20.0 hr* 42" mower electric start automatic transmission (68 pages)
Summary of Contents for Craftsman 917.28015
Page 1
Owner's Manual. IMPORTANT: Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this equipment. Sears Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A. Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman *As rated by the engine manufacturer 580871 726...
For warranty coverage details to obtain free repair or replacement, call 1-800-659-5917 or visit the web site: www.craftsman.com In all cases above, if part repair or replacement is impossible, the riding equipment will be replaced free of charge with the same or an equivalent model.
_DANGER: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death. _I, WARNING: In order to prevent acciden- • Never direct discharged materialtoward tal starting when setting up, transporting, anyone.
li. SLOPE OPERATION • Keep children out of the mowing area and in the watchful care of a responsible Slopes are a major factor related to loss of adult other than the operator. control and tip-over accidents, which • Be alert and turn machine off if a child...
Page 5
• Remove gas-powered equipment from • Nevertamperwithsafetydevices. Check the truck or trailer and refuel it on the their proper operation regularly. ground. If this is not possible, then refuel • Keep machine free of grass, leaves, such equipment with a portable container, other debris...
Spark Plug: Champion RC12YC Congratulations on making a smart pur- (Gap: .030") chase. Your Craftsman® product Forward: Ground Speed designed manufactured years 1 st dependable operation. But like all products, (MPH): it may require repair from time to time. That's...
Page 8
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left unassemb[ed 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 ensure...
INSTALL SEAT CHECK BATTERY Adjust seat before tightening adjustment Lift seat pan to raised position. knob. NOTE: If this battery is put into service after month year indicated on label (label Remove adjustment knobandflatwasher located between terminals) charge battery securing seat to cardboard packing for minimum...
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE V"CHECKLIST The tires on your tractor were overinflated Before operate enjoy your the factory for shipping purposes. Correct tractor, we wish to assure that you receive tire pressure is important for best cutting the best performance and satisfaction from performance.
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These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning. REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH CHOKE FAST SLOW IGNITION SWITCH (@) ,@ REVERSE ENGINE OFF ENGINE ON ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE MOWER HEIGHT MOWER LIFT OPERATION...
Page 12
KNOW YOUR TRACTOR READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference. Attachment Ignition Switch Clutch Lever Throttle /Choke Control...
Page 13
The operation of any tractor result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses SAFETYGLASSES or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask...
Page 14
TO OPERATE MOWER ,_WARNING: Backing up with Your tractor is equipped with an operator tachment clutch engaged while mowing presence sensing switch. attempt strongly discouraged. Turning the ROS "ON", by the operator to leave the seat with the to allow reverse operation with the attach-...
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE TO START ENGINE CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL When starting the engine for the first time or if the engine has run out of fuel, it will take The engine in yourtractor has been shipped, extra cranking time to move fuel from from the factory,...
MOWING TIPS • Tire chains cannot be used when mower housing is attached to tractor. • Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing performance. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Service Adjustments section of this manual. • The left hand side of mower...
MAINTENANCE BEFORE EVERY EVERY EVERY EVERY EVERY BEFORE SCHEDULE EACH SEASON STORAGE HOURS HOURS HOURS HOURS Check Brake Operation Check Tire Pressure Check Operator Presence & ROS Systems Check for Loose Fasteners ChecWReplace Mower _111#3 Blades Lubrication Chart Check Battery, Level Clean Battery...
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TRACTOR • When the engine is running with the ignition switch in the ROS "ON" position and the Always observe safety rules when performing attachment clutch is engaged, any attempt any maintenance. by the operator to shift into reverse should BRAKE OPERATION NOT shut off the engine.
2. Rinsethebatterywithplainwaterand dry. _CAUTION: If engine has been operated 3. Clean terminals and battery cable ends for an extended period of time immediately with wire brush until bright. prior to draining oil, oil will be hot. 4. Coat terminals with grease or petroleum jelly.
AIR FILTER ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM Debris clog engine's air cooling Your engine will not run properly using a dirty system. Remove blower housing and clean air filter. Replace pre-cleaner after every 25 area shown prevent overheating hours of operation or every season. Service engine damage.
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SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS: ARNING" TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY, BEFORE PERFORMING Depress clutch/brake pedal fully and set parking brake. Place gearshift lever in neutral 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...
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TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING When distance "D" is 1/8" to 1/2" lower at front than rear, tighten nuts "F" against Adjust the mower while tractor is parked trunnion on both front links. level ground or driveway. Make suretires properly inflated (See side of tire for proper •...
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TO REPLACE MOWER BLADE DRIVE TO REPLACE MOTION DRIVE BELT BELT Park the tractor on level surface. Engage The mower blade drive belt may be parking brake. For assistance, there is a belt installation guide decal on bottom side replaced without tools.
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TRANSAXLE GEAR SHIFT LEVER NEU= TO ADJUST STEERING WHEEL ALIGN= TRAL ADJUSTMENT MENT transaxle should be in neutral when If steering wheel crossbars are not horizontal the gear shift lever is in neutral (lock gate) (left to right) when wheels are positioned position.
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REPLACING BATTERY TO REPLACE FUSE Replace with 20 amp automotive-type plug- _k,WARNING: Do not short battery termi- in fuse. The fuse holder is located behind nals by allowing a wrench or any other object the dash. to contact both terminals at the same time. TO REMOVE HOOD GRILL...
Page 26
ENGINE Im mediately prepare you r tractor for storage at the end of the season or if the tractor will FUEL SYSTEM not be used for 30 days or more. IMPORTANT: It is important prevent _I_,WARNING: Never store the tractor with gum deposits from forming...
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART: See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Will not start Fill fuel tank. Out of fuel. See"TO START ENGINE" Engine not "CHOKED" properly. Operation section. Wait several minutes before Enginefiooded. attempting to start.
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TROUBLESHOOTING CHART: See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Engine clicks but Weak or dead battery. Recharge or replace battery. will not start Corroded battery terminals. Clean battery terminals. Loose or damaged wiring. Check all wiring.
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TROUBLESHOOTING CHART: See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Poor cut = uneven Worn, bent or loose blade. Replace blade. Tighten blade bolt cutting Mower deck not level. Level mower deck. Clean underside of mower Buildup of grass, leaves, and trash under mower.
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TROUBLESHOOTING CHART: See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Loss of drive See "CLEANING" in the Debris on steering plate (if maintenance section. equipped). Motion drive belt worn, damaged, Replace motion drive belt. or broken.
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SUGGESTED GUIDE FOR SIGHTING SLOPES FOR SAFE OPERATION ,-,,,,, ,,..,., ONLY RIDE UP AND DOWN HILL, NOT ACROSS HILL 15 DEGREES MAX. down the face of slopes, never across the face. Do not mow WARNING: To avoid serious injury, operate your tractor up and slopes greater than 15 degrees.
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CRRFT_I4Rtl° 04.17.12 Printed in the U.S.A.
Page 33
Owner's Manual. IMPORTANT: Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this equipment. Sears Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A. Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman *As rated by the engine manufacturer 580871 726...
Page 34
For warranty coverage details to obtain free repair or replacement, call 1-800-659-5917 or visit the web site: www.craftsman.com In all cases above, if part repair or replacement is impossible, the riding equipment will be replaced free of charge with the same or an equivalent model.
Page 35
_DANGER: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death. _I, WARNING: In order to prevent acciden- • Never direct discharged materialtoward tal starting when setting up, transporting, anyone.
Page 36
li. SLOPE OPERATION • Keep children out of the mowing area and in the watchful care of a responsible Slopes are a major factor related to loss of adult other than the operator. control and tip-over accidents, which • Be alert and turn machine off if a child...
Page 37
• Remove gas-powered equipment from • Nevertamperwithsafetydevices. Check the truck or trailer and refuel it on the their proper operation regularly. ground. If this is not possible, then refuel • Keep machine free of grass, leaves, such equipment with a portable container, other debris...
Page 38
Spark Plug: Champion RC12YC Congratulations on making a smart pur- (Gap: .030") chase. Your Craftsman® product Forward: Ground Speed designed manufactured years 1 st dependable operation. But like all products, (MPH): it may require repair from time to time. That's...
Page 40
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left unassemb[ed 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 ensure...
Page 41
INSTALL SEAT CHECK BATTERY Adjust seat before tightening adjustment Lift seat pan to raised position. knob. NOTE: If this battery is put into service after month year indicated on label (label Remove adjustment knobandflatwasher located between terminals) charge battery securing seat to cardboard packing for minimum...
Page 42
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE V"CHECKLIST The tires on your tractor were overinflated Before operate enjoy your the factory for shipping purposes. Correct tractor, we wish to assure that you receive tire pressure is important for best cutting the best performance and satisfaction from performance.
Page 43
These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning. REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH CHOKE FAST SLOW IGNITION SWITCH (@) ,@ REVERSE ENGINE OFF ENGINE ON ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE MOWER HEIGHT MOWER LIFT OPERATION...
Page 44
KNOW YOUR TRACTOR READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference. Attachment Ignition Switch Clutch Lever Throttle /Choke Control...
Page 45
The operation of any tractor result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses SAFETYGLASSES or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask...
Page 46
TO OPERATE MOWER ,_WARNING: Backing up with Your tractor is equipped with an operator tachment clutch engaged while mowing presence sensing switch. attempt strongly discouraged. Turning the ROS "ON", by the operator to leave the seat with the to allow reverse operation with the attach-...
Page 47
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE TO START ENGINE CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL When starting the engine for the first time or if the engine has run out of fuel, it will take The engine in yourtractor has been shipped, extra cranking time to move fuel from from the factory,...
Page 48
MOWING TIPS • Tire chains cannot be used when mower housing is attached to tractor. • Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing performance. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Service Adjustments section of this manual. • The left hand side of mower...
Page 49
MAINTENANCE BEFORE EVERY EVERY EVERY EVERY EVERY BEFORE SCHEDULE EACH SEASON STORAGE HOURS HOURS HOURS HOURS Check Brake Operation Check Tire Pressure Check Operator Presence & ROS Systems Check for Loose Fasteners ChecWReplace Mower _111#3 Blades Lubrication Chart Check Battery, Level Clean Battery...
Page 50
TRACTOR • When the engine is running with the ignition switch in the ROS "ON" position and the Always observe safety rules when performing attachment clutch is engaged, any attempt any maintenance. by the operator to shift into reverse should BRAKE OPERATION NOT shut off the engine.
Page 51
2. Rinsethebatterywithplainwaterand dry. _CAUTION: If engine has been operated 3. Clean terminals and battery cable ends for an extended period of time immediately with wire brush until bright. prior to draining oil, oil will be hot. 4. Coat terminals with grease or petroleum jelly.
Page 52
AIR FILTER ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM Debris clog engine's air cooling Your engine will not run properly using a dirty system. Remove blower housing and clean air filter. Replace pre-cleaner after every 25 area shown prevent overheating hours of operation or every season. Service engine damage.
Page 53
SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS: ARNING" TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY, BEFORE PERFORMING Depress clutch/brake pedal fully and set parking brake. Place gearshift lever in neutral 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...
Page 54
TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING When distance "D" is 1/8" to 1/2" lower at front than rear, tighten nuts "F" against Adjust the mower while tractor is parked trunnion on both front links. level ground or driveway. Make suretires properly inflated (See side of tire for proper •...
Page 55
TO REPLACE MOWER BLADE DRIVE TO REPLACE MOTION DRIVE BELT BELT Park the tractor on level surface. Engage The mower blade drive belt may be parking brake. For assistance, there is a belt installation guide decal on bottom side replaced without tools.
Page 56
TRANSAXLE GEAR SHIFT LEVER NEU= TO ADJUST STEERING WHEEL ALIGN= TRAL ADJUSTMENT MENT transaxle should be in neutral when If steering wheel crossbars are not horizontal the gear shift lever is in neutral (lock gate) (left to right) when wheels are positioned position.
Page 57
REPLACING BATTERY TO REPLACE FUSE Replace with 20 amp automotive-type plug- _k,WARNING: Do not short battery termi- in fuse. The fuse holder is located behind nals by allowing a wrench or any other object the dash. to contact both terminals at the same time. TO REMOVE HOOD GRILL...
Page 58
ENGINE Im mediately prepare you r tractor for storage at the end of the season or if the tractor will FUEL SYSTEM not be used for 30 days or more. IMPORTANT: It is important prevent _I_,WARNING: Never store the tractor with gum deposits from forming...
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART: See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Will not start Fill fuel tank. Out of fuel. See"TO START ENGINE" Engine not "CHOKED" properly. Operation section. Wait several minutes before Enginefiooded. attempting to start.
Page 60
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART: See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Engine clicks but Weak or dead battery. Recharge or replace battery. will not start Corroded battery terminals. Clean battery terminals. Loose or damaged wiring. Check all wiring.
Page 61
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART: See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Poor cut = uneven Worn, bent or loose blade. Replace blade. Tighten blade bolt cutting Mower deck not level. Level mower deck. Clean underside of mower Buildup of grass, leaves, and trash under mower.
Page 62
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART: See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Loss of drive See "CLEANING" in the Debris on steering plate (if maintenance section. equipped). Motion drive belt worn, damaged, Replace motion drive belt. or broken.
Page 63
SUGGESTED GUIDE FOR SIGHTING SLOPES FOR SAFE OPERATION ,-,,,,, ,,..,., ONLY RIDE UP AND DOWN HILL, NOT ACROSS HILL 15 DEGREES MAX. down the face of slopes, never across the face. Do not mow WARNING: To avoid serious injury, operate your tractor up and slopes greater than 15 degrees.
Page 64
CRRFT_I4Rtl° 04.17.12 Printed in the U.S.A.