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 917.376406 owner manual Mulching Mowing Tips

917.376406 specifications

The Craftsman 917.376406 is a high-performing lawn tractor designed for homeowners seeking efficiency and durability in their lawn care routines. This versatile machine is equipped with a robust 19 horsepower Briggs & Stratton engine, ensuring reliable power to tackle various mowing tasks. The engine is designed with an easy-start feature, allowing users to get their lawn maintenance underway without hassle.

One of the standout features of the Craftsman 917.376406 is its 42-inch cutting deck. This generous size allows for a wider cutting path, enabling users to cover large areas of their yard more quickly. The cutting deck is also equipped with three adjustable cutting heights, giving users the flexibility to achieve their desired lawn appearance while adapting to different grass types and conditions.

Moreover, the machine incorporates a patented mulching capability, which finely chops grass clippings and redistributes them back onto the lawn. This not only helps to nourish the soil but also reduces the need for bagging, making it an eco-friendly option for yard maintenance.

In terms of user comfort, the Craftsman 917.376406 features an ergonomically designed seat that provides adequate back support for prolonged usage. The control panel is intuitive and conveniently placed, allowing operators to easily adjust speed settings, engage the cutting blades, and operate the headlights if mowing in low-light conditions.

Additionally, this lawn tractor incorporates advanced technologies including a hydrostatic transmission system, which provides a smooth and seamless driving experience. Users can easily manage their speed without the need for clutching or shifting, allowing for greater control and precision while maneuvering around obstacles.

The Craftsman 917.376406 is also built with durability in mind, featuring a heavy-duty steel frame and a corrosion-resistant finish. This ensures longevity and resilience against harsh weather conditions, making it a reliable investment for any homeowner.

In summary, the Craftsman 917.376406 lawn tractor combines power, versatility, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for efficient lawn care. Its advanced features, easy operation, and durability make it a standout option for individuals looking to maintain their lawns effortlessly. Whether managing a small garden or a large yard, this tractor is equipped to handle the job with ease and reliability.