Mulching Mowing Tips

MOWING TIPS

CAUTION: Do not use de-thatcher blade attachments on your mower. Such attachments are hazardous, will 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.

917.376230 specifications

The Craftsman 917.376230 is a versatile and robust lawn tractor designed to handle a variety of lawn care tasks, combining power and efficiency for the ultimate user experience. This model stands out in the Craftsman lineup, appealing to homeowners who need an effective solution for mowing, mulching, and yard maintenance.

At the heart of the 917.376230 is its powerful engine, typically a 17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, which provides ample power to tackle even the toughest terrains. The engine is designed for durability and ease of maintenance, ensuring that users can focus on their lawn care tasks without worrying about frequent repairs. The automatic transmission system allows for easy driving, enabling smooth acceleration and speed control with minimal effort.

The cutting deck is an essential feature of the Craftsman 917.376230, typically measuring 42 inches wide. This wide deck size allows for efficient mowing, enabling users to cover large areas in fewer passes. Equipped with three adjustable cutting heights, the user can customize the cut to suit their lawn needs, whether it be a short trim or a longer grass finish.

One of the standout technologies incorporated in this model is the mulching capability, allowing for the grass clippings to be finely chopped and redistributed back onto the lawn. This feature promotes healthier grass growth by returning vital nutrients to the soil and reduces the need for bagging clippings, minimizing post-mowing cleanup tasks.

The Craftsman 917.376230 is also designed with user comfort in mind. The ergonomic seat provides ample cushioning and support, while the steering wheel's design caters to extended use, minimizing fatigue during larger mowing jobs. The inclusion of cup holders and easy-access controls enhances overall usability, making it suitable for users of varying experience levels.

In addition to its exceptional performance, the Craftsman 917.376230 boasts enhanced stability and maneuverability. The larger rear tires provide better traction on uneven surfaces, making it easier to handle inclines and rough patches.

In conclusion, the Craftsman 917.376230 combines power, efficiency, and user-friendly features, making it an excellent choice for homeowners looking to maintain their lawns effortlessly. With robust construction, innovative technology, and practical design, it ensures reliable performance season after season.