Craftsman 107289850 PGT9500 User manual

Operator's Manual
P R 8 F E S S | 8 N A L
Garden Tractor
Model No. 107.289850 PGT9500 30/54" CRAFTSMAN 2WD
For answers to your questions about this
product, call:
1-800-659-5917
Sears Craftsman Help Line
5 am - 5 pm, Mon - Sat
Nota: Una traducci6n en espa_ol de este Manual del
Operador puede encontrarse en la pagina 33.
Sears Brand Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
Visit our Craftsman website: www.craftsman.com 1750727
Revision A

Thankyouforpurchasingthisquality-builtCRAFTSMANPROFESSIONALmower.We'repleasedthatyou've
placedyourconfidenceintheCRAFTSMANPROFESSIONALbrand.Whenoperatedandmaintainedaccordingto
theinstructionsinthismanual,yourCRAFTSMANPROFESSIONALproductwillprovidemanyyearsofdependable
service.
This manual contains safety information to make you aware of the hazards and risks associated with mowers and
how to avoid them. This product and its approved attachments/accessories are designed and intended only for lawn
work or snow removal and are not intended for any other purpose. It is important that you read and understand these
instructions thoroughly before attempting to start or operate this equipment. Save these original instructions for
future reference.
Where to Find Us
You never haveto lookfar to find support and service for your CRAFTSMAN mower. There are authorized service dealers
worldwide who providequality service. You can contact Customer Service by phone at [phone], or locate a dealer on the
lntemetat www.sears.com/craftsman.
Mower
Model Number
Serial Number
Engine
Model Type Trim
Date Code
Date Purchased
Copyright © 2010 All rights reserved.
2

Identification Numbers 3
Warranty Statement 4
Emissions Statement 5
Operator Safety 6
Safety Instructions 8
Safety Decals 13
Features and Controls 14
Operation 18
Maintenance 22
Storage 28
Troubleshooting 29
Specifications 31
Spanish Operator's Manual 33
lIHli[i[Il! xill
Sears, R0ebuck ind Cir.. ofl_l_-an E-starI_79
IVledelDescription Name/Number
Stock Number Unit Serial Number
Date Purchased
I=1#1__ I-'I:IiI:I_leT-*Ifd
When contacting the service center for replacement
parts, service, or information you MUST have these
numbers.
EngineMaker EngineModel
Engine Type/Spec Engine Cede/Serial Number
Record your model name/number, manufacturer's identifica-
tion numbers, and engine serial numbers in the space pro-
vided for easy access.
The identification tag is located on the frame, between the
wheels.
For answers to your questions about this product, call
the Sears Craftsman Help Line at 1-800-659-5917, between 5
am - 5 pm, Monday-Saturday.
3

CRAFTSMAN PROFESSIONAL FULL WARRANTY
When operated and maintained according to all supplied instructions, if any non-expendable part of this riding equip-
ment fails due to a defect in material or workmanship within two years from the date or purchase, call 1-800-659-5917 to
arrange for free in-home repair.
The frame and front axle will be repaired free of charge for five years from the date of purchase if defective in material or
workmanship.
All of the above warranty coverage applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase if this riding equipment is ever
used for commercial or rental purposes.
in all cases, if repair proves impossible, the riding equipment will be replaced free of charge with the same or an equiva-
lent model.
The battery will be replaced free of charge for 90 days from the date of purchase if defective in material or workmanship
(or testing proves that it will not hold a charge).
This warranty covers ONLY defects in material and workmanship. Sears will NOT pay for:
• Expendable items that become worn during normal use, including but not limited to blades, spark plugs, air clean-
ers, belts, and oil filters.
Standard maintenance servicing, oil changes, or tune-ups.
Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails, thorns, stumps, or glass.
Tire or wheel replacement or repair resulting from normal wear, accident, or improper operation or maintenance.
Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, including but not limited to damage caused by towing objects be-
yond the capability of the riding equipment, impacting objects that bend the frame or crankshaft, or over-speeding
the engine.
Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, including but not limited to, electrical and mechanical damage
caused by improper storage, failure to use the proper grade and amount of engine oil, failure to keep the deck clear
of flammable debris, or failure to maintain the riding equipment according to the instructions contained in the opera-
tor's manual.
Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs caused by fuel determined to be contaminated or oxidized (stale). In gen-
eral, fuel should be used within 30 days of its purchase date.
Normal deterioration and wear of the exterior finishes, or product label replacement.
This warranty applies only while this product is within the United States.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
Sears Brand Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
4

EmissionsControlSystemWarrantyStatement
California,UnitedStatesandCanadaEmissionsControlDefectsWarranty
Statement
The CaliforniaAir ResourceBoard(CARB),U.S.EPAadn B&Sarephased toexplainthe
EmissionsControlSystem Warrantyonyour small off-roadengine (SORE).in Califor-
nia,newsmall off-road enginesmodel year2006 and bter must bedesigned,built and
equippedto meetthe State'sstrigent anti-smogstandards.Elsewhereinthe UnitedStates,
newnon-road,spark-ignition enginescertified for modelyear 1997 and bter must meet
simibr standards setforth by theU.S.EPA.B&Smust warrant theemissionscontrol sys-
tem onyour enginefor theperiodsof time listed below,providedtherehas beennoabuse,
negbct or impropermaintenanceofyour small off-roadengine.
Youremissions control systemincludesparts suchas thecarburetor,air cleaner,ignition
system, fuel line,muffler and catalyticconverter.Also includedmay beconnectorsand
otheremissions relatedassemblies.
Whereawarrantablecondition exists,B&Swill repairyour small off-roadengineat no
cost to you including diagnosis, partsand labor.
Briggs& Stratton EmissionsControl DefectsWarranty Coverage
Smalloff-roadenginesarewarrantedrelativetoemissionscontrolpartsdefectsfora
periodoftwoyears,subjecttoprovisionssetforthbelow.Ifanycoveredpartonyour
engineisdefective,thepartwill berepairedor replacedbyB&S.
Owner'sWarrantyResponsibility
As thesmall off-road engineowner,you are responsiblefor the performanceofthe required
maintenancelistedin your Operatingand MaintenanceInstructions. B&S recommends
thatyou retainallyour receiptscovering maintenanceonyour small off-road engine,but
B&Scannotdeny warrantysolelyfor thelack of receiptsor for your failureto ensurethe
performanceofall scheduledmaintenance.
As the small off-road engineowner,you should howeverbeawarethatB&S maydenyyou
warrantycoverage if your small off-roadengineor a parthasfailed dueto abuse,neglect,
impropermaintenanceor unapprovedmodifications.
You areresponsiblefor presentingyour small off-road engineto an AuthorizedB&S Service
Dealeras soon asa problemexists.The undisputedwarrantyrepairsshould becompleted
in areasonableamount oftime, notto exceed30days.
if you haveany questionsregardingyour warrantyrights and responsibilities,you should
contact a B&SServiceRepresentativeat [phone].
Theemissions warranty is adefectswarranty.Defectsarejudged onnormal engineperfor-
mance.Thewarrantyis not relatedtoan in-useemissionstest.
The following are specific provisions relative to your Emissions Control DefectsWarranty Coverage.It is in addition to the B&S engine warranty for non-regulated engines found
in the Operating and Maintenance Instructions.
1. Warranted Parts 3.
Coverageunder this warranty extends only to the parts listed below (the emissions
control systems parts) to the extent these parts were present on the engine
purchased.
a. FuelMetering System
, Cold start enrichment system (soft choke)
Carburetor and internal parts
, Fuelpump 4.
Fuelline,fuel line fittings, clamps
Fueltank, cap and tether
Carboncanister
b. Air Induction System
Aircleaner
Intake manifold
Purgeandvent line
c. Ignition System 5.
. Spark plug(s)
Magneto ignition system
d. Catalyst System
Catalyticconverter
Exhaust manifold
Air injection system or pulsevalve
e. Miscellaneous Items Used in Above Systems
Vacuum,temperature, position, time sensitive valves andswitches
Connectors andassemblies
2. Length of Coverage
B&S warrants to the initial owner and eachsubsequent purchaser that the Warranted 6.
Parts shall befree from defects inmaterials and workmanship which caused the
failure of theWarranted parts for a period of two years from the date the engine is
delivered to a retail purchaser.
No Charge
Repair or replacement of any Warranted Part will beperformed at no charge to the
owner, including diagnostic labor which leadsto thedetermination that aWar-
ranted Part is defecttive, if the diagnostic work is performed atan Authorized B&S
Service Dealeras listed in the "Yellow Pages" under "Engines, Gasoline,"" Gasoline
Engines," "Lawn Mowers," or similar category.
Claims and CoverageExclusions
Warranty claims shall befiled in accordance with the provisions ofthe B&S Engine
Warranty Policy.Warranty coverageshall be excludedfor failures of Warranted Parts
which are not original B&S parts or because of abuse, neglect or improper main-
tenanceas set forth in the B&S EngineWarranty Policy. B&S is not liable to cover
failures of Warranted Parts caused by the use of add-on, non-original, or modified
parts.
Maintenance
Any Warranted Part which is not scheduled for replacement as required maintenance
or which isscheduled only for regular inspection to theeffect of "repair or replace as
necessary" shall bewarranted as to defectsfor the warranty period. Any Warranted
Part which is scheduled for replacement as required maintenance shall be warranted
as to defects only for the period of time up to the first scheduled replacement for
that part. Any replacement part that is equivalent in performance and durability may
be used in the performance ofany maintenance or repairs. The owner is responsible
for the performance of all required maintenance, as defined in the B&SOperating
and Maintenance Instructions.
Consequential Coverage
Coveragehereunder shall extend to the failure of any engine components causedby
the failure of anyWarranted Partstill under warranty.
Enginesthat are certified to meet the California Air Resources Board (CARB)Emis-
sions Standard must display information regarding the Emissions Durability period
and the Air Index. Briggs & Stratton makes this information available to the con-
sumer on our emissions labels. The engine emissions labelwill indicate certification
information.
The Emissions gnrability Period describes the number of hours of actual running
time for which the engine is certified to beemissions compliant, assuming proper
maintenance in accordance wiht the Operatingand Maintenance Instructions. The
following categories are used:
Moderate:
Engineis certified to beemissions compliant for 125hours of actual running time.
intermediate:
Engineiscertifiedto beemissionscompliantfor250hoursofactualrunningtime.
Extended:
Engineis certified to be emissions compliant for 500 hours of actual engine running time.
For example, a typical walk-behind lawn mower is used20 to 25 hours per year.There-
fore, the Emissions Durability Period of an enginewith an intermediate rating would
equate to 10to 12years.
Briggs & Stratton engines are certified to meet the United StatesEnvironmental Protec-
tion Agency (ESEPA)Phase2 emissions standards. For Phase2 certified engines, the
Emissions Compliance Period referred to on the Emissions Compliance label indicates the
number of operating hours for which the engine has been shown to meet Federalemis-
sions requirements.
For engines less than 225 cc displacement.
Category C= 125 hours, Category B=250 hours, Category A= 500 hours
For engines of 225 cc or more displacement.
Category C=250 hours, Category B=500 hours, Category A= 1000 hours
5

Operating Safety
Congratulations on purchasing a superior-quality piece of lawn and gar-
den equipment. Our products are designed and manufactured to meet
or exceed all industry standards for safety.
Power equipment is only as safe as the operator. If it is misused, or not
properly maintained, it can be dangerous! Remember, you are respon-
sible for your safety and that of those around you.
Use common sense, and think through what you are doing. Ifyou are
not sure that the task you are about to perform can be safely done with
the equipment you have chosen, ask a professional: contact your local
authorized dealer.
Read the Manual
The operator's manual contains important safety information you need
to be aware of BEFORE you operate your unit as well as DURING op-
eration.
Safe operating techniques, an explanation of the product's features and
controls, and maintenance information is included to help you get the
most out of your equipment investment.
Be sure to completely read the Safety Rules and Information found on
the following pages. Also completely read the Operation section.
Children
Tragic accidents can occur with children. Do not allow them anywhere
near the area of operation. Children are often attracted to the unit and
mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last
saw them. If there is a risk that children may enter the area where you
are mowing, have another responsible adult watch them.
DO NOT GIVE CHILDREN RIDES ON THIS UNIT! This encourages
them to come near the unit in the future while it is running, and they
could be seriously hurt. They may then approach the unit for a ride
when you are not expecting it, and you may run over them.
Reverse
Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down
and behind before and while traveling in reverse even with the mower
blades disengaged.
6

Slope Operation
You could be seriously injured or even killed ifyou use this unit on too steep
an incline. Using the unit on a slope that is too steep or where you don't have
adequate traction can cause you to lose control or roll over.
A good rule of thumb is to not operate on any slope you cannot back up (in
2-wheel drive mode). You should not operate on inclines with a slope greater
than a 3.5 foot rise over a 20 foot length. Always drive up and down slopes:
never cross the face.
Also note that the surface you are driving on can greatly impact stability and
control. Wet grass or icy pavement can seriously affect your ability to control
the unit.
If you feel unsure about operating the unit on an incline, don't do it. It's not
worth the risk.
Moving Parts
This equipment has many moving parts that can injure you or someone else.
However, if you are seated in the seat properly, and follow all the rules in this
book, the unit is safe to operate.
The mower deck has spinning mower blades that can amputate hands and
feet. Do not allow anyone near the equipment while it is running!
To help you, the operator, use this equipment safely, it is equipped with an
operator-present safety system. Do NOT attempt to alter or bypass the sys-
tem. See your dealer immediately ifthe system does not pass all the safety
interlock system tests found in this manual.
Thrown Objects
This unit has spinning mower blades. These blades can pick up and throw
debris that could seriously injure a bystander. Be sure to clean up the area to
be mowed BEFORE you start mowing.
Do not operate this unit without the entire grass catcher or discharge guard
(deflector) in place.
Also, do not allow anyone in the area while the unit is running! if someone
does enter the area, shut the unit off immediately until they leave.
Fuel and Maintenance
Gasoline is extremely flammable. Its vapors are also extremely
flammable and can travel to distant ignition sources. Gasoline must
only be used as a fuel, not as a solvent or cleaner. It should never
be stored any place where its vapors can build up or travel to an
ignition source like a pilot light. Fuel belongs in an approved, plas-
tic, sealed gas can, or in the tractor fuel tank with the cap securely
closed. Spilled fuel needs to be cleaned up immediately.
Proper maintenance is critical to the safety and performance of
your unit. Be sure to perform the maintenance procedures listed in
this manual, especially periodically testing the safety system.

important Safety instructions
SAVE THESE iNSTRUCTiONS - This manual contains
important instructions that should be followed during the
initial set-up, the operation, and the maintenance of the
equipment.
WARNING The engine exhaust from this
product contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other
reproductive harm.
Safety Symbols and Meanings
FiRE MOVINGPARTS SHOCK
TOXICFUMES KICKBACK EXPLOSION
WEAREYE HAZARDOUS HOTSURFACE
PROTECTION CHEMICAL
@
STOP
io]
ONOFF
CHOKE
WARNING Certain components in this product
and its related accessories contain chemicals knowr
to the State of California to cause cancer, birth
defects, or other reproductive harm. Wash hands
after handling.
WARNING Battery posts, terminals, and related
accessories contain lead and lead compounds -
chemicals known to the State of California to cause
cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. Wash
hands after handling.
BEADMANUAL FAST SLOW OIL FUEL
The safety alert symbol is used to identify
safety information about information about hazards
that can result in personal injury.A signal word
(DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION) is used with
the alert symbol to indicate the likelihood and the
potential severity of injury. In addition, a hazard
symbol may be used to represent the type of hazard.
WARNING Running engine gives off carbon
monoxide, an odorless, colorless, poison gas.
Breathing carbon monoxide can cause
headache, fatigue, dizziness, vomiting,
confusion, seizures, nausea, fainting or death.
*Operate equipment ONLY outdoors.
*Keep exhaust gas from entering a confined area
through windows, doors, ventilation intakes, or
other openings.
DANGER indicates a hazard which, if not
avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING indicates a hazard which, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION indicates a hazard which, if not
avoided, could result in minor or moderate
injury.
NOTICE indicates a situation that could
result in damage to the product.
8

Readthese safety rulesand followthem closely.Failuretoobeythese rulescould resultin lossofcontrol of unit,severe
personalinjuryor deathtoyou, or bystanders,or damage to propertyor equipment.This mowing deck is capable of
amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. The triangle _ intextsignifiesimportantcautionsor warnings
which must befollowed.
GENERAL OPERATION
1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the
manual and on the unit before starting.
2. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under
the machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at
all times.
3. Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with
the instructions, to operate the unit (local regulations
can restrict operator age).
4. Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire,
etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the
blade(s).
5. Be sure the area is clear of other people before
mowing. Stop the unit if anyone enters the area.
6. Never carry passengers.
7. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary.
Always look down and behind before and while
travelling in reverse.
8. Never direct discharge material toward anyone. Avoid
discharging material against a wall or obstruction.
Material may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop
the blade(s) when crossing gravel surfaces.
9. Do not operate the machine without the entire grass
catcher, discharge guard (deflector), or other safety
devices in place.
10. Slow down before turning.
11. Never leave a running unit unattended. Always
disengage the PTO, set parking brake, stop engine,
and remove starter insert before dismounting.
12. Disengage blades (PTO) when not mowing. Shut off
engine and wait for all parts to come to a complete
stop before cleaning the machine, removing the grass
catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard.
13. Operate the machine only in daylight or good artificial
light.
14. Do not operate the unit while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
15 Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing
roadways.
16. Use extra care when loading or unloading the unit into
a trailer or truck.
17. Always wear eye protection when operating this unit.
18. Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and
above, are involved in a large percentage of power
equipment-related injuries. These operators should
evaluate their ability to operate the equipment safely
enough to protect themselves and others from injury.
19. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for wheel
weights or counterweights.
20. Keep in mind the operator is responsible for accidents
occurring to other people or property.
21. All drivers should seek and obtain professional and
practical instruction.
22. Always wear substantial footwear and trousers. Never
operate when barefoot or wearing sandals.
23. Before using, always visually check that the blades
and blade hardware are present, intact, and secure.
Replace worn or damaged parts.
24. Disengage attachments before: refueling, removing
an attachment, making adjustments (unless the
adjustment can be made from the operator's position).
25. When the machine is parked, stored, or left
unattended, lower the cutting means unless a positive
mechanical lock is used.
26. Before leaving the operator's position for any reason,
engage the parking brake (if equipped), disengage the
PTO, stop the engine, and remove the starter insert.
27. To reduce fire hazard, keep the unit free of grass,
leaves, & excess oil. Do not stop or park over dry
leaves, grass, or combustible materials.
TRANSPORTING AND STORAGE
1. When transporting the unit on an open trailer, make
sure it is facing forward, in the direction of travel, ifthe
unit is facing backwards, wind lift could damage the
unit.
2. Always observe safe refueling and fuel handling
practices when refueling the unit after transportation or
storage.
3. Never store the unit (with fuel) in an enclosed poorly
ventilated structure. Fuel vapors can travel to an
ignition source (such as a furnace, water heater, etc.)
and cause an explosion. Fuel vapor is also toxic to
humans and animals.
4. Always follow the engine manual instructions for
storage preparations before storing the unit for both
short and long term periods.
5. Always follow the engine manual instructions for
proper start-up procedures when returning the unit to
service.
6. Never store the unit or fuel container inside where
there is an open flame or pilot light, such as in a water
heater. Allow unit to cool before storing.
9

SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tip-
over accidents, which can result in severe injury or death.
Operation on all slopes requires extra caution. If you cannot
back up the slope or ifyou feel uneasy on it, do not operate
on it.
Control of awalk-behind or ride-on machine sliding on a
slope will not be regained by the application of the brake.
The main reasons for loss of control are: insufficient tire grip
on the ground, speed too fast, inadequate braking, the type
of machine is unsuitable for its task, lack of awareness of the
ground conditions, incorrect hitching and load distribution.
1. Mow up and down slopes, not across.
2. Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could
overturn the unit. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
3. Choose a slow speed so that you will not have to stop
or change speeds while on the slope.
4. Do not mow on wet grass. Tires may loose traction.
5. Always keep unit in gear especially when traveling
down slopes. Do not shift to neutral and coast
downhill.
6. Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope, if tires
lose traction, disengage the blade(s) and proceed
slowly straight down the slope.
7. Keep all movement on slopes slow and gradual. Do
not make sudden changes in speed or direction, which
could cause the machine to rollover.
8. Use extra care while operating machines with grass
catchers or other attachments; they can affect the
stability of the unit. Do not use on steep slopes.
9. Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot
on the ground (ride-on units).
10. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments.
The mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over
the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.
11. Do not use grass catchers on steep slopes.
12. Do not mow slopes ifyou cannot back up them.
13. See your authorized dealer/retailer for
recommendations of wheel weights or counterweights
to improve stability.
14. Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
15. Use slow speed. Tires may lose traction on slopes
even through the brakes are functioning properly.
16. Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn
slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
TOWED EQUIPMENT (RIDE-ON UNITS)
1. Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for
towing. Do not attach towed equipment except at the
hitch point.
2. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for
weight limit for towed equipment and towing on slopes.
3. Never allow children or others in or on towed
equipment.
4. On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may
cause loss of traction and loss of control.
5. Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.
6. Do not shift to neutral and coast down hill.
WARNING
Never operate on slopes greater than 17.6 percent
(10°) which is a rise of 3-1/2 feet (106 cm) vertically
in 20 feet (607 cm) horizontally.
When operating on slopes use additional wheel
weights or counterweights. See your dealer/retailer
to determine which weights are available and
appropriate for your unit.
Select slow ground speed before driving onto
slope. In addition to front weights, use extra
caution when operating on slopes with rear-
mounted grass catchers.
Mow UP and DOWN the slope, never across the
face, use caution when changing directions and
DO NOT START OR STOP ON SLOPE.
CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to
the presence of children. Children are often attracted
to the unit and the mowing activity. Never assume that
children will remain where you last saw them.
1. Keep children out of the mowing area and under the
watchful care of another responsible adult.
2. Be alert and turn unit off if children enter the area.
3. Before and during reverse operation, look behind
and down for small children.
4. Never carry children, even with the blade(s) off.
They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere
with safe unit operation. Children who have been
given rides in the past may suddenly appear in the
mowing area for another ride and be run over or
backed over by the machine.
5. Never allow children to operate the unit.
6. Use extra care when approaching blind corners,
shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure
vision.
EMISSIONS
1. Engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals
known, in certain quantities, to cause cancer, birth
defects, or other reproductive harm.
2. Look for the relevant Emissions Durability Period
and Air Index information on the engine emissions
label.
iGNITION SYSTEM
1. This spark ignition system complies with Canadian
ICES-002.
10