Owner's Manual JCRIIFTSMIIN°J LAWN TRACTOR 21.0 HP, 42" Mower Electric Start Automatic Transmission Model No. 917.273522 1 differently from built engines. Before operates you start the This product haspreviously a low emission engine which engine, read and understand this Owner's Manual, IMPORTANT: Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this equipment.
Warranty ................................................ 2 Safety Rules .......................................... 3 Product Specifications ........................... 6 AssemblyiPre-Operation ....................... 8 Operation ............................................. 11 Maintenance ....................................... 18 Maintenance Schedule ........................ 18 Service and Adjustments ..................... 23 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: o Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation. o Never allow children to operate the machine. o Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision. • 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.
@@@@@ , 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: W/Filter 4.0 Pints W/O Filter 3.75 Pints Spark Plug: 'GAP: .040") Champion Ground Speed (MPH): Tire Pressure: Forward: 5.5 Reverse: 2.4 Front: 14 PSI Rear: 10 PSI Charging System: 3 Amps Battery 5 Amps Headlights Battery: AmpiHr: Min.
Steering Wheel 0 Steering Steering Sleeve Adapter Steering Wheel Insert Steering Extension Shaft @ (1) Locknut 1/2-20 @ (1) Locknut (1) Large Flat Washer (1) Hex Bolt 1/4-28x 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 FOR ASSEMBLY A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes you need are listed below.
INSTALL Adjust knob. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. SEAT seat before tightening NOTE: You may now roll or drive your tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate instruction below to remove the tractor from the skid. adjustment Remove adjustment knob and flat washer securing seat to cardboard packing and set aside for assembly seat to tractor. TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See Operation section for location and function of controls) 1.
INSTALL MULCHER PLATE CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM After you learn how to operate your tractor, check to see that the brake is properly adjusted. See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual. (If previously removed) 1. Raise and hold deflector shield in upright position. 2. Place front of mulcher plate over front of mower deck opening and slide into place, as shown. 3. Hook front latch into hole on front of mower deck. 4. Hook rear latch into hole on back of mower deck.
These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning. R N REVERSE NEUTRAL ENGINE OFF LIGHTS ON OVER TEMP LIGHT H L HIGH LOW ENGINE ON FUEL OIL PRESSURE I'.
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 ----. "'-.
t 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 as. j HOW TO USE YOUR 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 _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.
PURGE TRANSMISSION 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 • 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.
ASYOUCO_o_PLE--E ._'___ REGULAla SERVICE _'__ Check Tire BrakePressure Operation Check Che_k Operator Interlock Check for LOOSe Fe.
TRACTOR Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance. BRAKE OPERATION IMPORTANT: To ensure proper assembly, center hole in blade must align with star on mandrel assembly. 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.
BATTERY Your tractor has a battery charging system which is sufficient for normal use. However, periodic charging of the battery with an automotive charger will extend its life. • 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. De net attempt to open or remove caps or covers. Adding or checking level of electrolyte is not necessary.
IMPORTANT: Petroleum solvents, such as kerosene, are not to be used to clean the cartridge. They may cause deterioration of the cartridge. Do net oil cartridge. De net use pressurized air to clean or dry cartridge. Oil Drain Valve Closed and Locked --- ---Position Knob_ 3. Unlock drain valve by pushing inward slightly and turning counterclockwise. 4. To open, pull out on the drain valve. 5.
MUFFLER Inspect and replace corroded muffler and spark arrester (if equipped) as it could create a fire hazard and/or damage. SPARK PLUG(S) Replace spark plug(s) at the beginning of each mowing season or after every 100 hours of operation, whichever occurs first. Spark plug type and gap setting are shown in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" section of this manual. CLEANING o Clean engine, battery, seat, finish, etc. of all foreign matter. . Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of all gasoline, oil, etc. .
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 wlh plug.
TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING Adjust the mower while tractor is parked on level ground or driveway. Make sure tires are properly inflated (See "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" section of this manual). If tires are over or underinflated you will not properly adjust your mower. SIDE-TO-SIDE o To lower front of mower loosen nut "E" on both front links an equal number of turns. o When distance "D" is 1/8" to 1/2" lower at front than rear, tighten nuts "F" against trunnion on both front links.
TO REPLACE BELT MOWER BLADE TO ADJUST BRAKE DRIVE 1. Depress clutch/brake pedal all the way down and engage parking brake. 2. Measure distance between brake operating arm and nut 'W' on brake rod. 3. If distance is other than 1-9/16", loosen jam nut and turn nut 'W' until distance becomes 1-9/16". Retighten jam nut against nut "A". 4. Engage transmission by placing freewheel control in "transmission engaged" position. 5. Road test tractor for proper stopping distance as stated above.
3. Pull belt toward front of tractor and roll around the top groove of engine pulley. 4. Install belt through stationary idler and clutching idler. 5. Make sure belt is in all pulley grooves and inside all belt guides and keepers. 6. Install mower (See "TO INSTALL MOWER" in this section of manual). 1. Loosen the adjustment bolt. 2. Move the motion control lever 1/4 to 1/2 inch in the direction it is trying to creep. 3. Tighten adjustment bolt securely. 4. Start engine and test. 5.
REPLACING Washers ,_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. Disconnect BLACK battery cable first then RED battery cable and carefully remove battery from tractor. 3.
TO REMOVE SEMBLY HOOD AND GRILL AS- 3. Choke should be closed. If it is not, loosen casing clamp screw and move choke cable until choke is completely closed. Tighten casing clamp screw securely. 4. Replace air cleaner cover assembly and tighten knob. TO ADJUST CARBURETOR 1. Raise hood. 2. Unsnap headlight wire connector. 3. Stand in front of tractor. Grasp hood at sides, tilt toward engine and lift off of tractor. 4. When replacing hood, be sure to reconnect the headlight wire connector.
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. • ILWARNING: Never store the tractor with gasoline in the tank inside a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark. Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure. Also, alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage.
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. Bad spark plug. 5. Dirty air filter. 6. Dirty fuel filter. 7. Water in fuel. . 8. Loose or damaged wiring. 9. Carburetor out of adjustment. 10. Engine valves out of adjustment. Hard to start 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Dirty air filter. Bad spark plug. Weak or dead battery. Dirty fuel filter.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART: See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center PROBLEM LOSS of power continued) CAUSE CORRECTION 3. Build-up of grass, leaves and trash under mower. 4. 5. 6. Dirty air filter. Low oil level/dirty oil. Faulty spark plug. 7. 8. Dirty fuel filter. 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 PROBLEM Mower blades will not rotate (con't) Poor grass discharge unless directed CAUSE 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. Tighten blade bolt. 7. Clean underside of mower housing. 8. Replace mower drive belt. 9.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 SCHEMATIC _ED _ "llllll BLA_K BATTERY _ED RED FUSE AMMETER _OPTIONAL) STARTER L i I SOLENOID L CLUTCH J / BRAKE _PEDAL UP) WIIITE BEAT SWITCH _40T OCCUPIED) IGNITION SWITCH GROUNDING CONNECTOR A SPARK IGNITION UNIT LINE i _@ PLUG GAP (2 PLUGS ON TWIN CYL. ENGINES) I FUEL SHUT-OFf: SOLENOID O_ANGE NOTE YOUR TRACTOR IS EQUIPPED WITH A SPECIAL ALTERNATOR SYSTEM. THE LIGHTS ARE NOT CONNECTED TO THE BATTERY BUT HAVE THEIR OWN ELECTRICAL SOURCE.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 ELECTRICAL KEY PART NO. NO.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 CHASSIS AND ENCLOSURES KEY NO. PART NO.
TRACTOR"" MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 GROUND DRIVE 166 36 19 25 drive.hyd TO.S_.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 GROUND DRIVE KEY PART NO. NO.
TRACTOR STEERING ASSEMBLY - - MODEL NUMBER 917.
TRACTOR STEERING ASSEMBLY - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 KEY PART NO. NO. DESCRIPTION I 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 I0 11 I2 I3 I5 17 26 28 29 30 32 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 46 47 51 54 65 67 68 71 82 88 91 95 Steering Wheel Front Axle Assembly Spindle Assembly, L.H Spindle Assembly. R.H. Bearing, Race, Thrust, Hardened Washer 25/32 x 1-5/8 x 16 Ga. Washer 27/32 x 1-1/4 x 16 Ga.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 ENGINE 2 14 38 13 32 i 31 39 23 / / 29 OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT Spark Arrester KEY NO. PART NO. 1 2 3 170548 17720408 4 5 6 8 10 13 14 17 23 25 29 149723 159955 160589 171877 162797 165391 148458 17060824 169837 187766)(428 137180 DESCRIPTION Control Throttle Paddle Screw Hex Thd Cut 1/4-20 x 5/8 T Engine (See Breakdown) Briggs Model No. 407577-0283-EI Muffler Exhaust Exhaust Asm. Left Exhaust Asm.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 SEAT ASSEMBLY \ \ \ \ / 89 /// 10 7_ I I I I I I I _ / II \ 21 I 11 17 12 se_t Itknob 9 KEY NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 1I 188718 180168 71110616 19131610 145008 STD541437 12418IX 17000616 19131614 180188 188369 Seat Bracket Fender Bolt Fin He× 8/8-I8 uncx I Washer I3/32 × 3/4 x I OGa. Clip Push In Hinged Nut He;< Lock w/Ins 3/8-16 uric Spring Seat Cprsn 2 250 BIk Zi Screw 3/8-16 x 15 SMGML Washer I3/32 x I x 14 Ga.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 DECALS I 8 3 2 2 7 4 I1 \ 9 22 14 14 13 28 KEY PART NO. NO. DESCRIPTION I 2 3 4 5 8 156439 184730 184728 184729 189622 133644 7 8 9 II 190938 179128 184899 156811 13 146048 WHEELS 2_ Decal Decal Decal Decal Decal Decal Dora Decal Decal Decal Decal EiS Decal Fender Danger Sears Hood Side Hood Rh Hood Lh Engine H/P Maint Customer Sears Replacement Deck Fender Fender STLTH Oper Inst KEY NO. PART NO.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 LIFT ASSEMBLY / / ,/ 5 3 13 2 4 5 / 4 13 19 '\ \_ 20 19 / 15 lift-rh.1 piece_3 KEY NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION I 2 3 4 5 8 7 8 11 I2 I59460 159471 105787X 12000002 19211621 120I 83X I25831X 122385X I39885 I39886 Lift Lever Inner Wire Asm. Shaft Asm. Lift Pin Groove E Ring Washer 21/32 x 1 x 2I Ga. Bearing Nylong Grip Handle Fluted Button Plunger Read Link Asm Lift LH. Link Asm Lift R.H. KEY PART NO. NO.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 MOWER DECK KEY PART NO. NO.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 PEERLESS TRANSAXLE - - MODEL NUMBER LTH2000 20_ 1 _ 150 87 31 29 g_>i25 4_ - " s7 ..
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 PEERLESSTRANSAXLE - - MODEL NUMBER LTH2O0O KEY NO, PART NO. DESCRIPTION 1 3 5 6 9 13 14 15 17 22 23 25 26 28 29 31 36 37 38 40 41 42 42A 43 44A 44B 45 47 48 49 56 65 67 772151 770135 776355 778263 786197 778368 778368 778373 786139 792194 792195 792073A 792125 792035 780065 780189 790071 790007 799021 792204 790102 792202 792203 792171 790100 790099 790101 774869 774688 778378 778379 780195 776440 Cover LH Case Counter Shaft Spur Gear 11T Neutral Sleeve (.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE-MODEL NUMBER 407577, TYPE NUMBER 0283-E1 KEY NO.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.273522 BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE-MODEL NUMBER 407577,TYPE NUMBER 0283-E1 KEY NO. PART NO.
SUGGESTED GUIDE FOR SIGHTING SLOPES FOR SAFE OPERATION ol ol 1. Fold this page along doffed line indicated above. 2, Hold page before you so that its left edge is vertically parallel to a tree trunk or other upright structure, 3.
Your Home For repair - in your home - of all major brand appliances, lawn and garden equipment, or heating and cooling systems, no matter who made it, no matter who sold it! For the replacement parts, accessories and owner's manuals that you need to do-it-yourself. For Sears professional installation of home appliances and items like garage door openers and water heaters. 1-800-4-MY-HOME ® (1-800-469-4663) www.sears.com Anytime, day or night (U.S.A. and Canada) www.sears.
