Changethe oil after every25 hoursof op- erationor at leastonce a year if the mower

is not usedfor 25 hours in one year. Checkthe crankcaseoil level before

starting theengineand after eachfive (5) hoursof continuoususe. Tightenoil plug securelyeach timeyou checkthe oil level.

TO CHANGEENGINEOIL

NOTE: Beforetipping lawnmowerto drain oil, emptyfuel tank by runningengineuntil fuel tank isempty.

1.Disconnectspark plugwire fromspark plug and placewire where it cannot come in contactwith plug.

2.Removeengineoil cap;lay asideon a cleansurface.

3.Tip lawn moweron its side as shown and drainoil into a suitable container. Rocklawnmowerback and forth to re- move any oil trappedinsideof engine.

4.Wash element in liquid detergent and water.

5.Wrap element in cloth and squeeze dry.

6.Lightly coat filter element with clean engine oil. Squeeze in towel to remove excess oil. Do not saturate.

7.Reassemble parts and put back on carburetor.

Screw ASSEMBLE ONE OF THESE LOW POINTS

\_ TOWARDS NARROW EDGE OF ELEMENT

Lip Element Cup Bod_

ASSEMBLE SO LIP

EXTENDS OVER

EDGE OF

AIR CLEANER

BODY

LIP WILLFORM

PROTECTIVE

SEAL WHEN

COVERISASSEMBLED

MUFFLER

Container

4.Wipe off any spilled oil from lawn mower or side of engine.

5.Slowly pour oil down the oil fill spout, stopping every few ounces to check the oil level with the dipstick.

6.Stop adding oil when you reach the

FULL mark on the dipstick. Wait a minute to allow oil to settle.

7.Continue adding small amounts of oil, rechecking the dipstick until oil level settles at FULL. DO NOT overfill, or engine will smoke heavily from the muf- fler on startup.

8.Always be sure to retighten oil dipstick before starting engine.

9.Reconnect spark plug wire to plug.

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properly and may be damaged by using a dirty air filter. Clean the element after every 25 hours of operation or every season. Replace the air filter every 100 hours of operation or every season, whichever occurs first. Service air cleaner more often under dusty conditions.

TO CLEAN AIR FILTER ELEMENT

1.Remove screw.

2.Remove air cleaner carefully to prevent dirt from entering carburetor.

3.Take air cleaner apart and clean element. 13

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it could create a fire hazard and/or damage.

SPARK PLUG

Replace spark plug at the beginning of each mowing season or after every 100 hours of operation, whichever occurs

first. Spark plug type and gap setting are shown in the "PRODUCT SPECIFIC-

ATIONS" section of this manual.

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-grass and trash. Clean the underside of your mower after each use.

_,CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with plug.

Clean the underside of your lawn mower by scraping to remove build-up of grass and trash.

Clean engine often to keep trash from

accumulating. A clogged engine runs hotter and shortens engine life.

Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of all gasoline, oil, etc.

We do not recommend using a garden hose to clean lawn mower unless the electrical system, muffler, air filter and carburetor are covered to keep water out. Water in engine can result in short- ened engine life.

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Craftsman 917.38514 owner manual To Changeengineoil, Muffler, AIR Filter, Spark Plug, Cleaning

917.38514 specifications

The Craftsman 917.38514 is a versatile and powerful lawn tractor that stands out in the market for its reliability and advanced features, making it an appealing choice for homeowners with medium to large yards. Designed to tackle a variety of mowing tasks, this model is equipped with numerous technologies that enhance user experience and operational efficiency.

One of the most significant features of the Craftsman 917.38514 is its robust 42-inch cutting deck, which allows for efficient mowing of larger areas in less time. The deck is designed with a 2-in-1 capability, enabling users to either discharge the grass clippings or mulch them for added lawn health. This dual functionality not only provides convenience but also reduces the need for additional clean-up after mowing.

Powering the Craftsman 917.38514 is a reliable 19 horsepower Briggs & Stratton engine, known for its durability and performance. This engine ensures consistent cutting power across varying turf conditions, allowing the user to tackle thicker grass with ease. The electric start feature adds an extra layer of convenience, eliminating the hassle of manual starting.

In terms of user comfort, the Craftsman 917.38514 comes equipped with an adjustable high-back seat that provides good support for extended mowing sessions. Its ergonomic controls are intuitively placed for easy access, ensuring that users can operate the tractor without strain. The model also features a tight turning radius, which makes it easier to maneuver around obstacles like flower beds and trees.

The hydrostatic transmission offers a smooth and responsive driving experience, allowing users to seamlessly adjust their speed without the need for constant gear shifting. This feature not only enhances the mowing experience but also simplifies operation, making it accessible for users of all skill levels.

Additionally, the Craftsman 917.38514 includes a sturdy frame and chassis, which contribute to its overall durability. This design ensures stability during operation, even on hilly terrains. With a range of available attachments, including baggers and plows, the model also proves to be a multi-functional tool, suitable for year-round use.

In summary, the Craftsman 917.38514 combines power, versatility, and user-friendly features, making it an excellent choice for those seeking efficiency and reliability in lawn care. Whether for mowing, bagging, or mulching, this lawn tractor is equipped to handle a variety of tasks with ease and precision, ensuring that your lawn maintains its pristine appearance throughout the seasons.