6.Remove the drain tube and replace the cap onto the end of the drain valve.

7.Refill engine with oil through oil fill dip- stick tube. Pour slowly. Do not overfill.

For approximate capacity see "PROD-

UCT SPECIFICATIONS" section of this manual.

8.Use gauge on oil fill cap/dipstick for checking level. For accurate reading, insert dipstick into the tube and push down firmly into place before removing. Keep oil up to, but not over, the "FULl" line on dipstick. Push dipstick down

firmly into the tube when finished.

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properly using a dirty air filter. Service air cleaner more

often under dusty conditions. See Engine Manual.

ENGINE OiL FILTER

Replace the engine oil filter every season or every other oil change if the tractor is used more than 100 hours in one year.

CLEAN AIR SCREEN

Air screen must be kept free of dirt and chaff to prevent engine damage from overheating. Clean with a wire brush or compressed air to remove dirt and stub- born dried gum fibers.

CLEAN AIR INTAKE/COOLING AREAS To insure proper cooling, make sure the grass screen, cooling fins, and other exter-

nal surfaces of the engine are kept clean at all times.

Every 100 hours of operation (more often under extremely dusty, dirty conditions), remove the blower housing and other cooling shrouds. Clean the cooling fins and external surfaces as necessary. Make sure the cooling shrouds are reinstalled.

NOTE: Operating the engine with a blocked grass screen, dirty or plugged cooling fins, and/or cooling shrouds removed will cause engine damage due to overheating.

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler and spark arrester (if equipped) as it could cre- ate a fire hazard and/or damage.

SPARK PLUG(S)

Replace spark plug(s) at the beginning of each mowing season or after every 100 hours of operation, whichever occurs

first. Spark plug type and gap setting are

shown in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" section of this manual.

IN=LINE FUEL FILTER

The fue! filter should be replaced once each season. If fuel filter becomes

clogged, obstructing fuel flow to carbure-

tor, replacement is required.

1.With engine cool, remove filter and plug fuel line sections.

2.Place new fue! filter in position in fuel line with arrow pointing towards carbu- retor.

3.Be sure there are no fuel line leaks and clamps are properly positioned.

4.Immediately wipe up any spilled gaso- line.

Clamp

CLEANING

Clean engine, battery, seat, finish, etc. of all foreign matter.

Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of all gasoline, oil, etc.

Protect painted surfaces with automo-

tive type wax.

We do not recommend using a garden hose or pressure washer to clean your tractor unless the engine and transmis- sion are covered to keep water out. Water

in engine or transmission will shorten the useful life of your tractor. Use compressed

air or a leaf blower to remove grass, leaves and trash from tractor and mower.

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Craftsman 917.289281 manual Clean AIR Screen, AIR Filter, Muffler, Spark Plugs, IN=LINE Fuel Filter

917.289281 specifications

The Craftsman 917.289281 is a robust lawn tractor designed for homeowners seeking efficiency and ease of use in maintaining their outdoor space. This model is particularly suitable for those with medium to large-sized lawns, offering a blend of strength, durability, and advanced technology that sets it apart in the competitive market of lawn equipment.

One of the standout features of the Craftsman 917.289281 is its powerful 19 horsepower Kohler engine. This reliable engine delivers reliable performance, ensuring that users can tackle tough mowing jobs without a hitch. Coupled with a smooth hydrostatic transmission, the mower provides seamless speed and direction control, allowing operators to maneuver easily around tight corners and obstacles.

The cutting deck of the Craftsman 917.289281 measures 42 inches, which strikes a balance between efficient mowing and maneuverability. The deck is constructed from high-quality materials, ensuring durability while effectively distributing grass clippings. Users can also take advantage of the adjustable cutting height, which ranges from 1.5 to 4 inches, providing versatility for varying grass lengths and types.

In terms of comfort, the Craftsman 917.289281 doesn't disappoint. It includes a plush, ergonomically designed seat allowing for longer periods of mowing without discomfort. The easy-to-reach controls, combined with a tight turning radius of 16 inches, make it simple for users to navigate around flower beds, trees, and other obstacles in their yard.

Another noteworthy aspect is its advanced technology. The mower is equipped with an automatic choke system, simplifying the starting process—no more fussing with manual chokes. Moreover, it features a built-in LED headlight system, ensuring visibility during early morning or late evening mowing sessions.

Additionally, maintaining the Craftsman 917.289281 is straightforward. The mower’s design allows for easy access to the engine and other components, making routine maintenance tasks hassle-free.

In conclusion, the Craftsman 917.289281 is a reliable, feature-rich lawn tractor tailored for homeowners who seek efficiency and comfort while maintaining their lawns. With its powerful engine, ease of use, and thoughtful design, it stands as a formidable ally in outdoor landscaping efforts. For anyone looking to invest in a lawn tractor, the Craftsman 917.289281 offers an impressive combination of performance and features.