Craftsman 917.288526 Operator's Manual page 12

TO MOVE FORWARD AND
BACKWARD
The direction and speed of movement is
controlled by the motion control lever. (J)
1. Start tractor with motion control lever in
neutral position,
2. Release parking brake.
3. Slowly move motion control lever to
desired position.
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.
• Slidepointertab (T)to desired cutting height
as a reminder for next time you mow.
The cutting height range is approximately 1
to 4" (25,4 to 101,6 mm). 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 conditions, height of grass and
types of grass being mowed.
• The averagelawn should be cutto approxi-
mately 2-1/2" (63,5 mm) during the cool
season and to over 3" (76,2 mm) during
hot months. For healthier and better look-
ing lawns, mow often and after moderate
growth,
• For best cutting performance, grass over
6" (152,4 mm) in height should be mowed
twice. Make the first cut relatively high; the
second to desired height.
TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS
Gauge wheels are properly adjusted when
they are slightly offthe 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 CUI-rlNG
HEIGHT" in this section of manual).
2. With mower indesired 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,
1. Select desired height of cut with attach-
ment liftlever.
2. Start mower blades by engaging attach-
ment clutch control.
TO STOP MOWER BLADES
Disengage attachment clutch control.
_I_CAUTION: Do not operate the mower
without either the entire grass catcher, on
mowers so equipped, orthe deflector shield
in place.
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