Craftsman Model 917 Manual

The Craftsman Model 917 is a versatile lawn tractor designed for residential use, featuring a powerful engine, hydrostatic transmission, durable cutting deck, and ergonomic controls. 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. Installation & Assembly 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Attachments & Accessories 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Safety Features 9. Storage & Winterization 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, Hydrostatic Transmission, Cutting Deck, Steering System, Seat, Fuel Tank, Battery.

Feature	Description
Engine	Powerful gasoline engine for reliable performance
Hydrostatic Transmission	Smooth, variable speed control without shifting
Cutting Deck	Durable steel deck with adjustable cutting height
Steering System	Precision steering for easy maneuverability
Seat	Adjustable, padded seat for operator comfort
Fuel Tank	Large capacity for extended operation time
Battery	12V battery for reliable starting
Blade Engagement	Electric PTO for easy blade activation
Headlights	Integrated headlights for low-light operation
Hour Meter	Tracks operating hours for maintenance scheduling

Installation & Assembly

Unpack and inspect all components. Assemble on level surface.

Install steering wheel: Align and secure with provided hardware.
Attach seat: Mount seat assembly to frame using bolts and washers.
Connect battery: Attach cables to correct terminals (red to positive, black to negative).
Install cutting deck: Lower deck onto mounting points and secure with pins.
Add fluids: Fill engine with oil and fuel tank with fresh gasoline.

WARNING! Tractor is heavy; use assistance during assembly. Ensure all fasteners are properly tightened.

First-Time Setup

Complete assembly before first use. Perform pre-operation checks.

Check tire pressure: Inflate all tires to recommended PSI (printed on sidewall).
Adjust cutting height: Set deck to desired height using adjustment lever.
Test controls: Verify steering, brake, and blade engagement function properly.
Break-in period: Operate at varying speeds for first 5 hours without heavy load.

CAUTION! Always operate on level ground. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Engine Type: 4-cycle gasoline engine
Engine Displacement: Varies by model (typically 17-22 HP)
Transmission: Hydrostatic drive
Cutting Width: 42-54 inches (depending on model)
Cutting Heights: 1.5 to 4 inches adjustable
Fuel Capacity: 2-3 gallons
Turning Radius: Zero-turn capability on select models
Weight: Approximately 500-600 pounds
Warranty: Limited residential warranty (see section 10)

Controls and Operation

Operator station includes ignition switch, throttle control, brake pedal, blade engagement, steering wheel, and seat adjustment.

Starting Procedure: 1. Sit in operator seat 2. Engage parking brake 3. Set throttle to midway 4. Turn ignition key 5. Disengage parking brake before moving.

Operating Controls: Steering wheel for direction, foot pedal for speed (forward/reverse), lever for cutting height adjustment, switch for blade engagement, throttle for engine speed.

Attachments & Accessories

Compatible with various Craftsman attachments: bagger, mulching kit, snow blade, tow-behind spreader.

Turn off engine and remove key before attaching accessories.
Follow attachment-specific instructions for proper installation.
Test attachment operation at low speed before regular use.

Tip: Always match attachment to tractor model specifications. Overloading can damage equipment.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends equipment life.

After each use: Clean deck, check for debris
Every 8 hours: Check tire pressure, inspect blades
Every 25 hours: Change engine oil, check air filter
Every 50 hours: Grease fittings, inspect belts
Every 100 hours: Change spark plug, check battery
Seasonally: Sharpen/replace blades, check transmission fluid

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance. Allow engine to cool completely.

Safety Features

Operator Presence System: Engine stops if operator leaves seat with blade engaged. Parking Brake: Prevents accidental movement when parked. Blade Brake: Stops blade rotation when disengaged.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare tractor for extended storage, especially winter months.

Clean thoroughly: Remove all grass and debris
Fuel treatment: Add fuel stabilizer or drain fuel system
Battery care: Disconnect and store in cool, dry place
Protect from elements: Store in dry, covered location

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank without stabilizer. Gasoline degrades and can damage fuel system.

Warranty Information

Craftsman Model 917 includes limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Residential use: 2-year limited warranty. Commercial use: 90-day limited warranty. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact authorized service center or call 1-888-331-4569. Keep this manual and purchase receipt for warranty claims.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, battery	Check fuel level, spark plug connection, battery charge.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, deck clogged	Sharpen/replace blades, clean underside of deck.
Excessive vibration	Unbalanced blade, loose parts	Check blade balance, tighten all bolts and fasteners.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, old fuel	Replace air filter, drain old fuel and refill with fresh.
Hydrostatic transmission issues	Low fluid, linkage adjustment	Check fluid level, adjust control linkage per manual.

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

Parts: Use genuine Craftsman replacement parts for optimal performance.