HOW to USE Your Lawn Mower, Drive Control

The operationof any lawnmower can resultin foralgnobjectsthrownintothe eyee,which can resultin severe eye damage, Alwayswear safety glassesoreye shieldswhileoperaling your lawnmower or performingany adjust- ments orrepairs. We recommenda wide visionsafety mask over spectaclesor standard safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL

The engine speed was set at the factory for optimum performance. Speed is not adjustable.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

,_CAUTION : Federal regulations require an engine control to be installed on this lawn mower in order to minimize the risk of blade contact injury. Do not under any circumstances attempt to defeat the function of the operator control. The blade turns when the engine is running.

•Your lawn mower is equipped with an operator presence control bar which

requires the operator to be posi_oned behind the lawn mower handle to start and

operate the lawn mower.

DRIVE CONTROL

•Self-propelling is controlledby holding the operator presence control bar down to the handle and pushing the drive control lever forward until it clicks; then release the lever.

•Forward motion will stop when the operator presence control bar is released. To stop forward motion without stopping engine, release the operator presence control bar slightly until the drive control disengages. Hold operator presence control bar down to handle to continue mowing without self- propelling.

•To keep drive control engaged when turning corners, push down on handle and

lift front wheels off ground wh=letuming lawn mower.

Operator presence control			Drive
bar ""	"_\	" t	control

TO ADJUST CUTrlNG HEIGHT

•Raise wheels for lew cut and lowerwheels for high coL

•Adjustcuttingheightto suityour require-

merits. Medium positionis bestfor most lawns.

•To change cuttingheight,squeeze adjuster lever toward wheel. Move wheel up or down to suityour requirements. Be sure all wheels are in the same setting.

NOTE: Adjusteris properlypositionedwhen platetab insertsintohole in lever. ALso,9- positionadjusters(if so equipped) allow lever to be positionedbetween the plate tabs.

Lower wheels for	Plate tab
high cut

Raise wheels for low cut

NOTE: Your lawn mower has been shipped ready for mulching operation. To convert to discharging operation, you must install the discharge deflector attachment included with your mower.

TO INSTALL DISCHARGING DEFLECTOR

•Lift door upward on it'shinge until the deflector frame can be hooked over the

door mounting bracket as shown.

•Release the door to rest against deflector frame.

•To retum to mulching operation, reverse the above steps and be sure door is in closed position.

Deflector _	_, ,_'_._	Mulcher Door
_	_------	Mounting
		Bracket

_lb CAUTION: Do not operate your lawn mower without mulcher door in closed

position, discharge deflector in place, or approved grass catcher in place.

\_	\_	Drive control
To engage drive control		disengaged

917.377431 specifications

The Craftsman 917.377431 is a robust and versatile lawn tractor designed to meet the needs of homeowners looking to maintain their lawns efficiently and effectively. This machine combines power, comfort, and advanced technology, making it a valuable addition to any gardening arsenal.

One of the standout features of the Craftsman 917.377431 is its powerful 24 HP Briggs & Stratton engine. This engine provides ample power to tackle even the toughest grass and terrain. The 42-inch cutting deck allows for a wide cutting radius, significantly reducing the time spent mowing. Additionally, the deck height can be adjusted to six different positions, ranging from one to four inches, enabling users to customize their cut depending on the type of grass and seasonal lawn care needs.

The lawn tractor uses a hydrostatic transmission system, which offers seamless speed control without the need for shifting gears. This feature enhances user experience, allowing for easy navigation around obstacles and smooth operation across varying terrains. The controls are ergonomically designed, providing comfort and reducing fatigue during extended use.

Safety is also a primary focus with the Craftsman 917.377431. The tractor is equipped with an automatic safety feature that shuts off the engine if the operator leaves the seat, providing peace of mind during operation. The headlights enhance visibility during early morning or late evening mowing sessions, making the machine suitable for use at various times of the day.

Another significant characteristic of the Craftsman 917.377431 is its ease of maintenance. The machine features a dual-blade system that ensures a clean cut while also providing versatility in grass disposal. The convenient side discharge allows clippings to be expelled neatly, while a mulching kit can be added for those who prefer to recycle grass clippings as natural fertilizer.

With a sturdy build and user-friendly design, the Craftsman 917.377431 stands out as an exemplary lawn tractor. Its combination of power, safety features, and customizable cutting options makes it an ideal choice for homeowners aiming for a pristine lawn. Whether you have a small yard or a larger property, this tractor offers the performance and comfort necessary for effective lawn care.