LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when per- forming any maintenance.

TIRES

Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chemicals which can harm rubber.

Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage.

DRIVE WHEELS

Check front drive wheels each time before you mow to be sure they move freely.

The wheels not turning freely means trash,

grass cuttings, etc. are in the drive wheel area and must be cleaned to free drive wheels.

If necessary to clean the drive wheels, be sure to clean both front wheels.

1.Remove hubcaps, Iocknuts & washers.

2.Remove wheels from wheel adjusters.

3.Remove any trash or grass cuttings from inside the dust cover, pinion and/ or drive wheel gear teeth.

4.Put wheels back in place.

NOTE: If after cleaning, the drive wheels do not turn freely, contact a Sears or other qualified service center.

BLADE CARE

For best results, mower blade must be kept sharp. Replace a bent or damaged blade. A CAUTION: Use only a replacement blade approved by the manufacturer of your mower. Using a blade not approved by the manufacturer of your mower is haz- ardous, could damage your mower and void your warranty.

TO REMOVE BLADE

1.Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with plug.

2.Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure air filter and carburetor are up.

3.Use a wood block between blade and

mower housing to prevent blade from turning when removing blade bolt.

NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.

4.Remove blade bolt by turning counter- clockwise.

5.Remove blade and attaching hardware

(bolt, lock washer, hardened washer). NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and check the key inside hub of blade adapter. The key must be in good condition to work properly. Replace adapter if damaged.

TO REPLACE BLADE

1.Position the blade adapter on the en- gine crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter and crankshaft keyway are aligned.

2.Position blade on the blade adapter.

IMPORTANT: To ensure proper assembly, center hole in blade must align with star on blade adapter.

3.Be sure trailing edge of blade (opposite sharp edge) is up toward the engine.

4.Install the blade bolt with the lock washer and hardened washer into blade adapter and crankshaft.

5.Use block of wood between blade and

lawn mower housing and tighten the blade bolt, turning clockwise.

The recommended tightening torque is 35-40 ft. Ibs.

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is heat treated. If bolt needs replacing, replace only with approved bolt shown in the Repair Parts section of this manual.

Blade adapter

Key

Crankshaft

Lockwasher

 

 

Blade

 

....',,

Blade

 

_

 

 

bolt

Hardened

:_,:,,,",

/ \ '\

 

 

washer

Trailing

edge

retainer

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharp-

ening blade - but if you do, be sure the blade is balanced. An unbalanced blade

will cause eventual damage to lawn mower or engine.

The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower.

To check blade balance, you will need a 5/8" diameter steel bolt, pin, or a cone balancer. (When using a cone balancer, follow the instructions supplied with it.)

NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing blade. The lobes of the center hole may appear to be centered, but are not.

Slide blade on to an unthreaded portion of the steel bolt or pin and hold the bolt or pin parallel with the ground. If blade is balanced, it should remain m a horizontal position. If either end of the blade moves downward, sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced.

Center hole

5/8" bolt or pin

13Blade

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Craftsman 917.376396 owner manual Lawn Mower, Drive Wheels

917.376396 specifications

The Craftsman 917.376396 is a robust and versatile lawn tractor designed for homeowners who require a reliable machine for efficient lawn care. Featuring a 19 horsepower, 500cc Briggs & Stratton engine, this lawn tractor delivers ample power for tackling a variety of landscaping tasks, from mowing to mulching and even for light yard work.

One of the standout features of the Craftsman 917.376396 is its 42-inch cutting deck. This size strikes a perfect balance between maneuverability and productivity, allowing users to navigate tighter spaces while still covering substantial ground. The cutting deck is equipped with dual blades, which provide a clean and even cut, ensuring that your lawn looks its best after every mow. The deck height is fully adjustable, offering six different cutting positions to accommodate varying grass lengths and types.

Another notable characteristic is its automatic transmission, which allows for seamless speed adjustments while operating the tractor. This feature enhances user convenience, as there is no need for constant gear shifting. The control layout is intuitive, making it easy for both novice and experienced users to operate the tractor effectively.

The Craftsman 917.376396 also incorporates a comfortable and ergonomic seating system, designed for users who may spend extended periods of time during lawn maintenance. The high-back seat supports the back and reduces fatigue, allowing for increased productivity. The tractor is also equipped with a steering wheel that provides excellent maneuverability, making it easy to navigate around your yard’s various obstacles.

Additionally, safety is a paramount concern, and the Craftsman 917.376396 includes features such as a safety break that automatically disengages the blades when the operator leaves the seat. This crucial feature ensures that the tractor remains safe to operate, preventing accidents during use.

The tractor’s design also integrates a front bumper and headlights, allowing for function in lower light situations, a feature that's especially handy for those unexpected twilight chores.

Overall, the Craftsman 917.376396 stands out for its combination of power, comfort, and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for homeowners looking to maintain their lawns with efficiency and care. With its mix of advanced technology and user-friendly design, this lawn tractor is a capable partner in lawn maintenance.