Craftsman 917.288341 Operator's Manual page 17

TRACTOR
Always observe safety rules when perform-
ing 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 PSI on tires).
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm rubber.
• 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 pur-
chased from your local parts dealer. Tire seal-
ant 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.
• Theengineshould notstart unlessthe brake
pedal isfully depressed, andtheattachment
clutch control is in the disengaged 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.
ROS "ON"
POSITION
ENGINE "ON" POSITION
(NORMAL OPERATING)
CHECK REVERSE OPERATION SYSTEM
• Whenthe engine is runningwith the ignition
switch in the engine "ON" position and the
attachment clutch engaged, any attempt
by the operator to drive in reverse should
shut off the engine.
• Whenthe engine is running with the ignition
switch in the ROS "ON" position and the
attachment clutch engaged, any attempt
by the operator to drive in reverse should
NOT shut off the engine. 17
BLADE CARE
For best results mower blades must be sharp.
Replace worn, bent or damaged blades.
_CAUTION: Useonlya replacement blade
approved by the manufacturer of your tractor.
Using a blade not approved by the manu-
facturer of your tractor is hazardous, could
damage your tractor and void your warranty.
BLADE REMOVAL
1. Raise mower to highest position to allow
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.
STAR
CENTER HOLE \
BLADE BOLT
(SPECIAL) "_._ _
MANDREL
ASSEMBLY
BLADE
BATTERY
Your tractor has a battery charging system
which is sufficient for normal use. However,
periodic charging of the battery with an au-
tomotive 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.
TO CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMINALS
Corrosion and dirt on the battery and terminals
can cause the battery to "leak" power.
1. Disconnect BLACK battery cable first
then RED battery cable and remove
battery from tractor.
2. Rinse the battery with plain water and dry.
3. Clean terminals and battery cable ends
with wire brush until bright.
4. Coat terminals with grease or petroleum
jelly.
5. Reinstall battery (See "REPLACING
BATTERY" in the SERVICE AND AD-
JUSTMENTS section of this manual).