MOWING TIPS

CAUTION: Do not use de-thatcher blade attachments on your mower. Such attachments are hazardous, will 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 917.376231 owner manual Mulching Mowing Tips
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917.376231 specifications

The Craftsman 917.376231 is a highly regarded lawn tractor that combines powerful performance with user-friendly features, making it a favorite among homeowners and landscaping enthusiasts. This riding mower is designed to handle a wide range of lawn care tasks, offering versatility and convenience.

One of the standout features of the Craftsman 917.376231 is its robust engine. It is equipped with a reliable 19.5 horsepower Briggs & Stratton engine, providing ample power to tackle tough mowing jobs. This engine ensures smooth operation and efficient fuel consumption, allowing users to mow large areas without frequent refueling. The tractor features an automatic transmission system, making it easy to navigate from one area of the lawn to another without the need for manual gear shifting.

The cutting deck is another significant aspect of the Craftsman 917.376231. It boasts a 42-inch, twin-blade cutting deck that offers efficient mowing capabilities. With adjustable cutting heights, users can customize the grass length to their preference, ensuring a well-manicured lawn. The deck design also enables excellent grass collection and side discharge options, making it ideal for various mowing conditions.

In terms of comfort, the Craftsman 917.376231 is designed with an ergonomic seat and easy-to-reach controls, allowing users to operate the tractor with minimal effort. The high back seat provides support during long mowing sessions, while the steering wheel is designed for better maneuverability. The tractor's compact size allows it to easily navigate tight spaces and obstacles, making it suitable for diverse yard layouts.

Safety is paramount in the design of the Craftsman 917.376231. The mower features automatic blade engagement, ensuring that blades only operate when the tractor is in motion. Additionally, the presence of safety features, such as a reverse mowing capability and an operator presence system, enhances user protection.

Overall, the Craftsman 917.376231 is a well-rounded lawn tractor that offers a combination of power, precision, and comfort. Its variety of features makes it an excellent choice for homeowners looking to maintain their lawns efficiently and effectively. With its reliable performance and user-friendly characteristics, the Craftsman 917.376231 is a valuable addition to any lawn care toolkit.
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