MOWING TIPS

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 cutting conditions, the engine speed should be set in the fast position.

For side discharge lawn mowers, cutting in a counter-clockwise direction, starting at the outside of the area to be cut, spreads grass clippings more evenly and puts less load on the engine. To keep clippings off of walkways, flower beds, etc., make the first cuts in a clockwise direction.

Pores in cloth grass catchers can become filled with dirt and dust with

use and catchers will 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 MAINTENANCE section of this manual.

The special mulching blade will recur 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 recutting 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 aftemoon. At this time the grass has dried and the newly

cut area will not be exposed to the direct

sun.

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 mulching, reduce your width of cut by overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.

Certain types of grass and grass condi- tions may require that an area be mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a second cut, mow across or perpendicular to the first cut path.

Change your cutting pattem 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 917.38741 owner manual Mulching Mowing Tips, Important For best performance, keep

917.38741 specifications

The Craftsman 917.38741 is a robust and reliable riding lawn mower designed for homeowners looking to manage their lawns efficiently. This machine combines power, performance, and user-friendly features to make lawn care an effortless task.

At the heart of the Craftsman 917.38741 is a potent engine, typically featuring a 19.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine. This dependable power source, paired with a smooth-running automatic transmission, allows users to tackle a variety of terrains without compromise. The mower's cutting deck spans 42 inches, offering an efficient cutting path that reduces mowing time while ensuring a clean finish. Crafted with high-quality steel, this deck is not only durable but also designed for optimal airflow, which enhances the grass-cutting efficiency.

One of the standout features of the Craftsman 917.38741 is its adjustable cutting height. With multiple positions available, users can easily set the height according to their preferences, whether they want a professional lawn look or a slightly longer cut during the hotter months. This flexibility helps in maintaining a healthy lawn.

The machine comes equipped with an innovative cutting system, utilizing a twin-blade design that ensures an even and consistent cut. The mulching capability further enhances its utility, allowing grass clippings to be finely chopped and returned to the lawn as natural fertilizer, promoting healthy grass growth.

Comfort has been prioritized in the design of the Craftsman 917.38741. The mower features an ergonomic seat with adjustable settings, ensuring optimal comfort even during extended mowing sessions. The easy-to-use controls are conveniently located, allowing the operator to focus on steering without distractions.

Another notable technology feature is the maintenance-free battery and dual headlights for increased visibility during early morning or late evening mowing sessions. This not only enhances safety but also extends the usability of the mower beyond daylight hours.

In conclusion, the Craftsman 917.38741 is a well-rounded riding lawn mower that offers effective performance, user-friendly features, and innovative technology. It is perfect for homeowners who seek to achieve a manicured lawn efficiently while enjoying ultimate comfort during operation. This mower is designed to last, ensuring that it meets the demanding needs of any yard enthusiast. With its combination of power, versatility, and ease of use, the Craftsman 917.38741 stands out as an excellent choice in the riding mower market.