TRACTOR

Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance.

BRAKE OPERATION

If tractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance at high speed in highest

gear, then brake must be adjusted. (See =TO ADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manual).

TIRES

Maintain proper air pressure in aU tires (See "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" section of this manual).

Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chemicals which can harm rubber.

Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage.

NOTE: To seal tire punctures and prevent flat tires due to slow leaks, tire sealant may be purchased from your local parts

dealer. Tire sealant also prevents tire dry rot and corrosion.

OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM Be sure that operator presence and interlock systems are working propedy. If your tractor does not function as de- scribed below, repair the problem immedi- ately.

The engine should not start unless the clutch/brake pedal is fully depressed and attachment clutch control is in the disengaged position.

When the engine is running, any attempt by the operator to leave the seat without first setting the parking brake should shut off the engine.

When the engine is running and the attachment clutch is engaged, any attempt by the operator to leave the seat should shut off the engine.

The attachment clutch should never

operate unless the operator is in the seat.

BLADE CARE

For best results mower blades must be

kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged blades.

BLADE REMOVAL

Raise mower to highest position to allow access to blades.

Remove hex bolt, lock washer and flat washer securing blade.

Install new or resharpened blade with

trailing edge up towards deck as shown.

IMPORTANT: To ensure proper assembly, center hole isn blade must align with star on mandrel assembly.

Reassemble hex bolt, lock washer and flat washer in exact order as shown.

Tighten bolt securely (27-35 Ft. Lbs. torque).

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is Grade 8 heat treated.

TrailingEdge,MandrelAssembly

Center

Hole

Flat Washer

Lock

_-HexBolt (Grade 8)

*A Grade 8 heat treated boltcan be identifiedby six

lines on the bolt head.

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening blade, but if you do, be sure the blade is balanced.

Care should be taken to keep the blade balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration and eventual damage to mower and engine.

The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while it is on the mower.

To check blade balance, you will need a 5/8" diameter steel bolt, pin, or a cone balancer. (When using a cone balancer, follow the instructions supplied with balancer).

NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing blade. The lobes of the center hole may appear to be centered, but are not.

Slide blade onto an unthreaded portion of the steel bolt or pin and hold the belt or pin parallel with the ground. If blade is balanced, it should remain in a horizontal position. If either end of the blade moves downward, sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced.

//

5/8" Bolt _

Blade

or Pin _

BATTERY

Your tractor has a battery charging system which is sufficient for normal use. How-

ever, periodic charging of the battery with

19 an automotive charger will extend its life.

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Craftsman 917.270814 owner manual Tractor