Craftsman 917.28814 Operator's Manual page 19

TRACTOR
Always observe safety rules when performing
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
purchased from your local parts dealer. Tire
sealant 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.
• The engine should not start unlessthe brake
pedal is fully depressed, and the attachment
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
attachment 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.
CHECK REVERSE OPERATION (ROS)
SYSTEM
• When the engine is running with 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.
• When the 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.
ROS "ON"
POSITION
ENGINE "ON" POSITION
(NORMAL OPERATING)
BLADE CARE
For best results mower blades must be sharp.
eplace worn, bent or damaged blades.
CAUTION: Use only a replacement blade
approved bythe 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.
Blade
Blade Bolt Assembly
Center Hole
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.
19