Craftsman 917 Owners Manual

The Craftsman 917 is a versatile lawn tractor designed for residential use, featuring a powerful engine, hydrostatic transmission, durable cutting deck, and ergonomic controls. This manual covers essential information for safe operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your equipment.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Hydrostatic transmission, Briggs & Stratton engine, 42-inch cutting deck, electric start, adjustable seat, cup holder, headlights, and mulching capability.

Feature	Description
Engine	Briggs & Stratton, 20 HP, single-cylinder, overhead valve
Transmission	Hydrostatic, foot-pedal controlled
Cutting Deck	42-inch stamped steel, 3-blade system
Cutting Height	Adjustable from 1.5 to 4 inches in 0.5-inch increments
Fuel Capacity	3 gallons
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive with differential lock
Starting	Electric key start with backup recoil
Seat	High-back, adjustable fore/aft
Headlights	Two front halogen lights
Mulching	Optional mulching kit available

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Attach steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Install seat: Place on brackets and secure with provided pins.
Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 (check manual for capacity).
Fill fuel tank: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).
Check tire pressure: Inflate to 14 PSI (front) and 10 PSI (rear).

WARNING! Keep hands clear of moving parts during assembly. Wear safety gloves.

Operation Instructions

Always perform pre-operation checks before starting.

Pre-start: Check oil level, fuel, tire pressure, and clear area of debris.
Starting: Sit on seat, set parking brake, disengage blades, turn key to start.
Driving: Release parking brake, press forward pedal to move forward, reverse pedal to back up.
Mowing: Engage blades with lever, adjust speed according to grass conditions.
Stopping: Disengage blades, set parking brake, turn key to off, remove key.

CAUTION! Never operate on slopes greater than 15 degrees. Keep feet away from pedals when starting.

Specifications

Model: Craftsman 917
Engine: 20 HP Briggs & Stratton, 540cc
Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite speeds 0-5.5 mph forward, 0-2.5 mph reverse
Cutting Width: 42 inches
Cutting Height: 1.5 - 4 inches
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher)
Oil Capacity: 2 quarts (SAE 30)
Dimensions: 72" L x 42" W x 46" H
Weight: 450 lbs
Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Functions

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

Pedals & Levers: Forward/reverse pedals, parking brake lever, deck lift lever, PTO (blade) engagement.

Steering: Wheel controls front wheels. Seat: Adjustable slider for operator comfort. Deck Lift: Lever adjusts cutting height. Hour Meter: Tracks engine usage for maintenance.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

Before each use: Check oil, fuel, tires, and blades.
Every 8 hours: Clean deck, check for loose bolts.
Every 50 hours: Change oil, replace air filter, check spark plug.
Every 100 hours: Replace fuel filter, check transmission fluid.
Seasonally: Sharpen blades, lubricate pivot points, check battery.

Tip: Always refer to manual for specific maintenance intervals and procedures.

Cutting Deck Adjustment

Proper deck leveling ensures even cut.

Park on level surface, set parking brake, disengage blades.
Measure blade tip height on all sides (use deck lift lever).
Adjust deck hangers: Turn nuts to raise/lower each side.
Re-check measurements until all sides are within 1/4 inch.
Test mow and observe cutting pattern.

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug wire before adjusting deck or blades.

Safety Features

Operator Presence System: Engine stops if operator leaves seat with blades engaged. Parking Brake: Must be set to start engine. Blade Brake Clutch: Stops blades within 3 seconds when disengaged. Safety Interlocks: Prevent starting in gear or with blades engaged.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare tractor for off-season storage.

Clean thoroughly: Remove grass, dirt from deck and chassis.
Fuel: Add fuel stabilizer or drain tank completely.
Oil: Change oil and filter.
Battery: Remove and store in cool, dry place on trickle charger.
Cover: Use breathable cover to protect from dust and moisture.

CAUTION! Store in dry, well-ventilated area away from open flames.

Warranty Information

Craftsman 917 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, improper maintenance, or commercial use. For warranty service, contact authorized service center with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.craftsman.com or call 1-888-331-4569.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, safety switch	Charge battery, add fuel, ensure seat switch engaged.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, deck not level	Sharpen blades, level deck, check belt tension.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old fuel	Replace air filter, drain and refill with fresh gas.
Hydrostatic transmission slips	Low fluid, worn belt	Check fluid level, inspect drive belt for wear.
Excessive vibration	Unbalanced blade, loose bolts	Balance or replace blade, tighten all deck bolts.

Reset: Turn key off and wait 30 seconds if safety interlock triggers.

Service: 1-888-331-4569; www.craftsman.com