To Adjust Gauge Wheels, To Operate Mower

•The average lawn should be cut to approxi- mately 2-t/2 inches during the cool season and to over 3 inches during hot months.

For healthier and better looking lawns, mow often and after moderate growth.

•For best cutting performance, grass over 6 inches in height should be mowed twice, Make the first cut relatively high; the second to desired height.

TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS

1.Select desired height of cut.

2.Start mower blades by engaging at- tachment clutch control.

TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disengage attachment clutch control.

_CAUTION" Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher, on mowers so equipped, or the deflector shield in place.

Gauge wheels are properly adjusted

when they are slightly off the ground when mower is at the desired cutting height in operating position. Gauge wheels then keep the deck in proper position to help

prevent scalping in most terrain conditions. NOTE: Be sure tractor is on a flat level

surface.

1.Lower mower and adjust mower to de-

sired cutting height(See "TO ADJUST

MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT" in this section of manual).

2.Remove retainer spring and clevis pin which secure each gauge wheel bar.

3.Lower gauge wheels to ground. Raise gauge wheels slightly to align holes in bracket and gauge wheel bar and insert clevis pin. Gauge wheels should be slightly off the ground.

4.Replace retainer spring into clevis pin.

5.Be sure all gauge wheels are in the same setting.

IMPORTANT: Be sure to readjust gauge

wheels if you change the cutting height of the mower deck.

Retainer

Spring

Clevis

TO OPERATE MOWER

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch. Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat with the engine running and the attachment clutch

•engaged will shut off the engine. You must remain fully and centrally positioned in the seat to prevent the engine from hesitating or cutting off when operating your equip- ment on rough, rolling terrain or hills.

	Attachment Clutch Switch
	Pull Out To "Engage"	Lift Lever High
		Lift Lever High
		.,_Position.
		":":(_'_" Low
		Position
	Push in to	Deflector
	Push in to	Shield
	"Disengage"	Shield
	"Disengage"

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

A(_WARNING: Do not drive up or down

hills with slopes greater than 15° and do not drive across any slope. Use the slope guide at the back of this manual.

•Choose the slowest speed before start- ing up or down hills.

•Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills.

•If slowing is necessary, move throttle control lever to slower position.

•If stopping is absolutely necessary, push clutch/brake pedal quickly to brake posi- tion and engage parking brake.

•Move gearshift leverto 1st gear. Be sure you have allowed room for tractor to roll slightly as you restart movement.

•To restart movement, slowly release parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

•Make all turns slowly.

TO TRANSPORT

•Raise attachment lift to highest position with attachment lift control.

•When pushing or towing your tractor, be sure gearshift lever is in neutral (N) position.

•Do not push or tow tractor at more than five (5) MPH.

NOTE: To protect hood from damage

when transporting your tractor on a truck or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and

secured to tractor. Use an appropriate means of tying hood to tractor (rope, cord,

14 etc')"

917.274031 specifications

The Craftsman 917.274031 is a robust lawn tractor that combines performance, reliability, and user-friendly features, making it a popular choice among homeowners looking to maintain their lawns effectively. This machine is engineered with a powerful engine and innovative technologies that set it apart from standard riding mowers.

At the core of the Craftsman 917.274031 is a reliable 17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, designed to deliver ample power for various cutting tasks. The engine features a vertical shaft design, which enhances efficiency and overall performance, while also ensuring easy starting. Complementing the engine is a 42-inch cutting deck, perfect for tackling medium to large-sized yards. This deck size offers an ideal balance of maneuverability and cutting capacity, enabling users to cover more ground in less time.

One of the standout features of the 917.274031 is its automatic transmission system, which provides a smooth and seamless driving experience. The hydrostatic transmission allows for effortless speed adjustments, enabling the operator to navigate tight spaces and diverse terrain with confidence. The cruise control feature further enhances user comfort during long mowing sessions by maintaining a consistent speed.

The lawn tractor is equipped with a comfortable, adjustable seat that promotes a better ergonomic position, making it suitable for extended use. The steering system is designed for easy handling, allowing users to make sharp turns without the risk of damaging the turf. Additionally, the inclusion of a deck wash system makes maintenance straightforward, as it enables quick cleaning of the cutting deck to prevent grass build-up.

Safety features are also highlighted in the Craftsman 917.274031. The operator presence control system ensures that the mower stops when the operator leaves the seat, minimizing the risk of accidents. The integrated headlights offer added visibility during early morning or late evening mowing sessions.

Overall, the Craftsman 917.274031 lawn tractor embodies a blend of power, comfort, and innovative features, making it an excellent option for homeowners seeking a reliable machine to keep their lawns in pristine condition. Its user-friendly technologies and focus on operator safety further enhance its appeal, making lawn care a more enjoyable task for users of all experience levels. Whether you are mowing, mulching, or bagging, this model is designed to deliver exceptional results every time.