Craftsman 917.253540 Operator's Manual page 14

TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD
The direction and speed of movement is
controlled by the forward and reverse drive
pedals.
1. Start tractor and release parking brake.
2. Slowly depress forward (K) or reverse (L)
drive pedal to begin movement. Ground
speed increases the further down the
pedal is depressed.
TO USE CRUISE CONTROL
The cruise control feature can be used for
forward travel only.
SYSTEM CHARACTERISTICS
The cruise control should only be used
while mowing or transporting on relatively
smooth, straight surfaces. Other conditions
such as trimming at slow speeds may cause
the cruise control to disengage. Do not use
the cruise control on slopes, rough terrian
or while trimmimg or turning.
With forward drive pedal (K) depressed to
desired speed, pull cruise control lever (J)
up and hold while lifting your foot off the
pedal, then release the lever.
To disengage the cruise control, depress the
brake pedal or tap on forward drive pedal.
TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT
The position of the attachment lift lever (A)
determines the cutting height.
• Put attachment lift lever in desired cutting
height slot.
The cutting height range is approximately
1 "to 4". The heights are measured from the
ground tothe blade tip with the engine not run-
ning. These heights are approximate and may
vary depending upon soil conditions, height
of grass and types of grass being mowed.
• The average lawn should be cut to approxi-
mately 2-1/2 inches during the cool season
and to over 3 inches during hot months. For
healthier and better looking lawns, mow often
and after moderate growth.
• For best cutting performance, grass over
6 inches in height should be mowed twice.
Make the first cut relatively high; the sec-
ond to desired height.
TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS
Gauge wheels are properly adjusted when
they are slightly off the ground when mower
is at the desired cutting height in operating
position. Gauge wheels then keep the deck
in proper position to help prevent scalping
in most terrain conditions.
NOTE: Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on
a flat level surface.
1. Adjust mower to desired cutting height
(See "TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING
HEIGHT" in this section of manual).
2. With mower in desired height of cut posi-
tion, gauge wheels should be assembled
so they are slightly off the ground. Install
gauge wheel in appropriate hole. Tighten
securely.
3. Repeat for all, installing gauge wheel in
same adjustment hole.
TO OPERATE MOWER
Your tractor is equipped with an operator
presence sensing switch. Any attempt
by the operator to leave the seat with the
engine running and the attachment clutch
engaged will shut off the engine. You must
remain fully and centrally positioned in the
seat to prevent the engine from hesitating or
cutting off when operating your equipment
on rough, rolling terrain or hills.
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