Change the oil after every 25 hours of operation or each season. You may need to change the oil more often under dusty, dirty conditions. See "TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL" in the Mainte- nance section of this manual.

Engine oil cap

MOWER IS NOW READY FOR

DISCHARGING OPERATION

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER

1.Lift up on grass catcher using the frame handle.

2.Remove grass catcher with clippings from under lawn mower handle.

3.Empty clippings from bag.

NOTE: Do not drag the bag when empty- ing; it will cause unnecessary wear.

Grass catcher frame

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

ADD OIL

Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in the engine. For type and grade of oil to use, see "ENGINE" in the Maintenance section of this manual.

,A CAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with oil, or it will smoke heavily from the muffler on startup.

1.Be sure lawnmower is level.

2.Remove oil dipstick from oil fill spout.

3.You receive a container of oil with the

unit. Slowly pour the entire container down the oil fill spout into the engine.

NOTE: Initial oi! fil! requires only 18 oz. due to residual oil in engine from the manufacturers 100% quality testing. When changing oil you may need 20 oz.

4.Insert and tighten dipstick.

IMPORTANT:

• Check oil level before each use. Add oil if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.

9

Gasoline

filler cap

ADD GASOLINE

Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler neck. Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of

87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel fresh- ness.

ILCAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline

near an open flame.

A CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels

(called gasohol or using ethanol or metha- nol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Empty the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage Instructions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

TO STOP ENGINE

To stop engine, release operator pres- ence control bar.

TO START ENGINE

NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the engine, a small amount of smoke may be

present during the initial use of the product and should be considered normal.

NOTE: Your engine is equipped with an automatic choke system. No priming or choking is required before starting.

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Craftsman 917.389051 manual Before Starting Engine

917.389051 specifications

The Craftsman 917.389051 is a powerful lawn tractor designed to deliver high performance and efficiency for homeowners looking for an effective lawn care solution. This riding mower is part of Craftsman's renowned lineup, known for its durability, ease of use, and innovative technologies that cater to diverse landscaping needs.

One of the standout features of the Craftsman 917.389051 is its robust 19 HP Briggs & Stratton engine. This reliable power source ensures that the mower can handle various terrains and thick grass without undue strain. The engine's design focuses on fuel efficiency and lower emissions, making it a responsible choice for environmentally conscious consumers.

The 917.389051 is equipped with a 42-inch cutting deck, allowing for efficient mowing in fewer passes. The cutting deck features a deck wash system that facilitates easy cleaning, helping to maintain the mower’s performance over time. The deck can be adjusted to multiple height settings, accommodating different grass types and preferences. This versatility makes the mowing experience both customizable and effective.

Another significant feature is the hydrostatic transmission, which offers smooth and effortless speed control. This enhances the overall maneuverability of the mower, allowing users to navigate around obstacles and tight corners with ease. The intuitive foot pedal controls make operation simple, so even those with minimal experience can efficiently handle the tractor.

Comfort is a priority in the design of the Craftsman 917.389051. The ride-on mower features a spacious, cushioned seat that promotes comfort over extended periods of use. The ergonomic design extends to the steering wheel and steering mechanism, ensuring that users can operate the mower without unnecessary strain.

The Craftsman 917.389051 also boasts a range of accessories and attachments available, including baggers and tow-behind trailers, which enhance its functionality. This adaptability makes it more than just a mower; it can easily transition to handle various tasks in the yard.

In conclusion, the Craftsman 917.389051 is a powerful, user-friendly lawn tractor that combines performance, comfort, and versatility. Its combination of a robust engine, versatile cutting deck, and intuitive operation makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain their lawn with ease and efficiency. Whether you have a small yard or a larger property, this mower is equipped to handle the job with reliability and precision.