Mulching Mowing Tips

MOWING TIPS

A CAUTION: Do not use de-thatcher blade attachments on your mower. Such attachments are hazardous, wil! damage your mower and could void your warranty.

•Under certain conditions, such as very tall grass, it may be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine and leaving clumps of grass clippings.

It may also be necessary to reduce

ground speed and/or run the lawn mower over the area a second time.

•For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of cut by overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.

•For better grass bagging and most cut- ting conditions, the engine speed should be set in the FAST position.

•Pores in cloth grass catchers can become filled with dirt and dust with use

and catchers wil! collect less grass. To prevent this, regularly hose catcher off with water and let dry before using.

•Keep top of engine around starter clear and clean of grass clippings and chaff. This will help engine air flow and extend engine life.

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-up

grass and trash. See "CLEANING" in the Maintenance section of this manual.

•The special mulching blade will recut the grass clippings many times and reduce them in size so that as they fall onto the lawn they will disperse into the grass and not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always mulch with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will provide the best recut- ting action of the blades.

•Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet grass tends to form clumps and interferes with the mulching action. The best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon. At this time the grass has dried, yet the newly cut area will not be exposed to direct sunlight.

•For best results, adjust the lawn mower cutting height so that the lawn mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown

it will be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine and leaving clumps of mulched grass. For extremely heavy grass, reduce your width of cut by overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.

•Certain types of grass and grass conditions may require that an area be mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a sec- ond cut, mow across (perpendicular) to the first cut path.

•Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow north to south one week

then change to east to west the next week. This will help prevent matting and graining of the lawn.

917.374354 specifications

The Craftsman 917.374354 is a robust lawn tractor designed for homeowners who demand durability, performance, and versatility in their lawn care equipment. Known for its powerful engine and user-friendly features, the 917.374354 is built to handle various yard tasks, making it an essential addition to your outdoor tool arsenal.

At the heart of the Craftsman 917.374354 is a reliable 22 HP Briggs & Stratton engine. This powerful engine offers high torque performance, ensuring efficient operation even in tougher mowing conditions. The hydrostatic transmission adds to its appeal by providing smooth and variable speed control, allowing users to easily adjust their pace based on terrain and grass height.

One of the standout features of the 917.374354 is its 42-inch cutting deck. This size strikes a balance between maneuverability and coverage, enabling the mower to easily navigate around garden beds, trees, and other obstacles while still covering a large area in a single pass. The cutting deck is designed with a three-blade system that ensures a clean, precise cut every time, contributing to a healthier lawn.

In terms of adaptability, the Craftsman 917.374354 offers a variety of cutting height settings. Homeowners can choose from multiple positions, ensuring they can achieve the ideal grass length for their lawn conditions. Whether you prefer a closely trimmed yard or a slightly longer look, the adjustable height feature provides the flexibility necessary for effective lawn maintenance.

Comfort and usability are further enhanced by the ergonomically designed dashboard and controls, which allow for effortless operation. The high back seat offers ample support, ensuring a relaxed experience during longer mowing sessions. This thoughtful design leads to improved productivity, as users can focus on the task at hand without discomfort.

Another notable characteristic of the Craftsman 917.374354 is its durability. Crafted from high-quality materials, this lawn tractor is built to withstand the rigors of regular use. The heavy-duty frame and reinforced cutting deck support its longevity, making it a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize reliability in their outdoor tools.

In conclusion, the Craftsman 917.374354 stands out in the competitive world of lawn tractors. With its powerful engine, smooth hydrostatic transmission, versatile cutting deck, adjustable height settings, and user-centric design, this lawn tractor is equipped to handle a variety of lawn care tasks efficiently and comfortably. Whether you're mowing, mulching, or even attaching accessories for snow removal, the Craftsman 917.374354 proves to be a versatile and dependable choice for maintaining your outdoor space.