Assembly / PRE-OPERATION

Read these instructions and this manual in its entirety before you attempt to assemble or operate your new lawn mower.

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine. Your new lawn mower has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your lawn mower, all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness. All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., necessary to complete the assembly have been placed in the parts bag.

TO REMOVE MOWER FROM CARTON

1.Remove loose parts included with mower.

2.Cut down two end corners of carton and lay end panel down ﬂat.

3.Remove all packing materials except padding between upper and lower handle and padding holding operator presence control bar to upper handle.

4.Roll lawn mower out of carton and check carton thoroughly for additional loose parts.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so as not to pinch or damage control cables.

1.Raise handles until lower handle sec- tion locks into place in mowing position.

2.Remove protective padding, raise up- per handle section into place on lower handle and tighten both handle knobs.

3.Remove handle padding holding operator presence control bar to upper handle.

Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted for your mowing comfort. Refer to “AD- JUST HANDLE” in the Service and Adjust- ments section of this manual.

Operator	MOWING
presence	POSITION
control bar
	LIFT
	UP
LIFT	Upper
UP	handle
	Handle
	knob

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

1.Put grass catcher frame into grass bag with rigid part of bag on the bottom. Make sure the frame handle is outside of the bag top.

2.Slip vinyl bindings over frame.

NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold them in warm water for a few minutes. If bag gets wet, let it dry before using.

Frame handle

Vinyl	Frame
bindings	opening

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a mulcher. To convert mower to bagging or discharging, see “TO CON- VERT MOWER” in the Operation section of this manual.

Lower handle

917.37658 specifications

The Craftsman 917.37658 is a robust and highly efficient lawn mower designed to cater to the needs of homeowners who seek a reliable and powerful machine for maintaining their yards. This model is particularly well-regarded for its user-friendly features and advanced technologies, making it suitable for both novice and experienced users.

One of the standout features of the Craftsman 917.37658 is its powerful engine. Equipped with a reliable Briggs & Stratton engine, this mower ensures consistent performance and durability, even when tackling tougher mowing conditions. The engine offers ample horsepower, enabling it to handle a variety of grass types, including those in challenging terrains.

Another notable characteristic of this mower is its 21-inch cutting deck, which allows for a wide cutting path. This feature optimizes mowing efficiency, as it requires fewer passes to cover a given area. Additionally, the cutting height is adjustable, giving users the flexibility to set the blade to the preferred height. Whether trimming grass for aesthetic purposes or scalping for a fresh start, the Craftsman 917.37658 can accommodate diverse mowing preferences.

The mower is also engineered with a rear-wheel drive system that enhances maneuverability. This makes it easier to navigate around obstacles like trees and flower beds while providing better traction on uneven surfaces. The comfortable handle design further improves the mowing experience, with options for height adjustment to suit users of different statures.

A key feature of the Craftsman 917.37658 is its versatility in cutting options. This model supports both side discharge and mulching capabilities, allowing users to choose how they want to manage grass clippings. The mulching feature is especially useful for those looking to recycle clippings back into the lawn, promoting healthier grass growth and reducing the need for additional fertilizer.

Safety is another priority in the design of the Craftsman 917.37658. It comes with a safety key, which prevents the engine from starting unless it is engaged, ensuring that users can operate the mower without unnecessary risks.

In summary, the Craftsman 917.37658 is a well-rounded lawn mower that combines power, efficiency, and user-friendly features. With its robust engine, adjustable cutting heights, versatile options, and focus on safety, this mower is a great choice for anyone looking to achieve a well-manicured lawn with ease. Whether you're tackling a small patch of grass or a larger yard, the Craftsman 917.37658 is designed to meet your mowing needs effectively.