Craftsman 917 273220 Manual

The Craftsman 917 273220 is a riding lawn mower featuring a powerful engine, durable cutting deck, hydrostatic transmission, comfortable high-back seat, and easy-to-use controls. Designed for residential lawn care with efficient cutting patterns, mulching capability, and reliable performance. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Attachments & Accessories 7. Cutting & Mowing Operation 8. Safety Features 9. Maintenance & Storage 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, Cutting Deck, Hydrostatic Transmission, Steering Wheel, Seat, Fuel Tank, Battery, and Control Panel.

Feature	Description
Engine	Powerful gasoline engine for reliable performance
Cutting Deck	Durable steel deck with adjustable cutting height
Hydrostatic Transmission	Smooth speed control without shifting gears
Steering Wheel	Responsive steering for easy maneuverability
Seat	Comfortable high-back seat with suspension
Fuel Tank	Large capacity for extended operation time
Battery	12V battery for electric start system
Control Panel	Easy-access controls for operation and monitoring
Blade Engagement	PTO lever for engaging/disengaging cutting blades
Parking Brake	Safety brake to secure mower when parked

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on level surface with proper tools.

Install steering wheel: Align and secure with provided hardware.
Attach seat: Mount seat bracket and secure with bolts.
Connect battery: Install battery in compartment, connect terminals.
Install cutting deck: Align deck with mounting points, secure with pins.
Add fluids: Fill engine oil and fuel tank as specified.

WARNING! Mower is heavy; use assistance. Ensure all bolts are tightened to proper torque.

First-Time Operation

Perform pre-operation checks before starting engine.

Check oil level: Ensure oil is at proper level on dipstick.
Fuel: Fill tank with fresh gasoline (recommended octane).
Battery: Ensure connections are secure and charged.
Controls: Verify all controls move freely and return to neutral.
Start engine: Sit on seat, set parking brake, turn key to start.
Test operation: Engage blades, drive forward/backward to test functions.

CAUTION! Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Operate only in clear, dry conditions.

Specifications

Model: Craftsman 917 273220
Engine Type: Gasoline, OHV
Engine Power: XX hp (specify based on model)
Cutting Width: XX inches
Cutting Height: Adjustable 1.5" to 4.0"
Transmission: Hydrostatic, single speed range
Fuel Capacity: XX gallons
Battery: 12V, XX Ah
Weight: Approx. XXX lbs
Warranty: Limited residential warranty (see details)

Controls and Settings

Control Panel: Ignition switch, PTO lever, throttle, choke, hour meter. Steering: Wheel for direction control. Pedals: Forward/reverse speed control, brake.

Key Controls: Ignition (OFF/RUN/START), PTO (blade engagement), Throttle (engine speed), Choke (cold starts), Parking Brake lever, Height Adjustment lever.

Operation: Adjust cutting height via lever. Set throttle to full for mowing. Use choke when cold starting. Engage PTO only when seated with parking brake set.

Attachments & Accessories

Compatible with bagger, mulcher, tow-behind spreader/sprayer.

Turn off engine and remove key before attaching accessories.
Follow accessory instructions for proper installation.
Ensure attachments are securely fastened before operation.
Test attachment function at low speed before full operation.

Tip: Use genuine Craftsman attachments for optimal compatibility and safety.

Cutting & Mowing Operation

Designed for efficient lawn cutting with multiple pattern options.

Start mower: Perform pre-start checks, start engine.
Engage blades: Set throttle to full, engage PTO lever.
Adjust speed: Use pedal to control forward/reverse speed.
Cutting patterns: Overlap passes by 2-3 inches for even cut.
Slope operation: Mow across slopes, not up/down, for stability.
Finish mowing: Disengage blades, return throttle to idle, park safely.
Clean deck: Remove grass clippings after each use.

WARNING! Never mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees. Watch for obstacles and uneven terrain.

Safety Features

Operator Presence System: Engine stops if operator leaves seat with blades engaged. Blade Brake Clutch: Stops blades quickly when disengaged. Parking Brake: Locks transmission when engaged. Safety Interlocks: Prevent starting unless conditions are safe.

Maintenance & Storage

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Daily: Check oil, fuel, tire pressure, and for debris.
Weekly: Clean deck, check blades for sharpness/damage.
Monthly: Lubricate moving parts, check battery charge.
Seasonal: Change oil, replace air filter, inspect spark plug.
Storage: Drain fuel or add stabilizer, disconnect battery, store in dry location.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance. Use proper tools and follow torque specifications.

Warranty Information

Craftsman Limited Warranty: Covers defects in materials/workmanship for specified period from purchase date. Proof of purchase required. Does not cover normal wear, misuse, or improper maintenance. For warranty service, contact authorized service center or 1-800-XXX-XXXX. Keep this manual and receipt for warranty claims.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, battery	Check fuel level, spark plug, battery charge, safety interlock switches.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, deck clog	Sharpen/replace blades, clean deck underside, adjust cutting height.
Loss of power	Air filter, fuel filter	Replace air filter, check fuel filter for clog, ensure throttle is fully open.
Uneven cutting	Tire pressure, deck level	Check and equalize tire pressure, level cutting deck front-to-back and side-to-side.
Hydrostatic issues	Fluid level, linkage	Check transmission fluid, inspect control linkage for binding or damage.

Reset: Turn key to OFF, wait 30 seconds, restart. Check all safety switches.

Service: 1-800-XXX-XXXX; www.craftsman.com