Craftsman LAWN TRACTOR 917.270962 Owner's Manual

20.5 hp electric start 42" mower automatic lawn tractor

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Owner's Manual
rRRFT [MRN°
20.5 HP
ELECTRIC
START
42" MOWER
AUTOMATIC
LAWN TRACTOR
Model No.
917.270962
• Safety
• Assembly
• Operation
° Maintenance
• Repair Parts
eng n_,tead and U n_eNtan_i;thi_
CAUTION:
Read and follow all Safety Rules
and Instructions before operat-
ing this equipment.
For answers
to your questions
about this product, Call:
1-800-659-5917
Sears Craftsman
Help Line
5 am - 5 pm, Mon - Sat
Sears, Roebuck
and Co,, Hoffman
Estates, I160179
Visit
our Craftsman
website:www.sears.com/craftsman

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Summary of Contents for Craftsman LAWN TRACTOR 917.270962

  • Page 1 U n_eNtan_i;thi_ CAUTION: Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before operat- ing this equipment. Sears, Roebuck and Co,, Hoffman Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman For answers to your questions about this product, Call: 1-800-659-5917 Sears Craftsman Help Line...
  • Page 2 Please contact your nearest service center. After 30 warranty service is available by taking your Craftsman Sears Service Center. (In-home but a standard is in the United States. This ESTATES, • Clear the area of objects rocks, toys, wire, etc., which could be...
  • Page 3: Slope Operation

    • Slowdown beforeturning. • Neverleave a runningmachine unattended. A lwaysturn off blades,set parkingbrake,stop engine,and removekeys beforedismounting. • Turn off bladeswhen not mowing. • Stop enginebeforeremovinggrass catcheror uncloggingchute. • Mow only in daylightor good artificial light. • Do not operatethe machinewhile underthe influenceof alcoholor drugs.
  • Page 4 • Keep nuts and bolts, especially attachment bolts, tight and keep equipment in good condition. • Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation larly. • Keep machine free of grass, leaves, other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage.
  • Page 5: Product Specifications

    5 AMPS HEADLIGHTS BATTERY: AMP/HR: MIN. CCA: CASE SIZE:U1R BLADE BOLT 27-35 FT. LBS CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Craftsman Tractor. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible depend- ability and performance. Should...
  • Page 6 Steering Steering Wheel Adapter Seat (1) Washer 17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge (1) Knob Video Cassette Keys (2) Keys Wheel Extension Steering Shaft Sleeve teering (1) Hex Bolt 3/8-16 x 1 Locknut 5/16-18 (1) Shoulder Bolt 5/16-18 Slope Sheet...
  • Page 7: Tools Required

    Your new tractor has been assembled unassembled for shipping purposes. tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. correct tools as necessary to insure proper TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes you need are listed below.
  • Page 8 HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR CHECK BATTERY • Lift hood to raised position. • If this battery is put into service after month and year indicated on label (label located between terminals) charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps. (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance section of this manual for charging instructions).
  • Page 9 • Slowly move the motion control forward and slowly drive tractor skid. • Apply brake to stop tractor, set parking brake and place motion control in neutral position. • Turn ignition key to "OFF" position. Continue with the instructions that follow. CHECK TIRE PRESSURE...
  • Page 10: Important Items

    V' CHECKLIST BEFORE YOU OPERATE AND ENJOY YOUR NEW TRACTOR, WE WISH TO ASSURE THAT YOU RECEIVETHE BEST PERFORMANCE SATISFACTION FROM THIS QUALITY PRODUCT. PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST: All assembly instructions have been completed. •/ No remaining loose parts in carton. Battery is properly prepared...
  • Page 11 These symbols may appear on your tractor Learn and understand their meaning. BATTERy CAUTION OR WARNING ENGINE ON ENGINE OFF OIL PRESSURE FUEL CHOKE MOWER HEFGHT R N H L A'FFACHMENT REVERSE NEUTRAL CLUTCH ENGAGED ATTACHMENT IGNITION CLUTCH DISENGAGED DANGER, KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY or in literature supplied REVERSE...
  • Page 12 KNOWYOUR 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. Attachment Clutch Lever Ammeter Choke Throttle Con Clutch/ Height Adjustment Knob Free Wheel Our tractors...
  • Page 13 The operation of any tractor can the eyes, which can result in severe glasses or eye shields adjustments or repairs. over spectacles or standard HOW TO USE YOUR TRACTOR TO SET PARKING BRAKE Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch.
  • Page 14 The cutting height range is approxi- mately 1-1/2" to 4". The heights measured from the ground to the blade tip with the engine not running. heights are approximate and may vary depending upon soil conditions, of grass and types of grass being mowed.
  • Page 15: To Start Engine

    • Pull freewheel control out and down into the slot and release so it is held in the disengaged position. • Do not push or tow tractor at more than two (2) MPH. • To reengage transmission, reverse above procedure. NOTE: To protect hood from damage when transporting...
  • Page 16 • Insert key into ignition and turn key clockwise to "START" position release key as soon as engine starts. Do not run starter continuously for more than fifteen seconds per minute. If the engine does not start after several attempts, push choke control in, wait a few minutes and try again.
  • Page 17 • Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. After the engine is running, move throttle control to half (1/2) speed. motion control lever in neutral position, slowly disengage clutch/ brake pedal. • Slowly move motion control lever forward, after the tractor moves approximately five (5) feet, slowly move motion control lever to reverse...
  • Page 18: General Recommendations

    Ch. SrekeO ration W Check Tire Pressure Check Operator Presence Interlock Systems Check for Loose Fasteners Lubrication Chart Check Battery Level Sharpen/Replace Mower Blades Clean Battery and Terminals Check Trensexle Cooling Adjust Blade Bell(s) Tension Adjust Motion Ddve Belt(s) Tension Check Engine Oil Level Change...
  • Page 19 TRACTOR Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance. BRAKE OPERATION If tractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance at high speed in highest gear, then brake must be adjusted. (See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section this manual).
  • Page 20 NOTE- The original equipment battery 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 BATTERYAND TERMINALS Corrosion and dirt on the battery terminals can cause the battery to "leak"...
  • Page 21: Clean Air Intake/Cooling Areas

    overheating. Clean with a wire brush or compressed air to remove dirt and stubborn dried gum fibers. INTAKE/COOLING CLEAN AREAS To insure proper cooling, make sure the grass screen, cooling fins, and other external sudaces of the engine are kept clean at all times.
  • Page 22 CLEANING of all foreign matter. Clean engine, battery, seat, finish, etc. Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of all gasoline, oil, etc. • Protect painted surfaces with automo- tive type wax. CAUTION: Before performing • Depress clutch/brake • Place motion control lever in neutral (N) position• •...
  • Page 23 TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING Adjust the mower while tractor is parked on level ground or driveway. Make sure tires are properly inflated (See "PROD- UCT SPECIFICATIONS" section manual). If tires are over or underinflated, you will not properly adjust your mower. SIDE-TO-SIDE ADJUSTMENT •...
  • Page 24 TO REPLACE MOWER BLADE DRIVE BELT The mower blade drive belt may be replaced without tools. Park the tractor on level surface. Engage parking brake. BELT REMOVAL - • Remove mower from tractor (See =TO REMOVE MOWER" in this section of this manual).
  • Page 25 TRANSAXLE MOTION CONTROL LEVER NEUTRAL ADJUSTMENT The motion control lever has been preset at the factory and adjustment should not be necessary. • Loosen adjustment bolt in front of the right rear wheel, and lightly tighten. • Start engine and move motion control lever until tractor does not move forward or backward.
  • Page 26 TO START ENGINE WITH A WEAK BATTERY CAUTION: Lead-acid batteries generate explosive gases. Keep sparks, flame and smoking materials away from batteries. Always wear eye protection when around batteries. If your battery is too weak to start the engine, it should be recharged.
  • Page 27 TO REMOVE HOOD AND GRILL ASSEMBLY • Raise hood. • Unsnap headlight wire connector. • Stand in front of tractor. Grasp hood at sides, tilt toward engine and lift off of tractor. • To replace, reverse above procedure. Hood light Wire ector ENGINE Maintenance,...
  • Page 28: Final Setting

    then turn out (counterclockwise) to 1-1/2 turns. FINAL SETTING • Start engine and allow to warm for five minutes. Make final adjustments engine running and shift/motion control lever in neutral (N) position. • With throttle control lever in slow position, hold throttle lever against speed screw...
  • Page 29 Immediately prepare your tractor storage at the end of the season or if the tractor will not be used for 30 days or more. w_lt CAUTION: Never store the tractor h gasoline in the tank inside building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark.
  • Page 30: Troubleshooting Chart

    TROUBLESHOOTING CHART PROBLEM CAUSE Will not start • Out of fuel. • Engine not "CHOKED" properly. • Engine flooded. • Bad spark plug. • Dirty air filter. • Dirty fuel filter • Water in fuel. • Loose or damaged • Carburetor Service Adjustments •...
  • Page 31 TROUBLESHOOTING CHART CAUSE PROBLEM • Build-up Loss of power and trash under mower. (Continued) • Didy air filter. • Low oil levelldidy • Faulty spark plug. • Dirty fuel filter. • Stale or dirty fuel. • Water in fuel. • Spark •...
  • Page 32 TROUBLESHOOTING CHART PROBLEM CAUSE Poor grass • Engine speed too slow. discharge • Travel speed too fast. • Wet grass. • Mower deck not level. • Low/uneven • Worn, bent or loose blade. • Buildup trash under mower. • Mower drive belt worn. •...
  • Page 33 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270962 SCHEMATIC AMM_FER (OPTIONAL) WHITE CLUTCH/BRAKE (PEDALUP) IGNITION SWITCH (OPTIONAL) i ... BLUE YOUR TRACTOR IS EQUIPPED WiTH A SPECIAL ALTERNATOR SYSTEM. THE LIGHTS ARE NOT CONNECTED BATTERY, BUT HAVE THEIR OWN ELECTRICAL SOURCE. BECAUSE OF THIS, THE BRIGHTNESS WILL CHANGE WITH ENGINE SPEED.
  • Page 34 TRACTOR ELECTRICAL 33 _ - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270962...
  • Page 35 TRACTOR ELECTRICAL PART 163465 74760412 7603J 145211 150109 145769 153664 73350400 166182 41523 4799J 146145 166180 73510400 145491 121305X 163968 140403 170217 71110408 131563 145673 121433X 141940 17490508 NOTE: All component dimensions given in US, inches 1 inch = 25.4 mm - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270962 DESCRIPTION...
  • Page 36: Chassis And Enclosures

    TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270962 CHASSIS AND ENCLOSURES 208 _...
  • Page 37 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER CHASSIS AND ENCLOSURES PART 169830 16£061 17060612 155272 168337X013 STD533710 155927 145660 169118 144983X558 126938X 156437 124028X 19131312 STD541437 166271X558 155217X599 154791X558 139976 17490508 169834 73800400 19091416 145201 161464 145202 STD552507 140547 72140606 154798 S'rD541437 165867 154966 154207...
  • Page 38: Ground Drive

    TRACTOR - . MODEL NUMBER 917.270962 GROUND DRIVE...
  • Page 39 TRACTOR GROUND DRIVE PART DESCRIPTION Transaxle(See Breakdown) Hydro Gr 314-0510 165866 Rod Shift Fender Adjust STD561210 Pin Cotter 1/8 x 1 CAD 10040400 Washer Lock Hvy Helical 74490544 Bolt Hex FLGHDS/16-18GR.5 STD541431 Nut Lock Hex W/Ins. 5/16-18 Uric STD541437 Nut Lock Hex W/Wsh 3/8-16 130564 Knob, Deluxe 1/2-13 169499...
  • Page 40: Steering Assembly

    TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270962 STEERING ASSEMBLY ,'---_-4= 51_54...
  • Page 41 TRACTOR STEERING ASSEMBLY PART 139768 154427 169840 169839 6266H 121746X 19272016 12000029 :L'..'..'..'..'..'._ 169832 STD551137 136518 145212 155546 57079 160395 165857 165851 154406 126847X 136874 19131416 17060612 STD561210 130465 155099 152927 139769 19133812 STD541537 100711L 14,5064)(428 121749X 153720 121232X 6855M 73800500 74780520 167902...
  • Page 42: Optional Equipment

    TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270962 ENGINE ,. 27 _"_ OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT Spark Arrester...
  • Page 43 TRACTOR ENGINE PART 162152 17720410 149723 144069 144068 138129 150176 145552 STD551125 STD522507 165287 13280336 13200300 STD551237 17490624 169837 145996 73920600 152927 137180 157103 161696 123487X 106082X 8543R 109227X 17060612 128861 NOTE: All component 1 inch = 25.4 mm - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270962 DESCRIPTION Control Throt Paddle 32 22...
  • Page 44: Seat Assembly

    TRACTOR SEAT ASSEMBLY PART DESCRIPTION 140123 Seat 3450 BIk/blk Craftsman 140551 Bracket Pnt Pivot Seat (blk) 71110616 Bolt Fin Hex 3/8-16unc X 1 19131610 Washer 13/32 X 3/4 X 10 Ga 145006 Clip Push In Hinged STD541437 Nut Hex Lock w/Ins 3/8-16...
  • Page 45: Wheels And Tires

    TRACTOR DECALS PART DESCRIPTION 156439 Decal Fender Danger Sears 163205 Decal Fend Auto Sears Gold 171696 Decal Hood Rh Craftsman 171697 Decal Hood Lh Craftsman 170933 Decal Engine H/P 133644 Decat Malnt Customer Sears Dora 171809 Decal Replacement 163204 Decal FenderCraftsman...
  • Page 46: Lift Assembly

    TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270962 LIFT ASSEMBLY...
  • Page 47 TRACTOR LIFT ASSEMBLY PART 159460 159471 105767X 12000002 19211621 120183X 125631X 122365X 139865 139866 STD624008 167253 73350800 130171 73680800 139668 163552 110807X 19131016 2876H 169484 126971X 73350600 138057 150233 140302 73540600 155097 123935X 17060516 19112410 155098 145212 110452X NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S. inches 1 inch = 25.4 mm - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270962...
  • Page 48 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270962 MOWER DECK _Y'_ 142 '...
  • Page 49 TRACTOR MOWER DECK PART DESCRIPTION Mower Housing 165892 Bolt STD533107 138017 BracketAssembly,Sway Bar,Front Bracket Sway Bar 38/42" 165460 STD624008 Retainer Spring Arm, Suspension, Rear 130832 Bolt, Hex 3/8-24 x 1.25 Gr. 8 850857 STD55 t 137 Washer, Lock Washer, Hardened 140296 134149 Blade, Mulching...
  • Page 50 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270962 HYDRO GEAR TRANSAXLE - - MODEL NUMBER 314-0510...
  • Page 51: Hydro Gear Transaxle

    TRACTOR HYDRO GEAR TRANSAXLE - - MODEL KEY PART NO. NO. DESCRIPTION 170351 Main Housing, Assembly 170352 Side Housing, Assembly 170353 Center SecUon, Assembly 170354 Swashplate, Trunion Machined 169898 Block - Assembly 170355 Sealant 10.50z 170356 Hex Range Screw 1/4-20 X 1.25 170357 Stud, 5/16-24 Hex Doubte End 170358...
  • Page 52 TRACTOR BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE-MODEL 12191 615A_ 220 ,,,_"_ :! _i _ 1132 - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270962 NUMBER 461707, TYPE NUMBER 0145-E3 2_8 _ 11050 OWNEWS 15 _I_ 13=_ 552A 404 o I 1019 LABEL KIT MANUAL tk REQUIRESSPECIALTOOLS TO INSTALL.
  • Page 53 TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270962 BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE-MODEL NUMBER 461707, TYPE NUMBER 0145-E3 861 PUMP REPAIR KIT 121 CARBURETOR KIT _ 432 ,3,2 104102 1 859 ,_ 433 I" 386 j_ :_-,.r 4741 1138 11311:_6 • 482 _ 78 '_ REQUIRES SPECIAL TOOLS TO INSTALL.
  • Page 54 TRACTOR BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE-MODEL - - MODEL NUMBER 917.270962 NUMBER 461707, TYPE NUMBER 0145-E3 358 GASKET SET...
  • Page 55 TRACTOR BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE-MODEL NUMBER 461707, TYPE NUMBER 0145-E3 PART DESCRIPTION 498583 Cylinder Assembly 399265 Bushing/Seal 391086 "_ Seal*Oil 493304 Sump-Engine 691162 Head-Cylinder 691163 Head-Cylinder 271867 _.Gasket-Cylinder 271868 .k_.Gasket-Cylinder 495754 Breather Assembly (Cylinder #1) 27803 _.Gasket-Breather 690334 Screw (Breather 690366 Screw (Breather Cover) 280225...
  • Page 56: Briggs & Stratton

    TRACTOR BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE-MODEL PART DESCRIPTION 94930 Scraw_CyUnder 497596 Motor-Starter 690323 Bolt (Starter Motor) 497608 Brush Set 230674 Nut (Flywheel) 394891 Armature-Magneto 94731 Screw (Magneto Armature) 802592 Plug-Spark 495868 Gasket Set 89638 Wrench-Spark 693490 O+ Gasket-Pump 693467 Body-Pump 693491 O+ Spring-Pump 690442 Washer (Governor...
  • Page 59 SUGGESTED SIGHTING GUIDE & GUIDE FOR SIGHTING SLOPES FOR SAFE OPERATION "_ Operate your Tractor up and down the face of slopes (not greater than 15°), never across the face. Make turns gradu- ally to prevent tipping or loss of control. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.
  • Page 60 For in-home major brand repair service: Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week 1-800-4-MY-HOME Para pedir servicio de reparaci6n 1-800-676-5811 In Canada for all your service and parts needs call Au Canada pour tout le service ou les pi_ces 1-800-665-4455 For the repair or replacement Call 6 am - 11 pm CST, 7 days a week...

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