4.Sit on seat in operatingposition, depressclutch/brakepedal andset the parking brake.

5.Placemotion controlleverin neutral

(N) position.

6.Presslift lever plungerand raise

attachmentlift leverto its highestposi- tion.

7.Start the engine.After engine has started, movethrottle controlto idle position.

8.Releaseparking brake.

9.Slowly movethe motioncontrol lever forwardand slowlydrive tractoroff skid.

10.Applybraketo stop tractor,set parking brake and place motioncontrollever in neutralposition.

11.Turnignition keyto "STOP"position. Continuewith the instructionsthat follow.

REPOSITION RIGHT REAR GAUGE WHEEL

For shipping purposes, the right rear gauge wheel assembly is mounted upside down on the mower. Remove the gauge wheel assembly and reinstall from the bottom as shown. To adjust gauge wheels, see the Operation section in this manual.

INSTALL MULCHER PLATE

(If previously removed)

1.Raise and hold deflector shield in upright position.

2.Place front of mulcher plate over front of mower deck opening and slide into place, as shown.

3.Hook front latch into hole on front of mower deck.

4.Hook rear latch into hole on back of mower deck.

_CAUTION: Do not remove deflector shield from mower.

Deflector

Shield

Plate

Latch

Hooks

TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR

DISCHARGING

Simply remove mulcher plate and store in a safe place. Your mower is now ready for discharging or installation of optional grass catcher accessory.

NOTE: It is not necessary to change blades. The mulching blades are designed for discharging and bagging also.

CHECKTIRE PRESSURE

The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes. Cor- rect tire pressure is important for best cutting performance.

Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" section of this manual.

CHECK DECK LEVELNESS

For best cutting results, mower hous-

ing should be properly leveled. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Service

and Adjustments section of this manual.

CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION

OF ALL BELTS

See the figures that are shown for replac-

ing motion and mower blade drive belts in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual. Verify that the belts are routed correctly.

CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM

After you learn how to operate your trac- tor, check to see that the brake is properly adjusted. See "TO ADJUST BRAKE" in

the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

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Craftsman 917.273642 manual Reposition Right Rear Gauge Wheel, Discharging, Check for Proper Position ALL Belts

917.273642 specifications

The Craftsman 917.273642 is a riding lawn mower designed to combine efficiency, power, and user comfort for homeowners managing sizable lawn areas. This model stands out as an essential gardening tool, specifically engineered to make mowing tasks simpler and more enjoyable.

One of the main features of the Craftsman 917.273642 is its robust 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine. This powerful engine ensures reliable starting and sufficient power to tackle tough grass and larger terrains. The mower also incorporates a smooth-running automatic transmission, allowing users to shift seamlessly between different speeds while maintaining control and stability.

Another key characteristic of this riding mower is its 42-inch cutting deck. This mid-sized deck provides an optimal balance between cutting efficiency and maneuverability, especially in tight spots or around obstacles. The deck is equipped with a six-position height adjustment system, enabling users to customize the cutting height according to the specific requirements of their lawn.

The Craftsman 917.273642 also features an innovative debris management system with side discharge capability, allowing clippings to be expelled directly to the side, providing a cleaner cut and reducing the need for bagging. For added convenience, the model is equipped with optional mulching capabilities, enabling users to finely chop grass clippings and return them to the lawn as natural fertilizer.

User comfort is paramount in the design of the Craftsman 917.273642. The mower incorporates a spacious and ergonomically designed seat, featuring a high back for enhanced support, ensuring users can operate the machine for extended periods without discomfort. The easy-to-reach controls are strategically located on the dashboard, allowing for a user-friendly experience.

In addition to its impressive features, the Craftsman 917.273642 comes with durability in mind. The heavy-duty steel frame and reinforced deck ensure that the mower can withstand the rigors of frequent use while providing a long life span.

Overall, the Craftsman 917.273642 is more than just a lawn mower. It represents a blend of modern technology, user-centric design, and the durability that the Craftsman brand is well known for, making it a valuable addition to any homeowner's gardening toolkit. Whether you have a small yard or a larger landscape, this riding mower is designed to meet your landscaping needs with precision and ease.