For best cutting performance, grass over 6 inches in height should be mowed twice. Make the first cut relatively high; the second to desired height.

TO OPERATE MOWER

Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch. Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat with the engine running and the attachment clutch engaged will shut off the engine.You must remain fully and centrally positioned in the seat to prevent the engine from hesitating or cutting off when operating your equip- ment on rough, rolling terrain or hills.

1.Select desired height of cut.

2.Start mower blades by engaging at- tachment clutch control.

TO STOP MOWER BLADES - disengage attachment clutch control.

,_CAUTION: Do not operate the mower

without either the entire grass catcher, on mowers so equipped, or the deflector

shield in place.

AttachmentAttachemnt

ClutchLever

"Engaged"High

PositionPosition

Position

"Disengaged" _

PositionDeflector

TO OPERATE ON HILLS

_,WARNING: Do not drive up or down hills with slopes greater than 15 ° and do not drive across any slope. Use the slope guide at the back of this manual.

Choose the slowest speed before start- ing up or down hills.

Avoid stopping or changing speed on hills.

If slowing is necessary, move throttle control lever to slower position.

If stopping is absolutely necessary,

push clutch/brake pedal quickly to brake position and engage parking brake.

Move motion control lever to neutral (N)

position.

IMPORTANT: The motion control lever does not return to neutral (N) position when the clutch/brake pedal is depressed.

To restart movement, slowly release parking brake and clutch/brake pedal.

Slowly move motion control lever to slowest setting.

Make all turns slowly.

TOTRANSPORT

When pushing or towing your tractor, be sure to disengage transmission by placing

freewheel control in freewheeling position. Freewheel control is located at the rear

drawbar of tractor.

1.Raise attachment lift to highest posi- tion with attachment lift control.

2.Pull freewheel control out and down into the slot and release so it is held in the disengaged position.

Do not push or tow tractor at more than two (2) MPH.

To re-engage transmission, reverse above procedure.

Transmission Engaged

Transmission Disengaged

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 recom- mended 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 STARTING THE 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, re- move and read oil level. If necessary,

add oil until "FULl' mark on dipstick is reached. Do not overfill.

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Craftsman 917.273401 owner manual To Operate Mower, To Operate on Hills, Transmission Engaged Transmission Disengaged

917.273401 specifications

The Craftsman 917.273401 is a powerful and versatile lawn tractor designed to tackle a variety of landscaping tasks while providing users with a smooth and efficient mowing experience. This model combines robust construction with advanced technologies to meet the needs of homeowners and gardeners alike.

One of the standout features of the Craftsman 917.273401 is its reliable engine. Powered by a 20-horsepower Briggs & Stratton engine, this lawn tractor delivers ample power to handle thick grass and uneven terrain. The engine is designed for easy starts and dependable performance, ensuring users can rely on their mower season after season.

In terms of cutting capabilities, the Craftsman 917.273401 is equipped with a 42-inch cutting deck. This wide deck allows for efficient mowing over medium to large lawns, reducing the time it takes to cover ground. Moreover, the deck is adjustable, providing users with the flexibility to select different cutting heights, ranging from 1.5 to 4 inches. This feature is essential for achieving the desired lawn appearance and accommodating various grass types.

The tractor's transmission system is another highlight, featuring a hydrostatic transmission that offers smooth and effortless speed adjustments. This technology allows users to drive at their preferred pace without the need for manual gear shifting, making the mowing process more enjoyable and less strenuous.

Comfort and usability are prioritized in the Craftsman 917.273401, showcased by its ergonomic seating and user-friendly controls. The high-back seat reduces fatigue during long mowing sessions, while the easy-access dashboard ensures that all necessary controls are within reach. Additionally, the tractor is designed with a tight turning radius, enabling users to maneuver around obstacles and tight spaces with ease.

Furthermore, the Craftsman 917.273401 is compatible with various attachments and accessories, such as baggers, snow plows, and mulching kits. This versatility extends the lawn tractor's utility beyond mowing, allowing users to tackle different tasks throughout the year.

In summary, the Craftsman 917.273401 stands out in the realm of lawn maintenance with its powerful engine, adjustable cutting deck, hydrostatic transmission, and user-centric design. Whether you're mowing a suburban lawn or managing a larger property, this lawn tractor offers the features and performance necessary to achieve a well-groomed landscape with ease.