Craftsman 917.99295 Operator's Manual page 14

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT
The position of the attachment lift lever
determines the cutting height.
• Grasp lift lever.
• Press plunger with thumb and move lever
to desired position.
The cutting height range is approximately
1-1/2 to 4". The heights are measured from
the ground to the blade tip with the engine
not running. These heights are approximate
and may vary depending upon soil condi-
tions, height of grass and types of grass
being mowed.
• The average lawn should be cut to ap-
proximately 2-1/2" during the cool season
and to over 3" during hot months. For
healthier and better looking lawns, mow
often and after moderate growth.
• For best cutting performance, grass over
6" in height should be mowed twice. Make
the first cut relatively high; the second to
desired height.
REVERSE OPERATION SYSTEM (ROS)
Your tractor is equipped with a Reverse
Operation System (ROS). Any attempt by
the operator to travel in the reverse direction
with the attachment clutch engaged will shut
off the engine unless ignition key is placed
in the ROS "ON" position.
,_WARNING: Backing up with the at-
tachment clutch engaged while mowing is
strongly discouraged. Turning the ROS "ON",
to allow reverse operation with the attach-
ment clutch engaged, should only be done
when the operator decides it is necessary to
reposition the machine with the attachment
engaged. Do not mow in reverse unless
absolutely necessary.
USING THE REVERSE OPERATION
SYSTEM -
Only use if you are certain no children or
other bystanders will enter the mowing area.
1. Depress clutch/brake pedal all the way
down and hold.
2. With engine running, turn ignition key
counterclockwise to ROS "ON" position.
3. Look down and behind before and while
backing.
4. Move gear shift lever to reverse (R)
position and slowly release clutch/brake
pedal to start movement.
5. When use of the ROS is no longer
needed, turn the ignition key clockwise
to engine "ON" position.
ROS "ON" Position
Engine "ON" Position
(Normal Operating)
TO OPERATE ON HILLS
,Ii_WARNING: Do not drive up or down hills
with slopes greater than 15 ° and do not
drive across any slope. Use the slope guide
provided at the back of this manual.
• Choosethe slowest speed before starting
up or down hills.
• Avoid stopping orchanging speed on hills.
• If stopping is absolutely necessary, push
clutch/brake pedal quickly to brake posi-
tion and engage parking brake.
• Move gearshift lever to 1st gear. Be sure
you have allowed room for tractor to roll
slightly as you restart movement.
• To restart movement, slowly release park-
ing brake and clutch/brake pedal.
• Make all turns slowly.
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.
1. Select desired height of cut.
2. Start mower blades by engaging attach-
ment clutch control.
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