PURGE TRANSMISSION

To ensure proper operation and per- formance, it is recommended that the

transmission be purged before operating tractor for the first time. This procedure will remove any trapped air inside the trans- mission which may have developed during shipping of your tractor.

IMPORTANT: Should your transmission require removal for service or replace- ment, it should be purged after reinstall- ation before operating the tractor.

1.Place tractor safely in an area that is flat for approximately 80 feet in front of the tractor and set the parking brake.

2.Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. After the engine is running, move throttle control to slow position. With motion control lever in neutral (N)

position, slowly disengage clutch/brake pedal.

3.Slowly move motion control lever to full forward position and hold for five

(5)seconds, or approximately 40 feet.

Slowly move lever to full reverse posi- tion and hold for five (5) seconds, or approximately 20 feet. After the tractor

moves approximately 20 feet in reverse return the motion control lever to the

neutral (N) position. Repeat this proce- dure three (3) times.

Your transmission is now purged and now ready for normal operation.

MOWING TIPS

,,Mower should be properly leveled for

best mowing performance. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the

Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

The left hand side of mower should be used for trimming.

Drive so that clippings are discharged onto the area that has already been cut.

Have the cut area to the right of the trac- tor. This will result in a more even distri-

bution of clippings and more uniform cutting.

When mowing large areas, start by turning to the right so that clippings will discharge away from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc. After one or two rounds, mow in the opposite direction making left hand turns until finished.

00272

If grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to reduce load and pos- sible fire hazard from dried clippings.

Make first cut relatively high; the second to the desired height.

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

Always operate engine at full throttle when mowing to assure better mow-

ing performance and proper discharge of material. Regulate ground speed by selecting a low enough gear to give the

mower cutting performance as well as the quality of cut desired.

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

16

Page 16
Image 16
Craftsman 917.273401 owner manual Purge Transmission, Mowing Tips

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.