NOTE: To protect hood from damage when transporting your tractor on a truck or a trailer, be sure hood is closed and secured to tractor. Use an appropriate means of tying hood to tractor (rope, cord, etc.).

TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACH- MENTS

Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your

tractor. Use common sense when towing. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is dangerous. Tires can lose traction with the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor.

BEFORE STARTINGTHE ENGINE CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

The engine in your tractor has been shipped, from the factory, already filled with summer weight oil.

1.Check engine oil with tractor on level ground.

2.Remove oil fill cap/dipstick and wipe clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw cap tight, wait for a few seconds, remove and read oil level. If neces-

sary, add oil until =FULL" mark on dipstick is reached, Do not overfill.

•For cold weather operation you should change oil fur easier starting(See "OIL VISCOSITY CHART" in the Mainte- nance section of this manual).

•To change engine oil, see the Mainte- nance section in this manual.

ADD GASOLINE

•Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of

87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will increase carbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce valve life),

Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.

IMPORTANT: When operating in temperatures below 32°F(0°C), use fresh, clean winter grade gasoline to help insure good cold weather starting.

,_I=WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage Instructions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

CAUTION: Fillto bottom of gas tank nller neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any spilredoil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

TO START ENGINE

When starting the engine for the first time or if the engine has run out of fuel, it will take extra cranking time to move fuel from the tank to the engine.

1.Be sure freewheel control is in the transmission engaged position.

2.Sit on seat in operating position, depress clutch/brake pedal and sat parking brake.

3.Place motion control lever in neutral

(N)position.

4.Move attachment clutch to "DISEN-

GAGED" position.

5.Move throttle control to choke

position.

NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and cold starting procedures below.

6.Insert key into ignition and turn key clockwise to "START" position and release key as soon as engine starts. Do not run starter continuously for more than fifteen seconds per minute. If the engine does not start after several attempts, move throttle control to fast position,wait a few minutes and try again. If engine still does not start, move the throttle control back to the choke position and retry.

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Craftsman 917.271742 Towing Carts and Other ATTACH- Ments, Before Startingthe Engine Check Engine OIL Level, ADD Gasoline
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917.271742 specifications

The Craftsman 917.271742 lawn tractor is a versatile and powerful machine designed for homeowners seeking a reliable solution for lawn maintenance. This model is known for its robust performance, user-friendly features, and innovative technologies that make mowing a breeze.

One of the standout features of the Craftsman 917.271742 is its powerful engine. It is equipped with a 24 HP Briggs & Stratton V-Twin engine that provides significant power and efficiency. This engine ensures that the tractor can handle various terrains, from flat lawns to slightly hilly landscapes, without any struggle. The V-Twin design allows for smoother operation and reduced noise, making mowing less of a chore.

The mower deck of the Craftsman 917.271742 is another notable characteristic. With a cutting width of 54 inches, it allows for efficient mowing of larger areas in a shorter amount of time. The deck is made of heavy-duty steel, ensuring durability and longevity. Additionally, it features a deck wash system, making cleanup after mowing quick and easy. Operators can simply connect a hose to the deck wash port for a hassle-free cleaning experience.

Comfort is also a top priority in the design of the Craftsman 917.271742. The tractor comes with an ergonomic seat that is adjustable and padded, providing the user with comfort during extended mowing sessions. The steering wheel is designed for easy maneuverability, making it simple to navigate around obstacles in the yard.

Another feature that enhances the machine's usability is the hydrostatic transmission. This innovative technology allows for smooth acceleration and deceleration without the need for complicated gear shifting. As a result, operators can focus more on mowing and less on managing the transmission.

For added convenience, the Craftsman 917.271742 includes a variety of attachments and accessories. It can be outfitted with a bagger, mulching kit, or snow plow, making it a versatile tool for year-round use. The lights integrated into the front of the tractor also allow for safe mowing in low-light conditions.

In summary, the Craftsman 917.271742 lawn tractor combines power, comfort, and versatility. With its robust engine, wide mowing deck, hydrostatic transmission, and optional attachments, it offers homeowners an efficient and user-friendly solution for maintaining their lawns effectively. Whether tackling large spaces or navigating tight corners, this tractor is built to deliver optimal performance in various lawn care tasks.
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