PURGE TRANSMiSSiON

_CAUTION: Never engage or disengage freewheel lever while the engine is running.

To ensure proper operation and performance, it is recommended that the transmission be purged before operating tractor for the first time. This procedure will remove any trapped air inside the transmission which may have developed during shipping of your tractor.

IMPORTANT: Should your transmission require removal for service or replacement, it should be purged after reinstallation before operating the tractor.

1.Place tractor safely on a level surface - that is clear of objects and open - with engine off and parking brake set.

2.Disengage transmission by placing freewheel control in disengaged position (See "TO TRANSPORT" in this section of manual).

3.Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. After the engine is running, move throttle control to slow position. With motion control lever in neutral position, slowly disengage clutch/brake pedal.

_IiCAUTION: At any time, during step 4, there may be movement of the drive wheels.

4.Move motion control lever to full forward

position and hold for five (5) seconds. Move lever to full reverse position and hold for five (5) seconds. Repeat this procedure three (3) times.

5.Move motion control lever to neutral

position. Shutoff engine and set parking brake.

6.Engage transmission by placing free-

wheel control in engaged position (See "TO TRANSPORT" in this section of

manual).

7.Sitting in the tractor seat, start engine. After the engine is running, move throttle control to half (1/2) speed. With motion control lever in neutral position, slowly disengage clutch/brake pedal.

8.Slowly move motion control leverforward, after the tractor moves approximately five (5) feet, slowly move motion control lever to reverse position. After the tractor

moves approximately five (5) feet return the motion control lever to the neutral

position. Repeat this procedure with the motion control lever three (3) times.

Your transmission is now purged and now ready for normal operation.

MOWING TIPS

Tire chains cannot be used when the mower housing is attached to tractor. Mower should be properly leveled for best mowing performance. See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manual.

The left hand side of mower should be

used for trimming.

Drive so that clippings are discharged onto the area that has already been cut. Have the cut area to the right of the tractor. This will result in a more even distribution of clippings and more uniform cutting.

When mowing large areas, start byturning to the right so that clippings will discharge away from shrubs, fences, driveways, etc. After one or two rounds, mow in the

opposite direction making left hand turns until finished.

If grass is extremely tall, it should be mowed twice to reduce load and possible 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 undesir- able clumps. Allow grass to dry before mowing.

*Always operate engine at full throttle when mowing to ensure better mow- ing performance and proper discharge of material. Regulate ground speed by selecting a low enough speed 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 attachment being used.

15

Page 79
Image 79
Craftsman 917.289362 owner manual Mowing Tips

917.289362 specifications

The Craftsman 917.289362 is a robust and versatile lawn tractor that epitomizes the dedication to quality and functionality that Craftsman is well-known for. Designed for homeowners with medium to large yards, this lawn tractor stands out with its efficient performance and user-friendly features.

One of the main features of the Craftsman 917.289362 is its powerful engine. It is equipped with a 20 HP Briggs & Stratton engine that provides ample power to tackle various lawn care tasks. This reliable engine ensures smooth operation and quick starts, allowing users to mow their lawns effectively without hassles. The engine is paired with a hydrostatic transmission, which offers an effortless driving experience, enabling users to switch between speeds seamlessly without the need for manual gear shifting.

The cutting deck is another highlight of the Craftsman 917.289362. With a 42-inch deck size and a cutting height adjustment feature, this lawn tractor allows users to achieve a precise cut. The deck also comes with anti-scalp wheels, which prevent damage to the lawn and ensure even cutting across various terrains. The deck design also facilitates easy grass discharge or mulching, providing flexibility based on user preference.

Comfort is key when it comes to lawn maintenance, and the Craftsman 917.289362 does not disappoint. It features a high-back seat with adjustable settings to ensure maximum comfort during prolonged use. The ergonomic steering wheel design allows for easy maneuverability, making it simple to navigate around obstacles in the yard.

In terms of technology, this lawn tractor includes an advanced maintenance reminder system that alerts users when it's time for servicing. This feature ensures that the tractor remains in peak condition, thus prolonging its lifespan. Additionally, the tractor is designed with a cutting-edge air filtration system that enhances engine performance and efficiency, allowing for longer intervals between servicing.

Overall, the Craftsman 917.289362 is an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a dependable and efficient lawn tractor. Its combination of a powerful engine, user-friendly design, and advanced features makes it suitable for a variety of lawn care tasks, ensuring that users achieve a beautifully manicured lawn with ease. Whether you're mowing, hauling, or mulching, this lawn tractor delivers reliability and performance, making it a valuable addition to any outdoor toolkit.