Craftsman 917258561 Manual Repair

The Craftsman 917258561 is a lawn tractor model requiring specific maintenance and repair procedures. This manual covers essential safety guidelines, troubleshooting steps, common repairs, part replacement instructions, and maintenance schedules to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your equipment. Below are key sections for safety, features, maintenance, repair procedures, specifications, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton engine, hydrostatic transmission, cutting deck, steering system, battery, and safety switches.

Safety Precautions

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury and equipment damage.

1. Read manual thoroughly before operation or maintenance.
2. Wear appropriate safety gear: eye protection, gloves, sturdy footwear.
3. Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any repairs.
4. Work in well-ventilated area when handling fuel or batteries.
5. Use proper lifting techniques or equipment for heavy components.

WARNING! Never operate mower without all safety switches functional. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends equipment life.

1. Before Each Use: Check tire pressure, fuel level, oil level, and for loose hardware.
2. Every 25 Hours: Change engine oil, check air filter, inspect blades.
3. Every 50 Hours: Replace air filter, check spark plug, lubricate fittings.
4. Every 100 Hours: Change transmission fluid, replace fuel filter.
5. Seasonal: Sharpen blades, check battery, clean deck, store properly.

CAUTION! Allow engine to cool completely before performing maintenance.

Specifications

• Model: Craftsman 917258561
• Engine: Briggs & Stratton 17.5 HP, single-cylinder
• Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite forward/reverse speeds
• Cutting Width: 42 inches
• Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
• Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gallons
• Oil Capacity: 1.5 quarts (SAE 30)
• Battery: 12V, 280 CCA
• Dimensions: 72" L x 42" W x 42" H
• Weight: 450 lbs

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls and components for safe operation.

Operator Controls: Ignition key, throttle control, choke, brake pedal, forward/reverse pedals, blade engagement lever, cutting height adjustment lever.

Dashboard Indicators: Oil pressure light, battery charge indicator (if equipped).

Main Components: Engine, transmission, cutting deck, steering linkage, battery, fuel system, electrical system, safety switches.

Common Repairs

Step-by-step instructions for frequent repair scenarios.

1. Blade Replacement: Disconnect spark plug, remove deck, unbolt old blades, install new blades with proper orientation.
2. Belt Replacement: Release tension, remove old belt, route new belt according to diagram, adjust tension.
3. Tire Repair: Jack up tractor, remove wheel, repair or replace tire, reinstall with proper torque.
4. Carburetor Cleaning: Remove carburetor, disassemble, clean with carburetor cleaner, reassemble with new gaskets.
5. Starter Replacement: Disconnect battery, remove old starter, install new starter, reconnect battery.

Tip: Take photos during disassembly for reference during reassembly.

Engine Maintenance

Proper engine care ensures reliable starting and operation.

1. Oil Change: Run engine to warm oil, drain completely, refill with SAE 30 detergent oil.
2. Air Filter: Remove cover, clean or replace filter element, ensure proper sealing.
3. Spark Plug: Remove old plug, check gap (0.030"), install new plug with proper torque.
4. Fuel System: Use fresh gasoline, add fuel stabilizer for storage, replace fuel filter annually.
5. Cooling System: Keep cooling fins clean, ensure proper airflow around engine.

WARNING! Never check or add fuel while engine is running or hot.

Electrical System

Troubleshooting and maintenance of electrical components.

Battery: Check voltage (12.6V fully charged), clean terminals, ensure proper connection.

Starting System: Test solenoid, check wiring connections, inspect starter motor.

Charging System: Test alternator output, check voltage regulator.

Safety Switches: Test continuity of seat switch, brake switch, and blade engagement switch.

Fuses: Locate and test fuses, replace with same amperage rating.

Storage & Care

Proper storage prevents damage and extends equipment life.

1. Clean entire tractor thoroughly before storage.
2. Change oil and filter at end of season.
3. Add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes.
4. Disconnect battery and store in cool, dry place.
5. Store in dry, covered location, preferably on level surface.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days without stabilizer.

Regulatory Information

This equipment complies with applicable safety standards. Always follow local regulations for equipment operation and disposal. Craftsman is a trademark of Sears Brands, LLC. For genuine Craftsman parts, visit www.craftsman.com or contact 1-888-331-4569. Engine emissions comply with EPA and CARB regulations for the model year manufactured.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 minutes to reset electrical system if needed.

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