If grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to reduce load and possi- ble fire hazard from dried clippings. Make first cut relatively high; the second to the desired height.

o Do not mow grass when it is wet. Wet grass will plug mower and leave unde- sirable clumps. Allow grass to dry before mowing.

°Always operate engine at full throttle when mowing to assure better mowing performance and proper discharge of material. Regulate ground speed by se- lecting a low enough gear to give the mower the best cutting performance as well as the quality of cut desired.

o When operating attachments, select a ground speed that will suit the terrain and give best performance of the at- tachment being used.

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep

mower housing free of built-up grass and trash. Clean after each use.

°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 wilt disperse into the grass and not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will biedegrade 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 and the newly cut area will not be exposed to the direct sun.

For best results, adjust the mower cut- ting height so that the mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass blades. For extremely heavy mulching, reduce your width of cut on each pass and mow slowly.

Max 1/3

o Certain types of grass and grass condi- tions may require that an area be mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a sec- ond cut, mow across or perpendicular to the first cut path.

o 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.

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Craftsman 917.27103 owner manual Mulching Mowing Tips, Important For best performance, keep

917.27103 specifications

The Craftsman 917.27103 is a robust lawn tractor designed to meet the needs of both residential and light commercial users. With a focus on performance, comfort, and durability, this machine stands out in the crowded market of lawn care equipment.

One of the key features of the Craftsman 917.27103 is its powerful engine. Equipped with a reliable 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, this lawn tractor delivers exceptional power and efficiency. The engine is designed for easy starting and maintenance, ensuring that users can get to work quickly without complications. Complementing this power is a hydrostatic transmission that provides seamless speed adjustments without the need for manual gear changes, allowing for smooth operation while navigating various terrains.

Another significant characteristic of the Craftsman 917.27103 is its cutting deck. Featuring a 42-inch cutting deck, this lawn tractor ensures a generous cutting width, allowing users to cover large areas more efficiently. The deck is adjustable, enabling four different cutting heights to accommodate various grass types and lawn conditions. The inclusion of a side discharge, mulching, and bagging capabilities provides added versatility, allowing users to choose their preferred method of grass disposal.

Comfort is also a primary consideration in the design of the Craftsman 917.27103. The tractor features an ergonomic seat with high back support, ensuring that users can work longer without discomfort. An easy-to-use dashboard with straightforward controls enables users to operate the tractor without confusion.

Durability is enhanced by the tractor's steel frame and robust construction, which can withstand the rigors of regular use. The wheels are designed with a deep tread pattern, providing excellent traction on various surfaces, whether it be wet grass, sandy soil, or sloping lawns.

In terms of technology, the Craftsman 917.27103 offers several innovative features. A maintenance-free battery adds convenience, while an integrated fuel gauge allows users to monitor fuel levels with ease. The compact design ensures that it fits into tight storage spaces, making it ideal for homeowners with limited garage areas.

Overall, the Craftsman 917.27103 is a versatile and dependable lawn tractor, combining power, comfort, and durability in a user-friendly package. Whether for residential gardening or light commercial landscaping tasks, it meets the demands of users looking to achieve a well-manicured lawn with ease.