Craftsman 917.289250 To Move Forward Backward, To Operate Mower, To Adjust Gauge Wheels

TO MOVE FORWARD AND

BACKWARD

The direction and speed of movement is controlled by the gearshift lever (J).

1.Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal de- pressed and gearshift lever in neutral position.

2.Move gearshift lever to desired posi- tion.

3.Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to start movement.

IMPORTANT: Bring tractor to a complete

stop before shifting or changing gears. Failure to do so will shorten the useful life

of your transaxle.

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT The position of the attachment lift lever (A) determines the cutting height.

TO ADJUST GAUGE WHEELS

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 condi- tions.

NOTE: Adjust gauge wheels with tractor on a flat level surface.

1.Adjust mower to desired cutting height (See "TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT" in this section of manual).

2.With mower in desired height of cut position, gauge wheels should be assembled so they are slightly off the ground. Install gauge wheel in appro- priate hole. Tighten securely.

3.Repeat for all, installing gauge wheel in same adjustment hole.

•Put attachment lift lever in desired cut-

ting height slot.

The cutting height range is approximate- ly 1" to 4". The heights are measured from the ground to the blade tip with the engine not running. These heights are ap- proximate and may vary depending upon soil conditions, height of grass and types of grass being mowed.

•The average lawn should be cut to ap- proximately 2-1/2" during the cool sea- son and to over 3" during hot months.

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

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

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.

1.Select desired height of cut with at- tachment lift lever.

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 (S)in place.

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