Troubleshooting Chart - Craftsman 917.287210 Operator's Manual

ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
iMPORTANT: It is important to prevent
gum deposits from forming in essential
fuel system parts such as carburetor, fuel
hose, or tank during storage. Also, alcohol
blended fuels (called gasohol or using
ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture
which leads to separation and formation of
acids during storage. Acidic gas can dam-
age the fuel system of an engine while in
storage.
• Empty the fuel tank by starting the en-
gine and letting it run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty.
• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
• Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable
alternative in minimizing the formation of
fuel gum deposits during storage. Add
stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or stor-
age container. Always follow the mix ratio
found on stabilizer container. Run engine
at least 10 minutes after adding stabilizer
to allow the stabilizer to reach the car-
buretor. Do not empty the gas tank and
carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace
with clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in
the Maintenance section of this manual).
CYLINDER(S)
1. Remove spark plug(s).
2. Pour one ounce of oil through spark
plug hole(s) into cylinder(s).
3. Turn ignition key to start position for a
few seconds to distribute oil.
4. Replace with new spark plug(s).
OTHER
• Do not store gasoline from one season
to another.
Replace your gasoline can if your can
starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your
gasoline will cause problems.
If possible, store your tractor indoors
and cover it to give protection from dust
and dirt.
Cover your tractor with a suitable pro-
tective cover that does not retain mois-
ture. Do not use plastic. Plastic cannot
breathe which allows condensation to
form and will cause your tractor to rust.
iMPORTANT: Never cover tractor while
engine and exhaust areas are still warm.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART:
See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Will riot stsrt 1 Out of fuel. 1 Fill fuel tank.
2 Engine not "CHOKED" properly. 2 See "TO START ENGINE" in
Operation section.
3 Engine flooded. 3 Wait several minutes before
attempting to start.
4 Bad spark plug. 4 Replace spark plug.
5 Dirty air filter. 5 Clean/replace air filter.
6 Dirty fuel filter. 6 Replace fuel filter.
7 Water in fuel.
7 Empty fuel tank and carburetor,
refill tank with fresh gasoline and
replace fuel filter.
8 Loose or damaged wiring. 8 Check all wiring.
9 Carburetor out of adjustment.
9 See "To Adjust Carburetor" in
Service and Adjustments section.
10 Engine valves out of adjustment. 10 Contact a Sears or other qualified
service center.
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