craftsman lawn mower model 917 370410 manual

The Craftsman Lawn Mower Model 917.370410 is a 21-inch self-propelled gas-powered walk-behind mower featuring a 190cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 3-in-1 mulching/bagging/side-discharge capability, single-lever height adjustment (1-4 inches), rear-wheel drive, and a 2.1 bushel grass bag. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: 190cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, 3-in-1 functionality, self-propelled rear-wheel drive, single-lever height adjustment, 2.1 bushel grass bag, and fold-down handle for storage.

FeatureDescription
Engine190cc Briggs & Stratton 4-cycle OHV engine
Cutting Width21 inches
Cutting Height1 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Drive SystemSelf-propelled rear-wheel drive
Grass Disposal3-in-1: Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge
Grass Bag Capacity2.1 bushels
StarterRecoil pull-start
Wheels8-inch rear, 7-inch front
HandleFold-down for compact storage
Fuel Tank CapacityApproximately 0.95 gallons

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before assembly and operation. Always wear appropriate safety gear.

  1. Clear mowing area of stones, sticks, and debris.
  2. Never operate without the grass bag or discharge chute properly installed.
  3. Do not mow on steep slopes or wet grass.
  4. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
  5. Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable. Refuel outdoors in a well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Do not smoke near fuel.

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools (included).

  1. Attach handle: Secure upper and lower handle sections with provided bolts and wing nuts.
  2. Install grass bag: Attach bag support frame to deck, then hook bag onto frame.
  3. Attach discharge chute: Secure chute to side discharge opening.
  4. Install wheels: Slide wheels onto axles and secure with hairpin clips.
  5. Add oil and fuel: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil (check dipstick). Add unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

CAUTION! Ensure all bolts are tightened securely. Do not overtighten plastic components.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Controls: Engine throttle/choke lever, drive control bar (self-propelled), height adjustment lever, blade control bail (must be held to run engine), recoil starter grip.

  1. Starting: Set throttle to FAST, pull choke (if cold), hold blade control bail, pull starter cord.
  2. Self-propelled drive: Squeeze drive control bar against handle to engage; release to stop.
  3. Height adjustment: Move single lever to desired setting (1-4 inches).
  4. Stopping: Release blade control bail; engine and blade will stop. Set throttle to STOP.

Tip: Allow engine to warm up for 30 seconds before mowing.

Maintenance Schedule

Note: Refer to engine manual for specific engine maintenance details.

Engine Information

Briggs & Stratton 190cc 4-cycle OHV engine. No mixing of oil and gasoline required.

SpecificationDetail
Engine Type4-cycle, single cylinder, OHV
Displacement190cc
Oil TypeSAE 30 (above 40°F/4°C)
Oil CapacityApproximately 20 oz. (0.6L)
Fuel TypeUnleaded gasoline, 87 octane minimum
Spark PlugChampion RC12YC (gap 0.030 inch)
Air FilterFoam and paper dual-element

Cutting Deck & Height Adjustment

21-inch stamped steel deck. Single lever adjusts all four wheels simultaneously.

  1. To adjust height: Move lever to desired setting (1=lowest, 6=highest). Ensure all wheels lock into same position.
  2. Mulching: Install mulch plug (included). Grass is cut finely and returned to lawn.
  3. Bagging: Attach grass bag. Empty when bag is 2/3 full for best performance.
  4. Side discharge: Install discharge chute for clippings to be ejected to the side.

WARNING! Always stop engine and disconnect spark plug before cleaning deck or changing cutting mode.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage extends mower life.

  1. Drain fuel or add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes.
  2. Change oil and replace spark plug if needed.
  3. Clean underside of deck thoroughly.
  4. Sharpen or replace blade.
  5. Store in a clean, dry place, preferably covered.

CAUTION! Do not store mower with fuel in tank indoors or near open flame.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, old gas, clogged filter, spark plugCheck fuel level; use fresh gas; clean/replace air filter; check spark plug.
Engine runs poorlyDirty air filter, old fuel, carburetorClean air filter; drain old fuel; consider carburetor cleaning.
Uneven cutDull blade, uneven tire pressure, deck cloggedSharpen/replace blade; inflate tires evenly; clean deck.
Self-propelled drive not workingDrive cable loose, belt wornAdjust drive cable; inspect and replace drive belt if necessary.
Excessive vibrationLoose blade, bent blade, debrisTighten blade bolt; replace bent blade; remove debris from deck.

Reset: For engine with safety features, ensure all controls are in correct position.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Craftsman service center.

Specifications

Warranty Information

Craftsman Model 917.370410 is covered by a 2-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship. Not covered: normal wear, misuse, lack of maintenance, commercial use. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

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