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 Sewice 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

1.Raise mower to highest position to allow access to blades.

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

3.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.

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

5.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 Washe

 

Hex Bolt

*A Grade 8 heat treatedbolt can be identified by six lineson 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.

/

Blade

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.

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Craftsman 917.271641 Tractor, Tires, Operator Presence System, Blade Care, Blade Removal, To Sharpen Blade, Battery