loose or damaged wiring 13 Check all wiring 14 Carburetor out of adjustment 14 See To Adjust Carburetor in Service and Adjustments section 15 Engine valves out of 15 Contact a Sears or other adjustment qualified service center eme 2 D 00 eel Excessive Worn bent or loose blade Replace blade vibration Tighten blade bolt Bent blade mandrel Contact a Sears
43. e to mow your lawn is the early afternoon At this time the grass has dried the newly cut area will not be exposed to direct sunlight e 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 re duce your width of cut on each pass and mow slowly i mulcher_9 e 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 sec ond cut mow across perpendicular to the first cut path s 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 16 MAINTENANCE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE FILL IN DATES AS YOU COMPLETE REGULAR SERVICE Check Brake Operation amp Check Tire Pressure Check Operator Presence and Interlock Systems Check for Loose Fasteners Sharpen Replace Mower Blades Lubrication Chart Check Battery Level Clean Battery and Terminals T R A C T 0 R lt lt Sis Check Transaxle Cooling Check V Belts Check Engine Oil Level Change Engine Oil with oil filter S s K S S Change Engine Oil without oil filter Clean Air Filter Clean Air Screen SKK Inspect Muffler Spark Arrester Replace Oil Filter if equipped N
44. eep 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 contami nated or oxidized stale In general fuel should be used within 30 days of its pur chase date e Normal deterioration and wear of the exterior finishes or product label replacement e 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 equip ment 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 avail able but a trip charge will apply This charge will be waived if the Craftsman product is dropped off 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 2 SAFETY RULES IMPORTANT This cutting machine is
45. ems in the U S A call 1 800 4 MY HOME UNASSEMBLED PARTS Steering Wheel Steering Wheel Insert 1 Large Flat Washer Steering Steering Wheel l Extension Adapter Steering Shaft l Boot 1 Washer E 17 32 x 1 3 16 x 12 Gauge amp 1 Knob 0 1 Oil Drain Tube D For Future Use Slope Sheet Video Cassette ASSEMBLY PRE OPERATION Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with the 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 A socket wrench set will make assembly easier Standard wrench sizes you need are listed below 1 3 4 wrench 1 Pliers 2 7 16 wrench 1 Utility knife 1 Tire pressure gauge When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual it means when you are in the operating position seated behind the steering wheel TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM CARTON UNPACK CARTON 1 Remove all accessible loose parts and parts boxes from carton 2 Cut along dotted lines on all four pan els of carton Remove end panels and lay side panels flat 3 Check for any additional loose parts or cartons and remove BEFORE REMOVING TRACTOR FROM SKID ATTACH STEERING WHEEL ASSEMBLE EXTENSION SHAFT AND BOOT 1 Slide
46. extension shaft onto lower steer ing shaft Align mounting holes in ex tension and lower shafts and install 1 4 hex bolt and locknut Tighten securely IMPORTANT Tighten bolt and nut se curely to 10 12 ft Ibs torque 2 Place tabs of steering boot over tab slots in dash and push down to secure INSTALL STEERING WHEEL 3 Position front wheels of the tractor so they are pointing straight forward 4 Remove steering wheel adapter from steering wheel and slide adapter onto steering shaft extension 5 Position steering wheel so cross bars are horizontal left to right and slide inside boot and onto adapter 6 Assemble large flat washer 1 2 hex nut and tighten securely Insert os Hex Nut Wheel Adeptet ed Extension Shaft 1 4 Locknut a T1 Hex Bolt Lower ire cage Sho Shaft i Tab on a Slots 7 Snap steering wheel insert into center of steering wheel 8 Remove protective materials from trac tor 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 UP YOUR TRACTOR INSTALL SEAT Adjust seat before tightening adjustment knob 1 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 3 Place seat
47. he cutting height range is approxi mately 1 1 2 to 4 The heights are mea sured 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 e The average lawn should be cut to ap proximately 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 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 You must remain fully and centrally positioned in the seat to prevent the engine from hesitating or cutting off when operating your equip ment on rough rolling terrain or hills 1 Select desired height of cut 2 Start mower blades by engaging at tachment 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 Attachemnt Lift Lever High Position Attachment fe Clutch Lever Y iw Engaged 7 Position Disengaged Pos
48. icio de reparaci n Au Canada pour service en fran ais a domicilio y para ordenar piezas 1 800 LE FOYERWC 1 888 SU HOGAR 1 800 533 6937 1 888 784 6427 WWW SearS Ca SEARS Registered Trademark Trademark SM Service Mark of Sears Roebuck and Co Marca Registrada Marca de Fabrica SM Marca de Servicio de Sears Roebuck and Co MC Marque de commerce M Marque d pos e de Sears Roebuck and Co 193233 7 12 04 MH Printed in U S A
49. ilter Fuel 265 691024 Clamp Casing 267 695134 Screw Casing Clamp 276 692255 Of Washer Sealing 304 698402 Housing Blower 305 697102 Screw Blower Housing 305A 697103 Screw Blower Housing 306 697107 Shield Cylinder 307 691003 Screw Cylinder Shield 309 693551 Motor Starter 309A Motor Starter For Replacement Starter Motor See Reference 309 310 690323 Bolt Starter Motor 311 497608 Brush Set 311A 395538 Brush Set 333 492344 Armature Magneto 334 691061 Screw Magneto Armature 337 491055 Plug Spark 358 697191 Gasket Set Engine 363 19203 Flywheel Puller RPM Settings Low Speed 1900 2100 High Speed 3000 3200 e Included in Engine Gasket Set Key No 358 Included in Carburetor Overhaul Kit Key No 121 Included in Carburetor Gasket Set Key No 977 Included in Valve Gasket Set Key No 1095 NOTE All component dimensions given in U S inches 1 inch 25 4 mm KEY NO PART NO 89838 691691 697122 698083 691261 696459 691532 691251 693699 497606 692024 697086 691032 697184 692034 390837 697144 691119 691029 697112 95162 691620 692012 692138 690801 690802 691909 698401 690958 692407 690372 690959 691224 697128 697607 697134 697392 693713 693059 698329 693167 691283 394856 691286 395537 693757 398159 691095 691031 697611 Qe TRACTOR MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 BRIGGS ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 31C707 TYPE NUMBER 0230 E1 DESCRIPTION Wrench Spark Plug
50. in one year Check the crankcase oil level before start ing the engine and after each eight 8 hours of operation Tighten oil fill cap dipstick securely each time you check the oil level TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL Determine temperature range expected before oil change All oil must meet API service classification SG SL e Be sure tractor is on level surface e Oil will drain more freely when warm e Catch oil in a suitable container 1 Remove oil fill cap dipstick Be careful not to allow dirt to enter the engine when changing oil Remove yellow cap from end of drain valve and install the drain tube onto the fitting Oil Drain Valve Closed and Locked Position Unlock drain valve by pushing inward slightly and turning counterclockwise To open pull out on the drain valve After oil has drained completely close and lock the drain valve by pushing inward and turning clockwise until the pin is in the locked position as shown Remove the drain tube and replace the cap onto the end of the drain valve Refill engine with oil through oil fill dip stick tube Pour slowly Do not overfill For approximate capacity see PROD UCT SPECIFICATIONS section of this manual Use gauge on oil fill cap dipstick for checking level For accurate reading tighten dipstick cap securely onto the tube before removing dipstick Keep oil at FULE line on dipstick Tighten cap onto the tube securely when finished ENGINE OIL F
51. ing and clean area shown to prevent overheating and engine damage Clean out chaff and debris Air Screen MUFFLER Inspect and replace corroded muffler and spark arrester if equipped as it could cre ate a fire hazard and or damage SPARK PLUG S Replace spark plug s at the beginning of each mowing season or after every 100 hours of operation whichever occurs first Spark plug type and gap setting are shown in PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS section of this manual IN LINE FUEL FILTER The fuel filter should be replaced once each season If fuel filter becomes clogged obstructing fuel flow to carbu retor replacement is required 1 With engine cool remove filter and plug fuel line sections Place new fuel filter in position in fuel line with arrow pointing towards carbu retor Be sure there are no fuel line leaks and clamps are properly positioned Immediately wipe up any spilled gaso line Fuel Filter CLEANING We do not recommend using a garden e Clean engine battery seat finish etc hose or pressure washer to clean your of all foreign matter tractor unless the engine and transmis e Keep finished surfaces and wheels free Sion are covered to keep water out Water of all gasoline oil etc in engine or transmission will shorten the Protect painted surfaces with auto useful life of your tractor Use compressed motive type wax air or a leaf blower to remove grass leaves and trash from
52. ioned straight forward remove steer ing wheel and reassemble with crossbars horizontal Tighten securely FRONT WHEEL TOE IN CAMBER The front wheel toe in and camber are not adjustable on your tractor If damage has occurred to affect the front wheel toe in or camber contact a Sears or other qualified service center TO REMOVE WHEEL FOR REPAIRS 1 Block up axle securely 2 Remove axle cover retaining ring and washers to allow wheel removal rear wheels have a square key Do not lose 3 Repair tire and reassemble NOTE On rear wheels only align grooves in rear wheel hub and axle Insert square key 4 Replace washers and snap retaining ring securely in axle groove 5 Replace axle cover NOTE To seal tire punctures and prevent flat tires due to slow leaks purchase and use tire sealant from Sears Tire sealant also prevents tire dry rot and corrosion Washers Retaining Ring Axle Cover Square Key 7 Rear Wheel Only TO START ENGINE WITH A WEAK BAT TERY A WARNING Lead acid batteries gen erate explosive gases Keep sparks flame and smoking materials away from bat teries Always wear eye protection when around batteries If your battery is too weak to start the engine it should be recharged See BAT TERY in the MAINTENANCE section of this manual If jumper cables are used for emergency starting follow this procedure IMPORTANT Your tractor is equipped with a 12 volt
53. it Shim 750 Shaft Shaft Drive Gear Spur 12T Gear Spur 15T Gear Spur 20T Gear Spur 25T Gear Spur 28T Gear Spur 31T Washer Plain 632 X 1 00 X 060 Washer Neoprene Washer Plain 758 X 1 25 X 031 Axle LH Gear Miter 1 2T Splined Ring Retaining Gear Spur 32T Shaft Cross Gear Miter 1 2T Idler Axle RH Housing Lower Disc Brake Spacer Brake Puck Jaw Brake Pin Dowel Screw Tapping 5 16 18 X 2 35 Lever Actuating Washer Plain 321 X 1 00 X 055 Bracket Anti Rotation Puck Friction Washer Anti Rotation Grease NOTE All component dimensions given in U S inches 1 inch 25 4 mm Use in various combinations to maintain proper clearances Order Key No 15 Silicone Sealant to be applied between Upper and Lower Housings use Loctite Ultra Gray Silicone 5699 or equivalent TRACTOR MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 BRIGGS ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 31C707 TYPE NUMBER 0230 E1 70 691 8420 1206 O 1019 LABEL KIT 1058 OWNER S MANUAL 1036 EMISSION LABEL 48 TRACTOR MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 BRIGGS ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 31C707 TYPE NUMBER 0230 E1 1095 VALVE GASKET SET AN 1022 617 O s 868 49 TRACTOR MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 BRIGGS ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 31C707 TYPE NUMBER 0230 E1 231 9879 276 604 8 ee sr 1266A CD 50 TRACTOR MODE
54. ition TO OPERATE ON HILLS AWARNING Do not drive up or down hills with slopes greater than 15 and do not drive across any slope Use the slope guide at the back of this manual s Choose the slowest speed before start ing up or down hills e Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills e If slowing is necessary move throttle control lever to slower position e If stopping is absolutely necessary push clutch brake pedal quickly to brake posi tion and engage parking brake Move gearshift lever to ist gear Be sure you have allowed room for tractor to roll slightly as you restart movement s To restart movement slowly release parking brake and clutch brake pedal s Make all turns slowly TO TRANSPORT e Raise attachment lift to highest position with attachment lift control s When pushing or towing your tractor be sure gearshift lever is in neutral N position e Do not push or tow tractor at more than five 5 MPH 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 ATTACH MENTS Tow only the attachments that are recom mended 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
55. lines 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 conve nience IN HOME warranty service will still be available after the first 30 days of pur chase but a trip charge will apply This charge will be waived if the Craftsman product is dropped off at an authorized Sears 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 rns Warranty does not cover e 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 e 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 e Repairs necessary because of operator negligence including but not limited to elec trical and mechanical damage caused by improper storage failure to use the proper grade and amount of engine oil failure to k
56. machine s Clear the area of objects such as rocks toys wire etc which could be picked up and thrown by the blade e Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing Stop machine if anyone enters the area e Never carry passengers e Do not mow in reverse unless abso lutely necessary Always look down and behind before and while backing Be aware of the mower discharge direc tion and do not point it at anyone Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher or the guard in place e Slow down before turning e Never leave a running machine unat tended Always turn off blades set parking brake stop engine and remove keys before dismounting e Turn off blades when not mowing e Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging chute s Mow only in daylight or good artificial light e Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs e Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways e Use extra care when loading or un loading the machine into a trailer or truck s Data indicates that operators age 60 years and above are involved in a large percentage of riding mower related in juries These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury Keep machine free of grass leaves or other debris build up which can touch hot exhaust engine parts and burn
57. mediately s The engine should not start unless the clutch brake pedal is fully depressed and attachement clutch control is in the disengaged position e When the engine is running any at tempt by the operator to leave the seat without first setting the parking brake should shut off the engine e When the engine is running and the attachment clutch is engaged any at tempt by the operator to leave the seat should shut off the engine e The attachment clutch should never op erate unless the operator is in the seat BLADE CARE For best results mower blades must be kept sharp Replace bent or damaged blades BLADE REMOVAL 1 Raise mower to highest position to al low access to blades 2 Remove blade bolt lock washer and flat washer securing blade 3 Install new or resharpened blade with trailing edge up towards deck as shown IMPORTANT To ensure proper assembly center hole in blade must align with star on mandrel assembly 4 Reassemble blade bolt lock washer and flat washer in exact order as shown 5 Tighten blade bolt securely 27 35 Ft Lbs torque IMPORTANT Blade bolt is heat treated If bolt needs replacing replace only with approve bolt shown in the Repair Parts Mandrel Assembly Trailing Edge Up Blade 7 Flat vanes lt Lock Washer amp S Blade Bolt TO SHARPEN BLADE NOTE We do not recommend sharp ening blade but if you do be sure the blade is balance
58. n 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 FORESIGHT IS BETTER THAN NO SIGHT 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 1 Depress clutch brake pedal all the way down and hold 2 Pull parking brake lever up and release pressure from clutch brake pedal Pedal should remain in brake position Make sure parking brake will hold trac tor secure Attachment Clutch Lever Position Disengaged Throttle Position am Engaged Position Clutch ee Brake qoy Pedal WI Gearshift Disengaged Brake Lever Position Position STOPPING MOWER BLADES e To stop mower blades move attachment clutch lever to DISENGAGED position GROUND DRIVE e To stop ground drive depress clutch brake pedal all the way down e Move gearshift lever to neutral N position ENGINE e 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 e Turn ignition key to STOP po
59. ng a Repair Protection Agreement can save you money and aggravation Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement now and protect yourself from unexpected hassle and expense Here s what s included in the Agreement Expert service by our 12 000 profe sional repair specialists e Unlimited service and no charge for parts and labor on all covered repairs e Product replacement if your covered product can t be fixed Discount of 10 from regular price of service and service related parts not covered by the agreement also 10 off regular price of preventive mainte nance check s Fast help by phone phone support from a Sears technician on products requiring in home repair plus conve nient repair scheduling Once you purchase the Agreement a simple phone call is all that it takes for you to schedule service You can call anytime day or night or schedule a service ap pointment online Sears has over 12 000 professional repair specialists who have access to over 4 5 million quality parts and accessories That s the kind of professionalism you can count on to help prolong the life of your new purchase for years to come Purchase your Repair Protection Agreement today Some limitations and exclusions apply For prices and additional information call 1 800 827 6655 SEARS INSTALLATION SERVICE For Sears professional installation of home appliances garage door openers water heaters and other major home it
60. ng holding deflector shield up against tractor TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID See Operation section for location and function of controls 4 WARNING Before starting read Un derstand and follow all instructions in the Operation section of this manual Be sure tractor is in a well ventilated area Be sure the area in front of tractor is clear of other people and objects 1 Be sure all the above assembly steps have been completed 2 Check engine oil level and fill fuel tank with gasoline 3 Sit on seat in operating position depress clutch brake pedal and set the parking brake 4 Place gear shift lever in neutral N position 5 Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to its highest posi tion 6 Start the engine After engine has started move throttle control to idle position 7 Depress clutch brake pedal into full BRAKE position and hold Move gear shift lever to ist gear 8 Slowly release clutch brake pedal and slowly drive tractor off skid 9 Apply brake to stop tractor set park ing brake and place gearshift lever in neutral position 10 Turn ignition key to STOP position Continue with the instructions that follow aa a DD INSTALL MULCHER PLATE If previously removed 1 Raise and hold deflector shield in upright position 2 Place front of mulcher plate over front of mower deck opening and slide into place as shown 3 Hook front latch into hole on front of mower de
61. on 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 6 When engine starts leave throttle control in choke position until engine warms up and begins to run roughly Once rough running begins imme diately move the throttle control to the fast position Engine warm up may take from several seconds to several minutes the colder the temperature the longer the warm up e The attachments can also be used dur ing the engine warm up period 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 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
62. on seat pan so head of shoulder bolts are positioned over the large slotted holes in pan 4 Push down on seat to engage shoulder bolts in slots and pull seat towards rear of tractor dE 5 Pivot seat and pan forward and as semble adjustment knob and flat washer loosely Do not tighten 6 Lower seat into operating position and sit in seat 7 Slide seat until a comfortable position is reached which allows you to press clutch brake pedal all the way down 8 Get off seat without moving its ad justed position 9 Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob securely Shoulder Bolts CHECK BATTERY 1 Lift seat pan 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 instruc tions Seat pan Label Terminal Terminal 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 ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID See Operation section for location and function of controls 1 Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to its highest po sition Release parking brake by depressing clutch brake pedal Place gearshift lever in neutral N position Roll tractor forward off skid Remove bandi
63. our tractor up and down the face of slopes never across the face Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees Make turns gradually to prevent tipping or loss of control Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes 1 Fold this page along dotted line indicated above 2 Hold page before you so that its left edge is vertically parallel to a tree trunk or other upright structure 3 Sight across the fold in the direction of hill slope you want to measure 4 Compare the angle of the fold with the slope of the hill Get it fixed at your home or ours Your Home For repair in your home of all major brand appliances lawn and garden equipment or heating and cooling systems no matter who made it no matter who sold it For the replacement parts accessories and owner s manuals that you need to do it yourself For Sears professional installation of home appliances and items like garage door openers and water heaters 1 800 4 MY HOME Anytime day or night 1 800 469 4663 U S A and Canada www sears com WWW SearS Ca Our Home For repair of carry in products like vacuums lawn equipment and electronics call or go on line for the nearest Sears Parts and Repair Center 1 800 488 1222 Anytime day or night U S A only www sears com To purchase a protection agreement U S A or maintenance agreement Canada on a product serviced by Sears 1 800 827 6655 USA 1 800 361 6665 Canada Para pedir serv
64. over over terminal 5 Connect BLACK grounding cable to negative terminal with remaining hex bolt and keps nut Tighten securely Seat Pan im Label 1 Raise hood 2 Pull bulb holder out of the hole in the backside of the grill 3 Replace bulb in holder and push bulb holder securely back into the hole in the backside of the grill Close hood INTERI OSRE AND RELAYS Loose or damaged wiring may cause your tractor to run poorly stop running or prevent it from starting e Check wiring See electrical wiring diagram in the Repair Parts section TO REPLACE FUSE Replace with 20 amp automotive type plug in fuse The fuse holder is located behind the dash TO REMOVE HOOD AND GRILL AS SEMBLY 1 Raise hood 2 Unsnap headlight wire connector 3 Stand in front of tractor Grasp hood at sides tilt toward engine and lift off of tractor 4 When replacing hood be sure to re connect the headlight wire connector Headlight Wire Connector 25 ENGINE Maintenance repair or replacement of the emission control devices and systems which are being done at the customers expense may be performed by any non road engine repair establishment or individual Warranty repairs must be performed by an authorized engine manufacturer s service outlet TO ADJUST THROTTLE CONTROL CABLE The throttle control has been preset at the factory and adjustment should not be nec
65. r which has proper equipment and experience to make any necessary adjustments JS ldle Mixture Valve With Limiter 26 STORAGE Immediately prepare your tractor for stor age at the end of the season or if the trac tor will not be used for 30 days or more AWARNING Never store the tractor with gasoline in the tank inside a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure TRACTOR Remove mower from tractor for winter storage When mower is to be stored for a period of time clean it thoroughly remove all dirt grease leaves etc Store ina clean dry area 1 Clean entire tractor See CLEANING in the Maintenance section of this manual 2 Inspect and replace belts if necessary See belt replacement instructions in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual 3 Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance section of this manual 4 Be sure that all nuts bolts and screws are securely fastened Inspect moving parts for damage breakage and wear Replace if necessary 5 Touch up all rusted or chipped paint surfaces sand lightly before painting BATTERY e Fully charge the battery for storage e After a period of time in storage battery may require recharging e To help prevent corrosion and power leakage during long periods of storage battery cables should be disconnected and battery cleaned thoroughly see TO CLEAN
66. ring Carburetor out of adjustment 19 See To Adjust Carburetor in Service and Adjustments section 10 Engine valves out of 10 Contact a Sears or other adjustment qualified service center Hard to start Dirty air filter Clean replace air filter Bad spark plug Replace spark plug Weak or dead battery Recharge or replace battery Dirty fuel filter Replace fuel filter Stale or dirty fuel Empty fuel tank and refill tank with fresh clean gasoline Loose or damaged wiring Check all wiring Carburetor out of adjustment 7 See To Adjust Carburetor in Service and Adjustments section Engine valves out of Contact a Sears or other adjustment qualified service center Engine will not Clutch brake pedal not Depress clutch brake pedal turn over depressed Attachment clutch is engaged Weak or dead battery Blown fuse Corroded battery terminals Loose or damaged wiring Faulty ignition switch Faulty solenoid or starter ES ES Disengage attachment clutch Recharge or replace battery Replace fuse Clean battery terminals Check all wiring Check replace ignition switch Check replace solenoid or starter Faulty operator presence Contact a Sears or other switch es qualified service center QE ON ON ON CO OOGLE Engine clicks but 1 Weak or dead battery Recharge or replace battery will not start Corroded battery terminals Clean battery terminals Loos
67. s tractor Please read and retain this manual The instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor properly Always observe the SAFETY RULES CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES Read and observe the safety rules e Follow a regular schedule in main taining caring for and using your tractor s Follow the instructions under Mainte nance and Storage sections of this owners manual A WARNING This tractor is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unim proved forest covered brush covered or grass covered land unless the engine s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws if any If a spark arrester is used it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator Champion RC12YC Tire Pressure In the state of California the above is re quired by law Section 4442 of the Califor nia 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 REPAIR PROTECTION AGREEMENTS Congratulations on making a smart pur chase Your new Craftsman product is designed and manufactured for years of dependable operation But like all products it may require repair from time to time That s when havi
68. sition and remove key Always remove key when leaving tractor to prevent unauthorized use e Never use choke to stop engine IMPORTANT Leaving the ignition switch in any position other than STOP will cause the battery to discharge and go 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 CAUTION Always stop tractor com pletely as described above before leaving the operator s position TO USE THROTTLE CONTROL Always operate engine at full throttle Operating engine at less than full throttle reduces the battery charging rate e Full throttle offers the best bagging and mower performance TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD The direction and speed of movement is controlled by the gearshift lever 1 Start tractor with clutch brake pedal de pressed and gearshift lever in neutral N position 2 Move gearshift lever to desired po sition 3 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 ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT The position of the attachment lift lever determines the cutting height e Grasp lift lever e Press plunger with thumb and move lever to desired position T
69. t Pivots BEFORE EACH USE IMPORTANT Do not oil or grease the 1 Check engine oil level pivot points which have special nylon 2 Check brake operation bearings Viscous lubricants will attract 3 Check tire pressure dust and dirt that will shorten the life of 4 Check operator presence and the self lubricating bearings If you feel interlock systems for proper operation they must be lubricated use only a dry 5 Check for loose fasteners powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly 17 TRACTOR Always observe safety rules when per forming any maintenance BRAKE OPERATION 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 s Maintain proper air pressure in all tires See PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS section of this manual e Keep tires free of gasoline oil or insect control chemicals which can harm rub ber e Avoid stumps stones deep ruts sharp objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage NOTE To seal tire punctures and prevent flat tires due to slow leaks tire sealant may be purchased from your local parts dealer Tire sealant also prevents tire dry rot and corrosion OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM Be sure operator presence and interlock systems are working properly If your trac tor does not function as described repair the problem im
70. the seat in carburetor may result if screw is turned in too tight PRELIMINARY SETTING 1 Air cleaner assembly must be assem bled to the carburetor when making carburetor adjustments 2 Be sure the throttle control cable is adjusted properly see above FINAL SETTING 1 Start engine and allow to warm for five minutes Make final adjustments with engine running and shift motion control lever in neutral N position 2 Move throttle control lever to slow posi tion With finger rotate and hold throttle lever against idle speed screw Turn idle speed screw to attain 1750 RPM 3 While still holding throttle lever against idle speed screw turn idle mixture valve full travel clockwise then coun terclockwise until engine runs rough Turn valve to a point midway between those two positions Release throttle lever ACCELERATION TEST 4 Move throttle control lever from slow to fast position If engine hesitates or dies turn idle mixture valve out coun terclockwise 1 8 turn Repeat test and continue to adjust if necessary until engine accelerates smoothly High speed stop is factory adjusted Do not adjust damage may result IMPORTANT Never tamper with the engine governor which is factory set for proper engine speed Overspeed ing the engine above the factory high speed setting can be dangerous If you think the engine governed high speed needs adjusting contact a Sears or other qualified service cente
71. ttery to leak power 1 Disconnect BLACK battery cable first then RED battery cable and remove battery from tractor Rinse the battery with plain water and dry Clean terminals and battery cable ends with wire brush until bright Coat terminals with grease or petro leum jelly Reinstall battery See REPLACING BATTERY in the SERVICE AND AD JUSTMENTS section of this manual TRANSAXLE COOLING Keep transaxle free from build up of dirt and chaff which can restrict cooling V BELTS Check V belts for deterioration and wear after 100 hours of operation and replace if necessary The belts are not adjustable Replace belts if they begin to slip from wear ENGINE LUBRICATION Only use high quality detergent oil rated with API service classification SG SL Select the oil s SAE viscosity grade according to your expected operating temperature M JHM SAE VISCOSITY GRADES F 29 9 80 100 r T r T r C 30 20 20 30 49 TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE oil visc charti e 30 32 40 60 T T T 19 NOTE Although multi viscosity oils 5W30 10W30 etc improve starting in cold weather the oils will result in In creased oil consumption when used above 32 F Check your engine oil level more frequently to avoid possible engine dam age from running low on oil Change the oil after every 25 hours of op eration or at least once a year if the tractor is not used for 25 hours
72. ver 1023 692492 Cover Rocker Arm 1026 692003 Rod Push Intake 692011 Rod Push Exhaust 1029 691751 Arm Rocker 1034 690822 Guide Push Rod 1036 695700 Label Emission 1040 698368 Plate Trim 1044 691658 Screw Flywheel 1051 691265 Ring Retaining 1058 275038 Owners Manual 1070 690372 Screw Flywheel Fan 1083 691626 Nut Starter Terminal 1083A 690958 Nut Starter Terminal 1090 691293 Retainer Brush 1091 691333 Cap Limiter 1095 690190 Gasket Set Valve 1119 691183 Screw Alternator 1263 697124 Reed Breather 1264 697104 Screw Breather Reed 1265 697125 Support Blower Housing 1266 691917 2 Seal O Ring Intake Elbow 1266A697123 Seal O Ring Intake Elbow 1267 697575 Latch Blower Housing 1270 697156 Plug AVS Counterweight 1279 690960 Screw Blower Housing Support RPM Settings Low Speed 1900 2100 High Speed 3000 3200 Included in Engine Gasket Set Key No 358 Included in Carburetor Overhaul Kit Key No 121 Included in Carburetor Gasket Set Key No 977 Included in Valve Gasket Set Key No 1095 NOTE All component dimensions given in U S inches 1 inch 25 4 mm SERVICE NOTES 54 SUGGESTED GUIDE FOR SIGHTING SLOPES FOR SAFE OPERATION ONLY RIDE UP AND DOWN HILL NOT ACROSS HILL GS 15 DEGREES MAX WARNING To avoid serious injury operate y
73. w 3 8 16 x 1 1 2 24 19171912 Washer 17 32 x 1 3 16 x 12 Ga 9 19131614 Washer 13 32 x 1 x 14 Ga 10 180186 Pan Seat 11 166369 Knob Seat NOTE All component dimensions given in U S 12 121246X Bracket Switch Mounting inches 1 inch 25 4 mm 41 TRACTOR MODEL NUMBER 917 273373 DECALS 9 14 KEY PART NO NO DESCRIPTION 1 156368 Decal Fender Opr Inst 2 186377 Decal HP Engine 3 184728 Decal Hood RH 4 179128 Decal Deck 5 184729 Decal Hood LH 6 133644 Decal Customer Maintenance 7 189263 Decal Replacement 8 138047 Decal Battery 9 184899 Decal Fender 10 149516 Decal Battery Dngr Psn E 11 156439 Decal Danger Fender Eng Span WHEELS amp TIRES wheel 1 42 KEY PART NO NO DESCRIPTION 12 184730 Decal Side Panel 13 146046 Decal V Belt Dr Sch Tractor 14 186787 Decal Panel Dash 15 160396 Decal V Belt Sch 16 172331 Decal Deck Heavy Duty 138311 Decal Lift Handle 184310X428 Pad Footrest LH STLT 184311X428 Pad Footrest RH STLT 193233 Manual Owner s English 193234 Manual Owner s Spanish KEY PART NO NO DESCRIPTION 1 9192 Valve Cap Tire 2 65139 Stem Valve 3 106222X Tire Front 4 59904 Tube Front Tire Not Provided Service Item Only 5 106732X624 Rim Front 6 278H Fitting Grease Front Wheel Only 7 9040H Bearing Hange Front Wheel Only 8 106108X624 Rim Rear 9 106268X Tire Rear 10 7152J Tube
74. y que CE Front Link Retainer Spring Anti Sway Bar al lt i TB K ses 74 ed Retainer Springs Housing SE zza Both Sides 2 y We Guide eg N Poke 8 ory Bracket Deflector Shield Large Retainer Spring 21 Slide mower under tractor with deflec tor shield to right side of tractor Lower lift lever to its lowest position Connect front links to mower deck and secure with retainer springs Connect suspension arms to rear deck brackets and secure with retainer springs Connect anti sway bar to chassis a Bo N 2 bracket and secure with retainer spring 7 Push clutch cable housing guide into bracket slide collar onto guide and secure with large retainer spring 8 Place flat washer and clutch spring on idler pulley bolt and secure with small retainer spring 9 Install belt onto engine pulley TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING Adjust the mower while tractor is parked on level ground or driveway Make sure tires are properly inflated See PROD UCT SPECIFICATIONS section of this manual If tires are over or underinflated you will not properly adjust your mower SIDE TO SIDE ADJUSTMENT s Raise mower to its highest position e At the midpoint of both sides of mower measure height from bottom edge of mower to ground Distance A on both sides of mower should be the same or within 1 4 of each other e f adjustment is necessary make adjust ment on one si

Craftsman 917.273373 User's Manual

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