Craftsman 917.255581 Manual Service

The Craftsman 917.255581 is a riding lawn mower featuring a Briggs & Stratton engine, 42-inch cutting deck, 6-speed manual transmission, electric start, and rear-engine design. This manual provides essential information for safe operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and service procedures. Below are key sections covering safety, specifications, operation, maintenance, and repair.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Specifications 4. Assembly & Setup 5. Controls and Operation 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Engine Service 8. Deck & Blade Service 9. Transmission & Drive System 10. Electrical System 11. Troubleshooting 12. Parts List & Diagrams

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton engine, 42-inch stamped steel cutting deck, 6-speed manual transmission, electric start with key, adjustable seat, dual-lever deck height control, and rear bagger attachment capability.

FeatureDescription
EngineBriggs & Stratton, single cylinder, OHV
Cutting Width42 inches
Transmission6-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
Starting SystemElectric key start with backup recoil
Deck AdjustmentLever-operated, 6 positions (1-4 inches)
Fuel Capacity1.5 gallons (unleaded gasoline)
SeatHigh-back, adjustable fore/aft
BaggerOptional rear-mounted grass catcher
WheelsFront: 15-inch, Rear: 20-inch
WeightApproximately 450 lbs

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operating. Always wear appropriate safety gear.

  1. Clear mowing area of debris, rocks, and toys.
  2. Never allow children or pets near mower during operation.
  3. Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
  4. Disengage blades before starting engine or crossing driveways.
  5. Stop engine and remove key before performing any maintenance.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable; refuel outdoors with engine off and cool. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

  1. Install steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
  2. Attach seat: Mount with provided bolts and adjust position.
  3. Install battery: Connect red (+) then black (-) terminals.
  4. Add engine oil: Fill to full mark on dipstick.
  5. Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline.
  6. Check tire pressure: Front 14 PSI, Rear 10 PSI.

CAUTION! Use two people when handling heavy components like the deck.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Dashboard: Ignition key, headlight switch, hour meter, choke (if equipped).

Steering/Drive: Steering wheel, brake pedal, clutch/brake pedal (for transmission), gear shift lever (1-6, R).

Deck Controls: Blade engagement lever (PTO), deck height lever, discharge chute deflector.

Starting Procedure: Sit on seat, set parking brake, disengage blades, turn key to START. Release key to RUN position.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long life and safe operation.

IntervalTask
Before each useCheck tire pressure, fuel level, deck for debris
Every 8 hoursCheck engine oil level
Every 50 hoursChange engine oil, check air filter
Every 100 hoursReplace air filter, spark plug, sharpen blades
Every seasonGrease fittings, check battery, inspect belts
StorageDrain fuel or add stabilizer, clean deck, charge battery

Engine Service

Briggs & Stratton 17.5 HP engine maintenance procedures.

  1. Oil Change: Run engine to warm oil. Drain via plug, refill with 1.5 quarts SAE 30.
  2. Air Filter: Replace paper element; clean foam pre-filter if equipped.
  3. Spark Plug: Gap 0.030 inches. Replace annually.
  4. Fuel Filter: Replace if clogged; located in fuel line.
  5. Carburetor Adjustment: Refer to engine manual for idle and mixture screws.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before any engine service.

Deck & Blade Service

Proper deck maintenance ensures even cutting and long blade life.

  1. Blade Removal: Block deck, disconnect spark plug. Use blade removal tool to hold blade; remove bolt (usually reverse thread).
  2. Blade Sharpening: Sharpen at 30-degree angle; balance blade.
  3. Deck Cleaning: Remove debris after each use; wash with water (avoid bearings).
  4. Belt Inspection: Check deck drive belt for cracks/wear; replace if damaged.
  5. Deck Leveling: Adjust deck height linkages to ensure even cut.

Transmission & Drive System

6-speed manual transmission service guidelines.

Electrical System

12V electrical system with battery, starter, and charging circuit.

  1. Battery: Keep terminals clean and tight. Charge monthly if stored.
  2. Starter: If engine doesn't crank, check battery, connections, and solenoid.
  3. Fuses: Check 20-amp fuse in wiring harness near battery.
  4. Wiring: Inspect for rodent damage or loose connections.
  5. Headlights: Replace bulb by removing lens cover.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startDead battery, bad spark plug, empty fuel tankCharge/replace battery; check spark plug; add fuel.
Engine runs poorlyDirty air filter, old gasoline, clogged fuel filterReplace air/fuel filters; use fresh fuel.
Uneven cuttingDull blades, unlevel deck, low tire pressureSharpen blades; level deck; inflate tires.
Loss of powerClogged deck, slipping drive beltClean deck; inspect/tighten/replace belt.
VibrationBent blade, loose blade bolt, unbalanced bladeInspect blade; tighten bolt; balance or replace blade.
Transmission noiseLow gear oil, worn gearsCheck oil level; consult service center.

Note: For complex repairs, contact authorized service center.

Parts List & Diagrams

Refer to Craftsman parts catalog for model 917.255581. Common replacement parts:

For diagrams and ordering, visit www.searspartsdirect.com or contact Craftsman customer service at 1-888-331-4569.

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