Craftsman Lawn Mower Model 917 Manual

The Craftsman Model 917 is a versatile walk-behind lawn mower featuring a Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch cutting deck, 3-in-1 capability (mulch/bag/side-discharge), adjustable cutting heights, easy-start system, durable steel construction, and rear-wheel drive. This manual covers essential safety instructions, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and storage procedures to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your mower.

1. Safety Instructions 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Controls & Features 4. Specifications 5. Operation Instructions 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Storage & Winterization 8. Troubleshooting Guide 9. Warranty Information 10. Parts Diagram

Safety Instructions

Always read and follow all safety rules before operating your Craftsman mower. Key safety components include blade control handle (deadman switch), protective deflector shield, and safety labels.

Hazard	Precaution
Blade Contact	Always keep hands and feet away from cutting deck. Disconnect spark plug before servicing.
Thrown Objects	Clear mowing area of sticks, stones, and debris. Keep bystanders at a safe distance.
Fuel Safety	Refuel outdoors only when engine is cool. Use approved gasoline container.
Slope Operation	Mow across slopes, not up and down. Use extreme caution on inclines over 15 degrees.
Children & Pets	Keep children and pets away from mowing area. Never allow children to operate mower.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack all parts from carton. Assembly requires basic tools (included: wrench, screwdriver).

Handle Assembly: Attach upper and lower handle sections with provided bolts and knobs.
Install Wheels: Slide wheels onto axles and secure with hairpin clips.
Attach Bagging System: Connect grass bag adapter to rear discharge chute.
Add Oil & Fuel: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil (check dipstick). Add fresh unleaded gasoline.
Install Battery (if electric start): Connect red (+) then black (-) terminals.

WARNING! Never attempt to start engine without proper oil level. Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation.

Controls & Features

Primary controls located on handle. Front Panel: Throttle control, choke, primer bulb.

Handle Controls: Blade control handle (must be held for engine to run), drive control lever (self-propelled), height adjustment lever, fuel tank cap, oil fill/dipstick.

Cutting Deck: 21-inch stamped steel, 3-in-1 system (mulch plug, bag, side discharge chute). Height Adjustment: Single lever adjusts all wheels simultaneously (1-4 inch range). Engine: Briggs & Stratton 190cc OHV engine with Easy-Spin starting system.

Specifications

Model: Craftsman 917.xxxxxx (check your specific model number)
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 190cc OHV, 4-cycle
Cutting Width: 21 inches
Cutting Heights: 6 positions (1-4 inches)
Drive System: Rear-wheel self-propelled (variable speed)
Deck Material: Stamped steel
Fuel Capacity: 1.0 gallon
Oil Capacity: 20 oz (SAE 30)
Starting System: Recoil (electric start on some models)
Warranty: 2-year limited

Operation Instructions

Starting, mowing, and stopping procedures.

Pre-Start Check: Verify oil level, clear area, attach bag or insert mulch plug.
Starting Cold Engine: Set throttle to FAST, choke to CLOSED, prime 3 times, pull starter cord.
Starting Warm Engine: Set throttle to FAST, choke to OPEN, pull starter cord.
Engaging Blades: Hold blade control handle against handlebar.
Self-Propelled Drive: Squeeze drive control lever to engage wheels.
Height Adjustment: Stop engine, move lever to desired position.
Stopping: Release blade control handle, move throttle to STOP, disconnect spark plug for storage.

Tip: Mow when grass is dry for best results. Overlap passes by 2-3 inches.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends mower life.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, inspect blade for damage, clear deck of debris
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil (or annually)
Every season	Replace air filter, spark plug
As needed	Sharpen or replace blade (balance after sharpening)
Every 100 hours	Clean fuel system, check drive belt

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents fuel system damage and corrosion.

Add Fuel Stabilizer: Run engine 5 minutes to circulate treated fuel through system.
Drain or Run Dry: Either drain fuel tank completely or run engine until it stops.
Change Oil: Replace oil while engine is warm.
Remove Battery (if equipped): Store in cool, dry place and charge periodically.
Clean Mower: Remove grass clippings, wash deck (avoid water near engine).
Store Indoors: Keep in dry, covered location, preferably off concrete floor.

WARNING! Gasoline left in tank over 30 days without stabilizer can damage carburetor.

Troubleshooting Guide

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Engine won't start	Empty fuel tank, stale gas, clogged air filter, faulty spark plug	Add fresh fuel, replace air filter/spark plug, check oil level
Engine runs poorly	Dirty carburetor, old gasoline, water in fuel	Drain fuel tank, add fresh gas, clean carburetor
Uneven cutting	Dull/bent blade, uneven tire pressure, clogged deck	Sharpen/balance blade, check tire pressure, clean deck
Self-propelled not working	Drive belt worn or broken, drive cable adjustment	Inspect and replace drive belt, adjust drive cable
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, bent crankshaft, debris in blade	Tighten blade bolt, remove debris, inspect for damage

Warranty Information

Craftsman Model 917 comes with a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, commercial use, or improper maintenance. Keep your original receipt as proof of purchase. For warranty service, contact an authorized Craftsman service center or call 1-888-331-4569.

Parts Diagram

Refer to the exploded view diagram for part identification and ordering. Common replacement parts include: blade (part # 123456), air filter (part # 234567), spark plug (part # RC12YC), drive belt (part # 345678), wheels (part # 456789). Always use genuine Craftsman parts for optimal performance and warranty compliance.

Parts Ordering: Visit www.craftsman.com or call 1-888-331-4569 with your model number (917.xxxxxx).