Mowing Tips

depress clutch/brake pedal and set parking brake.

2.Place gear shift lever in neutral (N) position.

3.Move attachment clutch to disengaged position.

4.Move throttle control to fast position

5.Pull choke control out for a cold engine start attempt. For a warm engine start attempt the choke control may not be needed.

NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and cold starting procedures below.

6.Insert key into ignition and turn key clockwise to start position and release key as soon as engine starts. Do

not run starter continuously for more than fifteen seconds per minute. If the engine does not start after several attempts, push choke control in, wait a few minutes and try again. If engine still does not start, pull the choke con-

trol out and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50 ° F and above)

7.When engine starts, slowly push choke control in until the engine begins to run smoothly. If the engine starts to run roughly, pull the choke control out slightly for a few seconds and then

continue to push the control in slowly.

•The attachments and ground drive can now be used. If the engine does not accept the load, restart the engine and

allow it to warm up for one minute using the choke as described above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING (50 ° F and below)

7.When engine starts, slowly push choke control in until the engine begins to run smoothly. Continue to push the choke control in small steps allowing the en- gine to accept small changes in speed and load, until the choke control is fully in. If the engine starts to run roughly, pull the choke control out slightly for a few seconds and then continue to push the control in slowly. This may re- quire an engine warm-up period from several seconds to several minutes,

depending on the temperature.

•The attachments can be used during the engine warm-up period and may require the choke control be pulled out slightly.

NOTE: If at a high altitude (above 3000 feet) or in cold temperatures (below 32 F) the carburetor fuel mixture may need to be adjusted for best engine performance.

See "TO ADJUST CARBURETOR" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

•Tire chains cannot be used when the mower housing is attached to tractor.

•Mower should be properly leveled for

best mowing performance. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

•The left hand side of mower should be used for trimming.

•Drive so that clippings are discharged onto the area that has already been cut. Have the cut area to the right of the tractor. This will result in a more even distribution of clippings and more uniform cutting.

•When mowing large areas, start by turning to the right so that clippings will discharge away from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc. After one or two rounds, mow in the opposite direction making left hand turns until finished.

•If grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to reduce load and pos- sible fire hazard from dried clippings.

Make first cut relatively high; the second to the desired height.

•Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet grass will plug mower and leave undesirable clumps. Allow grass to dry before mowing.

•Always operate engine at full throttle when mowing to assure better mowing performance and proper discharge of material. Regulate ground speed by selecting a low enough gear to give the mower cutting performance as well as the quality of cut desired.

•When operating attachments, select a ground speed that will suit the terrain and give best performance of the at-

14 tachment being used.

917.27631 specifications

The Craftsman 917.27631 is a robust lawn mower designed for homeowners who seek a reliable, efficient, and durable machine for maintaining their lawns. This mower features a powerful 21-inch cutting deck, making it capable of handling medium to large-sized yards with ease. One of its standout features is the 163cc gas engine, which provides ample power for tackling tough grass and uneven terrain while ensuring reliable starts and consistent performance.

The Craftsman 917.27631 is equipped with a self-propelled drive system, which allows users to navigate effortlessly through their lawns without the need for excessive physical strain. The variable speed control gives users the option to adjust the speed according to their preference and the terrain, ensuring optimal maneuverability. This feature is particularly beneficial for navigating around garden beds, trees, and other obstacles.

Another impressive aspect of the Craftsman 917.27631 is its 3-in-1 cutting capability. This versatile mower allows users to choose between mulching, bagging, or side discharge, providing flexibility based on preferences and conditions. The mulching capability promotes healthy lawn growth by returning finely chopped grass back to the soil, while the rear bagging option allows for easy collection of clippings for disposal or composting.

The mower also boasts an adjustable cutting height, which can be easily altered to ensure the perfect grass length for various seasons and grass types. Users can choose from multiple height settings, ensuring compatibility with different mowing needs. Moreover, the durable and lightweight construction of the Craftsman 917.27631 enhances its maneuverability and makes it easier to transport and store.

Safety features are paramount in the design of the Craftsman 917.27631. The engine will stop immediately when the operator releases the handle, preventing accidental injuries and promoting safe operation. Additionally, the ergonomic handle design adds comfort, reducing fatigue during prolonged use.

In summary, the Craftsman 917.27631 is a versatile, powerful, and easy-to-use lawn mower that caters to a wide array of lawn maintenance needs. With its self-propelling capabilities, adjustable cutting height, and efficient 3-in-1 cutting options, it represents a solid choice for any homeowner looking to maintain a pristine lawn with minimal effort.