Craftsman Lawn Tractor Manual 917

The Craftsman Lawn Tractor Model 917 is a versatile riding mower designed for residential lawn care. It features a powerful engine, hydrostatic transmission, adjustable cutting deck, electric start, and various attachments for year-round use. This manual covers safety instructions, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your tractor.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, Hydrostatic Transmission, Cutting Deck, Electric Start System, Steering Wheel, Seat, Fuel Tank, Battery.

Feature	Description
Engine	Powerful OHV engine for reliable performance
Hydrostatic Transmission	Infinitely variable speed control, no shifting required
Cutting Deck	Adjustable cutting height (1.5" to 4"), multiple blade options
Electric Start	Key-operated ignition with backup recoil starter
Steering	Responsive wheel steering with tight turning radius
Seat	Padded, adjustable for operator comfort
Fuel Tank	Large capacity for extended operation
Battery	12V maintenance-free battery
Attachments	Compatible with bagger, mulcher, snow blade, etc.
Safety Features	Blade brake clutch, seat safety switch

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before operating. Always wear appropriate safety gear.

Clear mowing area of debris, rocks, and toys before starting.
Never allow children or pets near the tractor during operation.
Operate only in daylight or good artificial light.
Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
Always disengage blades before starting the engine.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable; refuel outdoors only with engine off and cool. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Attach steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Install seat: Mount onto frame, secure with provided hardware.
Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 weight, check dipstick.
Fill fuel tank: Use fresh unleaded gasoline only.
Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position.

CAUTION! Ensure all bolts are tightened securely. Check tire pressure (recommended 12 PSI).

Specifications

Model: Craftsman 917
Engine: 20 HP OHV, single cylinder
Transmission: Hydrostatic, foot pedal control
Cutting Width: 42 inches
Cutting Height: 1.5" to 4" (adjustable in 0.5" increments)
Fuel Capacity: 3.5 gallons
Oil Capacity: 1.5 quarts
Battery: 12V, 280 CCA
Weight: 450 lbs (approx.)
Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Dashboard: Ignition key, Choke, Throttle, Blade Engage Lever, Parking Brake.

Foot Controls: Forward/Reverse pedal (hydrostatic), Brake pedal.

Starting Procedure: 1. Sit on seat. 2. Set parking brake. 3. Disengage blades. 4. Move throttle to "Fast". 5. Turn key to "Start". Stopping: 1. Disengage blades. 2. Move throttle to "Slow". 3. Turn key to "Off". 4. Set parking brake.

Attachments & Accessories

Compatible attachments enhance functionality.

Grass Baggers: Collect clippings; attach to rear hitch.
Mulching Kits: Install special blade for fine clippings.
Snow Blades: Mount to front for winter snow removal.
Tow Carts: Haul yard debris, tools, or firewood.

Tip: Always disconnect spark plug wire before installing or removing attachments.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures reliability.

Before Each Use: Check oil level, tire pressure, fuel.
Every 25 Hours: Sharpen/replace blades, check battery.
Every 50 Hours: Change engine oil, replace oil filter.
Every 100 Hours: Replace air filter, spark plug.
Seasonally: Lubricate moving parts, check belts.

WARNING! Always perform maintenance with engine off and cool. Use genuine Craftsman parts.

Engine Care

Proper engine maintenance is critical.

Oil Change: Drain when warm, refill with SAE 30 (check manual for temperature variants). Air Filter: Clean foam pre-filter every 25 hours; replace paper element annually. Spark Plug: Gap at 0.030", replace yearly. Fuel System: Use fuel stabilizer if storing over 30 days.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare tractor for off-season storage.

Clean entire tractor, especially underside of deck.
Add fuel stabilizer to tank, run engine for 5 minutes.
Change oil and filter.
Remove battery, store in cool dry place, charge monthly.
Store in a dry, covered area.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank without stabilizer. Keep away from open flames.

Warranty Information

Craftsman 917 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact an authorized Craftsman service center with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.craftsman.com or call 1-888-331-4569.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, bad spark plug	Charge/replace battery; add fuel; check/replace spark plug.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed, clogged deck	Sharpen/replace blades; set throttle to "Fast"; clean deck.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old fuel, clogged fuel line	Clean/replace air filter; drain old fuel; clear fuel line.
Hydrostatic transmission slips	Low oil, drive belt worn	Check transmission oil level; inspect/replace drive belt.
Battery not charging	Loose connections, faulty alternator	Tighten battery cables; test alternator output.

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

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