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 ad- justed. (See 'q'OADJUST BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this

manual).

TIRES

Maintain proper air pressure in all 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 operator presence and interlock systems are working properly. If your tractor does not function as described, repair the problem immediately.

The engine should not start unless the clutch/brake pedal is fully depressed and attachement 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 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 Edge Up Mandrel Assembly

Blade Center Hole

Flat Washer,

Lock Washer

_---Hex Bolt (Grade)

*A Grade 8 heat treated bolt can be identified by six lines on the bolt head.

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen- ing 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 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 bal- ancer, 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 on to an unthreaded

portion of the steel bolt or pin and hold the bolt 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"e

Center Hole

BATTERY

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.

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Craftsman 917.271142 manual Blade Care, Blade Removal, To Sharpen Blade, Battery

917.271142 specifications

The Craftsman 917.271142 is a versatile and robust lawn mower that caters to homeowners seeking an efficient solution for their yard care needs. This model is designed for residential use and combines cutting-edge technology with user-friendly features, making it an excellent choice for both experienced and novice gardeners.

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