Craftsman Model 917 255830 Owners Manual

The Craftsman Model 917 255830 is a riding lawn tractor designed for residential use, featuring a powerful engine, hydrostatic transmission, and a durable cutting deck. This manual provides essential information for safe operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your equipment.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Hydrostatic transmission, Briggs & Stratton engine, 42-inch cutting deck, electric start, adjustable seat, cup holder, and integrated headlights.

Feature	Description
Engine	Briggs & Stratton, single cylinder, overhead valve
Transmission	Hydrostatic, single pedal control
Cutting Deck	42-inch stamped steel, 3-blade system
Starting System	Electric key start with backup recoil
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive with differential lock
Seat	High-back, adjustable fore/aft
Fuel Tank	2.5-gallon capacity
Headlights	Integrated for low-light operation
Cutting Height	Adjustable 1.5 to 4 inches
Max Towing Capacity	Up to 300 lbs with optional hitch

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Install steering wheel: Align and tighten with provided hardware.
Attach seat: Mount to frame using bolts and washers.
Connect battery: Attach cables (red positive, black negative).
Install cutting deck: Lower deck lift, align with pins, and secure with belt.
Add fluids: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil (check dipstick) and fuel tank with fresh unleaded gasoline.

WARNING! Ensure tractor is on level ground during assembly. Keep hands clear of moving parts.

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Ignition: Turn key to START position; release when engine starts.
Parking brake: Engage before dismounting.
Hydrostatic pedal: Press forward to move forward, reverse to move backward; neutral in center.
Deck engagement: Pull lever to engage blades; ensure area is clear.
Cutting height: Adjust lever to desired setting (1.5-4 inches).
Headlights: Switch on dashboard for low-light conditions.

CAUTION! Do not operate on slopes greater than 15 degrees. Always engage parking brake when stopped.

Specifications

Model: 917.255830
Engine: Briggs & Stratton, 17.5 HP, 500cc
Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite forward/reverse speeds
Cutting Width: 42 inches
Cutting Height: 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gallons
Oil Capacity: 1.5 quarts (SAE 30)
Dimensions (LxWxH): 68 x 54 x 42 inches
Weight: 450 lbs
Warranty: 2-year limited

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures performance and safety.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, tire pressure, fuel level
Every 8 hours	Check for loose bolts/nuts; clean deck
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil (first change at 5 hours)
Every 50 hours	Replace air filter; check spark plug
Every 100 hours	Replace fuel filter; inspect drive belt
Seasonally	Sharpen/replace blades; grease fittings

Tip: Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Engine Care

Proper engine maintenance is critical.

Oil change: Drain oil when warm; refill with SAE 30 (1.5 quarts).
Air filter: Replace if dirty; do not wash foam filter.
Spark plug: Clean and gap to 0.030 inches; replace annually.
Fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline; add stabilizer for storage.
Cooling fins: Keep clean to prevent overheating.

WARNING! Engine is hot during/after operation; allow to cool before servicing.

Cutting Deck & Blades

Maintain deck for optimal cutting performance.

Blade sharpening: Remove blades; sharpen evenly to maintain balance.
Deck cleaning: Remove grass clippings after each use to prevent rust.
Belt inspection: Check for cracks/wear; replace if damaged.
Deck leveling: Adjust to ensure even cut (front slightly lower than rear).
Blade replacement: Use only Craftsman replacement blades (part # 123456).

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before working on deck or blades.

Safety Information

Read and follow all safety instructions.

Wear eye protection, sturdy shoes, and long pants.
Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles.
Do not carry passengers; keep bystanders away.
Do not mow on steep slopes; mow across slopes, not up/down.
Stop engine and wait for blades to stop before crossing driveways.
Never leave machine unattended with engine running.

DANGER! Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Rotating blades can cause severe injury.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare tractor for off-season storage.

Clean thoroughly: Remove grass, dirt, and debris.
Fuel system: Add fuel stabilizer; run engine 5 minutes; drain or fill tank completely.
Oil: Change oil and filter.
Battery: Disconnect and store in cool, dry place; charge monthly.
Storage location: Store in dry, covered area; elevate deck if possible.

Tip: Lubricate all pivot points before storage.

Warranty Information

Craftsman Model 917 255830 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials/workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact authorized service center or call 1-888-331-4569.

Registration: Register product online at www.craftsman.com/productregistration.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Empty fuel tank, dead battery, clogged fuel filter	Add fuel; charge/replace battery; replace fuel filter.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, uneven deck, clogged deck	Sharpen/replace blades; level deck; clean underside.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old spark plug, low oil	Replace air filter; clean/gap spark plug; check oil level.
Excessive vibration	Unbalanced blade, loose bolts, damaged spindle	Balance/replace blade; tighten all bolts; inspect spindle.
Hydrostatic transmission slips	Low fluid, worn drive belt	Check fluid level; inspect/replace drive belt.

Service: For technical support, call 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.