Owner's Manual CRAFTSMAN° LAWN TRACTOR 18.0 H P, 42" Mower Electric Start 6 Speed Transaxle Model No. 917.274390 i_ 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: For answers to your questions about Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before this product, Call: operating this equipment.
Warranty ................................................. Safety Rules ........................................... Product Specifications ............................ Assembly/Pre-Operation ........................ Operation .............................................. Maintenance Schedule ......................... Maintenance 2 3 6 8 11 17 ......................................... 17 Service and Adjustments ...................... 22 Storage .................................................
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. _WARNING: In order to prevent accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs, always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug. IL _ILWARNING: Do not coast down a hill in neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.
II. SLOPE OPERATION Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and tip-over accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. Operation on all slopes requires extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it. • Mow up and down slopes, not across. • Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
• Removegas-poweredequipmentfrom the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible,then refuelsuch equipmentwith a portable container,ratherthan from a gasoline dispensernozzle. • Keepthe nozzle in contactwith the rim of the fuel tank or containeropening at all times until fueling is complete.Do not use a nozzle lock-opendevice. • If fuel is spilled on clothing,change clothing immediately. • Neveroverfillfuel tank. Replacegas cap and tightensecurely.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS GasolineCapacity1.25 Unleaded and Type: Regular Oil Type SAE 30 (above32°F) 'API-SG-SL): SAE 5W-30(below Oil Capacity: W/Filter 3.5 Pints W/O Filter 3.0 Pints Spark (Gap: Champion Plug: .030") 32°F RC12YC 1.1 1.4 2.2 3.3 4.4 4.9 1.4 Tire Pressure: Front: Rear: 14 PSI 12 PSI Charging 3 Amps 5 Amps Speed System: Battery: Blade Battery Headlights Amp/Hr: Min. CCA: Case Size: Bolt Torque: 27-35 28 230 U1R Ft. Lbs. CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new tractor.
Steering Wheel Steering Wheel Insert (1) Large Flat Washer © (1) 5/16 Lock Washer (1) Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 4 _ ' Steering Wheel Adapter I I Steering Extension Shaft Steering Boot i Seat @ _(1) (1) Washer 17/32 x 1-3/16 x 12 Gauge Knob (1) Oil Drain Tube For Future Use Keys (2) Keys Slope Sheet
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. TOOLS REQUIRED ASSEMBLY Insert FOR 5/16 Hex Bolt A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Standard wrench sizes you need are listed below.
7. Slide seat until a comfortableposition is reachedwhich allowsyou to press clutch/brakepedal all the way down. 8. Get off seat without movingits adjusted position. 9. Raise seat and tightenadjustment knob securely. NOTE: You may now roll or drive your tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate instruction below to remove the tractor from the skid. TO ROLL Operation function 1. Seat 2. 3. 4. Shoulder Bolts Seat Pa_ TRACTOR 5. section of BATTERY 1. Lift seat pan to raised position.
CHECKTIRE PRESSURE J CHECKL IS T The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes. Correct tire pressure is important for best cutting performance. • Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" section of this manual. Before you operate and enjoy your new tractor, we wish to assure that you receive the best performance and satisfaction from this Quality Product. Please review the following checklist: v" All assembly instructions have been completed.
These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning. R N H L REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW I'.
KN OW YOU R TRACTOR READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATINGYOUR TRACTOR Compare the illustrations with your tractor to familiarize yourself with the locations of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference. ROS "ON" Position Attachment Clutch Lever Light Switch ,- _, , Ignition Switch . Lift Lever , Plunger Attachment Lift Lever I Throttle/Choke Control O Clutch/Brake Pedal ", o " "" ." " _ --- - _ _ _.
The operation of any tractor can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your tractor or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety mask over spectacles or standard safety glasses. HOW TO USE YOUR TO SET PARKING IMPORTANT: Leaving the ignition switch in any position other than "STOP" will cause the battery to discharge and go dead.
USING THE SYSTEM - • 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.
TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACH- 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. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season.
6. When engine starts, leave throttle control in choke position until engine warms up and begins to run roughly. Once rough running begins, immediately move the throttle control to the fast position. Engine warm-up may take from several seconds to several ]1 ( minutes (the colder the temperature, the longer the warm-up). • The attachments can also be used dur- J 00272 ing the engine warm-up period.
MAI.TE.A.CE SC.
TRACTOR Alwaysobserve safety ruleswhen performing any maintenance. BRAKE OPERATION If tractor requiresmore than five (5) feetto stop at highest speed in highest gear on a level,dry concreteor paved surface,then brakemust be checkedand adjusted.(See "TOADJUST BRAKE"in the Serviceand Adjustmentssection of this manual). TIRES • Maintainproper air pressure in all tires (See "PRODUCTSPECIFICATIONS" sectionof this manual). • Keeptires free of gasoline,oil, or insect controlchemicalswhich can harm rubber.
ENGINE NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing blade. The lobes of the center hole may appear to be centered, but are not. • Slide blade on to an unthreaded portion of the steel bolt or pin and hold the bolt or pin parallel with the ground. If blade is balanced, it should remain in a horizontal position. If either end of the blade moves downward, sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced. LUBRICATION Only use high quality detergent oil rated with API service classification SG-SL.
3. Unlock drain valve by pushing inward slightly and turning counterclockwise. 4. To open, pull out on the drain valve. 5. After oil has drained completely, close and lock the drain valve by pushing inward and turning clockwise until the pin is in the locked position as shown. 6. Remove the drain tube and replace the cap onto the end of the drain valve. 7. Refill engine with oil through oil fill dipstick tube. Pour slowly. Do not overfill.
MUFFLER CLEANING Inspect and replace corroded muffler and spark arrester (if equipped) as it could create a fire hazard and/or damage. SPARK PLUG(S) • Clean engine, battery, seat, finish, etc. of all foreign matter. • Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of all gasoline, oil, etc. • Protect painted surfaces with automotive type wax. We do not recommend using a garden hose or pressure washer to clean your tractor unless the engine and transmission are covered to keep water out.
SERVICE ARNING: ORTOADJUSTMENTS: AVOID SERIOUS _ 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. INJURY, BEFORE PERFORMING ANY Depress clutch/brake pedal fully and set parking brake. Place gearshift lever in neutral (N) position. Place attachment clutch in "DISENGAGED" position. Turn ignition key to "STOP" and remove key. Make sure the blades and all moving parts have completely stopped. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with plug.
TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING • When manual). If tires are over or underinflated, you will not properly adjust your mower. SIDE-TO-SIDE ADJUSTMENT "D" is 1/8" to 1/2" remain equal in length. • When distance "D" is 1/8" to 1/2" lower • Raise mower to its highest position. • At the midpoint of both sides of mower, measure height from bottom edge of mower to ground. Distance "A" on both sides of mower should be the same or within 1/4" of each other.
Mandrel With Parking Brake "Engaged" Idler Pulleys Nut "A" Jam Nut Mandrel Pulley TO CHECK AND ADJUST BRAKE Arm Your tractor is equipped with an adjustable brake system which is mounted on the right side of the transaxle. If tractor requires more than five (5) feet to stop at highest speed in highest gear on a level, dry concrete or paved surface, then brake must be checked and adjusted. TO CHECK 00238 TO REPLACE DRIVE BELT Park the tractor on level surface. Engage parking brake.
TO REMOVE Engine Block up axle securely. 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. Replace washers and snap retaining ring securely in axle groove. 5. Replace axle cover. NOTE: To seal tire punctures and prevent flat tires due to slow leaks, purchase and use tire sealant from Sears.
TO REMOVE ORDER 1. 2. CABLES, TO REPLACE REVERSE BLACK cable first from chassis and then from the fully charged battery. RED cable last from both batteries. Weak or Dead Battery REPLACING backside of the grill. Replace bulb in holder and push bulb holder securely back into the hole in the backside of the grill. 4. Close hood. INTERLOCKS AND RELAYS Loose or damaged wiring may your tractor to run poorly, stop prevent it from starting. • Check wiring.
ENGINE IMPORTANT: Damage to the needle valve and the seat in carburetor may result if screw is turned in too tight. 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 ADJUST THROTTLE PRELIMINARY SETTING - 1.
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. 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. • Empty the fuel tank by starting the engine and letting it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART: See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center PROBLEM CAUSE Will not start CORRECTION 1. Out of fuel. 2. Engine not "CHOKED" properly. 3. Engine flooded. 4. 5. 6. 7 Bad spark plug. Dirty air filter. Dirty fuel filter. Water in fuel. 8. 9. Loose or damaged wiring. Carburetor out of adjustment. 10. Engine valves out of adjustment. Hard to start Engine will not turn over Engine clicks will not start but 1. 2. Fill fuel tank.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART: See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center PROBLEM Loss of power CAUSE 1. Cutting too much grass/too fast. 2. Throttle in "CHOKE" position. 3. Build-up of grass, leaves and trash under mower. 4. 5. 6. Dirty air filter. Low oil level/dirty oil. Faulty spark plug. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Dirty fuel filter. 8. Stale or dirty fuel. 7. 8. 9. Water in fuel. 9. 10. Spark plug wire loose. 10. Dirty engine air screen/fins. Dirty/clogged muffler.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART: See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center CAUSE PROBLEM Mower blades will not rotate 3ORRECTION 1. Obstruction mechanism. 1. Remove obstruction. in clutch 2. Worn/damaged belt. 3. 4. Frozen Frozen mower drive idler pulley. blade mandrel. 2. Replace 3. 4. Replace idler pulley. Contact a Sears or other qualified Poor grass discharge 1. Engine speed too slow. 1. 2. 3. Travel speed Wet grass. too fast. 2. 3. 4.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.274390 SCHEMATIC 02831 193372 SOLENOID STARTER FUSE AMMETER (OPTIONAL) IGNITION UNIT i .... I )AFtK GAP PLUGS (2 PLUGS ON TWIN CYL. ENGINES) 7"1 HOUR _ METER y FLIE[. I I s_s_ b-_ .... (OPTIONAL) i I LINE _E I C HARGDING@SYSoToFRMp_UT PU T RED FUEL SHUT-OFF SOLENOID ; _ LIGHT = _/ -_ _SHV/AOLTSACsM/_E _ 36000RPMEcTED) _/ P'_ _ I _ .........................
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.274390 ELECTRICAL KEY PART NO. NO. DESCRIPTION 1 2 8 16 21 22 24 25 26 163465 74760412 176689 176138 183759 4152J 4799J 146147 175158 Battery Bolt Hex Hd 1/4-20 unc x 3/4 Box Battery Fender Switch, Interlock Harness Asm Light W/4152j Bulb Light #1156 Cable Battery 6 Ga. 11" red Cable Battery 6 Ga. w/16 wire Fuse 20 AMP 27 28 29 73510400 4207J 192749 Nut, Keps Hex 1/4-20 unc Cable Ground 6 Ga.
TRACTOR CHASSIS AND - - MODEL NUMBER 917.274390 ENCLOSURES 212__ 28 159 3O 39 278 26 25 26 31 @/5 209 208 209 208 207 26 13 209 33 10 209 208 37 145 14 34 206 26 209 chassis-Laser 38 36 -It.
TRACTORCHASSIS AND ENCLOSURES - MODEL KEY NO. PART NO. 1 2 5 9 10 11 13 14 17 18 24 25 26 28 174619 176554 t 55272 193510X012 STD533710 174996 172105X010 17490608 185682)(613 184921 STD523710 19131312 STD541437 193258 29 30 31 33 34 35 37 38 39 64 142 145 159 206 207 208 209 212 278 174332X599 192528X6t3 136619 179716X613 179717)(613 STD533707 17490509 175710 174714 154798 175702 156524 169473)(428 170165 17670508 17670608 17000612 175143 191611 5479J 187801 NOTE: NUMBER 917.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917,274390 GROUND DRIVE KEY NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION Peerless 206-545C KEY NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION 63 175410 173937 STD551143 Pulley, Engine Bolt Hex 7/16-20 Washer 154778 142432 Keeper Belt Engine Hydro Screw HexWsh Hi-Lo 1/4 x 1t2 unc 134683 137057 121749X Keeper Belt Engine Spacer Washer 25/32 x 1- 1/4 x 16 Ga. STD581075 123583X 121748X E-Ring Key, Square Washer 25132 x 1-518 x 16 Ga.
STEERING TRACTOR ASSEMBLY - - MODEL NUMBER 917.274390 1-\ 3_ / ....... $ ...... J s 67 67 47 67 \ 65 43 15 40 I -t / steering pl.
TRACTOR STEERING ASSEMBLY - - MODEL NUMBER 917,274390 KEY NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 186780 175131 169840 169839 6266H 121748X 192720 Steering Wheel Axle Assembly Spindle Assembly, L.H. Spindle Assembly, R.H. Bearing, Race, Thrust, Hardened Washer 25t32 x 1-5t8 x 16 Ga. Washer 27/32 x 1- 1/4 x 16 Ga.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917,274390 ENGINE 3 2 72 62 1 81 13 4 i 38 14 23 OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT Spark Arrester engine-bs, lcyl KEY NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION 1 2 3 4 13 14 23 29 31 32 33 37 38 40 44 45 46 62 72 78 81 170545 17720408 Control, Throttle/Choke Screw, Hex Head, Thread Cutting 1/4-20 Engine, Briggs Model No.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917,274390 SEAT ASSEMBLY 8_ 8 10 6 f 21 5 12 seat_It.knob_9 KEY PART NO. NO. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 188716 180166 71110616 19131610 145006 STD541437 124181X 17000616 19131614 180186 166369 174648 DESCRIPTION Seat Bracket, Bolt Washer Clip, Nut Pivot, Seat 13/32xlx10Ga. Push-In Hinged Spring, Seat Screw 3/8-16 x 1-1/2 Washer 13/32 x 1 x 14 Ga. Pan, Seat Knob Seat Bracket, Switch Mounting KEY NO. PART NO.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917,274390 DECALS lO 16 20 11 13 12 KEY PART NO. NO. DESCRIPTION 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Decal Decal Decal Decal Decal Decal Decal Decal Decal Decal Decal 193308 189100 186280 186281 193559 133644 193545 172331 186282 156439 179128 WHEELS Oper. Instr. HP Engine Hood, R.H. Hood, L.H. Hood Replacement Customer Maintenance Hood Side Deck Fender Craftsman Fender Danger Deck "B" 42" KEY NO. PART NO.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917,274390 LIFT ASSEMBLY 3 13 2 6 11 5 13 19 13 20 20 15 31 32 \. KEY NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION 1 2 3 4 5 159460 159471 105767X 12000002 19211621 Lift Lever Inner Wire Assembly Shaft Assembly, Lift Pin, Groove E-Ring Washer 21/32 x 1 x21 Ga. 6 7 8 11 12 13 15 16 17 18 19 20 31 32 120183X 125631X 122365X 139865 139866 STD624008 173288 73350800 175689 73800800 139868 163552 169865 73540600 Bearing, Nylon Grip, Handle, Fluted Button, Plunger, Red Link, Lift, L.H.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917,274390 MOWER DECK 46 4__2 55 .
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917,274390 MOWER DECK KEY NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION KEY NO. PART NO. 1 2 165892 STD533107 Mower Bolt 34 36 72110612 131494 3 4 5 6 8 9 10 138017 165460 STD624008 178024 850857 STD551137 140296 137645 128774 110485X 174493 72140505 132827 159770 STD541431 Bracket Assembly, Sway Bar, Front Bracket Sway Bar 38/42" eck Retainer Spring Bar Sway Deck Bolt, Hex 3/8-24 x 1.25 Gr.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917,274390 PEERLESS TRANSAXLE - - MODEL NUMBER 206-545C 35A 29B 9 15 7_ 70 6A 29B t_/ 7 _ 35 82 11 18 51 4 47 13 34 29 35 157 41A MODEL and SERIAL NUMBERS HERE 48 (_
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917,274390 PEERLESS TRANSAXLE -- MODEL NUMBER 206-545C KEY NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION 1 772147 Transaxle 2 3 4 780086A 770128 776395 Needle Bearing Transaxle Case Countershaft 5 6 6A 7 8 8A 9 10 776409 778364 778369 778330 792180 792047 784352 784378 11 12 13 14 15 17 Cover KEY NO. PART NO.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.274390 BRIGGS ENGINE-MODEL NUMBER 31H777, TYPE NUMBER 0297-E1 d .
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.
TRACTOR BRIGGS ENGINE-MODEL - - MODEL NUMBER NUMBER 31H777, TYPE 917.
TRACTOR BRIGGS ENGINE-MODEL KEY NO. PART NO.
TRACTOR - - MODEL NUMBER 917.274390 BRIGGS ENGINE-MODEL NUMBER 31H777, TYPE NUMBER 0297-E1 KEY NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION KEY NO. PART NO.
SUGGESTED GUIDE FOR SIGHTING SLOPES FOR SAFE OPERATION ONLY RIDE UP AND DOWN HILL, NOT ACROSS HILL L_ O1 15 DEGREES MAX. _ down the face of slopes, never across the face. Do not mow ARNING: To avoid serious injury, operate your tractor and slopes greater than 15 degrees. Make turns gradually to up prevent tipping or loss of control. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.
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.
