Craftsman 917.28749 Operator's Manual page 20

TRACTOR
Always observe safety rules when per-
forming any maintenance.
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 "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"
section of this manual).
• 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 de-
scribed, repair the problem immediately.
• The engine should not start unless the
brake pedal is fully depressed, and
the attachment clutch control is in the
disengaged position.
CHECK OPERATOR PRESENCE
SYSTEM
• 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.
• 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.
, The attachment clutch should never op-
erate unless the operator is in the seat.
ROS "ON" Position
Engine "ON" Position
(Normal Operating)
CHECK REVERSE OPERATION (ROS)
SYSTEM
, When the engine is running with the
ignition switch in the engine "ON" posi-
tion 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.
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 hazard-
ous, 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 "THIS
SIDE UP" facing deck and mandrel as-
sembly.
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_------_zv. _
Center Hole
F_-/_,, Mandrel
_ ",Sta Assembly
b
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.
, Keep battery and terminals clean.
• Keep battery bolts tight.
, Keep small vent holes open.
, Recharge at 6-10 amperes for 1 hour.
2O