Immediately prepare your tractor for stor- age at the end of the season or if the trac-

_i_ will not be used for 30 days or more.

WARNING: Never store the tractor

with gasoline in the tank inside a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark. Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.

TRACTOR

When tractor is to be stored for a period

of time, clean it thoroughly, remove all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean, dry area.

1.Clean entire tractor (See "CLEANING"

in the Maintenance section of this manual).

2.Inspect and replace belts, if necessary

(See belt replacement instructions in

the Service and Adjustments section of this manual).

3.Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance section of this manual.

4.Be sure that all nuts, bolts and screws

are securely fastened. Inspect moving parts for damage, breakage and wear. Replace if necessary.

5.Touch up all rusted or chipped paint surfaces; sand lightly before painting.

BATTERY

•Fully charge the battery for storage.

•After a period of time in storage, battery may require recharging.

•To help prevent corrosion and power leakage during long periods of storage, battery cables should be disconnected and battery cleaned thoroughly (see

"TO CLEAN BATTERY AND TERMI-

NALS" in the Maintenance section of this manual).

•After cleaning, leave cables disconnect- ed and place cables where they cannot come in contact with battery terminals.

•If battery is removed from tractor for storage, do not store battery directly on concrete or damp surfaces.

ENGINE

FUEL SYSTEM

IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent gum deposits from forming in essential fuel system parts such as carburetor, fue! hose, or tank during storage. Also, alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using

ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can dam- age the fuel system of an engine while in storage.

•Empty the fue! tank by starting the en- gine and letting it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty.

•Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

•Use fresh fuel next season.

NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable alternative in minimizing the formation of fuel gum deposits during storage. Add stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or stor- age container. Always follow the mix ratio

found on stabilizer container. Run engine at least 10 minutes after adding stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to reach the car- buretor. Do not empty the gas tank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.

ENGINE OIL

Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in

the Maintenance section of this manual). CYMNDER(S)

1.Remove spark pWg(s).

2.Pour one ounce of oil through spark plug hole(s) into cylinder(s).

3.Turn ignition key to start position for a few seconds to distribute oil.

4.Replace with new spark plug(s).

OTHER

•Do not store gasoline from one season to another.

•Replace your gasoline can if your can starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your gasoline will cause problems.

•If possible, store your tractor indoors and cover it to give protection from dust and dirt.

•Cover your tractor with a suitable protective cover that does not retain

moisture. Do not use plastic. Plastic cannot breathe which allows condensa-

tion to form and will cause your tractor to rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover tractor while engine and exhaust areas are still warm.

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Craftsman 917.289281 manual Fuel System, To Clean Battery and Termi, Engine OIL
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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.
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