Craftsman Lawn Mower Manual Model 917: A Comprehensive Guide

This comprehensive guide details assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting for the Craftsman 917 lawn mower, including Sears Tractor specifics․

Welcome to the world of efficient lawn care with your new Craftsman 917! This manual serves as your primary resource for understanding and maintaining this powerful machine․ Craftsman riding mowers, like the 917 model, are renowned for their dependability and performance․ This guide breaks down complex procedures into easily digestible steps․

Whether you’re a seasoned landscaper or a first-time mower owner, this manual will help you maximize your mowing experience․ Congratulations on your purchase of a Sears Tractor, designed for optimal performance!

Safety Precautions

Prioritize safety when operating your Craftsman 917․ Always read this manual entirely before assembly or use․ Keep children and pets away from the mowing area․ Never operate the mower with missing parts or modifications․ Ensure a clear mowing path, removing obstacles beforehand․

Disconnect the spark plug wire before performing any maintenance․ Wear appropriate safety glasses and footwear․ Be aware of potential hazards and operate responsibly․ Technicians require proper tools for servicing․

Understanding the Components

The Craftsman 917 features a robust engine, a durable deck and blade system, and an intuitive control panel․ Familiarize yourself with each component for optimal performance․ The manual details the engine’s specifications and function․ Understand the deck’s role in airflow and cutting quality․

Locate and understand the function of all levers and controls․ Proper component knowledge ensures safe and efficient operation, as well as effective maintenance procedures․

Engine Overview

The Craftsman 917 is equipped with a powerful engine, typically a single-cylinder, air-cooled type․ The operator’s manual provides specific horsepower and displacement details for your model․ Understanding the engine’s basic functions – intake, compression, combustion, and exhaust – is crucial․

Regular oil checks and air filter maintenance are vital for longevity․ Refer to the manual for recommended oil types and filter replacement intervals to ensure peak engine performance․

Deck and Blade System

The Craftsman 917’s deck houses the blade(s) responsible for cutting the grass․ Deck size varies by model, impacting mowing width․ The manual details blade specifications and proper installation procedures․ Regularly inspect the blade for damage – nicks, bends, or dullness – as these affect cut quality and safety․

Maintaining a sharp blade is essential; refer to the blade care section for sharpening instructions․ Always disconnect the spark plug before working on the blade or deck․

Control Panel and Levers

The Craftsman 917’s control panel features essential levers and switches for operation․ These typically include throttle control, blade engagement, and forward/reverse levers – especially on tractor models․ The operator’s manual provides a detailed diagram identifying each control’s function․

Familiarize yourself with the location and operation of each lever before starting the mower․ Understand the safety interlock systems designed to prevent accidental operation․

Assembly Instructions

Before first use, careful assembly is crucial for safe and effective operation of your Craftsman 917․ The manual guides you through handle installation, ensuring secure attachment for control․ Wheel attachment requires proper alignment for smooth maneuvering․

If your model includes a bagging system, follow the instructions for correct setup․ Always double-check all connections and fasteners before operating the mower․

Handle Installation

Proper handle installation is vital for comfortable and safe operation․ The operator’s manual details attaching the handle to the mower deck, ensuring secure bolting․ Pay close attention to the orientation, aligning the control levers correctly․

Ensure all bolts are tightened firmly, but avoid over-tightening․ Inspect the handle grips for secure attachment․ A correctly installed handle provides optimal control and maneuverability during mowing․

Wheel Attachment

Secure wheel attachment is crucial for stable mowing performance․ Refer to the manual for correct wheel placement and axle alignment․ Ensure the wheels are firmly secured with the provided hardware – typically bolts and washers․

Tighten all fasteners to the manufacturer’s specifications, avoiding over-tightening which could damage the axle․ Verify each wheel spins freely after installation․ Proper wheel attachment contributes to a smooth, even cut and overall mower stability․

Bagging System Setup (if applicable)

If your Craftsman 917 model includes a bagging system, proper setup is essential for efficient grass collection․ Attach the bag securely to the mower deck, ensuring it aligns correctly with the discharge chute․ Confirm the bag frame is firmly locked into place․

Regularly check the bag fill level during operation to prevent overfilling and reduced suction․ Empty the bag frequently for optimal performance․ Inspect the bag for tears or damage, replacing it if necessary․

Operating Instructions

Before operation, ensure the area is clear of obstacles and people․ Familiarize yourself with all controls․ Starting the engine typically involves engaging the blade, setting the throttle, and using the ignition switch or electric start․ Mowing techniques should include overlapping passes for a clean cut․

Adjusting cutting height is crucial for desired lawn length; utilize the height adjustment levers․ Always disengage blades before turning or crossing slopes․ Follow all safety precautions detailed in the manual․

Starting the Engine

Prior to starting, confirm the fuel tank is filled with fresh gasoline and the oil level is adequate․ Engage the blade control lever, set the throttle to the ‘choke’ position, and ensure the parking brake is engaged․ Utilize the electric start if equipped, or pull the starter rope firmly and steadily․

Release the choke as the engine warms up․ If the engine fails to start, repeat the process, checking for fuel flow and spark․ Always maintain a firm grip and safe distance․

Mowing Techniques

For optimal results, overlap each mowing pass by a few inches to prevent scalping and ensure a consistent cut․ Maintain a steady walking pace, avoiding sudden turns or stops․ Adjust mowing speed based on grass height and density․ Discharge clippings evenly or utilize a bagging system․

Mow when the grass is dry to prevent clumping․ Avoid mowing excessively short, as this can stress the lawn․ Regular mowing promotes healthy growth․

Adjusting Cutting Height

The Craftsman 917 features adjustable cutting heights, typically controlled by levers near each wheel․ Refer to the operator’s manual for specific height settings and corresponding lever positions․ Ensure all wheels are set to the same height for an even cut․ Start with a higher setting and lower it gradually․

Avoid removing too much grass at once, as this can strain the engine․ Regularly check and adjust the height based on grass growth and desired lawn appearance;

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of your Craftsman 917․ Follow a schedule including frequent oil changes, air filter cleaning or replacement, and spark plug inspections․ Check blade sharpness and replace as needed․ Inspect belts and hoses for wear․ Consult the owner’s manual for specific intervals․

Adhering to this schedule prevents costly repairs and keeps your mower running smoothly for years to come․ Prioritize safety by disconnecting the spark plug before any maintenance․

Oil Changes

Regular oil changes are crucial for engine health․ Refer to your Craftsman 917 manual for recommended oil type and capacity․ Typically, change the oil after the first 25 hours of operation, then every 50 hours, or annually․ Ensure the engine is warm before draining the old oil․ Dispose of used oil responsibly at a recycling center․

Always replace the oil filter with each oil change․ Proper lubrication minimizes wear and extends engine life․ Check the oil level before each use․

Air Filter Cleaning/Replacement

Maintaining a clean air filter is vital for optimal engine performance․ Inspect the air filter frequently, and clean it every 25 hours of operation․ For paper filters, gently tap to remove loose debris; for foam filters, wash in soapy water, rinse, and allow to dry completely․

Replace the air filter annually, or sooner if heavily soiled․ A clogged filter restricts airflow, reducing power and increasing fuel consumption․ Refer to your Craftsman 917 manual for the correct filter type․

Spark Plug Inspection/Replacement

Regular spark plug inspection ensures reliable engine starting and efficient combustion․ Inspect the spark plug annually, or when experiencing starting difficulties․ Check for fouling, wear, or damage․ Clean with a wire brush if lightly fouled, but replace if heavily worn or damaged․

Use the correct spark plug specified in your Craftsman 917 manual․ A faulty spark plug can cause misfires and reduced power․ Ensure the gap is correct before installation for optimal performance․

Blade Care

Proper blade care is crucial for a clean, healthy lawn․ Sharp blades ensure a precise cut, reducing stress on the grass․ Regularly inspect blades for damage, bending, or dullness․ Sharpen dull blades to maintain cutting efficiency, and replace damaged blades immediately․

Always disconnect the spark plug before performing any blade maintenance․ Balance the blade after sharpening to prevent excessive vibration․ Follow the manual’s instructions for safe blade removal and installation․

Sharpening Blades

Sharpening blades restores cutting efficiency and promotes a healthier lawn․ Remove the blade and secure it safely․ Use a file or grinding wheel, maintaining the original blade angle․ Ensure even sharpening across the entire blade length․ Check for balance after sharpening; an unbalanced blade causes vibration․

Professionally sharpen if you lack experience․ Always wear safety glasses and gloves during this process․ Reinstall the blade securely, tightening the bolt to the manufacturer’s specification․

Blade Replacement

Blade replacement is crucial for safety and optimal performance․ Disconnect the spark plug wire before starting․ Use a block of wood to secure the blade while loosening the bolt․ Install the new blade, ensuring correct orientation – the cutting edge faces upwards․

Tighten the blade bolt to the manufacturer’s specified torque․ Inspect the blade adapter for damage and replace if necessary․ Always use genuine Craftsman replacement blades for compatibility and safety․

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Common issues with the Craftsman 917 include engine failure to start, often due to a clogged air filter or faulty spark plug․ Uneven cuts can stem from dull blades or an improperly adjusted deck height․ Excessive vibration may indicate a loose blade or damaged spindle․

Consult the manual for detailed diagnostic steps and solutions․ Always disconnect the spark plug before inspecting or repairing the mower․ Prioritize safety and seek professional help if needed․

Engine Won’t Start

If the engine fails to start, first check the fuel level and ensure the fuel shut-off valve is open․ Inspect the spark plug for fouling and replace if necessary․ A clogged air filter restricts airflow, preventing ignition; clean or replace it․ Verify the safety interlock switches are engaged correctly․

Confirm proper choke operation and try restarting․ If problems persist, consult a qualified technician for further diagnosis․

Uneven Cut

An uneven cut often indicates dull or damaged mower blades․ Sharpen or replace blades, ensuring they are balanced․ Check the deck level; an unlevel deck causes scalping․ Adjust the cutting height to suit the lawn conditions․ Ensure consistent mowing speed; moving too fast results in uncut grass․

Inspect for obstructions under the deck․ A worn belt can also contribute to an inconsistent cut․

Excessive Vibration

Excessive vibration signals a potential issue requiring immediate attention․ Check the blade for damage or imbalance; a bent blade causes significant shaking․ Ensure the blade is securely fastened with the correct hardware․ Inspect the engine mounting bolts for looseness and tighten as needed․

Worn tires or a damaged deck can also contribute to vibration․ Consult a qualified technician for further diagnosis․

Understanding the Operator’s Manual

Your Craftsman 917 operator’s manual is crucial for safe and effective operation․ Decoding the model and serial numbers allows for accurate parts ordering and warranty verification․ Familiarize yourself with the warranty information, outlining coverage and limitations․

The manual details safety precautions, assembly instructions, and maintenance schedules․ Retain this manual for future reference and troubleshooting guidance․

Decoding Model and Serial Numbers

The Craftsman 917 model number (e․g․, 917․28947) identifies specific features and configurations․ The serial number, a unique identifier, is vital for warranty claims and parts inquiries․ Locate these numbers on the mower’s frame, typically near the engine or deck․

Record both numbers for future use; they ensure you receive the correct components and service information․ Contact Craftsman support with these numbers for assistance․

Warranty Information

Your Craftsman 917 lawn mower is covered by a limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship․ Warranty duration varies depending on the component and usage․ Review the separate warranty document included with your mower for specific terms and conditions․

Registration of your product may be required to activate the full warranty․ Keep your purchase receipt as proof of date․ Contact Sears or Craftsman support for warranty claims․

Parts Diagrams and Ordering

Detailed parts diagrams for your Craftsman 917 lawn mower are essential for repairs and maintenance․ These diagrams illustrate exploded views of all components, aiding in identification․ Locate these diagrams within the complete operator’s manual or online at the Craftsman support website․

To order replacement parts, visit the Craftsman website or contact a local Sears parts center․ Have your model number (917․28947) readily available for accurate ordering․

Storage and Winterization

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining your Craftsman 917 lawn mower’s longevity․ Before long-term storage, drain the fuel tank completely to prevent fuel degradation․ Stabilize any remaining fuel in the carburetor․ Disconnect the spark plug wire for safety․

Clean the mower deck thoroughly, removing grass and debris․ Store the mower in a dry, sheltered location, covered to protect it from the elements․

Sears Tractor Specifics (Model 917․28947)

Model 917․28947 represents a Sears-branded tractor utilizing a 26․0 HP engine with a 54-inch mower deck, featuring electric start and automatic transmission․ Operators Manual details specific configurations for this model․ This tractor is designed for dependable performance, engineered for optimal functionality․

Refer to the dedicated sections within this manual for detailed instructions related to this specific Sears tractor model, ensuring proper operation and maintenance․

Electric Start System Details

The Craftsman 917 features an electric start system for convenient engine ignition․ Ensure the battery is fully charged and connections are clean for optimal performance․ Refer to the troubleshooting section if the electric start fails to engage․ Proper battery maintenance is crucial for reliable operation․

Inspect the starter solenoid and wiring for any damage or corrosion․ Always disconnect the spark plug wire before working on the electrical system for safety․

Automatic Transmission Operation

The Craftsman 917 utilizes an automatic transmission, simplifying operation․ Select the desired speed range using the control lever; the transmission adjusts automatically to terrain․ Avoid abrupt stops and starts for smooth transitions․ Regularly check the transmission fluid level, referencing the maintenance schedule․

Ensure proper belt tension for efficient power transfer․ Do not operate on steep slopes, as this can strain the transmission․

Attachments and Compatibility

The Craftsman 917 is designed for compatibility with various attachments, enhancing its versatility․ Common options include bagging systems, mulching kits, and snow blades․ Always verify attachment compatibility with your specific model number (917․28947)․ Ensure secure attachment before operation, following the manufacturer’s instructions․

Improperly installed attachments can cause damage or injury․ Refer to the parts diagrams for correct hardware and mounting procedures․

Resources for Additional Support

For further assistance with your Craftsman 917 lawn mower, several resources are available․ Visit the official Craftsman Support Website for FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and parts ordering․ Numerous locations offer manual downloads, including dedicated online archives․ Explore these resources for detailed information․

Additionally, contacting Sears customer service can provide direct support․ Remember to have your model and serial number ready for efficient assistance․

Craftsman Support Website

The Craftsman Support Website is a valuable resource for 917 model owners․ It provides access to digital versions of the owner’s manual, detailed parts diagrams, and troubleshooting assistance․ Users can find frequently asked questions, how-to videos, and a parts lookup tool․

Registration of your mower allows access to exclusive content and warranty information․ Explore the site for optimal performance and maintenance guidance․

Manual Download Locations

Several online locations offer downloadable Craftsman 917 manuals․ ManualsLib and ManualsZilla host user manuals, including the 917 model’s documentation․ The Internet Archive may also contain archived versions․ Sears’ official website, while potentially requiring searching, is another source․

Ensure the downloaded manual corresponds to your specific 917 variant for accurate information regarding assembly, operation, and safety precautions․