Craftsman Comprehensive Troubleshooting for Lawn Tractor and Model 917
Page 30

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART:

See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center

PROBLEMCAUSE

Mower blades will 1.

Obstruction

in clutch

not rotate

mechanism.

 

 

2.

Worn/damaged

mower drive

 

belt.

 

 

 

3.

Frozen

idler

pulley.

4.

Frozen

blade

mandrel.

CORRECTION

t.Remove obstruction.

2.Replace mower drive belt.

3.Replace idler pulley.

4.Contact a Sears or other qualified service center.

Poor grass

1.

Engine

speed too

slow.

discharge

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.

Travel

speed

too fast.

 

3.

Wet grass.

 

 

 

 

 

4.

Mower

deck

not level.

 

5.

Low/uneven

tire

air

pressure.

 

6.

Worn,

bent or loose

blade.

 

7.

Buildup of grass, leaves and

 

 

trash under mower.

 

 

8.

Mower

drive belt worn.

 

9.

Blades

improperly

installed.

 

10.

Improper

blades

used.

 

11.

Clogged

mower

deck vent

 

 

holes from buildup of grass,

 

 

leaves,

and trash

 

around

 

 

mandrels.

 

 

 

 

 

1.Place throttle control in "FAST" position.

2.Shift to slower speed.

3.Allow grass to dry before mowing.

4.Level mower deck.

5.Check tires for proper air pressure.

6.Replace/sharpen blade.

Tighten blade bolt.

7.Clean underside of mower housing.

8.Replace mower drive belt.

9.Reinstall blades sharp edge down.

10.Replace with blades listed in this manual.

11.Clean around mandrels to open vent holes.

Headlight(s) not working

(if so equipped)

Battery will not charge

Engine "backfires" when turning

engine "OFF"

1.Switch is "OFF".

2.Bulb(s) or lamp(s) burned out.

3.Faulty light switch.

4.Loose or damaged wiring.

5.Blown fuse.

1.Bad battery cell(s).

2.Poor cable connections.

3.Faulty regulator (if so equipped).

4.Faulty alternator.

. Engine throttle control not set at "SLOW" position for

30 seconds before stopping

engine.

1.Turn switch "ON".

2.Replace bulb(s) or lamp(s).

3.Check/replace light switch.

4.Check wiring and connections.

5.Replace fuse.

1.Replace battery.

2.Check/clean all connections.

3.Replaceregulator,

4.Replace alternator.

. Move throttle control to

"SLOW" position and allow to idle for 30 seconds before

stopping engine.

3O

Page 29 Page 31
Image 30
Page 29 Page 31
Contents Lawn Tractor Limited Warranty on Craftsman Riding Equipment Limited Warranty on BatteryII. Slope Operation General OperationIV. Service Do notIII. Children Page Product Specifications Sears Installation ServiceRepair Protection Agreements DrainT Keys Slope Sheet Video CassetteAdjust Seat HOW to SET UP Your TractorCheck Battery To Remove Tractor fromInstall Mulcher Plate To Convertto Bagging or DischargingCheck Tire Pressure ChecklistCheck Brake System Check Deck Levelness@@@@ Our tractors conform to the safety standards Know Your TractorHOW to USE Your Tractor To Adjust Gauge Wheels To Operate MowerTo Transport Towingcarts and Other Attach Ments Before Starting the Engine Check Engine OIL LevelADD Gasoline Mowing Tips Mulching Mowing TipsBefore Each USE Lubrication ChartGeneral Recommendations ZerkOperator Presence System TractorBrake Operation Blade CareTransaxle Cooling BatteryEngine BeltsEngine OIL Filter Clean AIR INTAKE/COOLING AreasCleaning AIR FilterDepress clutch/brake pedal fully and set parking brake To Install MowerTractor To Remove MowerRecheck measurements after ad- justing To Level Mower HousingAlternate SIDE-TO-SIDE BottomEdgeBelt Removal To Check and Adjust BrakeTo Replace Mower Blade Drive Belt ?NutTo Replace Motion Drive Belt Transaxle Gear Shift Lever NEU- Tral AdjustmentTo Adjust Steering Wheel ALIGN- Ment Front Wheel TOE-IN/CAMBERTo Attach Jumper Cables Replacing BatteryTo Start Engine with Aweak BAT- Tery To Remove CABLES, Reverse OrderTo Adjustthrottle Control Cable To Adjust CarburetorWith Limiter Engine CylindersFuel System Troubleshooting Chart ProblemCause Correction Cause Problemcause Schematic Tractor - Model NumberTractor - Model Number 917,274031 Electrical Tractor - Model Number Electrical KEY Part DescriptionTractor - Model Number 917.274031 Chassis and Enclosures Tractor - Model Number 917.274031 Chassis and Enclosures Tractor - Model Number Grounddrive Tractor - Model Number Ground Drive NyUner 7/8 ID x .105 HdT-3 Tractor - Model Number SteeringSteering Axle Asm SpindleAsm LHTractor - Model Number Engine KEY Part NO. NO.DESCRIPTION Tractor - Model Number Seat Assembly Bolt Shoulder 5/16-18 unoTractor - Model Number Decals Wheels &TIRESTractor - Model Number Lift Assembly 179504 Plunger Assembly Tractor - Model Number Mower Deck KEY Part NO, no Tractor - Model Number DANATRANSAXLE-MODEL Number D4360-180 Housings use Loctite Ultra Gray Silicone Lo EMisSIONLABELI OlA Page Link-Throttle Bracket-Choke Control 19374 Suggested Guide for Sighting Slopes for Safe Operation 8E/ARS

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.
Top Page Image Contents