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Craftsman 917.273522 Owner's Manual

Lawn tractor 21.0 hp, 42" mower electric start automatic transmission
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Owner's Manual
J CRIIFTSMIIN°J
LAWN TRACTOR
21.0 HP, 42" Mower
Electric Start
Automatic Transmission
Model No.
917.273522
1
This product has a low emission engine which operates
|
differently from previously built engines. Before you start the
engine,
read and understand
this Owner's Manual,
IMPORTANT:
Read and follow all Safety
Rules and Instructions before
operating this equipment.
For answers to your questions about
this product, Call:
1-800-659-5917
Sears Craftsman Help Line
5 am - 5 pro, Mort - Sat
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A
Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.comicraftsman

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Summary of Contents for Craftsman 917.273522

  • Page 1 Read and follow all Safety this product, Call: Rules and Instructions before 1-800-659-5917 Sears Craftsman Help Line operating this equipment. 5 am - 5 pro, Mort - Sat Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.comicraftsman...
  • Page 2 After the first 30 days, for your convenience, IN-HOME warranty service will still be avail- able but a trip charge will apply. This charge will be waived if the Craftsman product is dropped off at an authorized Sears location. For the nearest authorized Sears location, please call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.

  • Page 3: General Operation

    IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throw- ing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death. . Be aware of the mower discharge direc- _iLWARNING: In order to prevent acciden- tion and do not point it at anyone.
  • Page 4 o Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with • Mow up and down slopes, not across. safe machine operation. • Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc. o Never allow children to operate machine.
  • Page 5 @@@@@ , Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree • Be sure the area is clear of other people limbs, etc. before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area. , Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall •...

  • Page 6: Specifications

    W/Filter 4.0 Pints W/O Filter 3.75 Pints AGREEMENTS Congratulations on making a smart pur- Spark Plug: Champion QC12YC chase. Your new Craftsman@ product is 'GAP: .040") designed and manufactured for years of Ground Speed Forward: dependable operation. But like all prod-...
  • Page 7 Steering Wheel Steering Steering Steering Extension Adapter Sleeve Shaft Steering Wheel Insert (1) Locknut 1/2-20 (1) Locknut 1/4-28 (1) Large Flat Washer (1) Hex Bolt 1/4-28x 1-1/4 Seat (1) Washer 17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge (1) Knob Keys Video Cassette Slope Sheet (1) Oil Drain Tube...

  • Page 8: Tools Required For Assembly

    Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with the 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 INSTALL SEAT NOTE: You may now roll or drive your tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate Adjust seat before tightening adjustment instruction below to remove the tractor knob. from the skid. Remove adjustment knob and flat washer securing seat to cardboard TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See packing...

  • Page 10: Check Tire Pressure

    INSTALL MULCHER PLATE CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM After you learn how to operate your trac- (If previously removed) tor, check to see that the brake is properly 1. Raise and hold deflector shield in adjusted. See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" in upright position. the Service and Adjustments section of 2.
  • Page 11 These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning. I'.,I REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH CHOKE FAST SLOW IGNITION ENGINE OFF LIGHTS ON ENGINE ON ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE PARKING BRAKE PARKING BRAKE LOCKED UNLOCKED...

  • Page 12: Motion Control

    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 of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference. Light Switch Position Attachment Ignition Clutch Lever...
  • Page 13 The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses I or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend standard safety glasses or a wide vision safety mask worn over spectac as.

  • Page 14: To Operate On Hills

    • The average lawn should be cut to ap- _CAUTION: Do not operate the mower proximately 2-1/2 inches during the cool without either the entire grass catcher, season and to over 3 inches during hot on mowers so equipped, or the deflector months.

  • Page 15: Add Gasoline

    Transmission Engaged _CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame. IMPORTANT: When operating in tempera- tures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to help insure good cold weather starting. CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can...
  • Page 16 PURGE TRANSMISSION WARM WEATHER STARTING (50 ° F and above) To ensure proper operation and per- 8. When engine starts, slowly push choke formance, it is recommended that the control in until the engine begins to transmission be purged before operating run smoothly.
  • Page 17 MOWING TIPS MULCHING MOWING TIPS • Mower should be properly leveled for IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep best mowing performance. See "TO mower housing free of built-up grass and LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the trash. Clean after each use. Service and Adjustments section of this •...

  • Page 18: General Recommendations

    ASYOUCO_o_PLE--E ._'___ REGULAla SERVICE _'__ SERVICE DATES Check Brake Operation Check Tire Pressure Che_k Operator Pro*en_ 1" Interlock Sy*lems Check for LOOSe Fe.slenors 11_#5 ahalpeniRepla_ Mower Blades 1" Lul_rioation Chart Check Battery Level Clean Bailer}, and Terminals Check Traneaxle Coolh_g Check Engine Oil Loyal Change...
  • Page 19 TRACTOR IMPORTANT: To ensure proper assembly, center hole in blade must align with star Always observe safety rules when per- on mandrel assembly. forming any maintenance. 4. Reassemble blade bolt, lock washer BRAKE OPERATION and flat washer in exact order as If tractor requires more than six (6) feet shown.

  • Page 20: Engine Lubrication

    V-BELTS BATTERY Check V-belts for deterioration and wear Your tractor has a battery charging system which is sufficient for normal use. How- after 100 hours of operation and replace ever, periodic charging of the battery with if necessary. The belts are net adjustable. an automotive charger will extend its life.
  • Page 21 IMPORTANT: Petroleum solvents, such Oil Drain Valve as kerosene, are not to be used to clean the cartridge. They may cause deterio- Closed and ration of the cartridge. Do net oil cartridge. Locked --- ---- De net use pressurized air to clean or dry Position cartridge.

  • Page 22: Spark Plugs

    MUFFLER CLEANING Inspect and replace corroded muffler and o Clean engine, battery, seat, finish, etc. of all foreign matter. spark arrester (if equipped) as it could cre- ate a fire hazard and/or damage. . Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of all gasoline, oil, etc.
  • Page 23 WARNING: TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY, BEFORE PERFORMING ANY SER- VICE OR ADJUSTMENTS: 1. Depress clutch/brake pedal fully and set parking brake. 2. Place motion control lever in neutral (N) position. 3. Place attachment clutch in "DISENGAGED" position. 4. Turn ignition key to "STOP" and remove key. 5.

  • Page 24: Side-To-Side

    TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING o To lower front of mower loosen nut "E" on both front links an equal number of Adjust the mower while tractor is parked turns. on level ground or driveway. Make sure o When distance "D" is 1/8" to 1/2" tires are properly inflated (See "PROD- UCT SPECIFICATIONS"...
  • Page 25 TO ADJUST BRAKE TO REPLACE MOWER BLADE DRIVE BELT 1. Depress clutch/brake pedal all the way The mower blade drive belt may be re- down and engage parking brake. placed without tools. Park the tractor on 2. Measure distance between brake oper- level surface.
  • Page 26 3. Pull belt toward front of tractor and roll 1. Loosen the adjustment bolt. 2. Move the motion control lever 1/4 to around the top groove of engine pulley. 4. Install belt through stationary idler and 1/2 inch in the direction it is trying to clutching idler.

  • Page 27: To Attach Jumper Cables

    REPLACING BATTERY Washers ,_WARNING: Do not short battery Retaining terminals by allowing a wrench or any other object to contact both terminals at Axle the same time. Before connecting battery, Cover remove metal bracelets, wristwatch bands, rings, etc. Positive terminal must be connected first to prevent sparking from accidental grounding.
  • Page 28 TO REMOVE HOOD AND GRILL 3. Choke should be closed. If it is not, SEMBLY loosen casing clamp screw and move 1. Raise hood. choke cable until choke is completely closed. Tighten casing clamp screw 2. Unsnap headlight wire connector. securely.
  • Page 29 Immediately prepare your tractor for stor- Also, alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol age at the end of the season or if the trac- or using ethanol or methanol) can attract tor will not be used for 30 days or more. moisture which leads to separation and •...

  • Page 30: Troubleshooting

    TROUBLESHOOTING CHART: See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Will not start 1. Out of fuel. 1. Fill fuel tank. 2. See "TO START ENGINE" 2. Engine not "CHOKED" properly. in Operation section. 3.
  • Page 31 TROUBLESHOOTING CHART: See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION 3. Clean underside of mower LOSS of power Build-up of grass, leaves and trash under mower. continued) housing. 4. Clean/replace air filter. Dirty air filter. 5.
  • Page 32 TROUBLESHOOTING CHART: See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION Mower blades will 2. Worn/damaged mower 2. Replace mower drive belt. not rotate (con't) drive belt. 3. Frozen idler pulley. 3. Replace idler pulley. 4.
  • Page 33 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 SCHEMATIC "llllll BLA_K BATTERY FUSE AMMETER STARTER _OPTIONAL) SOLENOID CLUTCH / BRAKE _PEDAL WIIITE BEAT SWITCH IGNITION _40T OCCUPIED) SWITCH GROUNDING CONNECTOR SPARK IGNITION PLUG UNIT (2 PLUGS ON LINE i TWIN CYL. ENGINES) FUEL SHUT-OFf: SOLENOID...
  • Page 34 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 ELECTRICAL...
  • Page 35 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 ELECTRICAL KEY PART NO. NO. DESCRIPTION I44927 Battery 74760412 Bolt, Hex I/4-20 × 3/4 186491 Box, Battery 176138 Switch Interlock 183759 Harness Light Socket (wi4152J) 4152J Light Bulb 4799J Cable, Battery I46148 Cable, Battery 175I 58 Fuse 73510400...

  • Page 36: Chassis And Enclosures

    TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 CHASSIS AND ENCLOSURES 212 --...
  • Page 37 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 CHASSIS AND ENCLOSURES PART DESCRIPTION Chassis 174619 176554 Drawbar 155272 Bumper Hood/Dash 187846X013 Dash STD533710 Bolt Carriage 3/8-16 × I 174996 Panel, Dash, LH 172105X010 Panel, Dash, RH 17490608 Screw Thdrol 3/8-I6 x 1/2 185682X558 Hood Assembly 184921...

  • Page 38: Ground Drive

    TRACTOR"" MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 GROUND DRIVE drive.hyd TO.S_.I'I 5 3...
  • Page 39 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 GROUND DRIVE KEY PART KEY PART NO. NO. DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION Screw He;<Wsh Hi-Lo Traasaxle (See Breakdown) I42432 Peerless LTH2000 I/4 x 1/2 uric 165866 Rod Shift Fender Adjust I34683 Keeper Belt Engine STD561210 Pin Cotter 1/8 x I CAD 137057 Spacer Washer...

  • Page 40: Steering Assembly

    TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 STEERING ASSEMBLY _eeei_lg plJl_ 42...
  • Page 41 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 STEERING ASSEMBLY KEY PART DESCRIPTION I39768 Steering Wheel 175131 Front Axle Assembly 169840 Spindle Assembly, L.H 169839 Spindle Assembly. R.H. 6266H Bearing, Race, Thrust, Hardened I21748X Washer 25/32 x 1-5/8 x 16 Ga. 19272016 Washer 27/32 x 1-1/4 x 16 Ga.

  • Page 42: Optional Equipment

    TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 ENGINE OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT Spark Arrester PART PART DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION 170548 Control Throttle Paddle 157103 Tank Fuel 3 50 Rear Screw Hex Thd Cut 1/4-20 x 5/8 T 181696 17720408 Cap Fuel Engine (See Breakdown) Briggs 123487X Clamp Hose BIk Model No.

  • Page 43: Seat Assembly

    TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 SEAT ASSEMBLY se_t Itknob 9 PART PART DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION 188718 Seat 121248X Bracket Pnt Mounting Switch 180168 Bracket Fender 121248X Bushing Snap BIk Ny150 Id Bolt Fin He× 8/8-I8 uncx I 71110616 72050412 Bolt Rdhd Sht Nk I/4-20 x I-I/2 19131610 Washer I3/32 ×...

  • Page 44: Wheels And Tires

    TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 DECALS KEY PART PART NO. NO. DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION 156439 Decal Fender Danger Sears 189647 Decal Dash Panel 184730 Decal Hood Side 160396 Decal Mower Drive Schematic 184728 Decal Hood Rh 138047 Decal Battery Diehard Sears 184729 Decal Hood Lh 172331...

  • Page 45: Lift Assembly

    TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 LIFT ASSEMBLY lift-rh.1 piece_3 KEY PART PART NO. NO. DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION I59460 Lift Lever Inner Wire Asm. STD824008 Retainer Spring 159471 Shaft Asm. Lift 173288 Link Front Pin Groove 73350800 Nut Jam He;< I/2-13 unc 105787X 12000002 175889...

  • Page 46: Mower Deck

    TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 MOWER DECK /145 _146...
  • Page 47 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 MOWER DECK KEY PART KEY PART DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION 165892 Mower Housing 185723 Spacer, Retainer STD533107 Bolt 141043 Guard, Tuv Idler (94) Knob Custom Oval 138017 BraeketAasembly, SwayBar, 149848 Front 144959 V-Belt Locknut, He;<WAtTsh 3/8-I8 unc 185460 Bracket Sway Bar 38/42 STD541437...
  • Page 48 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 PEERLESS TRANSAXLE - - MODEL NUMBER LTH2000 g_>i 2 5 s7 .. ,EXLJill " 10£ 20<7...
  • Page 49 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 PEERLESSTRANSAXLE - - MODEL NUMBER LTH2O0O PART PART DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION 772151 Cover LH 786196 Spacer 625 765 770135 Case 792201 Spring 776355 Counter Shaft 792154 Oil Fill Plug 778263 Spur Gear 11T 788088A Oil Seal 3/4' 786197 Neutral Sleeve (.572) 792141...
  • Page 50 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE-MODEL NUMBER 407577,TYPE NUMBER 0283-E1 1010 LABEL 04 ,_ 220 @...
  • Page 51 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE-MODEL NUMBER 407577, TYPE NUMBER 0283-E1 914_ 243_ 121 CARBUR#TOR OVERHAUL KIT 275 @ F,:_=2 533 + 10_ _ _987 55_ 8 7_2 @ _04 O g77OARBURETOR GASKET SRT 51B(_...
  • Page 52 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 BRIGGS & STRATTONENGINE-MODELNUMBER407577,TYPE NUMBER 0283-E1 1329 FIEPLACEI'4ENTENGINE ,329 HEPAIR MANUAL 355 ENGINE GASKET SET 8_Y2 948 O © 7 71 51B _ 997'_...
  • Page 53 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE-MODEL NUMBER 407577, TYPE NUMBER 0283-E1 PART PART DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION Valve-Throttle 699751 Cylinder Assembly 699809 Kit-Throttle Shaft 499585 Kit-Bushing/Seal (Magneto Side) 699812 Float-Carburetor 891088 ,Seal-Oil (Magneto Side) 694914 OGasket-FIoat Bowl 699747 Sump-Engine 698781 Kit-Choke Shaft...
  • Page 54 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE-MODEL NUMBER 407577,TYPE NUMBER 0283-E1 PART PART DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION Wire/Connector-Alternator 691008 Knob-Air Cleaner 393456 696459 Alternator 691127 Screw (Rocker C_ver) Hose-Vaeu um 691029 Nut (Governor Control Lever) 694000 497606 Drive-Starter 691003 Screw (Choke Control Bracket) 692024 Clutch-Drive...
  • Page 55 SUGGESTED GUIDE FOR SIGHTING SLOPES FOR SAFE OPERATION 1. Fold this page along doffed line indicated above. 2, Hold page before you so that its left edge is vertically parallel to a tree trunk or other upright structure, 3. Sight across the fold in the direction of hill slope you want to measure, 4, Compare the angle of the fold with the slope of the hill,...
  • Page 56 Your Home For repair - in your home - of all major brand appliances, lawn and garden equipment, or heating and cooling systems, no matter who made it, no matter who sold it! For the replacement parts, accessories owner's manuals that you need to do-it-yourself. For Sears professional installation of home appliances...

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