Craftsman 917258561 Manual Lawn Tractor

The Craftsman 917258561 is a manual lawn tractor designed for residential lawn care, featuring a durable steel frame, manual transmission, adjustable cutting deck, and a reliable gasoline engine. It includes key components such as the cutting deck, steering wheel, seat, brake pedal, clutch/gear lever, and height adjustment lever. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Steel frame, manual transmission, adjustable cutting deck, gasoline engine, steering wheel, seat, brake pedal, clutch/gear lever, height adjustment lever.

Feature	Description
Steel Frame	Durable construction for stability and longevity
Manual Transmission	Manual gear selection for speed control
Adjustable Cutting Deck	Multiple height settings for grass cutting
Gasoline Engine	Reliable power source for lawn mowing
Steering Wheel	For directional control
Seat	Operator seating with comfort design
Brake Pedal	For stopping the tractor
Clutch/Gear Lever	Engages transmission and selects gears
Height Adjustment Lever	Adjusts cutting deck height
Tires	Pneumatic tires for traction

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble on a flat, stable surface.

Attach steering wheel: Align and secure with provided hardware.
Install seat: Mount seat onto frame using bolts.
Attach cutting deck: Connect deck to tractor frame as per instructions.
Check tires: Inflate to recommended pressure (see Specifications).
Add engine oil and fuel: Use specified types (see Engine Care).

WARNING! Tractor is heavy; use assistance for lifting. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely.

Controls and Operation

Start engine: Set parking brake, ensure clutch is disengaged, turn ignition key.

Driving: Press clutch, select gear, release clutch slowly while applying throttle.
Steering: Use steering wheel for direction.
Braking: Press brake pedal to stop; set parking brake when parked.
Cutting: Engage mower blade lever while moving at appropriate speed.
Height adjustment: Use lever to set cutting height before mowing.

CAUTION! Operate on level ground; avoid slopes exceeding 15 degrees. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Model: Craftsman 917258561.
Type: Manual Lawn Tractor.
Engine: Gasoline, single-cylinder.
Transmission: Manual, 5-speed forward, 1 reverse.
Cutting Width: 42 inches.
Cutting Heights: 1.5 to 4 inches (adjustable).
Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gallons.
Tire Size: Front 15x6.00-6, Rear 20x10.00-8.
Weight: Approx. 450 lbs.
Dimensions: 72" L x 42" W x 44" H.

Cutting Deck Adjustment

Adjust cutting height via lever located near operator seat.

Stop tractor and turn off engine.
Move lever to desired height setting (1-lowest, 6-highest).
Ensure deck is level by measuring blade height on both sides.
Test mow a small area to verify cut quality.

Tip: For best results, do not cut more than 1/3 of grass height at once.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, fuel level, oil level
Every 25 hours	Sharpen/replace mower blades
Every 50 hours	Change engine oil, check air filter
Every 100 hours	Replace spark plug, check belts
Seasonally	Lubricate moving parts, inspect cables

Note: Refer to engine manual for specific engine maintenance.

Engine Care

Use fresh unleaded gasoline with octane rating 87 or higher.

Oil: Check level before each use; change every 50 hours (SAE 30).
Air filter: Clean every 25 hours; replace if damaged.
Spark plug: Replace every 100 hours (gap 0.030 inches).
Fuel filter: Replace annually or if clogged.

WARNING! Always turn off engine and allow to cool before maintenance. No smoking near fuel.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare tractor for long-term storage (e.g., winter).

Clean underside of cutting deck to remove grass clippings.
Change engine oil and run engine briefly to circulate.
Add fuel stabilizer to tank and run for 5 minutes.
Disconnect spark plug wire for safety.
Store in dry, covered area.

CAUTION! Do not store with fuel in tank beyond 30 days without stabilizer.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

Wear sturdy shoes and eye protection.
Keep bystanders, especially children, away during operation.
Do not mow on wet grass or steep slopes.
Never leave tractor unattended with engine running.
Disconnect spark plug before performing any maintenance.

DANGER! Rotating blades can cause severe injury. Keep hands and feet away.

Warranty & Support

Craftsman 917258561 includes a 2-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. For support, contact Craftsman Customer Service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep purchase receipt for warranty claims.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, battery	Check fuel level; ensure spark plug connected; check battery charge.
Poor cutting quality	Dull blades, deck height	Sharpen or replace blades; adjust deck level.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old fuel	Clean/replace air filter; use fresh fuel.
Difficulty steering	Tire pressure, linkage	Inflate tires to spec; lubricate steering linkage.
Excessive vibration	Loose blades, debris	Tighten blade bolts; clean deck of debris.

Reset: For electrical issues, disconnect battery for 5 minutes then reconnect.

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