Owner's Manual IC..FTSMeWl LAWN TRACTOR 20.0 HP, 42" Mower Electric Start Automatic Transmission Model No. 917.272921 I This product has a low emission engine which operates differently from previously built engines. Before you start the engine, read and understand this Owner's Manual. IMPORTANT: For answers to your questions Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before about this product, Call: operating this equipment.
Warranty ................................................ 2 Safety Rules .......................................... 3 Product Specifications ........................... 6 Assembly/P re-Operation ....................... 8 Operation ............................................. 11 Maintenance ....................................... 18 Maintenance Schedule ........................ 18 Service and Adjustments ..................... 22 Storage ................................................ 29 Troubleshooting ..
IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death. • Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher or the guard in place. • Slow down before turning. • Never leave a running machine unattended.
DO: • Mow up and down slopes, not across. • Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc. • Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles. • Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope. • Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for wheel weights or counterweights to improve stability. • Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments. These can change the stability of the machine.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc. • Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles. • Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope. • Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope. • If machine stops while going uphill, disengage blades, shift into reverse and back down slowly.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS Gasoline Capacity and Type: 3.5 Gallons Unleaded Regular Oil Type API-SF-SJ): SAE 30 (Above 32°F) SAE 5W-30 (Below 32°F) Oil Capacity: 3.75 Pints Spark Plug: GAP: .040") Champion QC12YC Ground Speed (MPH): Forward: Reverse: Tire Pressure: Front: 14 PSI Rear: 10 PSI Charging System: 3 Amps Battery 5 Amps Headlights Battery: Amp/Hr: 35 Min.
Steering Wheel © Steering Wheel Adapter Steering Sleeve Extension Shaft Steering Steering Wheel Insert (1) Locknut 1/2-20 ® (1) Locknut (1) Large Flat Washer (1) Hex Bolt 1/4-28 x 1-1/4 Seat @ (1) Washer 17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge (1) Knob Video Cassette Keys Slope Sheet (1) Oil Drain Tube For Future Use 7 1/4-28
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your tractor all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to insure proper tightness. Review the video cassette before you begin. TOOLS REQUIRED ASSEMBLY Insert FOR [_ A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes you need are listed below.
NOTE: You may now roll or drive your tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate instruction below to remove the tractor from the skid. Label "7 I TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section for location and function of controls) 1. Press lift lever plunger and raise attachment lift lever to its highest position. 2. Release parking brake by depressing clutch/brake pedal. 3. Place freewheel control in '"transmission disengaged" position (See "TO TRANSPORT" in the Operation section of this manual). 4.
INSTALL MULCHER CHECK PLATE v' CHECKLIS T Before you operate your new tractor, we wish to assure that you receive the best performance and satisfaction from this quality product. Please review the following checklist: •/ All assembly instructions have been completed. •/ No remaining loose parts in carton. •/ Battery is properly prepared and charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps). •/ Seat is adjusted comfortably and tightened securely. •/ All tires are properly inflated.
These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.
KNOW YOUR TRACTOR READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference. Attachment Clutch Lever Ammeter Ignition Switch ---. "'.
The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the I eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses I or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend standard safety glasses or a wide vision safety mask worn over spectac es. HOW TO USE YOU R TRACTOR TO SET PARKING IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch in any position other than "STOP" will cause the battery to discharge and go dead.
• The average lawn should be cut to approximately 2-1/2 inches during the cool season and to over 3 inches during hot months. For healthier and better looking lawns, mow often and after moderate growth. • For best cutting performance, grass over 6 inches in height should be mowed twice. Make the first cut relatively high; the second to desired height. _CAUTION: Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher, on mowers so equipped, or the deflector shield in place.
Transmission Transmission Engaged _i, CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame. IMPORTANT: When operating in temperatures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to help insure good cold weather starting. CAUTION: 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 damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage.
WARM WEATHER STARTING (50 ° F and above) 8. When engine starts, slowly push choke control in until the engine begins to run smoothly. If the engine starts to run roughly, pull the choke control out slightly for a few seconds and then continue to push the control in slowly. • The attachments and ground drive can now be used. If the engine does not accept the load, restart the engine and allow it to warm up for one minute using the choke as described above.
MOWING TIPS MULCHING • Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing performance. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual. • The left hand side of mower should be used for trimming. • Drive so that clippings are discharged onto the area that has already been cut. Have the cut area to the right of the tractor. This will result in a more even distribution of clippings and more uniform cutting.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE _,_ ,_,_-_,_,_ _ d_.
TRACTOR 4. Reassemble blade bolt, lock washer and flat washer in exact order as shown. 5. Tighten blade bolt securely (27-35 Ft. Lbs. torque). IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is heat treated. If bolt needs replacing, replace only with approve bolt shown in the Repair Parts. Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance. BRAKE OPERATION If tractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance at high speed in highest gear, then brake must be adjusted.
• 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. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your expected operating temperature. TO CLEAN NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30 etc.
For approximate capacity see "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" section of this manual. 8. Use gauge on oil fill cap/dipstick for checking level. For accurate reading, tighten dipstick cap securely onto the tube before removing dipstick. Keep oil at "FULE' line on dipstick. Tighten cap onto the tube securely when finished. AIR FILTER Your engine will not run properly using a dirty air filter. Clean the foam pre-cleaner after every 25 hours of operation or every season.
A WARNING: TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY, BEFORE PERFORMING ANY SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS: 1. Depress clutch/brake pedal fully and set parking brake. 2. Place motion control lever in neutral (N) position. 3. Place attachment clutch in "DISENGAGED" position. 4. Turn ignition key to "STOP" and remove key. 5. Make sure the blades and all moving parts have completely stopped. 6. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with plug. TRACTOR 6.
TO INSTALL FRONT-TO-BACK ADJUSTMENT IMPORTANT: Deck must be level side-to side. If the following front-to-back adjustment is necessary, be sure to adjust both front links equally so mower will stay level side-to-side. To obtain the best cutting results, the mower housing should be adjusted so that the front is approximately 1/8" to 1/2" lower than the rear when the mower is in its highest position. Check adjustment on right side of tractor.
TO REPLACE BELT MOWER BLADE DRIVE TO CHECK 1. Park tractor on a level, dry concrete or paved surface, depress clutch/brake pedal all the way down and engage parking brake. 2. Disengage transmission by placing freewheel control in '"transmission disengaged" position. Pull freewheel control out and into the slot and release so it is held in the disengaged position. The rear wheels must lock and skid when you try to manually push the tractor forward.
TO REPLACE MOTION DRIVE BELT TRANSAXLE MOTION CONTROL VER NEUTRAL ADJUSTMENT Park the tractor on level surface. Engage parking brake. For assistance, there is a belt installation guide decal on bottom side of left footrest. The motion control lever has been preset at the factory and adjustment should not be necessary. 1. Loosen adjustment bolt in front of the right rear wheel, and lightly tighten. 2. Start engine and move motion control lever until tractor does not move forward or backward. 3.
FRONT WHEEL TOE-IN/CAMBER The front wheel toe-in and camber are not adjustable on your tractor. If damage has occurred to affect the front wheel toe-in or camber, contact a Sears or other qualified service center. TO REMOVE WHEEL FOR REPAIRS 1. Block up axle securely. 2. Remove axle cover, retaining ring and washers to allow wheel removal (rear wheels have a square key - Do not lose). 3. Repair tire and reassemble. NOTE: On rear wheels only: align grooves in rear wheel hub and axle. Insert square key. 4.
REPLACING BATTERY INTERLOCKS _WARNING: Do not short battery terminals by allowing a wrench or any other object to contact both terminals at the same time. Before connecting battery, remove metal bracelets, wristwatch bands, rings, etc. Positive terminal must be connected first to prevent sparking from accidental grounding. 1. Lift hood to raised position. 2. Remove terminal guard. 3. Disconnect BLACK battery cable then RED battery cable and carefully remove battery from tractor. 4.
ENGINE TO ADJUST Maintenance, repair, or replacement of the emission control devices and systems, which are being done at the customers expense, may be performed by any non-road engine repair establishment or individual. Warranty repairs must be performed by an authorized engine manufacturer's service outlet. TO ADJUSTTHROTTLE CONTROL CABLE Your carburetor is not adjustable.
Immediately prepare your tractor for storage at the end of the season or if the tractor will not be used for 30 days or more. _,WARNING: Never store the tractor moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. • Empty the fuel tank by starting the engine and let 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.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART: See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center PROBLEM Will not start CAUSE CORRECTION 1. Out of fuel. 2. Engine not "CHOKED" properly. 3. Engine flooded. 10. Engine valves out of adjustment. 1. Fill fuel tank. 2. See "TO START ENGINE" in Operation section. 3. Wait several minutes before attempting to start. 4. Replace spark plug. 5. Clean/replace air filter. 6. Replace fuel filter. 7.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART: See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center CAUSE PROBLEM Loss of power (continued) CORRECTION 3. Build-up of grass, leaves and trash under mower. 4. Dirty air filter. 5. Low oil level/dirty oil. 6. Faulty spark plug. 7. Dirty fuel filter. 8. Stale or dirty fuel. 9. Water in fuel. 10.Spark plug wire loose. 11. Dirty engine air screen/fins. 12. Dirty/clogged muffler. 13. Loose or damaged wiring. 14. Carburetor out of adjustment. 15.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART: See appropriate section in manual aROBLEM _ower blades will mot rotate (con't) poor grass discharge unless directed CAUSE center 2. Worn/damaged mower drive belt. 3. Frozen idler pulley. 4. Frozen blade mandrel. 2. Replace mower drive belt. 1. Engine speed too slow. 1. Place throttle control in "FAST" position. 2. Shift to slower speed. 3. Allow grass to dry before mowing. 4. Level mower deck. 5. Check tires for proper air pressure. 6. Replace/sharpen blade.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.272921 SCHEMATIC BATTERY RED RED FUSE STARTER (OPTIONAL) BLACK WHITE I AMMETER ,© I : , J SOLENOID L CLUTCH/BRAKE (PEDAL • UP) WHITE SEAT SWITCH IGNITION SWITCH WHITE I i I i I q I /7 CL T H FF GROUNDING llJ (OPTIONAL) qlW IGNITION UNIT BLACK SPARK _@ J LINE TWIN CYL.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER _117.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.272921 ELECTRICAL KEY PART NO. NO.
TRACTOR - - MODEL CHASSIS AND ENCLOSURES NUMBER 917.272921 28 39 31' _/5 209"_ _/5 V 166 208 209 208 2O8 74 2o_ chassis-Laser 36 -It.
TRACTOR - - MODEL CHASSIS AND ENCLOSURES NUMBER 917.272921 KEY NO, PART NO.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.272921 GROUND DRIVE 36 26 22 38 1_ .
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.272921 GROUND DRIVE KEY NO.
TRACTOR STEERING ASSEMBLY - - MODEL NUMBER 917.272921 . _39 _36 88 J 68 67 67 J 47 67 9--.......
TRACTOR STEERING ASSEMBLY - - MODEL NUMBER 917.272921 KEY PART NO. NO. DESCRIPTION 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 15 17 26 28 29 30 32 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 46 47 51 54 65 67 68 71 82 85 88 91 Steering Wheel Front Axle Assembly Spindle Assembly, L.H. Spindle Assembly, R.H.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.272921 ENGINE 13 14 38 i 17 32 34 31 __16 33 39 112 41 23 29 OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT Spark Arrester KEY NO.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.272921 SEAT ASSEMBLY \ I 22 21 I I I I KEY PART NO. NO. DESCRIPTION 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Seat Bracket Pnt Pivot Seat Bolt Fin Hex 3/8-16 Unc x 1 Washer 13/32 x 3/4 x 10 Ga Clip Push In Hinged Nut Hex Lock w/Ins 3/8-16 Unc Spring Seat Cprsn 2 250 BIk Zi Screw 3/8-16 x 1.5 SMGML Washer 13/32 x 1 x 14 Ga Pan Pnt Seat Knob Seat Bracket Pnt Mounting Switch 140122 140551 71110616 19131610 145006 STD541437 124181X 17000616 19131614 182493 166369 121246X KEY NO.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.272921 DECALS 1 7 3 2 2 4 11 22 14 14 13 KEY PART NO. NO. DESCRIPTION 1 2 3 4 5 6 156439 184730 184728 184729 181659 133644 7 8 9 11 184917 179128 184899 156811 13 146046 WHEELS Decal Decal Decal Decal Decal Decal Dom Decal Decal Decal Decal E/S Decal Fender Danger Sears Hood Side Hood Rh Hood Lh Engine H/P Maint Customer Sears Replacement Srs Deck Fender Craftsman Fender STLTH Oper lnst KEY PART NO. NO.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.272921 LIFT ASSEMBLY 5 3 13 2 4 6 6 11 5 _4 13 19 20 13 13 19 31 32 / 20 \ KEY NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 11 12 13 15 16 17 18 19 20 31 32 159460 159471 105767X 12000002 19211621 120183X 125631X 122365X 139865 139866 STD624008 173288 73350800 175689 73800800 139868 163552 169865 73540600 Lift Lever Inner Wire Asm. Shaft Asm. Lift Pin Groove E Ring Washer 21/32 x 1 x21 Ga. Bearing Nylong Grip Handle Fluted Button Plunger Read Link Asm Lift LH.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.272921 MOWER DECK 68 ,148 i'147 142 34 21 23 117 _ 25 \ I 24 2 26 119 27 5 6 19F 42 =D man-t-path 21 10_ 9_ stl[=3.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.272921 MOWER DECK KEY NO, PART NO.
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TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.272921 HYDRO GEARTRANSAXLE - - MODEL NUMBER 314-0510 KEY NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 170351 170352 170353 170354 169898 170355 170356 170357 170358 Main Housing, Assembly Side Housing, Assembly Center Section, Assembly Swashplate, Trunion Machined Block - Assembly Sealant 10.50z Hex Flange Screw 1/4-20 X 1.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.272921 BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE-MODEL NUMBER 407677,TYPE NUMBER 0229-E1 1022 11oo_ 798_ J.___ 1022 r_ _'_ 13_ ,.,,.,.,_ 11023A1_ 211 _ 38_ °_ 28,'% 121c.._0.'_0.0w...0_',_ 38_ 9180 _ _'_ I F_ ___. 2311 8_2_ i_l.._ 188,_<_I _ I _31-_-11389s, _,__"_°,37© o.,__-____._-_-_,_ o,._:.,_,-_, I _._ _,._ .,o_,r,_,---,_., 872_._ 188_ o_,__o_ll 1123_278o 184_ ___ 872_ 1123 _ 1124 _ I %"_;_ 404° _,_,_1....,,..
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.272921 BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE-MODEL NUMBER 407677, TYPE NUMBER 0229-E1 KEY NO. PART NO.
TRACTOR-MODEL NUMBER 917.272921 BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE-MODEL NUMBER 407677,TYPE NUMBER 0229-E1 KEY NO. PART NO.
SUGGESTED GUIDE FOR SIGHTING SLOPES ONLY RIDE UP AND NOT ACROSS HILL u_ u_ 15 DEGREES _ DOWN FOR SAFE HILL, MAX, down the face of slopes, never across the face. Do not mow ARNING: To avoid serious tractorto up and slopes greater than 15 degrees.injury, Makeoperate turns your gradually prevent tipping or loss of control. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes. 1. Fold this page along dotted line indicated above. 2.
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