Craftsman 917 273941 Manual

The Craftsman 917 273941 is a riding lawn mower featuring a powerful engine, hydrostatic transmission, electric start, cutting deck with adjustable height settings, and durable construction for residential lawn care. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting Deck Adjustment 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Guidelines 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric start system, Cutting deck, Seat, Fuel tank, Battery, and Control panel.

Feature	Description
Engine	Powerful gasoline engine for reliable performance
Hydrostatic Transmission	Smooth speed control without shifting gears
Electric Start	Key-operated ignition for easy starting
Cutting Deck	Steel deck with multiple height adjustments
Seat	Padded seat for operator comfort
Fuel Tank	Large capacity for extended operation time
Battery	12V battery for electric start system
Control Panel	Includes ignition, choke, throttle, and deck controls
Parking Brake	Safety brake to secure mower when parked
Blade Engagement	Lever or switch to engage/disengage cutting blades

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Install steering wheel: Align and secure with provided hardware.
Attach seat: Mount seat to frame using bolts and washers.
Install battery: Connect positive then negative terminals.
Attach cutting deck: Align with mounting points and secure.
Add fluids: Fill engine with oil and fuel tank with gasoline.

WARNING! Mower is heavy; use assistance during assembly. Ensure all fasteners are tightened securely.

First-Time Setup

Prepare mower for initial use.

Check oil level: Ensure engine oil is at proper level.
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline.
Check tire pressure: Inflate all tires to recommended PSI.
Adjust cutting height: Set deck to desired height.
Test operation: Start engine in a clear, open area.

CAUTION! Operate only in well-ventilated areas. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Engine: Gasoline, OHV design.
Transmission: Hydrostatic drive system.
Cutting Width: Specified inches (e.g., 42 inches).
Cutting Heights: Adjustable range (e.g., 1.5 to 4 inches).
Fuel Capacity: Gallons (e.g., 2.5 gallons).
Battery: 12V, maintenance-free.
Starting System: Electric with key ignition.
Weight: Approximate weight in pounds.
Warranty: Limited warranty period.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before operation.

Control Panel: Ignition key, Choke, Throttle, Blade engagement lever, Parking brake lever.

Operation Steps: 1. Sit on seat. 2. Engage parking brake. 3. Set throttle to fast position. 4. Turn ignition key to start. 5. Release parking brake. 6. Use drive pedal to move forward/reverse. 7. Engage blade lever to start cutting.

Stopping: Disengage blades, set parking brake, turn ignition off, remove key.

Cutting Deck Adjustment

Adjust cutting height for desired lawn length.

Park on level surface, turn off engine, engage parking brake.
Locate height adjustment lever near each wheel.
Move lever to desired setting (numbered positions).
Ensure all levers are set to same position for even cut.

Tip: For first cut of season, set to highest setting to avoid scalping.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

Before each use: Check oil level, tire pressure, and for debris.
Every 8 hours: Check battery terminals and clean if needed.
Every 25 hours: Change engine oil (check manual for specific type).
Every 50 hours: Replace air filter and spark plug.
Every 100 hours: Grease fittings, check blade sharpness.
Seasonal: Winterize if storing, sharpen blades, check belts.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents damage and extends life.

Clean mower thoroughly, especially under deck.
Drain fuel or add fuel stabilizer.
Change oil and filter.
Remove battery and store in cool, dry place.
Store in dry, covered area.

CAUTION! Do not store near open flames or heat sources.

Safety Information

Read and follow all safety instructions.

Wear appropriate clothing: long pants, sturdy shoes, eye protection.
Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles.
Do not mow on steep slopes; mow across slopes, not up and down.
Never carry passengers.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
Turn off engine and wait for all parts to stop before dismounting.

DANGER! Rotating blades can cause severe injury. Always be alert.

Warranty Information

Craftsman 917 273941 includes a limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty period varies by component (e.g., frame, engine). Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact authorized service center or call 1-888-331-4569. Visit www.craftsman.com for details.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, battery	Check fuel level, spark plug connection, battery charge.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, deck clogged	Sharpen blades, clean underside of deck.
Mower vibrates excessively	Unbalanced blade, loose parts	Check blade balance and tightness; inspect for loose bolts.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old fuel	Replace air filter, drain old fuel and refill with fresh.
Battery not charging	Loose connections, bad battery	Check terminals, test battery voltage, replace if needed.

Service: For repairs, use authorized service centers. Customer support: 1-888-331-4569; www.craftsman.com