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.

Page 13
Image 13
Craftsman 917.385140 owner manual To Changeengineoil, Muffler, AIR Filter, Spark Plug, Cleaning

917.385140 specifications

The Craftsman 917.385140 is a robust and versatile lawn tractor designed for homeowners seeking efficiency and ease of use in their yard maintenance. This riding mower combines power, comfort, and advanced engineering to deliver impressive performance on various terrains.

One of the standout features of the Craftsman 917.385140 is its powerful 18.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine. This reliable engine provides the necessary torque and speed to tackle tough grass and uneven land. Coupled with a 42-inch cutting deck, the mower allows for a wider cutting path, reducing the time needed to mow your lawn. The cutting height is adjustable, giving users the flexibility to choose between six different heights, ensuring a clean and precise cut suitable for all types of grass.

The tractor's design incorporates a hydrostatic transmission, which offers a smooth and seamless driving experience. This technology allows for an infinite range of speed and direction without the need for shifting gears. Farmers or homeowners alike will appreciate the ease of operation, making the mower user-friendly even for those who are new to riding mowers.

Another noteworthy characteristic of the Craftsman 917.385140 is its comfortable seating and ergonomic controls. The adjustable high-back seat provides excellent support during prolonged use, while the strategically placed controls enhance maneuverability. Safety features include a brake pedal that automatically engages when the operator leaves the seat, ensuring maximum safety during operation.

Moreover, the Craftsman 917.385140 showcases versatility through its compatibility with a range of attachments, such as mulching kits, baggers, and snow blades. This adaptability allows users to expand their lawn care capabilities and make effective use of the tractor year-round.

The Craftsman brand is known for durability, and the 917.385140 is built to last, featuring a sturdy steel frame and a resilient construction. Regular maintenance is made easy with its accessible design, allowing users to perform checks and repairs without hassle.

In summary, the Craftsman 917.385140 stands out as an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable, efficient, and user-friendly lawn tractor. With its powerful engine, hydrostatic transmission, and comfortable features, it is well-suited for managing lawns of all sizes while ensuring a pleasant mowing experience. Whether you're maintaining a small garden or a vast lawn, this tractor is designed to meet your needs effectively.