TO STOP ENGINE

To stop engine, release operator pres- ence control bar.

TO START ENGINE

NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the engine, a small amount of smoke may be

present during the initial use of the product and should be considered normal.

NOTE: Your engine is equipped with an automatic choke system. No priming or choking is required before starting.

. To start engine, hold operator presence control bar down to the handle and turn

the start key.

IMPORTANT: Do not crank engine more than five continous seconds between each

time you try to start. Wait 5 to 10 seconds between each attempt.

. To start engine using the rope starter, hold operator presence control bar down to the handle and pull starter handle quickly. Do not allow starter rope to snap back.

MOWING TIPS

CAUTION: Do not use de-thatcher blade attachments on your mower. Such attachments are hazardous, wil! damage your mower and could void your warranty.

. Under certain conditions, such as very tall grass, it may be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine and leaving clumps of grass clip- pings. It may also be necessary to re- duce ground speed and/or run the lawn mower over the area a second time.

. For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of cut by overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.

. For better grass bagging and most cut- ting conditions, the engine speed should be set in the FAST position.

. Pores in cloth grass catchers can be- come filled with dirt and dust with use

and catchers wil! collect less grass. To prevent this, regularly hose catcher off with water and let dry before using.

. Keep top of engine around starter clear and clean of grass clippings and chaff. This will help engine air flow and extend engine life.

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-up

grass and trash. See "CLEANING" in the Maintenance section of this manual.

The special mulching blade will recut the grass clippings many times and reduce them in size so that as they fall onto the lawn they will disperse into the grass and not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always mulch with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will provide the best recut- ting action of the blades.

Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet grass tends to form clumps and interferes with the mulching action. The best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon. At this time the grass has dried, yet the newly cut area will not be exposed to direct sunlight.

For best results, adjust the lawn mower cutting height so that the lawn mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown

it will be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine and leaving clumps of mulched grass. For extremely heavy grass, reduce your width of cut by overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.

'MAX 1/3

Certain types of grass and grass conditions may require that an area be mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a sec- ond cut, mow across (perpendicular) to the first cut path.

Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow north to south one week

then change to east to west the next week. This will help prevent matting and graining of the lawn.

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Craftsman 917.371031 owner manual To Stop Engine, To Start Engine, Mowing Tips

917.371031 specifications

The Craftsman 917.371031 is a versatile lawn tractor designed to meet the demands of homeowners seeking a reliable and efficient lawn care solution. Specifically engineered for both precision and durability, this model is equipped with various features that enhance user experience and performance, allowing users to maintain their lawns with ease.

One of the standout features of the Craftsman 917.371031 is its powerful engine. The tractor is equipped with a robust 20 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, which provides ample power for tackling tough mowing tasks. This engine is known for its longevity and dependable performance, ensuring that users can count on it to start easily and run smoothly even in challenging conditions.

The cutting deck of the Craftsman 917.371031 features a 42-inch design, perfectly sized for maneuvering through residential yards while providing an efficient cutting path. The deck is constructed from high-quality, durable materials that offer superior resistance to wear, further enhancing the longevity of the mower. Additionally, the mowing height can be easily adjusted with a simple lever, allowing users to achieve their desired grass length quickly.

In terms of technology, features like the electric start engine simplify the startup process, eliminating the need for cumbersome pull cords. The integrated hydrostatic transmission provides seamless speed control, enabling the operator to navigate various terrains with ease. This feature allows for both forward and reverse motion without the need for clutching or shifting gears, providing a smoother driving experience.

Comfort is also a priority in the Craftsman 917.371031. It includes a comfortable, high-back seat that provides support during longer mowing sessions, minimizing fatigue and ensuring a more enjoyable experience. The ergonomic steering wheel design allows for easier maneuverability, making it simple to navigate tight corners or intricate landscaping.

Another notable characteristic of this lawn tractor is its user-friendly dashboard. Equipped with clear gauges, users can easily monitor speed, fuel level, and maintenance indicators, ensuring that they can keep the tractor in optimal condition. Safety features, including blade brake and while disengaged, ensure that the tractor operates reliably and safely.

Overall, the Craftsman 917.371031 provides an exceptional lawn care experience with its powerful engine, durable cutting deck, and user-friendly technologies, making it a worthy investment for any homeowner looking to keep their yard in pristine condition.