craftsman model 917 273012 manual

The Craftsman Model 917 273012 is a riding lawn mower featuring a 42-inch cutting deck, powered by a 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine with electric start, hydrostatic transmission for smooth speed control, 6-speed gear drive, mulching and bagging capabilities, adjustable cutting height, and a comfortable high-back seat. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Attachments and Accessories 7. Cutting Deck Operation 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42-inch stamped steel cutting deck, 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric start with key, High-back seat, Mulching kit compatibility, Twin bagger grass collection system.

Feature	Description
Engine	19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, single-cylinder, overhead valve
Cutting Width	42 inches
Transmission	Hydrostatic, infinite forward/reverse speeds
Starting System	Electric key start with 12V battery
Cutting Height	Adjustable from 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Fuel Capacity	2.5 gallons
Seat	High-back, padded, adjustable
Deck Engagement	Electric PTO clutch
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive
Bagging/Mulching	Optional twin bagger or mulching kit

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Install steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Attach seat: Mount using provided bolts and washers.
Install battery: Connect red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Attach cutting deck: Align with mounting points and secure with pins.
Install bagger/mulcher: Follow kit instructions if included.
Check tire pressure: Inflate to 10 PSI (front) and 12 PSI (rear).

WARNING! Use proper lifting techniques; deck is heavy. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely.

First-Time Setup

Prepare mower for initial use.

Add oil: Use SAE 30 or 10W-30, fill to dipstick mark.
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).
Charge battery: Connect charger for 12 hours before first start.
Adjust seat: Set to comfortable position and lock.
Test controls: Check brake, throttle, and PTO engagement.
Break-in engine: Run at varying speeds for first 5 hours.

CAUTION! Keep hands and feet away from moving parts during initial tests.

Specifications

Model: 917.273012
Engine: 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, OHV
Cutting Deck: 42-inch stamped steel
Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite speeds
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Capacity: 2.5 gallons
Cutting Height Range: 1.5 - 4 inches
Turning Radius: 18 inches
Weight: 450 lbs (approx.)
Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before operation.

Dashboard: Ignition key, PTO switch, Throttle, Choke, Hour meter.

Steering/Drive: Steering wheel, Forward/reverse pedal, Brake pedal.

Cutting Controls: Deck height lever, Deck engagement lever.

Starting Procedure: 1. Sit on seat. 2. Set parking brake. 3. Move PTO to OFF. 4. Turn key to START. 5. Release key to ON.

Stopping Procedure: 1. Disengage PTO. 2. Move throttle to SLOW. 3. Turn key to OFF. 4. Set parking brake.

Attachments and Accessories

Compatible with various Craftsman attachments.

Mulching Kit: Converts mower to mulch grass clippings.
Twin Bagger: Collects clippings in two rear bags.
Snow Blade: 42-inch blade for snow removal (requires weight kit).
Tow Behind Sprayer: For lawn care chemicals.

Tip: Always disconnect spark plug before installing attachments.

Cutting Deck Operation

Proper deck operation ensures optimal cutting performance.

Adjust cutting height: Use lever while mower is stopped.
Engage deck: Move PTO switch to ON at full throttle.
Mow patterns: Overlap passes by 2-3 inches for even cut.
Clean deck: Disengage PTO, raise deck, and scrape after use.
Sharpen blades: Remove blades annually or when dull.
Check belt tension: Inspect every 50 hours of operation.

WARNING! Never adjust deck height with engine running. Always disengage PTO before leaving seat.

Safety Features

Operator Presence System: Engine stops if operator leaves seat with PTO engaged. Blade Brake Clutch: Stops blades within 3 seconds when disengaged. Parking Brake: Locks rear wheels when set.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

Daily: Check oil level, clean deck, inspect for damage.

Every 25 hours: Change oil, check air filter, lubricate fittings.

Every 100 hours: Change spark plug, check battery, inspect belts.

Seasonal: Stabilize fuel, clean underside, store properly.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Warranty Information

2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, improper use, or lack of maintenance. For warranty claims, contact Craftsman customer service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, bad spark plug, empty fuel	Charge battery; replace spark plug; add fuel.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed	Sharpen blades; run at full throttle.
Vibration during operation	Unbalanced blade, loose parts	Balance or replace blade; tighten bolts.
Hydrostatic transmission slips	Low fluid, worn belt	Check fluid level; replace drive belt.
Bagger not collecting	Clogged chute, full bags	Clear chute; empty bags regularly.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 5 minutes to reset electrical system.

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