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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.

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-up grass and trash. Clean after each use.

The special mulching blade will recut the grass clippings many times and reduce them in size so that as they fall onto the lawn they will disperse into

the grass and not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will biodegrade quickly

to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always mulch with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will provide the best recut- ting action of the blades.

Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet grass tends to form clumps and interferes with the mulching action. The

best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon. At this time the grass has dried, the newly cut area will not be exposed to direct sunlight.

For best results, adjust the mower cutting height so that the mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass blades. For extremely heavy grass, re- duce your width of cut on each pass and mow slowly.

Max 1/3

Certain types of grass and grass conditions may require that an area be mu_ched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a sec- ond cut, mow across (perpendicular) to the first cut path.

Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow north to south one week

then change to east to west the next week. This will help prevent matting and

graining of the lawn.

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Craftsman 917.273481 manual Mulching Mowing Tips

917.273481 specifications

The Craftsman 917.273481 is a robust and versatile lawn tractor designed to enhance the efficiency and ease of lawn care tasks. This machine is ideal for homeowners with medium to large yards, providing them with a reliable solution for mowing, mulching, and even towing light loads.

One of the standout features of the Craftsman 917.273481 is its powerful 20 HP Briggs & Stratton engine. This reliable engine ensures smooth operation, excellent performance, and the ability to tackle various terrains with ease. The engine is complemented by a smooth and responsive hydrostatic transmission, allowing for effortless speed adjustments and better maneuverability while navigating lawn obstacles.

The cutting deck on this model is a significant highlight, featuring a 42-inch wide blade system that provides a clean and consistent cut with every pass. The adjustable cutting height, which can be set to various levels, allows users to customize the lawn care according to specific needs and grass types. Additionally, the deck's innovative design promotes better airflow, resulting in enhanced grass clipping dispersion for a healthier lawn.

Another admirable characteristic of the Craftsman 917.273481 is its comfort-driven design. Equipped with an ergonomically designed seat and easy-to-use control panel, it ensures comfort during prolonged use. The tractor’s compact size allows for easy navigation in tight spaces and around flower beds, making it a practical choice for residential gardens.

The Craftsman 917.273481 also incorporates advanced technologies that increase its functionality. Its optional mulching kit allows for efficient grass recycling, potentially reducing the need for bagging clippings. The lawn tractor is also compatible with various attachments, such as snow plows and carts, enhancing its versatility beyond just mowing.

In terms of durability, the Craftsman brand is known for its robust construction, and this model is no exception. The frame is built to withstand the rigors of regular use, while the high-quality materials used in the manufacturing process contribute to its longevity and reliability.

Overall, the Craftsman 917.273481 is an excellent investment for anyone looking to maintain their lawn efficiently. Its combination of power, comfort, and versatility makes it a standout choice in the range of residential lawn tractors. Whether you're mowing, mulching, or tackling other outdoor tasks, this model is designed to get the job done effectively.