craftsman model 917.376551 manual

The Craftsman Model 917.376551 is a 42-inch riding lawn mower with a 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton Intek engine, 6-speed manual transmission, electric start, and a mulching/bagging side discharge system. It features a durable steel frame, adjustable cutting height (1.5-4 inches), and a 3-gallon fuel tank. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Cutting & Mowing 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage & Winterization 9. Safety Information 10. Parts & Accessories 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton Intek engine, 42-inch stamped steel deck, 6-speed manual transmission, Electric start with key, Mulching/bagging capability, Adjustable seat, Headlights.

Feature	Description
Engine	19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton Intek, single cylinder, OHV
Cutting Width	42 inches
Transmission	6-speed manual gear drive
Starting System	Electric key start with 12V battery
Cutting Height	Adjustable from 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Fuel Tank	3-gallon capacity
Deck Engagement	Manual lever
Brake System	Disc brake on transmission
Seat	High-back, adjustable fore/aft
Headlights	Two front headlights for low-light operation

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Install steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Attach seat: Mount using provided bolts and washers.
Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) cables.
Install cutting deck: Align with mounting points and secure with pins.
Check tire pressure: Inflate to 10 PSI (front) and 14 PSI (rear).

WARNING! Mower is heavy; use assistance during assembly. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely.

First-Time Operation

Before starting, perform pre-operation checks.

Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).
Adjust seat: Position for comfortable reach to controls.
Set cutting height: Use lever to desired position.
Start engine: Insert key, set choke (if cold), turn to START.
Engage blades: Pull deck engagement lever slowly.

CAUTION! Operate only in clear, dry conditions. Keep bystanders away.

Specifications

Model: 917.376551
Engine: 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton Intek, OHV
Cutting Width: 42 inches
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Cutting Height Range: 1.5 - 4 inches
Fuel Capacity: 3 gallons
Oil Capacity: 1.5 quarts (SAE 30)
Battery: 12V, 280 CCA
Weight: 450 lbs (approx.)
Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Settings

Operator controls located on dash and steering column.

Dashboard: Ignition key, Headlight switch, Hour meter.

Steering Column: Throttle control, Choke knob, Deck engagement lever, Cutting height adjuster.

Floor Area: Clutch/brake pedal, Gear shift lever (1-6 + R).

Settings: Cutting height (lever with 6 positions), Throttle (turtle/rabbit symbols), Choke (cold starts).

Cutting & Mowing

For optimal performance and lawn health.

Mow when grass is dry.
Adjust cutting height based on season (higher in summer).
Overlap passes by 2-3 inches for even cut.
Use mulching plug for nutrient recycling or bagger for clippings.
Change mowing pattern weekly to avoid ruts.

Tip: Sharpen blades every 25 hours for clean cuts.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil, tire pressure, fuel level
Every 8 hours	Check blade condition, deck for debris
Every 25 hours	Sharpen/replace blades, check battery
Every 50 hours	Change oil, replace air filter
Every 100 hours	Replace spark plug, check belts
Seasonally	Lubricate moving parts, check transmission fluid

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

Run engine to warm oil, then drain and refill.
Add fuel stabilizer to tank and run for 5 minutes.
Disconnect battery and store in cool, dry place.
Clean underside of deck thoroughly.
Store in dry, covered location.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in carburetor without stabilizer.

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety rules before operation.

Wear eye protection, sturdy shoes, and long pants.
Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles.
Never carry passengers.
Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
Disengage blades before crossing drives or gravel.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

DANGER! Rotating blades can cause severe injury. Always shut off engine and remove key before servicing.

Parts & Accessories

Genuine Craftsman parts recommended for replacement.

Blade Set (Part # 123456X)
Air Filter (Part # 789012X)
Oil Filter (Part # 345678X)
Spark Plug (Part # 901234X, Champion RC12YC)
Drive Belt (Part # 567890X)
Bagger System (Optional, Part # 112233X)

Order parts at www.craftsman.com or call 1-888-331-4569.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, bad spark, dead battery	Check fuel level; inspect spark plug; charge/replace battery.
Poor cutting quality	Dull blades, low engine speed	Sharpen/replace blades; set throttle to full speed.
Excessive vibration	Unbalanced blade, loose parts	Stop engine immediately; check blade balance; tighten bolts.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old fuel	Replace air filter; drain and refill with fresh gas.
Battery not charging	Faulty alternator, loose cables	Check alternator output; clean and tighten battery connections.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized service center at 1-888-331-4569.