TRACTOR

Always observe safety rules when per- forming any maintenance.

BRAKE OPERATION

If tractor requires more than six (6) feet stopping distance at high speed in high- est gear, then brake must be adjusted. (See 'q-OADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual).

TIRES

Maintain proper air pressure in all tires (See the "PRODUCT SPECIFICA- TIONS" section of this manual).

Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chemicals which can harm rub-

ber.

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 bepurchased from your local parts dealer. Tire sealant also prevents tire dry rot and corrosion.

OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM

Be sure that operator presence and inter- lock systems are working properly. If your tractor does not function as described be- low, repair the problem immediately.

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 at- tempt 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 at- tachment clutch is engaged, any at- tempt by the operator to leave the seat should shut off the engine.

The attachment clutch should never op-

erate 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 al- low 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 in 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.

Trailing

Mandrel Assembly

Edge U

Blade Center

 

Hole

Flat Washer

Lock

Wash

_-Hex Bolt (Grade

*A Grade 8 heat reated bolt can be identified by

six lines on the bolt head.

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen-

ingblade but if you do, be sure the blade isbalanced.

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 no_.

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 hori- zontal position. If either end of the blade moves downward, sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced.

.

_

Blade

5/8

B01t_

 

or Pin

"_J.._

BA'n'ERY

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

ever, periodic charging of the battery with an automotive charger will extend its life.

Keep battery and terminals clean.

Keep battery bolts tight. Keep small vent holes open.

Recharge at 6-10 amperes for 1 hour. NOTE: The original equipment battery on your tractor is maintenance free. Do not attempt to open or remove caps or covers. Adding or checking level of electrolyte is not necessary.

TO CLEAN !BATIERY AND TERMINALS

Corrosion and dirt on the battery and,,ter- minals can cause the battery to "leak

power.

Remove terminal guard.

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Craftsman 917.270822 Brake Operation, Tires, Operator Presence System, Blade Care, Blade Removal, To Sharpen Blade