Craftsman Lawn Mower Parts Model 917 Manual

The Craftsman Model 917 is a versatile lawn tractor known for its durability and performance. This manual provides comprehensive information on parts identification, maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, and safety guidelines to ensure optimal operation and longevity of your equipment. Below are key sections covering parts diagrams, installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting specific to the Model 917.

1. Parts Overview & Diagrams 2. Safety Precautions 3. Assembly & Installation 4. Technical Specifications 5. Controls & Operation 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Engine Care 8. Blade & Deck Maintenance 9. Storage Guidelines 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Parts Overview & Diagrams

Key components: Engine assembly, Cutting deck, Drive system, Control panel, Seat, Wheels, and Belts.

Part Category	Description
Engine Assembly	Includes engine model, air filter, spark plug, and oil dipstick
Cutting Deck	Housing, blades, spindle assemblies, and height adjustment mechanism
Drive System	Transmission, drive belt, pulleys, and traction control
Control Panel	Ignition switch, throttle control, blade engagement lever, and parking brake
Seat	Adjustable seat with suspension and mounting brackets
Wheels	Front and rear tires, axles, and hub assemblies
Belts	Drive belt and deck belt for power transmission
Fuel System	Fuel tank, fuel lines, carburetor, and fuel filter
Electrical System	Battery, starter, wiring harness, and safety switches
Muffler & Exhaust	Exhaust pipe and muffler for noise reduction

Safety Precautions

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury and equipment damage.

Read manual thoroughly before operation.
Wear appropriate safety gear: eye protection, sturdy shoes, and hearing protection.
Clear mowing area of debris, rocks, and toys before starting.
Never allow children or pets near the mower during operation.
Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable; refuel outdoors with engine off and cool. Avoid hot surfaces.

Assembly & Installation

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a flat, stable surface.

Attach steering wheel: Align and secure with provided hardware.
Install seat: Mount seat onto frame using bolts and washers.
Connect battery: Attach positive (+) then negative (-) terminals.
Attach cutting deck: Align deck with mounting points and secure with pins or bolts.
Install blades: Ensure sharp edge faces downward and tighten securely.
Check tire pressure: Inflate to recommended PSI (typically 12-15 PSI).

CAUTION! Use proper tools; do not overtighten bolts. Ensure all connections are secure before operation.

Technical Specifications

Model: Craftsman 917
Engine Type: Gasoline, OHV (Overhead Valve)
Engine Displacement: Typically 17.5 to 19.5 HP
Cutting Width: 42 inches (may vary by deck model)
Cutting Height: Adjustable from 1.5 to 4 inches
Transmission: Manual or Hydrostatic drive
Fuel Tank Capacity: Approximately 2.5 gallons
Oil Capacity: Approximately 1.5 to 2 quarts (check dipstick)
Battery: 12V, 200+ CCA
Weight: Approximately 450 lbs (varies by configuration)

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting the engine.

Control Panel: Ignition key, Throttle/Choke, Blade engagement lever, Parking brake, Gear shift (if manual transmission).

Starting Procedure: 1. Sit on seat. 2. Engage parking brake. 3. Set throttle to "Fast" or "Start" position. 4. Turn ignition key to start. 5. Once started, adjust throttle to desired speed. 6. Disengage parking brake. 7. Engage blade lever to start cutting.

Stopping Procedure: 1. Disengage blade lever. 2. Move throttle to "Slow". 3. Engage parking brake. 4. Turn ignition key to "Off". 5. Remove key.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures peak performance and extends equipment life.

Before Each Use: Check tire pressure, inspect blades for damage, check oil level, ensure fuel is adequate.
Every 8 Hours: Clean cutting deck, check for loose bolts/nuts.
Every 25 Hours: Change engine oil (or annually), check air filter, inspect spark plug.
Every 50 Hours: Replace air filter, check drive belt tension, lubricate pivot points.
Every 100 Hours: Replace spark plug, change oil filter (if equipped), inspect transmission fluid.
Seasonal: Sharpen or replace blades, check battery charge, clean fuel system before storage.

Tip: Keep a maintenance log to track service intervals.

Engine Care

Proper engine maintenance is critical for reliable operation.

Oil Change: Use SAE 30 or 10W-30 detergent oil. Drain when warm. Refill to full mark on dipstick.
Air Filter: Clean foam pre-cleaner (if equipped) with soapy water. Replace paper element when dirty.
Spark Plug: Gap to 0.030 inches. Replace annually or if fouled.
Fuel System: Use fresh unleaded gasoline. Add fuel stabilizer for storage. Replace fuel filter annually.
Cooling System: Keep cooling fins and air intake clear of debris.

WARNING! Never run engine without air filter. Always disconnect spark plug wire before servicing.

Blade & Deck Maintenance

Sharp blades and a clean deck ensure a clean cut and reduce strain on engine.

Blade Sharpening: Remove blade using a block of wood to prevent rotation. Sharpen at original angle. Balance blade before reinstalling.
Deck Cleaning: After each use, scrape off grass clippings and rinse with water (ensure drain holes are clear).
Belt Inspection: Check drive and deck belts for cracks, fraying, or wear. Adjust tension if loose.
Spindle Lubrication: Grease spindle zerks (if equipped) every 25 hours.
Height Adjustment: Ensure all wheels are set to same height for even cut.

CAUTION! Wear heavy gloves when handling blades. Ensure deck is securely supported when working underneath.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

Fuel: Add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes to circulate. Either drain tank completely or fill to top to prevent condensation.
Battery: Disconnect negative terminal. Store in a cool, dry place. Charge every 30-60 days.
Engine: Change oil before storage. Remove spark plug and add a teaspoon of oil into cylinder, then crank engine slowly to coat cylinder walls.
Cleaning: Thoroughly clean entire mower, especially underside of deck.
Location: Store in a dry, covered area. Protect from moisture and rodents.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank in an enclosed area near open flame or pilot light.

Warranty Information

Craftsman Model 917 typically includes a limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship for a specified period (e.g., 2 years for residential use). Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, lack of maintenance, or commercial use. Keep your original sales receipt as proof of purchase. For warranty service, contact an authorized Craftsman service center or call 1-888-331-4569. Visit www.craftsman.com for detailed warranty terms and service locations.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Empty fuel tank, dead battery, faulty spark plug, engaged parking brake not set	Check fuel level; charge or replace battery; check/replace spark plug; ensure parking brake is fully engaged.
Engine runs poorly or stalls	Dirty air filter, old gasoline, clogged fuel filter, water in fuel	Clean/replace air filter; drain old fuel; replace fuel filter; drain fuel tank and refill with fresh gasoline.
Uneven cutting	Dull blades, uneven tire pressure, worn deck belt, uneven deck height	Sharpen or replace blades; inflate tires evenly; inspect/replace deck belt; level cutting deck.
Loss of power	Clogged cooling fins, dirty carburetor, worn drive belt	Clean engine cooling fins; clean or rebuild carburetor; adjust or replace drive belt.
Excessive vibration	Unbalanced blade, loose blade or spindle, damaged deck	Balance or replace blade; tighten blade bolt and spindle nuts; inspect deck for damage.
Mower won't move	Parking brake engaged, low transmission fluid, broken drive belt	Disengage parking brake; check transmission fluid level; inspect and replace drive belt if broken.
Battery won't charge	Loose connections, faulty alternator, bad battery	Clean and tighten battery terminals; test alternator output; load test and replace battery if needed.

Reset: For safety interlock issues, ensure you are seated and all controls are in neutral/park position.

Service: For technical support or parts, contact Craftsman at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.