Welcome to the Craftsman 917 manual‚ your comprehensive guide to understanding and operating the 20․0 HP electric start 42″ automatic lawn tractor․
1․1 Purpose and Importance of the Manual
This manual serves as your primary guide for understanding‚ assembling‚ and operating the Craftsman 917 lawn tractor effectively․ It ensures safe usage by detailing essential safety precautions and maintenance routines․ The manual also provides troubleshooting solutions‚ helping you address common issues swiftly․ By following the instructions‚ you can maximize the tractor’s performance and longevity․ Additionally‚ it outlines warranty conditions‚ ensuring you meet the criteria for coverage․ This comprehensive resource is indispensable for both novice and experienced users‚ offering clear‚ step-by-step guidance for optimal functionality and care․
1․2 Brief Overview of the Craftsman 917 Model
The Craftsman 917 is a powerful and versatile lawn tractor designed for efficient mowing․ It features a robust 20․0 HP engine‚ an electric start system‚ and an automatic transmission for smooth operation․ The 42-inch cutting deck ensures even and precise mowing‚ while the automatic drive enhances maneuverability․ This model is ideal for medium to large-sized lawns‚ offering durability and reliability․ With its user-friendly controls and advanced features‚ the Craftsman 917 is a popular choice for homeowners seeking a high-performance mowing solution․ Model numbers like 917․273142 and 917․257561 are part of this series․
Key Features of the Craftsman 917 Lawn Tractor
The Craftsman 917 offers a 20․0 HP engine‚ electric start‚ automatic transmission‚ and a 42-inch mower deck for efficient cutting․ It also features durable construction and user-friendly controls‚ making it ideal for large lawns․ The tractor’s design ensures smooth operation and maneuverability‚ while its advanced features enhance mowing performance and comfort․ This model is known for its reliability and versatility‚ catering to various lawn care needs․ The combination of power and precision makes it a top choice for homeowners seeking a high-quality lawn tractor․
2․1 Horsepower and Engine Specifications
The Craftsman 917 lawn tractor is equipped with a powerful 20․0 HP gas-powered engine‚ designed for reliable performance․ Its single-cylinder engine delivers consistent power for mowing‚ towing‚ and other tasks․ The engine features an overhead valve design‚ ensuring efficient operation and reduced emissions․ With a displacement of 40․99 cubic centimeters‚ it provides ample power for large lawns․ The engine’s durability and efficiency make it suitable for demanding yard work‚ while its smooth operation enhances the overall mowing experience․ Proper maintenance‚ as outlined in the manual‚ ensures optimal engine performance and longevity․
2․2 Mower Deck Size and Type
The Craftsman 917 features a 42-inch-wide mower deck‚ ideal for efficient cutting of larger lawns․ The deck is constructed of durable stamped steel‚ designed for long-lasting performance․ It offers adjustable cutting heights‚ allowing you to customize the mowing experience for your lawn․ The side-discharge design ensures even distribution of clippings‚ promoting healthy grass growth․ The deck’s compact size and robust build make it suitable for various terrains and mowing conditions․ Regular maintenance‚ as outlined in the manual‚ helps maintain its cutting efficiency and overall durability․
2․3 Transmission Type and Speed Options
The Craftsman 917 is equipped with an automatic transmission‚ providing smooth and effortless speed adjustments․ It features a variable speed control‚ allowing you to choose from multiple forward and reverse speeds․ This setup ensures optimal performance on different terrains and mowing conditions․ The automatic drive eliminates the need for manual gear shifting‚ making operation intuitive and user-friendly․ The transmission’s durability and seamless speed transitions contribute to a comfortable and efficient mowing experience․ Proper maintenance‚ as detailed in the manual‚ ensures the transmission continues to perform reliably over time․
2․4 Special Features (Electric Start‚ Automatic Drive)
The Craftsman 917 features an electric start system‚ allowing for quick and effortless engine ignition with the turn of a key․ This eliminates the need for manual pull-starting‚ enhancing convenience․ Additionally‚ the automatic drive system enables smooth acceleration and speed control‚ simplifying operation․ These features‚ combined with the tractor’s intuitive design‚ provide a user-friendly experience․ The electric start ensures reliable starting in various conditions‚ while the automatic drive offers seamless control‚ making the tractor both efficient and easy to maneuver during mowing tasks․ These innovations enhance overall performance and user satisfaction․
Safety Precautions and Rules
Always read and follow the safety guidelines in the manual to ensure safe operation․ Wear protective gear and keep loose clothing tied back․ Ensure children stay away․ Keep the area clear of obstacles and never operate the tractor under the influence of alcohol or drugs․ Familiarize yourself with controls before use․ Proper maintenance and regular checks are crucial for preventing accidents․ Always follow recommended practices to minimize risks and ensure a secure mowing experience․ Safety is paramount to protect both the operator and bystanders․ Adhere to all warnings provided in the manual for optimal safety․
3․1 General Safety Rules
Always read and understand the manual before operating the tractor․ Ensure the area is clear of obstacles‚ children‚ and pets․ Wear appropriate clothing and avoid loose items that could get caught․ Never operate the tractor under the influence of alcohol or drugs․ Familiarize yourself with all controls and ensure they function properly․ Keep the mower deck clear of debris and ensure all guards are in place․ Follow all safety guidelines to protect yourself and others․ Adhere to these rules to minimize risks and ensure a safe mowing experience․
3․2 Protective Equipment and Clothing
Always wear protective gear while operating the tractor to ensure safety․ This includes gloves‚ safety glasses‚ and sturdy‚ closed-toe shoes․ Avoid loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in moving parts․ Wear long pants and a hat to protect against debris․ Ensure all clothing is snug and secure․ Never operate the tractor without proper protective equipment․ This will help prevent injuries and ensure a safe mowing experience․ Always check that your gear is in good condition before use․
3․3 Hazard Warnings and Caution Symbols
Always pay attention to hazard warnings and caution symbols located on the tractor and in this manual․ These symbols alert you to potential dangers‚ such as hot surfaces‚ moving parts‚ or sharp edges․ Understand their meanings to ensure safe operation․ Common symbols include warnings for entanglement hazards‚ crushing risks‚ and electrical components․ Never ignore these warnings‚ as they are designed to prevent accidents․ Familiarize yourself with the symbols before operating the tractor to maintain a safe working environment and avoid injuries․ Always follow the instructions provided with each warning to ensure proper precautions are taken․ Stay alert and cautious while operating the tractor․
Assembly Instructions
Begin by carefully unpacking and inventorying all parts․ Follow the step-by-step guide to assemble the tractor‚ ensuring all components are securely fastened․ Attach the mower deck according to instructions and perform final checks to ensure proper assembly and functionality before first use․
4․1 Unpacking and Inventory of Parts
Begin by carefully unpacking the tractor and all accessories from the shipping crate․ Inspect each component for damage or defects․ Use the provided parts list to verify that all items are included․ Check for essential components like the mower deck‚ seat‚ steering wheel‚ and hardware package․ Handle parts with care to avoid damage․ Organize smaller parts in a safe place to prevent loss․ If any items are missing or damaged‚ contact customer support immediately․ Ensure all components are accounted for before proceeding with assembly․
4․2 Step-by-Step Assembly Process
Start by attaching the steering wheel using the provided hardware․ Next‚ install the seat and secure it firmly․ Attach the mower deck by aligning the mounting brackets and tightening the bolts․ Ensure all connections are secure․ Follow the manual’s instructions for connecting the battery and wiring harness․ Purge the transmission according to the guidelines to ensure proper fluid flow․ Double-check all bolts and connections for tightness․ Finally‚ test all controls to ensure they function correctly before first use; Always refer to the manual for specific torque specifications and assembly sequence․
4․3 Attaching the Mower Deck
To attach the mower deck‚ align the mounting brackets on the deck with those on the tractor․ Secure it using the provided bolts and tighten evenly․ Connect the mower belt to the deck pulley‚ ensuring proper tension․ Attach the deck lift linkage and lower the deck to the lowest position․ Tighten all hardware firmly and double-check the alignment․ Finally‚ test the deck engagement to ensure it operates smoothly․ Always refer to the manual for specific torque values and safety precautions during this process․
4․4 Final Assembly Checks
After completing the assembly‚ perform a thorough inspection․ Ensure all bolts and nuts are tightened securely․ Check the mower deck alignment and blade engagement․ Verify proper function of the transmission and steering․ Test the electrical systems‚ including lights and controls․ Fill fluids as specified in the manual‚ such as oil and hydraulic fluid․ Finally‚ conduct a test run in an open area to ensure all components operate smoothly and safely․ Address any issues before regular use to prevent potential damage or hazards․
Operating the Lawn Tractor
Operating the Craftsman 917 involves understanding safety protocols‚ control functions‚ and efficient mowing techniques․ Familiarize yourself with the ignition‚ throttle‚ and blade controls for seamless operation․ Always follow safety guidelines and manufacturer recommendations to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your lawn tractor․
5․1 Pre-Operation Checks
Before operating the Craftsman 917‚ ensure all safety protocols are followed․ Check oil levels‚ tire pressure‚ and inspect for loose parts․ Verify the mower deck is clear of debris and the throttle is in the correct position․ Ensure all protective guards are in place and the area is free from obstacles․ Consult the manual for specific guidelines on pre-operation checks to ensure safe and efficient operation․ Always wear appropriate protective gear and familiarize yourself with the controls before starting the engine․
5․2 Starting the Engine
To start the engine‚ ensure the transmission is in neutral and the parking brake is engaged․ Locate the key switch‚ insert the key‚ and turn it clockwise to the “start” position․ Allow the starter to crank the engine for a few seconds until it roars to life․ Avoid prolonged cranking to prevent battery drain․ Once the engine starts‚ release the key and allow it to idle briefly before adjusting the throttle․ Always refer to the manual for specific starting procedures tailored to your Craftsman 917 model․
5․3 Basic Driving Instructions
Once the engine is running‚ slowly release the parking brake and shift the transmission into forward or reverse gear using the control lever․ Steer using the wheel‚ adjusting speed with the foot pedal․ Always maintain control and avoid sudden turns․ Wear a seatbelt if equipped․ When mowing‚ drive in straight‚ overlapping passes to ensure even cutting․ Adjust your speed according to terrain and grass height․ To stop‚ slow down gradually and engage the brake․ Never leave the tractor unattended while it is running or in motion․
5․4 Using the Mower Deck
To engage the mower deck‚ pull the engage lever or switch‚ depending on your model․ Adjust the deck height using the lift lever to your desired cutting height․ Always mow in a pattern‚ overlapping passes slightly for even results․ Avoid mowing in reverse unless necessary‚ and never leave the mower deck engaged when not in use․ Keep the deck clean and free of debris for optimal performance․ Wear protective gear‚ especially when operating the mower deck․ Follow all safety guidelines for uneven or sloped terrain․
5․5 Stopping the Tractor
To stop the tractor‚ move the drive lever to the neutral position and apply the brake․ Turn off the engine using the ignition switch․ Ensure the tractor comes to a complete stop before disengaging the mower deck or leaving the seat․ Always turn off the engine and engage the parking brake when stopping on slopes or uneven terrain․ Keep the tractor in neutral and apply the brake firmly for safety․ Never leave the tractor unattended while it is running or in motion․
Maintenance and Lubrication
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity․ Schedule oil changes‚ lubricate moving parts‚ and inspect the mower deck and tires for proper function and wear․
6․1 Regular Maintenance Schedule
A well-planned maintenance schedule is essential for the longevity and efficiency of your Craftsman 917 lawn tractor․ Perform an oil change every 50 hours of operation or at the start of each mowing season․ Lubricate all moving parts‚ such as pivot points and wheel bearings‚ monthly․ Sharpen the mower blades every 20-25 hours of use for clean cuts․ Check and adjust tire pressure weekly‚ and inspect belts and hoses for signs of wear․ Refer to the manual for specific guidelines and intervals to ensure optimal performance․
- Oil changes every 50 hours or seasonally․
- Lubrication of moving parts monthly․
- Sharpen mower blades every 20-25 hours․
- Weekly tire pressure checks․
- Inspect belts and hoses for wear․
Adhering to this schedule ensures your tractor runs smoothly and lasts for years․
6․2 Oil Change Procedure
To maintain your Craftsman 917 lawn tractor‚ regular oil changes are crucial․ Start by warming up the engine slightly‚ then locate the oil drain plug underneath the tractor․ Place a drip pan to catch the old oil and unscrew the drain plug․ Allow the oil to flow completely before replacing the plug․ Refill with the recommended oil type and quantity specified in the manual․ Refer to page 3 for oil capacity details․ Replace the oil filter if necessary and dispose of used oil responsibly․ This ensures proper engine function and longevity․
- Warm up the engine briefly․
- Position a drip pan under the oil drain plug․
- Drain the old oil and replace the plug․
- Fill with the recommended oil type and amount․
- Replace the oil filter if needed․
Always follow safety precautions and consult the manual for specific instructions․
6․3 Lubrication Points and grease Application
6․3 Lubrication Points and Grease Application
Regular lubrication is essential for maintaining the performance and longevity of your Craftsman 917 lawn tractor․ Apply grease to key components such as the steering gears‚ suspension joints‚ and mower deck pivot points․ Use a high-quality‚ water-resistant grease compatible with the tractor’s specifications․ Lubricate every 50 hours of operation or at the start of each mowing season․ Refer to the manual for specific locations and frequency recommendations․ Proper lubrication ensures smooth operation and prevents premature wear on moving parts․
- Steering gears
- Suspension joints
- Mower deck pivot points
Apply grease every 50 hours or seasonally for optimal performance․
6․4 Mower Deck Maintenance
Regular maintenance of the mower deck ensures optimal cutting performance and longevity․ Sharpen blades every 25 hours of use to maintain cutting efficiency․ Clean the deck thoroughly after each use to prevent debris buildup․ Check for worn or damaged parts‚ such as belts or pulleys‚ and replace them as needed․ Apply rust-inhibiting coatings to metal components annually․ Ensure all bolts and fasteners are tight to maintain proper alignment․ Proper maintenance prevents uneven cutting and extends the life of the mower deck․
- Sharpen blades every 25 hours
- Clean debris after each use
- Inspect and replace worn parts
- Apply rust protection annually
- Tighten all bolts and fasteners
Regular care ensures consistent performance and extends equipment life․
6․5 Battery Maintenance and Care
Proper battery maintenance ensures reliable starting and prolongs battery life․ Keep terminals clean and tight‚ and check electrolyte levels if applicable․ Avoid deep discharges and recharge promptly after use․ Store the battery in a cool‚ dry place during winter‚ disconnected and fully charged․ Use a trickle charger to maintain charge levels․ Inspect cables for damage and replace if necessary․ Follow the recommended charging procedure to prevent overcharging‚ which can reduce battery lifespan․ Regular care ensures consistent performance and extends battery life․
- Clean and tighten terminals regularly
- Avoid deep discharges and recharge promptly
- Store in a cool‚ dry place during winter
- Use a trickle charger for maintenance
- Inspect and replace damaged cables
Proper care maximizes battery efficiency and longevity․
6․6 Tire Pressure Checks
Regular tire pressure checks are crucial for optimal performance and safety․ Ensure tires are inflated to the recommended pressure specified in the manual․ Check pressure before each use and after long storage periods․ Under-inflation can lead to poor traction and increased wear‚ while over-inflation may reduce stability․ Use a reliable pressure gauge and maintain proper levels to ensure even cutting and consistent handling․ Proper tire pressure enhances efficiency‚ safety‚ and extends tire lifespan․
- Check tire pressure before each use
- Refer to the manual for recommended levels
- Avoid under- or over-inflation
- Use a reliable pressure gauge
Regular checks ensure optimal performance and longevity․
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Troubleshooting common issues with your Craftsman 917 involves identifying symptoms and applying solutions․ Key problems include engine startup‚ mower engagement‚ transmission‚ cutting issues‚ electrical faults‚ and battery drain․
- Engine not starting: Check fuel‚ spark plug‚ and air filter․
- Mower deck not engaging: Verify PTO switch and blade belt․
- Transmission problems: Ensure proper fluid levels and purging․
- Uneven cutting: Adjust deck leveling and blade sharpness․
- Electrical faults: Test connections and fuses․
- Battery drain: Charge or replace the battery as needed․
7․1 Engine Not Starting
If the engine fails to start‚ begin by checking the fuel level and ensuring the tank is not empty․ Verify the spark plug is clean and properly connected․ Inspect the air filter for dirt or blockages and clean or replace it if necessary․ Check the ignition switch and ensure it is functioning correctly․ Also‚ confirm the choke is in the correct position for starting․ If issues persist‚ consult the troubleshooting section for further guidance or consider professional assistance to resolve the problem effectively․
7․2 Mower Deck Not Engaging
If the mower deck fails to engage‚ first ensure the PTO (Power Take Off) switch is fully activated․ Check the hydraulic lever to confirm it is in the correct position․ Verify the battery connections are secure and the fuses are intact․ Inspect the deck belt for signs of wear or damage․ If the issue persists‚ refer to the troubleshooting guide for further diagnostic steps․ Always ensure safety precautions are followed when attempting repairs to avoid injury or further damage to the equipment․
7․3 Transmission Problems
Transmission issues may arise due to low fluid levels‚ worn belts‚ or blockages․ Check the transmission fluid level and top it off if necessary․ Inspect the drive belt for cracks or wear and replace it if damaged․ Ensure the transmission is properly purged according to the manual’s instructions․ If the tractor hesitates or stalls‚ ensure the parking brake is disengaged․ For persistent issues‚ consult a professional mechanic to avoid further damage․ Always refer to the troubleshooting guide for detailed diagnostic steps before attempting repairs․
7․4 Uneven Cutting Issues
Uneven cutting can result from an unlevelled mower deck‚ dull blades‚ or improper tire pressure․ Check and level the deck as instructed in the manual․ Ensure blades are sharp and free of debris․ Verify tire pressure matches the recommended levels to maintain even ground contact․ Clean the mower deck regularly to prevent residue buildup․ If issues persist‚ inspect for worn or damaged parts and replace them as needed; Proper maintenance ensures consistent cutting performance and a well-manicured lawn․
7․5 Electrical System Faults
Electrical issues may arise due to blown fuses‚ loose connections‚ or faulty sensors․ Check the fuse box and replace any blown fuses․ Inspect all wiring for damage or corrosion․ Ensure the battery is fully charged and connections are secure․ If the issue persists‚ test the sensors and switches for proper function․ Consult the manual for specific fault codes and diagnostic procedures․ If unresolved‚ contact a certified technician or refer to the warranty section for potential coverage under the limited two-year warranty․
7․6 Battery Drain Issues
Battery drain can occur due to faulty charging systems‚ parasitic drain‚ or improper storage․ Check the charging system and ensure connections are clean and tight․ Disconnect accessories when not in use to prevent power draw․ Store the battery in a cool‚ dry place during winter‚ fully charged․ Test battery voltage and replace if necessary․ Refer to the Storage and Transportation section for winter storage tips and the Maintenance and Lubrication section for battery care guidelines to prevent drain issues․
Warranty Information
Your Craftsman 917 lawn tractor is backed by a limited two-year warranty covering parts and labor․ Proper maintenance and adherence to manual guidelines are required for validity․
8․1 Warranty Coverage Details
The limited two-year warranty for the Craftsman 917 lawn tractor covers defects in materials and workmanship for all parts and labor․ This warranty applies to the tractor and its components‚ ensuring they function as intended under normal use and maintenance․ Coverage begins from the date of purchase and requires adherence to the manual’s maintenance and operation guidelines․ Any modifications or improper use may void the warranty․ For details‚ refer to the warranty section in your manual or contact Sears customer service․
8․2 Duration of Warranty
The warranty for the Craftsman 917 lawn tractor is valid for two years from the date of purchase․ This period ensures coverage for parts and labor due to defects in materials or workmanship․ Proper maintenance‚ as outlined in the manual‚ is required to maintain warranty validity․ The warranty does not extend beyond the initial two-year period unless specified by additional coverage options․ Always retain your purchase receipt and manual for warranty verification purposes․
8․3 Conditions for Warranty Validity
The warranty remains valid if the Craftsman 917 lawn tractor is properly maintained‚ lubricated‚ and tuned up as per the manual’s instructions․ Regular maintenance schedules must be followed‚ and the unit should not be altered or misused․ Adherence to specified oil capacities and product specifications is mandatory․ Proper usage in residential settings‚ as intended‚ is required․ Any modifications or neglect may void the warranty․ Ensure all maintenance records and purchase receipts are retained for verification purposes․
8․4 How to Make a Warranty Claim
To make a warranty claim‚ contact Sears through their service center․ Provide your model number (917) and purchase date․ Ensure you have proof of purchase and maintenance records․ Follow the instructions provided by Sears for processing your claim․ Proper documentation and adherence to warranty conditions are essential for claim approval․ Any modifications or misuse may void the warranty․ Ensure all required information is submitted accurately to facilitate a smooth claims process․
Storage and Transportation
Store your Craftsman 917 in a dry‚ protected area; For winter‚ drain fuel or use stabilizer․ Transport securely‚ ensuring the tractor is well-fastened to prevent movement during transit․
9․1 Proper Storage Conditions
Store your Craftsman 917 in a dry‚ protected area to prevent rust and damage․ For winter storage‚ drain fuel or add stabilizer to avoid degradation․ Disconnect the battery and store it in a cool‚ dry place to prevent corrosion․ Clean the tractor thoroughly before storage to remove dirt and debris․ Cover the tractor to protect it from dust and moisture․ Ensure all parts are secure and tightly fastened to prevent damage during storage․ Proper storage conditions will help maintain your tractor’s performance and extend its lifespan․
9․2 Winter Storage Tips
For winter storage‚ ensure your Craftsman 917 is prepared to withstand cold conditions․ Drain the fuel tank or add a fuel stabilizer to prevent degradation․ Clean the tractor thoroughly to remove dirt and debris․ Apply a rust-inhibiting coating to metal parts and lubricate moving components․ Store the tractor in a dry‚ protected area away from direct sunlight and moisture․ Disconnect the battery and store it in a cool‚ dry place․ Cover the tractor with a breathable cover to protect it from dust and pests․ Proper winter storage will ensure your tractor remains in good condition for the next season․
9․3 Safe Transportation Guidelines
When transporting your Craftsman 917‚ ensure the tractor is securely fastened to the trailer or vehicle․ Use heavy-duty straps or tie-downs to prevent movement during transit․ Turn off the engine and engage the parking brake․ Remove the ignition key and disconnect the battery for added safety․ Avoid transporting the tractor on uneven or steep surfaces․ Keep loose items like the mower deck or accessories tied down to prevent damage․ Always follow local transportation regulations and drive carefully to ensure safe delivery of your Craftsman 917 lawn tractor․ Proper preparation minimizes risks during transport․
By following this manual‚ you’ll ensure optimal performance and longevity of your Craftsman 917․ Always prioritize safety‚ maintain regularly‚ and store properly for lasting reliability and satisfaction․
10․1 Summary of Key Points
The Craftsman 917 manual emphasizes safety‚ proper assembly‚ and regular maintenance for optimal performance․ It covers operation‚ troubleshooting‚ and storage tips‚ ensuring your lawn tractor runs efficiently and lasts longer․ Key points include adhering to warranty conditions‚ following maintenance schedules‚ and understanding safety precautions․ By following these guidelines‚ you’ll maximize your investment and enjoy a well-manicured lawn with minimal effort․ Always refer to the manual for specific instructions and guidelines to ensure safe and effective operation of your Craftsman 917 lawn tractor․
10․2 Final Safety Reminders
Always prioritize safety when operating the Craftsman 917 lawn tractor․ Wear protective gear‚ including gloves and eyewear‚ and ensure loose clothing is secured․ Keep children and pets away from the operating area․ Never mow on steep slopes or unstable terrain․ Regularly inspect the mower deck for damage and ensure all guards are in place․ Follow all instructions in the manual carefully‚ especially those related to starting the engine and engaging the mower deck․ Remember‚ safety precautions are crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring a safe mowing experience․
10․3 Encouragement for Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure your Craftsman 917 lawn tractor operates efficiently and lasts for years․ By following the recommended schedule‚ you can prevent potential issues and maintain optimal performance․ Remember to check oil levels‚ lubricate moving parts‚ and sharpen mower blades regularly․ Refer to the maintenance section for detailed instructions․ Consistent care not only extends the life of your tractor but also ensures reliable operation․ Make maintenance a routine to enjoy a well-manicured lawn with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction․