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.

11

Page 10 Page 12
Page 11
Image 11
Craftsman 917.374541 owner manual Mulching Mowing Tips
Page 10 Page 12

917.374541 specifications

The Craftsman 917.374541 is a robust and versatile lawn tractor designed for homeowners seeking efficiency and performance in lawn maintenance. This machine stands out for its well-rounded features, making it an excellent choice for both small and moderately sized yards.

One of the key highlights of the Craftsman 917.374541 is its powerful 19 horsepower Briggs & Stratton engine. This engine is designed for reliability and smooth operation, providing sufficient power to tackle even the toughest mowing conditions. Coupled with a 42-inch cutting deck, users can expect efficient grass cutting, allowing for broader swathes with each pass. The adjustable cutting height feature offers versatility, enabling users to select the optimal length for different grass types, ensuring a well-manicured lawn year-round.

The tractor employs a hydrostatic transmission system, which offers seamless speed adjustments without the need for manual gear shifting. This feature not only enhances user convenience but also allows for smooth operation when navigating around obstacles in the yard. The ergonomic steering wheel and comfortable seat design contribute to an enjoyable riding experience, reducing fatigue during extended use.

In addition, the Craftsman 917.374541 boasts a tight turning radius, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces and around flower beds or trees. The tractor is also equipped with an easy-to-use dashboard that provides essential information at a glance, such as fuel levels and engine alerts, ensuring that users remain informed while operating the machine.

Another noteworthy characteristic is the mulching capability of the tractor. It can be used with a mulching kit, allowing for the recycling of grass clippings back into the lawn, promoting healthy grass growth and reducing waste. Additionally, the tractor has the option for bagging attachments, assisting in maintaining a clean and tidy yard.

Durability is a focal point of the Craftsman 917.374541, featuring a sturdy frame and high-quality materials that withstand the rigors of regular use. With proper maintenance, this lawn tractor can provide years of reliable performance.

Overall, the Craftsman 917.374541 is a powerful, feature-rich lawn tractor that makes lawn care an easier and more efficient task for homeowners. Its combination of a reliable engine, user-friendly design, and advanced features makes it an excellent investment for anyone looking to maintain their outdoor space with ease.
Top Page Image Contents