IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat treated.

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening

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

Care should be taken to keep the blade 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, drive a nail into a beam or wall. Leave about one inch of

the straight nail exposed. Place center hole of blade over the head of the nail.

If blade is balanced, it should remain in a horizontal position. If either end of the blade moves downward, sharpen the

heavy end until the blade is balanced. Blade

Key

adapter

Crankshaft

 

 

keyway

Blade

 

 

Lockwasher

 

 

\

 

 

Blade

 

shaft

bolt

Trailing

 

Hardened

 

washer

edge

Blade adapter

GRASS CATCHER

(If purchased as an accessory)

•The grass catcher may be hosed with water, but must be dry when used.

•Check your grass catcher often for

damage or deterioration. Through normal use it will wear. If catcher needs

replacing, replace only with a manufac- turer approved replacement catcher. Give the lawn mower model number

when ordering.

GEAR CASE

•To keep your drive system working propedy, the gear case and area around the drive should be kept clean and free of trash build-up. Clean under the drive cover twice a season.

•The geal" case is filled with lubricant to the proper level at the factory. The only time the lubricant needs attention is if

service has been performed on the gear case.

•If lubricant is required, use only Texaco Starplex Premium Grease, part no. 750369. Do not substitute.

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, check beth front wheels.

•Remove hubcaps, hairpin cotters and washers.

•Remove wheels from wheel adjusters.

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

•Put wheels back in place.

•If after cleaning, the drive wheels do not turn freely, contact your nearest authorized service center.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only highqualitydetergentonratedwith API serviceclsssitica_onSF, SG orSH.

Select the oil'sSAE viscositygrade according to your expectedoperatingtemperature.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

TEMPERATURERANGEANTICIPATEDBEFORENEXTOIL CHANGE

NOTE: Althoughmulti-viscosityoils(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improvestarlingin coldweather, thesemulti-viscosityoilswillresultin increased _1consumptionwhen usedabove 32°F.

Checkyour engine oHlevel mere frequentlyto

avoidpossibleenginedamage from running lew en oil.

Change the oilafter every 25 hoursof operatienorat least once a year if the lawn mower ls not used for25 hours in ene year.

Check the crankcase onlsvoi befors_ the engine and aftereach five (5) hoursof continuoususe. "1"Kjhtanoil plugsecurelyeach time you checkthe oil level.

12

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Craftsman 917.377431 manual Drive Wheels, Engine, Grass Catcher, Lubrication
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917.377431 specifications

The Craftsman 917.377431 is a robust and versatile lawn tractor designed to meet the needs of homeowners looking to maintain their lawns efficiently and effectively. This machine combines power, comfort, and advanced technology, making it a valuable addition to any gardening arsenal.

One of the standout features of the Craftsman 917.377431 is its powerful 24 HP Briggs & Stratton engine. This engine provides ample power to tackle even the toughest grass and terrain. The 42-inch cutting deck allows for a wide cutting radius, significantly reducing the time spent mowing. Additionally, the deck height can be adjusted to six different positions, ranging from one to four inches, enabling users to customize their cut depending on the type of grass and seasonal lawn care needs.

The lawn tractor uses a hydrostatic transmission system, which offers seamless speed control without the need for shifting gears. This feature enhances user experience, allowing for easy navigation around obstacles and smooth operation across varying terrains. The controls are ergonomically designed, providing comfort and reducing fatigue during extended use.

Safety is also a primary focus with the Craftsman 917.377431. The tractor is equipped with an automatic safety feature that shuts off the engine if the operator leaves the seat, providing peace of mind during operation. The headlights enhance visibility during early morning or late evening mowing sessions, making the machine suitable for use at various times of the day.

Another significant characteristic of the Craftsman 917.377431 is its ease of maintenance. The machine features a dual-blade system that ensures a clean cut while also providing versatility in grass disposal. The convenient side discharge allows clippings to be expelled neatly, while a mulching kit can be added for those who prefer to recycle grass clippings as natural fertilizer.

With a sturdy build and user-friendly design, the Craftsman 917.377431 stands out as an exemplary lawn tractor. Its combination of power, safety features, and customizable cutting options makes it an ideal choice for homeowners aiming for a pristine lawn. Whether you have a small yard or a larger property, this tractor offers the performance and comfort necessary for effective lawn care.
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