Craftsman 917.28973 Operator's Manual page 21

BRAKE OPERATION
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 serviced. (See "TO CHECK
BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments
section of this manual).
TIRES
• Maintain proper air pressure in all tires
(See PSI on tires).
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm rub-
ber.
• 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 AND
REVERSE OPERATION SYSTEM (ROS)
Be sure operator presence and reverse
operation systems are working properly. If
your tractor does not function as described,
repair the problem immediately.
• The engine should not start unless the
brake pedal is fully depressed, and the
attachment clutch control is in the disen-
gaged position.
CHECK OPERATOR PRESENCE
SYSTEM
• When the engine is running, any attempt
by the operator to leave the seat without
first setting the parking brake should shut
off the engine.
• When the engine is running and the at-
tachment clutch is engaged, any attempt
by the operator to leave the seat should
shut off the engine.
• The attachment clutch should never oper-
ate unless the operator is in the seat.
CHECK REVERSE OPERATION (ROS)
SYSTEM
• When the engine is running with the ignition
switch in the engine "ON" position and the
attachment clutch engaged, any attempt
by the operator to shift into reverse should
shut off the engine.
• When the engine is running with the ignition
switch in the ROS "ON" position and the
attachment clutch engaged, any attempt
by the operator to shift into reverse should
NOT shut off the engine.
ROS "ON" Position
Engine "ON" Position
(Normal Operating)
BLADE CARE
For best results mower blades must be
sharp. Replace worn, bent or damaged
blades.
,& CAUTION: Use only a replacement
blade approved by the manufacturer of
your tractor. Using a blade not approved
by the manufacturer of your tractor is
hazardous, could damage your tractor and
void your warranty.
BLADE REMOVAL
1. Raise mower to highest position to al-
low access to blades.
NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves
and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.
2. Remove blade bolt by turning counter-
clockwise.
3. Install new blade with stamped
"GRASS SIDE" facing the ground.
IMPORTANT: To ensure proper assembly,
center hole in blade must align with star
on mandrel assembly.
4. Install and tighten blade bolt securely
(45-55 Ft. Lbs. torque).
IMPORTANT: Special blade bolt is heat
treated.
Blade
Blade Bolt
Mandrel
Assembly
Star
Center Hole
BATTE RY
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.
• Keep battery and terminals clean.
• Keep battery bolts tight.
• Keep small vent holes open.
• 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.
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