Craftsman 917.270312 Owner's Manual

12.5 hp electric start 38" mower 5 speed transaxle lawn tractor

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Owner's Manual
[RnFTSMnllo
12.5 HP
ELECTRIC START
38" MOWER
5 SPEED TRANSAXLE
LAWN TRACTOR
Model No.
917.270312
,, Safety
• Assembly
,, Operation
• Maintenance
° Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equip-
ment.
For answers to your questions
about this product, Call:
1-800-659-5917
Sears Craftsman Help Line
5 am - 5 pro, Mon - Sat
Sears, Roebuck
and Co., Hoffman
Estates,
IL 60179

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Summary of Contents for Craftsman 917.270312

  • Page 1 For answers to your questions about this product, Call: Read and follow all 1-800-659-5917 Safety Rules and Instructions Sears Craftsman Help Line before operating this equip- 5 am - 5 pro, Mon - Sat ment. Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman...
  • Page 2: Operation

    Please contact your nearest service center. After 30 days from the date of purchase, warranty service is available by taking your Craftsman riding equip- ment to your nearest Sears Service Center. (In-home warranty service wil! still be avail,- able after 30 days from the date of purchase b_it a standard trip charge wilt apply).
  • Page 3 • Do not try to stabilize the machine ° Turn off blades when not mowing. putting your foot on the ground. • Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging chute. ° Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes. •...
  • Page 4 , Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Never make adjustments or repairs with Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and the engine running. Grass catcher components are subject use extra caution when servicing them. • Check brake operation frequently. to wear, damage, and deterioration, Adjust and service...
  • Page 5: Specifications

    MIN, CCA: this manual). CASE SIZE: UIR BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT. LBS, TORQUE: CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Craftsman Tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance. Should you experience...
  • Page 6 i1_,1 .._'1:':_,,, iiii, , Parts Bag contents shown futl size (2) Sheet Metal Screws #10-!6 x 1/2 (1) Locknut 318-24 (1) Large Flat Washer , i,,::111 (1) Knob (1) Shoulder Bolt 5/16-I 8 (1)Washer 17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12Gauge...
  • Page 7 iiii Parts packed separately In carton Seal Video Steering Cassette Wheel ___=" Sleeting ..Manual Boot Parts Bag Parts Bag contents not shown full size i1,,1111,,,=1,,,1111 Wheel _____ Insert teering Steering Slope Sheet Bushing Sleeting Wheet (2) Keys...
  • Page 8 Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness.
  • Page 9 Seat TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR Seat =an CHECK BATTERY • Lift seat pan to raised position and open Shoulder battery box door. Bolt = If this battery is put int_, service after month and year indicated on Jabel (label located between terminals) charge...
  • Page 10: Important Items

    ,/'CHECKLIST PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST: All assembly instructions have been completed. No remaining loose parts in carton. Battery is properly prepared charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps). _" Seat is adjusted comfortably tightened securely v" All tires are properly inflated.
  • Page 11 These symbolsmayappearon yourtractoror in literaturesuppliedwith the product. Learn and understand theirmeaning. CAUTION OR REVERSE FORWARD SLOW BATTERY FAST WARNING ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE CLUTCH LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP LIGHT FUEL UNLOCKED CHOKE MOWER HEIGHT DIFFERENTIAL PARKING BRAKE LOCK LOCKED c@};] REVERSE...
  • Page 12 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 various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference. Attachment Clulch Lever Ught Ignition Switch ThrottleChoke...
  • Page 13 NOTE: Under certain conditions when TO USE YOUR TRACTOR tractor is standing idle with the engine run-, Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch. When engine ning, hot engine exhaust gases may Js running, any attempt by the operator cause "browning"...
  • Page 14 ° Forbestcuttingperformance, g rass o When pushing or towing your tractor, be over 6 inchesin heightshouldbe sure gearshift lever is in neutral mowedtwice. Makethe first cut rela- position. tively high;the secondto desired ° Do not push or tow tractor at more than height.
  • Page 15 WARM WEATHER STARTING (50 ° F and See Storage Instructions for additional above) information. Never use engine or carbure- tor cleaner products in the fuel tank or per-. • When engine starts, move the throttle control to the fast position. _nent damage may occur.
  • Page 16: Mowing Tips

    Make first cut relatively high; the second MOWING TIPS to the desired height. ° T_re chains cannot be used when the ° Do not mow grass when it is wet, mower housing is attached to tractor. grass will plug mower and leave unde- °...
  • Page 17: Customer Responsibilities

    CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES AS YOU COMPLETE , Check Brake Operation . If ..Check Tire Prep=sure check Operator Presence Interlock Systems v", Check for Loose Fa.steners Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades v" 11" Lubrication Chart Check Battery Level Clean Battery and Terminals Checl( TransaxIe Cooling A_j_stBta,_Celt(s) T , ns+.o.n...
  • Page 18 TRACTOR • T_ghten bolt securely (27-35 Ft. Lbs. torque). Always observe safety rules when per_ IMPORTANT; Blade bolt is Grade 8 heat forming any maintenance. treated. Mandrel BRAKE OPERATION Trailing \ _.. Assembly tf tractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance at high speed in highest...
  • Page 19 NOTE: The originalequipment b attery TO CHANGE ENGINE your tractor is maintenance free, Do not Determine temperature range expected attempt to open or remove caps or covers° before oil change. All oil must meet APt Adding or checking level of electrolyte service classification SF, SG or SH,...
  • Page 20 , Reinstallcartridge,nut,precteaner, MUFFLER coverand securewith knob(s). Inspect and replace corroded muffler IMPORTANT: P etroleumsolvents,such as spark arrester (if equipped) as it could cre- kerosene, a re not to be usedto cleanthe ate a fire hazard andler damage. cartridge. SPARK PLUGS They may cause deterioration the cartridge.
  • Page 21 ,_kCAUTION: Before performing any service or adjustments: • Depress clutch!brake pedal fully and set parking brake, o Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) position. • Place attachment clutch in "DISENGAGE[')" position. • Turn ignition key "OFF" and remove key. • Make sure the blades and all moving parts have completely stopped.
  • Page 22 LEVEL MOWER HOUSING ° Before making any necessary adjust- ments, check that both front links are Adjust the mower while tractor is parked equal in length, Both links should be on level ground or driveway. Make sure approximately 10-3/8". tires are properly inflated (See "PROD- °...
  • Page 23: Belt Installation

    BELT INSTALLATION - ° Make sure belt is in all pulley grooves • Install new belt in reverse order of and inside all belt guides. • Install mower in reverse order of removal. removal instructions. Idler Engine Mandrel Pulley a,,H, Supention Retainer Spring...
  • Page 24 TO ADJUST STEERING WHEEL ALIGN- ,&IMPORTANT: Your tractor Is equiped MENT with a 12 volt negative grounded system. The other vehical must also be a 12 volt If steering wheel crossbars are not hori- zontal (left to right) when wheels are posi- negative grounded...
  • Page 25 • Connect BLACK grounding cable to negative (-) terminal with remaining bolt and keps nut. Tighten securely. Headlight ° Close battery box door, Hood Wire Connector Seat Pan Battery Box Door ENGINE Maintenance, repair, or replacement of the emission control devices and systems, which are being done at the customers expense,...
  • Page 26 TO ADJUST CARBURETOR • While still holding throttle tever against NOTE: The carburetor on this engine is idle speed screw, turn idle mixture valve full travel clockwise then counterclock- low emission, it is equipped with an idle fuel adjusting needle with a limiter cap, wise until engine runs rough.
  • Page 27 Immediately prepareyourtractorfor stor- fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or ageat the endof the seasonor if the trac- methanol) can attract moisture which tor will not be usedfor 30 clays or more_ leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage _CAUTION: Never store the tractor with fuel system of an engine while in storage.
  • Page 28: Troubleshooting

    TROUBLESHOOTING CHART CORRECTION "PROBLEM CAUSE • Fill fuel tank. Will not start • Out of fuel. = See 'qO S[ART ENGINE" o Engine not "CHOKED" Operation section° properly. = Wait several minutes before • Engine flooded. attempting to start. • Rep|ace spark plug.
  • Page 29 TROUBLESHOOTING CHART CORRECTION CAUSE PROBLEM ..° Check all wiring. o Loose or damaged wiring. Engine clicks but ° Check!replace solenoid ° Faulty solenoid or starter, will not start starter. (cont'd) ° Set in "Higher Cut" posi- = Cutting too much Loss of power tion/reduce speed.
  • Page 30 TROUBLESHOOTING CHART CORRECTION ..PROBLEM CAUSE • Clean around mandrels Poor cut - uneven • Clogged mower deck vent (cont'd) holes from buildup of open vent holes. grass, leaves, and trash around mandrels, Mower blades will = Remove obstruction. • Obstruction in clutch not rotate mechanism.
  • Page 31 TRACTOR -- MODEL NUlVlBER 917.270312 SCHEMATIC BATTERY STARTER BLACJ_ I (OP"nONAL) , ..{:S_-, __ _'=_,-I-0, 07-'- WNff_ ;oG-NdD I Mk-.• _ ..CLUTCH ! BRAKE (PEDAL SEAT SW1TCH _GNIT_ON (NOT OCCUPIED) SWITCH I]IACX t _3LACK --I" ATOM" "- _{C-WTCH "_''° -"...
  • Page 32 TRACTOR -- MODEL NUMBER 9'17.270312 ELECTRICAL...
  • Page 33 Switch Plunger Nc Gray 140301 Switch Ign 4 pos t24211X Nut Ignition 141226 Cover Sw Ignition 109310X Key Ign Molded Craftsman, Delta 156442 Harness Man CI Am Hm 97 71110408 Belt Blk Hex 1/4-20unc x 1/2 Cover Terminal Red 131563 Solenoid...
  • Page 34 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917'.270312 CHASSISAND ENCLOSURES...
  • Page 35: Chassis And Enclosures

    TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBEB 917.2703'12 CHASSIS AND ENCLOSURES PART DESCRIPTION 160393 Chassis 140356 Drawbar Stretch 17490612 Screw Thdrol 3/8-16x314 Ty-tt STD551025 Washer 13/32 x 3/4 x 16 Ga, 155272 Bumper Hood!Dash 155924X011 Saddle Slksc Flat LT 5Sp Peedess 126842X Heat Shletd Sloped Hood 155138 Clip Retainer Slide On...
  • Page 36: Ground Drive

    TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270312 GROUND DRIVE...
  • Page 37 TRACTOR -- MODEL NUMBEB, 917.270312 GROUND DRIVE PART PART DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION Pulley Idler V Groove Plastic Transaxie (See Breakdown) 127783 Beltcrank CFutchGmd Dw Stl Peedess 205-507B 1.54407 146682 Spr_ngReturn Brake T!a Zinc 123205X Retainer Belt Style Spring t23666X Bolt Hex Hd 3/8-16une X 1-1/2 Pulley Transaxle Alum STD523715 1200O028...
  • Page 38 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270312 STEERING ASSEMBLY ,=_ _°._k._'- i ¸" "...
  • Page 39: Steering Assembly

    TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBEI_ 917.270312 STEERING ASSEMBLY PART DESCRIPTION 139768 Steering Wheel 154427 Axle Assembly STMP Dropped STL 156483 Spindle Assembly, LH° 157473 Spindle,Assembly, RHo 6266H Bearing, Race, Thrust, Hardened 121748X Washer 25132x 1-5/8 × t6 Gauge 19272016 Washer 27132x !-1/4 x 16 Gauge 12000029 R{ng, Kllp 3368R...
  • Page 40 TRACTOR " " MODEL NUMBER 91T,270312 ENGINE I OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT Spark Arrester...
  • Page 41 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMB EEl 917.270312 ENGINE PART DESCRIPTION 162144 Control TlgCh Rh Blk Pdl 17720410 Screw Flex Thd Cut 1t4-20x5/8 T Engine (See Breakdown) B&S Model No, 289707-1179-E1 137348 Muffler Exhaust B&S Lt 165291 Gaskel t 313 ldTtn Plated 13280324 Nipple Pipe 3/8 Npt X 3"...
  • Page 42: Seat Assembly

    TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270312 SEAT ASSEMBLY PAR]" PART DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION 151205 Seat V350 121248X Bush+ng Snap BIk Nyl 60 Id Bolt Rdhd Sht Nk 1/4.,20x1-1/2 140551 Bracket Pnt Pivot Seat (blk) 72050412 STD523710 Bolt Fin Hex 3/8-16une X 1 134300 Spacer Split 28 X 96 Zinc 19131610...
  • Page 43: Wheels And Tires

    TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBEB 917,270312 DECALS PART PART DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION 156867 Decal Clutcl'Vbrake English Deca! Opar Sdl P/L Eng 4900J 165347 Decal V-bell Dr Sch Tractor Decal Engine 12.5 Hp B&S tC 146046 Crafls t36832 Decal Mower Drive Schematic 163990 Decal Hood Slope Rh 163991...
  • Page 44: Lift Assembly

    'TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917,270312 LIFT ASSEMBLY 161718 " 31 _...
  • Page 45 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917,270312 LIFT ASSEMBLY PART DESCRIPTION t59460 Wire Asm Inner/Sprg w/Plunger tT 159474 Shaft Asmo Lift 105767X Pin Groove 12000002 E Ring #5t33-62 lg21!621 Washer 2t/'32 x 1 x 21 Ga, t20183X Beadng Nylang t2563tX Grip Handle Ftuted I22365X Butian Plunger Read l"t...
  • Page 46: Mower Deck

    TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270312 MOWER DECK...
  • Page 47 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270312 MOWER DECK PART PART DESCRIPTION DESCRIP"f]ON idler Arm Assembly 142629 Mower Housing Assembly 133940 STD533167 Bolt, Carriage 5/16-18 x 3/4 122052X Spacer, Retainer 1-3/4 Knob 138017 Bracket Asm. From Sway Bar 162113 38/42 144200 Beit 138440 Bracket, Asm.
  • Page 48 TRACTOR -- MODEL NUMBER 917.270312 PEERLESS TRANSAXLE - - MODEL NUMBER 205-507B NUMBERS...
  • Page 49 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUNIBEB 917.270312 PEERLESS TRANSAXLE - - MODEL NUMBER 205-5078 PART PART DESCRIPTIO DESCRIPTION Brake Lever 772147 fransaxfe Cover 790079 Screw 1/4-20 x I-1/4" 780086A Needle Bearing 528" ID 792073A Screw 1/4,.20 x 24/4" TZ0128 Transaxte Case 792085A Locknut 5/t6-24 Countershaft...
  • Page 50 TRACTOR . . MODEL NUMBER 917.270312 BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE-MODEL NUMBER 289707_ TYPE NUMBER 1179-E1...
  • Page 51 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270312 BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE-MODEL NUMBER 289707, TYPE NUMBER 1179-E1 121 CARBUp.E'f'OR OVERHAUL KiT © 284A _,78 1044...
  • Page 52 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270312 BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE-MODEL NUMBER 289707, TYPE NUMBER 1179-E1 ("J 615 • 11036 LABEL KiT-EM ISSION J ..358 GASKEt" SET 1_ CARSURETOR K _T s77 CARBUR_rO_ G_,SKE_SET _. ] 729A 1095 VALVE OVERHAUL GASKET SET * REQUIRES SPECIAL TOOL.S "tO iNSTALL...
  • Page 53: Briggs & Stratton

    TRACTOR -- MODEL NUMBEB 917,270312 BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE-MODEL NUMBER 289707, TYPE NUMBER 1!79-E1 PART PART DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION 496413 Cylinder Assembly 272465 0. Gasket, Carburetor (to ELbow) 399265 Beadng, Cylinder (Requires 272554 & Gasket, Carburetor Special Tools For tnslallatton) 94637 Stud, Carburetor Mounting 391086 * Seal, Oil...
  • Page 54 TRACTOR -- MODEL NUMBER 917,270312 BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE-MODEL NUMBER 289707, TYPE NUMBER 1179-E1 PART PART DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION 94903 Screw, Shoulder, (includes Mounting Parts) Hax Washer Head 490324 Cover, Starter 284A 94704 Screw, Hex Head (Includes Mounting Screws) 496282 Housing, Blower 94951 Screw, Tor_ 94786...
  • Page 55 QI "*" _ t'_- !: 1...
  • Page 56 Forthe repairor repracement p artsyou need delivereddirectlyto your home Call 7 am - 7 pro,7 daysa week 1-800-366-PART (I-800-366-7278) Para ordenar pfezas con entrega domicilio - 1-800-659-7084 For in-house major brand repair service Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week 1-800-4-REPAIR (1-800-473-7274) Para pedir servicio...

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