TROUBLESHOOTING CHART:

See appropriate section in manual unless directed to Sears service center

PROBLEM

 

CAUSE

 

 

 

CORRECTION

 

Poor cut = uneven

1

Worn,

 

bent

or loose blade.

1

Replace

blade. Tighten blade bolt.

cutting

2

Mower

deck

not

level.

2

Level mower deck.

 

 

3

Buildup

of grass,

leaves, and

3

Clean underside

of mower

 

 

trash

under

mower.

 

housing.

 

 

 

4

Bent

blade

mandrel.

4

Contact

a Sears

or other

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

qualified

service

center.

Mower blades will not rotate

Poor grass

discharge

Headlight(s) not working

(if so equipped)

5 Clogged mower deck vent from 5 Clean around mandrels to

build-up of grass, leaves, andopen vent holes. trash around mandrels.

1 Obstruction in clutch mechanism. 1 Remove obstruction.

2 Worn/damaged mower drive belt. 2 Replace mower drive belt.

3

Frozen

idler pulley.

3

Replace

idler

pulley.

4

Frozen

blade

mandrel.

4

Contact

a Sears

or other

 

 

 

 

 

 

qualified

service

center.

1

Engine

speed

too

slow.

1

Place

throttle

control in "FAST"

 

 

 

 

 

 

position.

 

 

 

2

Travel

speed

too

fast.

2

Shift

to

slower

speed.

3

Wet grass.

 

 

3

Allow

grass to dry before mowing.

4

Mower

deck

not level.

4

Level

mower

deck.

5

Low/uneven

tire air pressure.

5

Check

tires

for

proper

PSI.

6

Worn, bent or loose blade.

 

6

Replace/sharpen

blade. Tighten

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

blade

bolt.

 

 

 

 

 

7

Buildup

 

of grass,

leaves and

7

Clean

underside

of mower

 

trash

under

mower.

 

 

 

housing.

 

 

 

 

 

 

8

Mower

drive

belt

worn.

 

 

8

Replace

mower

drive

belt.

9

Blades

 

improperly

installed.

 

9

Reinstall

blades

sharp

edge down.

10

Improper

blades

used.

 

 

10

Replace with blades listed in

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

this manual.

 

 

 

 

11

Clogged

mower

deck

vent

holes

11

Clean

around

mandrels

to

 

from

buildup

of

grass,

leaves, and

 

open

vent

holes.

 

 

 

trash

around

mandrels.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

m

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1

Light

switch

is

"OFF".

 

 

1

Turn light

switch

"ON".

 

2

Bulb(s)

 

or lamp(s)

burned

out.

2

Replace

bulb(s)

or

lamp(s).

3

Faulty

 

light

switch.

 

 

3

Check/replace

 

light

switch.

4

Loose

 

or damaged wiring.

 

4

Check

wiring

and connections.

5

Blown

 

fuse.

 

 

 

 

 

5

Replace

fuse.

 

 

 

 

30

Page 30
Image 30
Craftsman 917.289281 manual Poor cut = uneven, Cutting, Mower blades will not rotate Poor grass

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.

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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.