Safety Precautions
Always wear protective gear, including gloves and eyewear, when operating the Craftsman 917 lawn mower․ Ensure the area is clear of debris and obstacles․ Keep children and pets away․ Never operate the mower near flammable materials or in unimproved forest areas without a spark arrester․ Read and follow all safety guidelines in the manual to avoid accidents and ensure safe operation․
1․1 General Safety Guidelines
Always prioritize safety when operating the Craftsman 917 lawn mower․ Wear protective gear, including gloves, safety glasses, and sturdy footwear․ Ensure the mower is used on stable, level ground, and avoid operating it near slopes or uneven terrain․ Keep children, pets, and bystanders at a safe distance․ Never allow untrained individuals to operate the mower․ Be cautious of loose clothing or long hair that could get caught in moving parts․ Avoid mowing in reverse unless necessary, and always look behind you when doing so․ Ensure the mower is properly maintained, with sharp blades and secure attachments, to prevent accidents․ Adhere to all safety warnings and guidelines outlined in the manual to ensure safe and effective operation․
1․2 Safe Operation Practices
Always start the engine on a level surface and ensure the mower is in neutral gear before engaging the blade․ Use the clutch and brake responsibly to maintain control․ Avoid sudden turns or sharp movements, especially on slopes․ Mow in a consistent pattern, overlapping slightly to ensure an even cut․ When mowing in reverse, use extreme caution and check for obstacles․ Never operate the mower near open flames, sparks, or in areas with dry vegetation without a spark arrester․ Keep loose clothing tied back and avoid wearing jewelry that could get caught․ Always consult the manual for specific operating instructions tailored to your Craftsman 917 model․
1․3 Hazardous Situations to Avoid
Avoid operating the Craftsman 917 lawn mower near open flames, sparks, or dry vegetation without a spark arrester․ Never mow on steep slopes or unstable terrain, as this can cause loss of control or tipping․ Avoid mowing in wet conditions, as this can lead to slippery surfaces and reduced visibility․ Do not leave the mower unattended while it is running, especially with the blade engaged․ Avoid using the mower in densely forested or brush-covered areas unless properly equipped․ Never modify the mower’s safety features or bypass critical components, as this can create dangerous operating conditions․ Always adhere to the manual’s guidelines to minimize risks and ensure safe operation․
Product Overview
The Craftsman 917 lawn mower is a versatile residential lawn tractor featuring a 20․0 HP electric start engine, 42-inch mowing deck, and automatic transmission for efficient cutting․
The Craftsman 917 is a popular residential lawn tractor designed for efficient mowing and lawn maintenance․ Available in various models, such as the 917․28981 and 917․252570, it features a 20․0 HP electric start engine and a 42-inch mowing deck․ Known for its durability and ease of use, the Craftsman 917 is equipped with an automatic transmission, allowing smooth operation․ It is ideal for homeowners with medium-sized lawns, offering reliable performance and versatility․ While specific features may vary by model, the Craftsman 917 remains a trusted choice for maintaining outdoor spaces effectively․
2․2 Key Features and Specifications
The Craftsman 917 features a powerful 20․0 HP electric start engine and a 42-inch cutting deck, ideal for efficient lawn mowing․ It includes an automatic transmission for smooth operation and a hydrostatic transmission in select models․ The mower is equipped with a durable steel frame and adjustable cutting heights․ Some models offer reverse mowing capability and a low-back seat for comfort․ The engine options vary, with some models featuring a Kohler M18 and others a Briggs 18hp engine․ It also includes a 2-year warranty for residential use and is designed with low emission standards․ Optional accessories like mulching kits and bagger attachments enhance versatility․
2․3 Intended Use and Capabilities
The Craftsman 917 is designed for residential lawn maintenance, offering efficient mowing on various grass types and terrains․ It excels at cutting large areas quickly, thanks to its wide 42-inch cutting deck․ The mower is suitable for flat and slightly uneven surfaces, making it ideal for homeowners with medium to large lawns․ With adjustable cutting heights, it accommodates different grass lengths and lawn care needs․ Optional attachments like mulching kits and baggers enhance its functionality for precise lawn management․ Designed for ease of use, the Craftsman 917 is a reliable choice for maintaining a well-manicured lawn with minimal effort․ Its capabilities ensure consistent performance and durability for seasonal use․
Assembly and Setup
Begin by unboxing and inventorying all parts․ Follow the manual to attach handles and ensure proper alignment․ Tighten all bolts securely․ Conduct a pre-operation check to verify oil levels and control functionality․ Ensure all safety features are activated before first use․
3․1 Unboxing and Inventory Check
When unboxing your Craftsman 917 lawn mower, carefully inspect all components for damage․ Verify the presence of the mower deck, handlebars, wheels, and hardware․ Cross-reference the contents with the manual’s parts list to ensure nothing is missing․ Check for any signs of shipping damage, such as dented or scratched parts․ If any items are damaged or missing, contact customer support immediately․ Organize the hardware and tools provided, as they will be needed for assembly․ Properly dispose of packaging materials to avoid hazards․ This step ensures a smooth assembly process and helps prevent delays or issues during setup․
3․2 Initial Assembly Requirements
3․3 Pre-Operation Checks
Before starting the Craftsman 917 lawn mower, perform a thorough pre-operation check․ Begin by inspecting the oil level and ensuring it meets the recommended specifications․ Check the tire pressure and adjust if necessary․ Examine the mower deck for sharpness and proper installation․ Verify that all controls, such as the throttle and brake, are functioning correctly․ Inspect the belts and hoses for signs of wear or damage․ Ensure the mower deck height is set appropriately for your lawn type․ Finally, walk around the mower to confirm all safety features are intact and operational․ Address any issues before starting the engine to ensure safe and efficient mowing․
Operating the Lawn Mower
Start the engine using the ignition and choke as described․ Engage the blade and adjust the mower deck height according to your lawn needs․ Mow steadily, turning carefully to avoid damage․ Use the throttle to control speed and ensure even cutting․ Always maintain control and visibility while operating the mower․ Avoid mowing in reverse unless necessary and keep the mower on stable, even terrain for optimal performance and safety․
4․1 Starting the Engine
To start the engine on your Craftsman 917 lawn mower, first ensure the mower is on level ground and the parking brake is engaged․ Read the manual thoroughly to understand the ignition and choke mechanisms․ Turn the ignition key to the “start” position and slowly move the choke to the “start” position as well․ Allow the engine to warm up for a few seconds before advancing the throttle․ Ensure no one is nearby and keep loose clothing tied back․ Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for a smooth and safe engine start․ Proper starting techniques help maintain engine longevity and ensure optimal performance․
4․2 Basic Controls and Functions
The Craftsman 917 lawn mower features intuitive controls designed for ease of operation․ The steering wheel provides directional control, while the ignition key and choke lever manage engine startup․ The throttle lever adjusts the engine speed, and the parking brake ensures safety when the mower is stationary․ The mower deck height adjustment lever allows for precise cutting heights, and the reverse mowing switch enables safe operation in reverse gear․ Familiarize yourself with these controls to operate the mower effectively and maintain your lawn with precision․ Proper use of these functions ensures efficient mowing and prolongs the lifespan of your equipment․
4․3 Mowing Techniques and Tips
For optimal results, maintain a steady forward speed while mowing to ensure an even cut․ Overlap mowing paths slightly to cover all areas thoroughly․ Adjust the mowing deck height based on grass type and season, cutting no more than one-third of the blade length to avoid stressing the lawn․ When mowing in reverse, use the reverse mowing switch if equipped, and always look behind you․ Regularly check and sharpen the mower blade for a clean cut․ Leave grass clippings on the lawn to act as a natural fertilizer․ For uneven terrain, mow uphill to maintain stability and prevent the mower from tipping․
Maintenance and Care
Regularly check and change the oil, sharpen the mower blade, and inspect tires for proper inflation․ Clean debris from the mowing deck and ensure all moving parts are lubricated․ Store the mower in a dry, secure location during off-seasons, and follow the manual’s maintenance schedule for optimal performance․
5․1 Routine Maintenance Tasks
Regular maintenance is crucial for the optimal performance of your Craftsman 917 lawn mower․ Start by checking the oil level and changing it every 50 hours of operation․ Sharpen the mower blade at least once a season to ensure clean cuts and prevent grass tearing․ Inspect the air filter monthly and replace it as needed to maintain engine efficiency․ Additionally, check the tire pressure and lubricate all moving parts, such as the wheels and deck hinges, to reduce wear and tear․ Finally, clean the mower deck thoroughly after each use to remove grass clippings and debris that can cause rust or clog the discharge chute․ By following these routine tasks, you can extend the lifespan of your mower and keep it running smoothly throughout the mowing season․
5․2 Seasonal Preparation and Storage
Properly preparing your Craftsman 917 lawn mower for the off-season ensures it remains in good condition for the next year․ Start by draining the oil and replacing it with fresh oil to prevent corrosion․ Clean the mower deck thoroughly to remove any grass clippings and debris that could cause rust․ Disconnect the battery and store it in a cool, dry place to maintain its charge․ If storing for an extended period, drain the fuel tank or add a fuel stabilizer to prevent degradation․ Inspect the mower for any damaged or worn parts and replace them before storage․ Store the mower in a dry, protected area to shield it from moisture and pests․ Regular seasonal preparation helps maintain the mower’s performance and longevity․
5․3 Troubleshooting Common Issues
Common issues with the Craftsman 917 lawn mower include the engine not starting, uneven cutting, or the mower deck not engaging․ For a non-starting engine, check the spark plug, fuel level, and battery connections․ If the mower deck fails to engage, inspect the belt for damage or misalignment and ensure the clutch is functioning properly․ Uneven cutting may result from an unlevelled deck or dull blades․ Regularly sharpen blades and adjust the deck height to maintain even cutting․ Refer to the manual for specific troubleshooting steps and solutions to address these issues effectively and ensure optimal performance․
Parts and Accessories
Find genuine Craftsman 917 parts and accessories, including replacement belts, blades, and spark plugs, at authorized dealers or online․ Use official sources for authenticity and compatibility․
6․1 Common Replacement Parts
Common replacement parts for the Craftsman 917 lawn mower include drive belts, mower blades, spark plugs, oil filters, and air filters․ These components are essential for maintaining optimal performance․ The drive belt may need adjustment or replacement due to wear or stretch, while mower blades should be sharpened or replaced regularly to ensure clean cuts․ Spark plugs, oil, and air filters require periodic replacement to keep the engine running smoothly․ Always refer to the manual for specific part numbers and compatibility․ Genuine parts are available through Sears, authorized dealers, or online platforms to ensure quality and warranty compliance․ Regularly checking and replacing these parts helps prevent breakdowns and extends the mower’s lifespan․
6․2 Where to Find Genuine Parts
Genuine parts for the Craftsman 917 lawn mower can be sourced directly from Sears, authorized dealers, or online platforms like the official Craftsman website․ Sears offers a comprehensive parts catalog, ensuring compatibility and quality․ Visit the Sears Parts & Services page for easy access to manuals and replacement parts․ Additionally, registering your product on the Craftsman Club website can help locate specific components․ Always verify the model number (e․g․, 917․28981) for accurate part identification․ Genuine parts are crucial for maintaining warranty validity and ensuring optimal performance․ Avoid third-party alternatives to guarantee safety and durability․
6․3 Recommended Accessories
For optimal performance and convenience, consider genuine Craftsman accessories designed for the 917 model․ A mulch kit allows for efficient grass clippings management, while a bagger attachment collects debris, keeping your lawn tidy․ A sunshade or canopy provides comfort during prolonged use․ Additionally, high-quality replacement blades and oil filters are essential for maintaining peak performance․ Accessories like tire tubes and spark plugs ensure longevity and reliability․ Visit Sears PartsDirect or authorized dealers to explore these options, ensuring compatibility with your model․ These accessories enhance functionality and comfort, making lawn maintenance easier and more efficient while maintaining warranty compliance․
Warranty and Support
Craftsman offers a two-year warranty covering defects in material and workmanship for the 917 model when properly maintained․ Warranty excludes commercial or rental use․ Repairs are free during this period․
7․1 Understanding the Warranty Terms
The Craftsman 917 lawn mower is covered by a two-year warranty from the date of purchase․ This warranty applies to defects in materials and workmanship when the mower is properly maintained according to the owner’s manual․ The warranty is valid for residential use only and does not cover commercial or rental purposes․ During this period, Sears will repair or replace defective parts free of charge․ Regular maintenance, such as tune-ups and lubrication, must be performed as outlined in the manual to maintain warranty validity․ Understanding these terms ensures proper coverage and protects your investment in the Craftsman 917 model․
7․2 Contacting Customer Support
To contact customer support for the Craftsman 917 lawn mower, visit the official Craftsman website and navigate to the “Support” or “Contact Us” section․ You can also call their customer service hotline, available Monday through Friday, for assistance with warranty claims, repair inquiries, or general questions․ Ensure you have your model number and serial number ready for faster service․ Additionally, registered users can access support through their Craftsman Club account․ For troubleshooting or parts-related queries, the website provides a detailed FAQ section and direct links to authorized service centers․ Always verify the contact information to ensure you reach genuine Craftsman support․
7․3 Service Centers and Repair Options
Craftsman 917 lawn mower owners can access a network of authorized service centers for professional repairs and maintenance․ These centers are equipped to handle warranty claims, diagnostics, and parts replacement․ To locate a nearby service center, visit the official Craftsman website or contact customer support for assistance․ Ensure to use genuine Craftsman parts for repairs to maintain warranty validity and performance․ For convenience, some service centers offer on-site repair or pickup services, depending on availability․ Always have your model and serial number ready when seeking repair services to expedite the process․ Regular maintenance at authorized centers ensures optimal performance and longevity of your lawn mower․
Downloading the Manual
The Craftsman 917 lawn mower manual can be downloaded from the official Craftsman website or through the Craftsman Club platform․ Ensure to register your product for easy access to the PDF version of the manual, which includes detailed instructions and troubleshooting guides․
8․1 Official Sources for the Manual
The official manual for the Craftsman 917 lawn mower can be downloaded directly from the Craftsman website or through the Craftsman Club platform․ Registered users can access the manual by logging into their account and searching for the specific model number․ The manual is provided in PDF format, making it easy to download and print․ It includes detailed sections on safety precautions, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting․ Ensure to verify the authenticity of the source to avoid unauthorized or outdated versions․ Craftsman also provides a parts and services page where users can find additional resources and support for their lawn mower model․
8․2 Alternative Platforms for Access
If the official sources are unavailable, alternative platforms like ManualsLib, ManualsOnline, or Sears PartsDirect offer access to the Craftsman 917 manual․ These websites provide searchable databases for various models, including the 917․ Users can download PDF versions of the manual free of charge․ Additionally, forums and communities dedicated to lawn mower repairs often share manuals or excerpts․ Ensure to verify the authenticity of the source to avoid outdated or incorrect information․ Using specific model numbers (e․g․, 917․28981) in your search can yield better results․ Always prioritize verified sources to ensure accuracy and safety when referencing the manual․
User Reviews and Feedback
Users praise the Craftsman 917’s durability and ease of use, but some note issues with part availability and long-term reliability over time․
9․1 Common Praises and Complaints
Users often praise the Craftsman 917 for its durability and ease of use, highlighting its powerful engine and efficient mowing capabilities․ Many appreciate the hydrostatic transmission for smooth operation․ However, some users report issues with part availability, particularly for older models, and criticize the lack of detailed wiring diagrams in the manual․ Complaints also include reliability problems over time, such as faulty steering arms and clutch malfunctions․ While the mower is generally well-regarded for residential use, some find the warranty coverage insufficient for commercial purposes․ Overall, the Craftsman 917 is praised for its performance but has room for improvement in support and long-term durability․
9․2 Real-World Performance Insights
The Craftsman 917 lawn mower has shown strong performance in residential settings, with users praising its powerful engine and smooth hydrostatic transmission․ The 42-inch cutting deck is efficient for large yards, and the electric start feature is convenient․ However, some owners report issues with drive belt durability and clutch malfunctions over time․ Additionally, the steering arm has been a common replacement part due to wear․ Proper maintenance, such as regular oil changes and deck cleaning, is crucial for longevity․ Users also note that the mower excels in flat terrains but may struggle on steep slopes․ Overall, the Craftsman 917 is reliable for typical lawn care needs when properly maintained․
The Craftsman 917 lawn mower is a reliable and durable option for residential use, offering strong performance when properly maintained according to the manual guidelines․
10․1 Final Thoughts on the Craftsman 917
The Craftsman 917 lawn mower is a reliable choice for residential use, offering a balance of power and durability․ Its 20 HP engine and 42-inch mowing deck provide efficient cutting, while the automatic transmission ensures smooth operation․ Users praise its performance, but some note challenges with parts availability and warranty claims․ Proper maintenance is key to extending its lifespan․ While it may not be ideal for commercial use, it excels for homeowners seeking a dependable mower․ Adhering to the manual ensures optimal functionality and safety, making it a solid investment for maintaining a well-manicured lawn․
10․2 Importance of Adhering to the Manual
Adhering to the Craftsman 917 manual is crucial for optimal performance, safety, and longevity of the mower․ The manual provides detailed instructions for operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting, ensuring users can address issues promptly․ Following the guidelines helps prevent accidents, protects the machine from damage, and maintains warranty validity․ Proper maintenance routines, like oil changes and blade sharpening, are outlined to keep the mower in peak condition․ Ignoring the manual’s advice can lead to premature wear, reduced efficiency, and potential safety hazards․ By following the manual, users can maximize their investment and enjoy a well-manicured lawn for years to come․