Craftsman Lawn Tractor Model 917 Manual

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, and various attachments for year-round use. This manual covers essential safety information, operation instructions, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure safe and efficient performance.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 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, Steering Wheel, Seat, Fuel Tank, Battery, and Attachment Points.

Feature	Description
Engine	Powerful OHV engine for reliable performance
Transmission	Hydrostatic drive for smooth speed control
Cutting Deck	Adjustable height (1.5" to 4") for various grass lengths
Steering	Responsive wheel steering for easy maneuverability
Seat	Padded, adjustable seat for operator comfort
Fuel Tank	Large capacity for extended operation time
Battery	12V battery for electric start system
Attachment Points	For bagger, mulcher, snow blade, or tow-behind cart
Blade Engagement	Electric PTO clutch for easy blade control
Parking Brake	Integrated brake for secure parking

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operating. Wear appropriate safety gear.

Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles before starting.
Never allow children or pets near the tractor while in operation.
Operate only in daylight or good artificial light.
Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees; mow across slopes, not up and down.
Always disengage blades, set parking brake, and turn off engine before leaving operator's position.

WARNING! Risk of serious injury or death from blade contact or rollover. Follow all safety guidelines.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Attach steering wheel: Align and secure with provided hardware.
Install seat: Bolt seat to frame using included bolts and washers.
Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) cables; secure battery in tray.
Add engine oil and fuel: Use SAE 30 oil (check dipstick) and fresh unleaded gasoline.
Adjust cutting height: Set deck to desired height using lever or dial.

CAUTION! Ensure all bolts are tightened securely. Check tire pressure (recommended 12-15 PSI).

Specifications

Model: Craftsman 917
Engine Type: 4-cycle, single cylinder OHV
Engine Power: 20 HP (approx.)
Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite forward/reverse speeds
Cutting Width: 42 inches
Cutting Heights: 1.5" to 4" (adjustable in 0.5" increments)
Fuel Capacity: 3 gallons
Oil Capacity: 1.5 quarts (with filter)
Battery: 12V, 280 CCA
Weight: Approx. 500 lbs

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting engine.

Dashboard: Ignition switch, PTO (blade engagement) lever, throttle/choke, hour meter.

Steering Column: Gear selector (F-N-R), parking brake lever, cruise control (if equipped).

Floor Area: Forward/reverse pedals (hydrostatic), brake pedal.

Starting Procedure: 1. Sit on seat. 2. Set parking brake. 3. Move gear selector to Neutral (N). 4. Engage choke if cold. 5. Turn ignition key to START. 6. Release key to RUN position once engine starts.

Mowing: Engage PTO lever to spin blades. Adjust speed with foot pedal. Use steering wheel to guide tractor.

Attachments & Accessories

Compatible attachments enhance tractor functionality.

Grass Baggers: Collect clippings for a clean lawn.
Mulching Kits: Recycle grass clippings as natural fertilizer.
Snow Blades/Throwers: Clear driveways and paths in winter.
Tow-Behind Carts: Haul yard debris, soil, or firewood.
Aerators: Improve soil health by creating small holes in turf.

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

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and optimal performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, fuel/oil levels, and for loose parts
Every 8 hours	Clean deck underside to prevent grass buildup
Every 25 hours	Check battery terminals; clean if corroded
Every 50 hours	Change engine oil and oil filter
Every 100 hours	Replace air filter and spark plug
Seasonally	Sharpen or replace mower blades; check belt tension
Annually	Lubricate all pivot points and steering linkages

Engine Care

Proper engine maintenance is critical for reliable starts and power.

Oil Change: Drain warm oil, replace filter, refill with SAE 30 (or as specified for temperature).
Air Filter: Replace paper element or clean foam pre-cleaner regularly.
Spark Plug: Gap to 0.030"; replace if electrodes are worn or fouled.
Fuel System: Use fresh gasoline; add fuel stabilizer for storage; replace fuel filter annually.
Cooling Fins: Keep engine shroud and cooling fins clean of grass and debris.

WARNING! Engine and muffler become extremely hot. Allow to cool before servicing.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare tractor for extended storage, especially over winter.

Clean entire tractor thoroughly, especially under deck.
Change engine oil and filter (old oil contains contaminants).
Add fuel stabilizer to tank, run engine for 5 minutes to circulate, then top off tank.
Disconnect battery negative cable; store battery in a cool, dry place on a trickle charger.
Store in a dry, covered location; block up tires to prevent flat spots if storing for months.

CAUTION! Never store tractor with fuel in an unventilated area due to fire risk.

Warranty Information

Craftsman Lawn Tractor Model 917 is covered by a limited warranty. The engine may have a separate warranty from its manufacturer. Proof of purchase is required for warranty service.

What's Covered: Defects in materials or workmanship for specified periods (e.g., 2 years for tractor, longer for engine).

What's Not Covered: Normal wear items (belts, blades, tires), damage from misuse, lack of maintenance, or accidents.

For warranty claims, contact an authorized Craftsman service center or call 1-888-331-4569. Keep your receipt and this manual.

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.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter, old fuel, clogged fuel filter	Replace air filter; drain old gas; replace fuel filter.
Blades won't engage	PTO switch faulty, blown fuse, loose connection	Check PTO switch; replace 20A fuse; check wiring.
Uneven cutting	Dull blades, uneven tire pressure, deck not level	Sharpen blades; inflate tires evenly; level deck.
Loss of power	Clogged deck, slipping drive belt, low oil	Clean deck; inspect/tighten drive belt; check oil level.
Hydrostatic transmission sluggish	Low fluid, air in system	Check fluid level; purge air per service manual.

Reset: For electrical issues, disconnect battery for 5 minutes to reset system.

Service: For complex repairs, contact authorized service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.