craftsman model 917.370 manual

The Craftsman Model 917.370 is a walk-behind lawn mower featuring a Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch cutting deck, 3-in-1 discharge system (mulch/bag/side-discharge), single-lever height adjustment, and durable steel construction. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. Safety Precautions 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting Height Adjustment 7. 3-in-1 Discharge System 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Storage Guidelines 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, single-lever height adjustment, rear bagger, mulch plug, side discharge chute, and durable wheels.

Feature	Description
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 125cc OHV engine
Cutting Width	21 inches
Cutting Height	1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Discharge Options	Mulch, Bag, Side-discharge
Deck Material	Powder-coated steel
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Starting System	Recoil pull-start
Fuel Tank	1-quart capacity
Weight	Approximately 65 lbs
Warranty	2-year limited warranty

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools (included).

Attach handle: Align handle with lower brackets, secure with provided bolts and wing nuts.
Install wheels: Slide wheels onto axles, secure with retainer clips.
Attach discharge chute: Align chute with deck opening, secure with bolt and wing nut.
Install bagger: Hook bag frame onto rear brackets, ensure bag is securely attached.
Add engine oil: Fill with SAE 30 detergent oil (check dipstick for level).
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (no more than 10% ethanol).

WARNING! Keep hands and feet clear of cutting blade during assembly. Ensure all fasteners are tight.

Safety Precautions

Always operate mower with caution to prevent injury.

Read manual thoroughly before use.
Clear mowing area of debris, rocks, and toys.
Wear sturdy shoes, eye protection, and long pants.
Do not mow wet grass or in poor visibility.
Never leave mower unattended with engine running.
Keep children and pets away from mowing area.
Disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.

CAUTION! Engine and muffler become hot during operation. Allow to cool before touching or storing.

Specifications

Model: 917.370
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 125cc OHV
Cutting Deck: 21-inch steel
Cutting Height Range: 1.5 to 4 inches
Discharge Options: Mulch, Bag, Side-discharge
Wheels: 8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum)
Oil Type: SAE 30 detergent (20 oz capacity)
Weight: 65 lbs (approx.)
Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Operation

Handle Controls: Throttle lever, drive control bar, height adjustment lever.

Starting: 1. Check oil and fuel. 2. Push primer bulb 3 times (cold engine). 3. Set throttle to FAST. 4. Pull recoil starter firmly.

Stopping: Release drive control bar, move throttle to STOP, wait for blade to stop.

Driving: Squeeze drive control bar against handle to engage self-propulsion. Release to stop movement.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Single-lever adjustment for all four wheels.

Stop engine and wait for blade to stop.
Pull height adjustment lever outward.
Move lever to desired position (1.5 to 4 inches).
Release lever to lock in position.
Check that all wheels are at same height.

Tip: For first mow of season, set to highest setting. Gradually lower for subsequent mows.

3-in-1 Discharge System

Configure for mulching, bagging, or side-discharge.

Mulching: Install mulch plug in rear discharge opening. Grass clippings are recut and returned to lawn.
Bagging: Remove mulch plug, attach grass bag to rear brackets. Empty bag when full.
Side-discharge: Remove mulch plug and bag, attach discharge chute to side opening.

WARNING! Always stop engine before changing discharge configuration. Ensure all parts are securely installed.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, inspect blade for damage, clear deck of debris
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil, clean or replace air filter
Every season	Sharpen or replace blade, check spark plug
As needed	Clean underside of deck, lubricate wheel bearings
Storage	Drain fuel or add stabilizer, clean thoroughly

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

Clean mower thoroughly, removing all grass and debris.
Drain fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes.
Change engine oil at end of season.
Remove spark plug, add teaspoon of oil to cylinder, pull starter slowly to coat.
Store in dry, covered area away from moisture.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank indoors or near open flame.

Warranty Information

Craftsman Model 917.370 is covered by a 2-year limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support 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	No fuel, old fuel, clogged air filter	Add fresh fuel, clean/replace air filter, check spark plug
Poor cutting performance	Dull blade, wet grass, low engine speed	Sharpen/replace blade, mow when dry, set throttle to FAST
Uneven cut	Uneven tire pressure, bent blade	Check tire pressure, replace bent blade
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, debris in deck	Tighten blade bolt, clean deck interior
Self-propel not working	Drive cable loose, worn drive belt	Adjust drive cable, replace drive belt

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