MOWING TIPS

A 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 clippings.

It may also be necessary to reduce

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 become 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.

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 917.374353 owner manual Mulching Mowing Tips

917.374353 specifications

The Craftsman 917.374353 is a versatile and powerful lawn mower designed to make lawn care a breeze. This machine is notable for its combination of durability, efficiency, and user-friendly features, making it a popular choice among homeowners and landscaping professionals alike.

One of the standout features of the Craftsman 917.374353 is its robust engine. Powered by a reliable Briggs & Stratton engine, this mower delivers a dependable performance with ample power to tackle various terrains and thicker grass. The engine's design emphasizes easy starting and consistent operation, allowing users to commence their mowing tasks without the hassle of frequent maintenance issues.

The mower is equipped with a 21-inch cutting deck that provides flexibility in grass cutting, ensuring that users can efficiently trim their lawns to their desired height. The adjustable cutting height feature allows for multiple settings, accommodating different grass types and seasonal changes. This adaptability is perfect for homeowners who take pride in their lawn's appearance and require precision in their mowing.

Another notable characteristic of the Craftsman 917.374353 is its self-propelled feature. With variable speed control, users can effortlessly adjust the mower's pace to match their comfort and the mowing conditions. This feature significantly reduces the physical effort required to maneuver the mower, especially in larger yards or hilly landscapes.

Additionally, the mower incorporates advanced bagging and mulching capabilities. The rear bagger efficiently collects clippings, ensuring a tidy lawn without leaving behind unsightly debris. On the other hand, the mulching feature finely chops grass clippings and returns them to the lawn, providing essential nutrients and fostering healthier growth.

Comfort and convenience are also pivotal in the design of the Craftsman 917.374353. The ergonomic handle is adjustable, allowing users of different heights to find a comfortable grip while operating the mower. The mower is also equipped with large rear wheels, providing enhanced stability and maneuverability over uneven ground.

In terms of build quality, the Craftsman 917.374353 exhibits a sturdy construction, ensuring it can endure the stresses of regular use. Its durable components and high-quality materials contribute to an extended lifespan, giving users peace of mind regarding their investment.

In summary, the Craftsman 917.374353 is a powerful lawn mower designed with the needs of consumers in mind. Its combination of a robust engine, self-propelled technology, adjustable cutting height, and efficient bagging or mulching makes it an excellent tool for maintaining a beautiful lawn. Comfort and durability further enhance its appeal, making it a top choice for both novice and experienced lawn care enthusiasts.