OPERATION

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER (See Fig. 9)

•Simply lift up rear door and remove the grass catcher by the handle.

NOTE: Do not drag the bag when emptying; it will cause unnecessary wear.

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

OIL (See Fig. 10)

Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in the engine.

Be sure mower is level and area around oil fill is clean.

Remove engine oit cap w/dipstick and fill to the full line on the dipstick.

Use 20 ozs. of oil. For type and grade of oil to use, see

"ENGINE" in Customer Responsibilities section of this manual.

•Pour oil slowly. Do not over fill.

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

•To read proper level, tighten engine oil cap each time.

•Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.

•After the first two (2) hours of mowing, change the oil, and every 25 hours thereafter. You may need to change the oil more often under dusty, dirty conditions.

GAS (See Fig. 10)

•Fill gasoline tank with fresh, clean, unleaded gasoline.

DO NOT USE PREMIUM GASOLINE. BE CAREFUL NOT TO OVER FILL TANK.

WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system gf an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before stor- age of 30 days or longer. Drain the fuel tank, start the engine and let it run until fuel lines and carburetor are

empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage Instruc- tions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

FIG. 9

GASOLINEFILLERCAP

ENGINE OIL CAP

W/DIPSTICK

FIG. 10

TO START ENGINE

•To start a cold engine, push primer five (5) times before trying to start. Use a firm push. This step is not usually

necessary when starting an engine which has already run for afew minutes.

•Push engine speed control lever to fast (,,_) position.

•Hold operator presence control bar down to the handle and pull starter handle quickly. Do not allow starter rope to snap back.

•To stop engine, release operator presence control bar.

NOTE: In cooler weather it may be necessary to repeat priming steps. In warmerweather over priming maycause flooding and engine will not start. If you do flood engine, wait a few minutes before attempting to start and do not repeat priming steps.

113

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Sears 917.373981 owner manual To Start Engine, Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in the engine, Gasolinefillercap, 113
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917.373981 specifications

Sears 917.373981 is a powerful lawn tractor specifically designed to meet the varied needs of homeowners aspiring to maintain their lawns with ease and efficiency. This model exemplifies versatility and reliability, making it a suitable choice for both small and larger properties.

At the heart of the Sears 917.373981 is its robust engine, which often features a reliable Briggs & Stratton or Kohler power source. This 17 to 19 horsepower engine provides adequate power for mowing, towing, and even mulching. The horizontal crankshaft design enhances durability and performance, ensuring prolonged usage with minimal maintenance. Additionally, the automatic transmission allows for smooth acceleration and a user-friendly driving experience, enabling operators to navigate obstacles effortlessly.

One of the standout features of the 917.373981 is its cutting deck, usually coming in a 42-inch size, which allows for efficient mowing, covering more ground in less time. The deck features adjustable cutting heights, typically ranging from 1 to 4 inches, enabling users to customize their lawn care according to the season and grass type. Moreover, the deck's sturdy construction ensures longevity and impressive performance even in dense grass conditions.

The lawn tractor is equipped with a comfortable high back seat, providing ample support during lengthy mowing sessions. The dashboard is user-friendly, with essential controls within easy reach, ensuring that even novice users can operate the machine without hassle. Features such as headlights enhance visibility for early morning or late evening mowing, making it suitable for any schedule.

For those seeking functionality, the Sears 917.373981 also offers optional attachments such as mulching kits, baggers, and even snow plows. This increases its utility beyond just lawn mowing, effectively turning it into a year-round landscaping solution. The tractor's sturdy chassis and rear engine design enhance maneuverability, allowing turnaround in tighter spaces.

In summary, the Sears 917.373981 stands out for its powerful engine, efficient cutting deck, user-friendly features, and attachment capabilities. It's a comprehensive solution for homeowners looking to maintain their properties with minimal effort and maximum efficiency. Whether tackling large lawns or intricate garden layouts, this lawn tractor is a dependable ally in outdoor maintenance.
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