Sears CRAFTSMAN 917.273631 User manual

Owner’s Manual
CRAFTSMAN
LAWN TRACTOR
18.5 HP*, 42” Mower
Electric Start
6 Speed Transaxle
Model No.
917.273631
differently from previously built engines. Before you start the
il l i This product has a low emission engine which operates
engine, read and understand this Owner’s Manual.
IMPORTANT: For answers to your questions about
Read and follow all Safety this product, Call:
Rules and Instructions before 1-800-659-5917
operating this equipment. Sears Craftsman Help Line
5 am - 5 pm, Mon - Sat
Gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol (E10) is acceptable for use in this machine.
The use of any gasoline exceeding 10% ethanol (E10) will void the product warranty.
Sears Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A,
Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman *As rated by the engine manufacturer
191054 Rev. 4

TABLE OF CONTENTS
WAITANLY oo. cc eect cette ceeeeetteaeeeees
Safety Rules oo. cece teeeeetaees
Product Specifications ..00.....00.cee
Assembly/Pre-Operation
Maintenance occ ccceseceeeeeteeeereenes 17
Service and Adjustments.........0...0..... 21
STOLAQE oo cette
Troubleshooting
OPEFAtion occ ce eeecseecectececseteeeeseteeenes
Maintenance Schedule...
Repair Parts... cc cceceeeteeseeeeees
Sears SEPviCe occ eee
WARRANTY
Craftsman Riding Equipment Warranty
CRAFTSMAN FULL WARRANTY
FOR TWO YEARS from the date of purchase, all non-expendable parts of this riding equiprnent are
warranted against any defects in material or workmanship. A defective non-expendable part will
receive free in-home repair or replacement if repair is impossible.
FOR FIVE YEARS from the date of purchase, the frame and front axle of this riding equipment are
warranted against any defects in material or workmanship. A defective frarne or front axle will receive
free in-home repair or replacement if repair is impossible.
FOR 90 DAYS frorn the date of purchase, the battery (an expendable part) of this riding equipment
is warranted against any defects in material or workmanship (our testing proves that it will not hold a
charge). A defective battery will receive free in-home replacernent.
ADDITIONAL LIFETIME LIMITED WARRANTY on CAST IRON FRONT AXLE (if equipped)
FOR AS LONG AS IT IS USED by the original owner after the fifth year frorn the date of purchase, the
cast iron front axle (if equipped) of this riding equipmentis warranted against any defects in material or
workmanship. With proof of purchase, a defective cast front axle will receive free in-home replacement.
WARRANTY SERVICE
For warranty coverage details to obtain free repair or replacement, call 1-800-659-5917 or visit the
web site: www.craftsman.com
In all cases above, if part repair or replacernent is impossible, the riding equipment will be replaced
free of charge with the sare or an equivalent model.
All of the above warranty coverage is void if this riding equiprnent is ever used while providing
commercial services or if rented to another person.
This warranty covers ONLY defects in material and workmanship. Warranty coverage does NOT
include:
* Expendable parts (except battery) that can wear out frorn normal use within the warranty period,
including but not limited to blades, spark plugs, air cleaners, belts, and oil filters.
* Standard maintenance servicing, oil changes, or tune-ups.
* Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures frorn 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 darnage caused by
towing objects beyond the capability of the riding equipment, impacting objects that bend the
frarne, axle assernbly 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 operator’s manual.
Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs caused by fuel determined to be contaminated or oxidized
(stale). In general, fuel should be used within 30 days of its purchase date.
* Normal deterioration and wear of the exterior finishes, or product label replacernent.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from
state to state.
Sears Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
2

SAFETY RULES
IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throw-
ing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious
injury or death.
AWARNING: In order to prevent ac-
cidental starting when setting up, trans-
porting, adjusting or making repairs,
always disconnect spark plug wire and
place wire where it cannot contact spark
plug.
AWARNING: Do not coast down a hill in
neutral, you may lose control of the tractor.
WARNING: Tow only the attachments
that are recommended by and comply with
specifications of the manufacturer of your
tractor. Use common sense when towing.
Operate only at the lowest possible speed
when on aslope. Too heavy of a load,
while on a slope, is dangerous. Tires can
lose traction with the ground and cause
you to lose control of your tractor.
WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of
its constituents, and certain vehicle com-
ponents contain or emit chemicals known
to the State of California to cause cancer
and birth defects or other reproductive
harm.
AWARNING: Battery posts, terminals
and related accessories contain lead and
lead compounds, chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Wash hands after handling.
|. GENERAL OPERATION
« Read, understand, and follow all instruc-
tions in the manual and on the machine
before starting.
* Only allow responsible adults, who are
familiar with the instructions, to operate
the machine.
* Clear the area of objects such as rocks,
toys, wire, etc., which could be picked
up and thrown by the blade.
* Be sure the area is clear of other people
before mowing. Stop machine if anyone
enters the area.
* Never carry passengers.
« Do not mow in reverse unless abso-
lutely necessary. Always look down and
behind before and while backing.
* Be aware of the mower discharge direc-
tion and do not point it at anyone. Do
not operate the mower without either
the entire grass catcher or the guard in
place.
* Slow down before turning.
* Never leave a running machine unat-
tended. Always turn off blades, set
parking brake, stop engine, and remove
keys before dismounting.
* Turn off blades when not mowing.
* Stop engine before removing grass
catcher or unclogging chute.
* Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.
* Do not operate the machine while under
the influence of alcohol or drugs.
* Watch for traffic when operating near or
crossing roadways.
« Use extra care when loading or un-
loading the machine into a trailer or
truck,
* Data indicates that operators, age 60
years and above, are involved in a large
percentage of riding mower-related in-
juries. These operators should evaluate
their ability to operate the riding mower
safely enough to protect themselves and
others from serious injury.
Keep machine free of grass , leaves or
other debris build-up which can touch
hot exhaust / engine parts and burn . Do
not allow the mower deck to plow leaves
or other debris which can cause build-
up to occur. Clean any oil or fuel
spillage before operating or storing the
machine . Allow machine to cool before
storage.
ll. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-
of-control and tipover accidents, which can
result in severe injury or death. All slopes
require extra caution. If you cannot back
up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do
not mow it.

SAFETY RULES
DO:
¢ Mow up and down slopes, not across.
« Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
« Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Un-
even terrain could overturn the machine.
Tall grass can hide obstacles.
« Use slow speed. Choose a low gear
so that you will not have to stop or shift
while on the slope.
* Follow the manufacturer’s recommend-
ations for wheel weights or counter-
weights to improve stability.
« Use extra care with grass catchers or
other attachments. These can change
the stability of the machine.
« Keep all movement on the slopes slow
and gradual. Do not make sudden
changes in speed or direction.
* Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the blades
and proceed slowly straight down the
slope.
DO NOT:
¢ Do not turn on slopes unless neces-
sary, and then, turn slowly and gradually
downhill, if possible.
* 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.
« Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced
traction could cause sliding.
* Do not try to stabilize the machine by
putting your foot on the ground.
« Do not use grass catcher on steep
slopes.
lil. CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator
is not alert to the presence of children.
Children are often attracted to the ma-
chine and the mowing activity. Never as-
sume that children will remain where you
last saw them.
* Keep children out of the mowing area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
* Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area.
* Before and when backing, look behind
and down for small children.
* Never carry children. They may fall off
and be seriously injured or interfere with
safe machine operation.
* Never allow children to operate the
machine.
« Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
IV. SERVICE
« Use extra care in handling gasoline and
other fuels. They are flammable and
vapors are explosive.
- Use only an approved container.
- Never remove gas cap or add fuel
with the engine running. Allow
engine to cool before refueling. Do
not smoke.
- Never refuel the machine indoors.
- Never store the machine or fuel
container inside where there is an
open flame, such as a water heater.
Never run a machine inside a closed
area.
Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep equip-
ment in good condition.
Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regularly.
Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
storing.
Stop and inspect the equipment if you
strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.
Never make adjustments or repairs with
the engine running.
Grass catcher components are subject
to wear, damage, and deterioration,
which could expose moving parts or
allow objects to be thrown. Frequently
check components and replace with
manufacturer's recommended parts,
when necessary.
Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing them.
Check brake operation frequently. Ad-
just and service as required.

SAFETY RULES
Be sure the area is clear of other people
before mowing. Stop machine if anyone
enters the area.
Never carry passengers or children
even with the blades off.
Do not mow in reverse unless abso-
lutely necessary. Always look down and
behind before and while backing.
Never carry children. They may fall off
and be seriously injured or interfere with
safe machine operation.
Keep children out of the mowing area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area.
Before and when backing, look behind
and down for small children.
Mow up and down slopes (15° Max), not
across.
Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven
terrain could overturn the machine. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
Use slow speed. Choose a low gear
so that you will not have to stop or shift
while on the slope.
Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the blades
and proceed slowly straight down the
slope.
If machine stops while going uphill,
disengage blades, shift into reverse and
back down slowly.
Do not turn on slopes unless necessary,
and then, turn slowly and gradually
downhill, if possible.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Gasoline 4.0
Capacity and Unleaded
Type: Regular
Oil Type SAE 30 (above 32°F)
(API-SG-SL): SAE 5W-30(below 32°F)
Oil Capacity: WiFilter: 3.5 Pints
W/O Filter: 3.0 Pints
Spark Plug: Champion RC12YC
(Gap: .030")
Ground Speed = Forward:
(MPH): ist 1.2
2nd 1.6
8rd 2.4
4th 3.6
5th 4.6
6th 5.9
Reverse: 1.8
Tire Pressure: Front: 14 PSI
Rear: 10 PSI
Charging System: 9 Amps @3600 RPM
Battery: Amp/Hr: = 28
Min. CCA: 230
Case Size: UiR
Blade Bolt Torque: 27-35 Ft. Lbs.
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase
of a new tractor. It has been designed,
engineered and manufactured to give you the
best possible dependability and performance.
Should you experience any problem you
cannot easily remedy, please contact a
Sears or other qualified service center.
We have competent, well-trained techni-
cians and the proper tools to service or
repair this tractor.
Please read and retain this manual. The
instructions will enable you to assemble
and maintain your tractor properly. Always
observe the “SAFETY RULES”.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
Read and observe the safety rules.
* Follow a regular schedule in main-
taining, caring for and using your tractor.
* Follow the instructions under “Mainte-
nance” and “Storage” sections of this
owner's manual.
Awarnine: This tractor is equipped
with an internal combustion engine and
should not be used on or near any unim-
proved forest-covered, brush-covered or
grass-covered land unless the engine’s
exhaust system is equipped with a spark
arrester meeting applicable local or state
laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it
should be maintained in effective working
order by the operator.
In the state of California the above is re-
quired by law (Section 4442 of the Califor-
nia Public Resources Code). Other states
may have similar laws. Federal laws apply
on federal lands. A spark arrester for the
muffler is available through your nearest
Sears service center (See REPAIR PARTS
section of this manual).
REPAIR PROTECTION
AGREEMENTS
Congratulations on making a smart pur-
chase. Your new Craftsman® product is
designed and manufactured for years of
dependable operation. But like all products,
it may require repair from time to time. That's
when having a Repair Protection Agreement
can save you money and aggravation.
Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement
now and protect yourself from unexpected
hassle and expense.
Here’s what's included in the Agreement:
* Expert service by our 12,000 profe-
sional repair specialists.
¢ Unlimited service and no charge for
parts and labor on all covered repairs.
* Product replacement if your covered
product can’t be fixed.
¢ Discount of 10% from regular price of
service and service-related parts not
covered by the agreement; also, 10%
off regular price of preventive mainte-
nance check.
« Fast help by phone — phone support
from a Sears technician on products
requiring in-home repair, plus conve-
nient repair scheduling.
Once you purchase the Agreement, a
simple phone call is all that it takes for you
to schedule service. You can call anytime
day or night, or schedule a service ap-
pointment online.
Sears has over 12,000 professional repair
specialists, who have access to over 4.5
million quality parts and accessories.
That's the kind of professionalism you can
count on to help prolong the life of your
new purchase for years to come. Purchase
your Repair Protection Agreement today!
Some limitations and exclusions apply.
For prices and additional information
call 1-800-827-6655.
SEARS INSTALLATION SERVICE
For Sears professional installation of home
appliances, garage door openers, water
heaters, and other major home items, in
the U.S.A. call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®

UNASSEMBLED PARTS
Mower Leveling Wrench
(1) Oil Drain Tube ~D
Keys
(2) Keys
For Future Use
Slope Sheet
Bubbie Level
Video Cassette

ASSEMBLY/PRE-OPERATION
Your new tractor has been assembled at the factory. Review the video cassette before
you begin.
When right or left hand is mentioned in this manual, it means when you are in the oper-
ating position (seated behind the steering wheel).
TO REMOVE TRACTOR FROM
CARTON
UNPACK CARTON
1. Cut along dotted lines on all four pan-
els of carton. Remove end panels and
lay side panels flat.
2. Remove protective materials from trac-
tor hood and grille.
IMPORTANT: Check for and remove any
staples in skid that may puncture tires
where tractor is to roll off skid.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRACTOR
CHECK BATTERY
1. Lift hood to raised position.
NOTE: If this battery is put into service af-
ter month and year indicated on label (label
located between terminals) charge battery
for minimum of one hour at 6-10 amps.
(See "BATTERY" in Maintenance section
of this manual for charging instructions).
ADJUST SEAT
1. Raise seat and loosen adjustment
knob,
2. Lower seat into operating position and
sit in seat.
3. Slide seat until a comfortable position
is reached which allows you to press
clutch/brake pedal all the way down.
4. Get off seat without moving its ad-
justed position.
5. Raise seat and tighten adjustment
knob securely.
Adjustment
Knob
NOTE: You may now roll or drive your
tractor off the skid. Follow the appropriate
instruction below to remove the tractor
from the skid.
TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)
1. Press lift lever plunger and raise
attachment lift lever to its highest po-
sition.
2. Release parking brake by depressing
clutch/brake pedal.
3. Place gearshift lever in neutral (N)
position.
4. Roll tractor forward off skid.
5. Remove banding holding deflector
shield up against tractor.
TO DRIVE TRACTOR OFF SKID (See
Operation section for location and
function of controls)
AWARNING: Before starting, read, un-
derstand and follow all instructions in the
Operation section of this manual. Be sure
tractor is in a well-ventilated area. Be sure
the area in front of tractor is clear of other
people and objects.
1. Be sure all the above assembly steps
have been completed.
2. Check engine oil level and fill fuel tank
with gasoline.
3. Sit on seat in operating position,
depress clutch/brake pedal and set the
parking brake.
4. Place gear shift lever in neutral (N)
position.
5. Press lift lever plunger and raise
attachment lift lever to its highest posi-
tion.

6. Start the engine. After engine has
started, move throttle control to idle
position.
7. Depress clutch/orake pedal into full
"BRAKE" position and hold. Move
gearshift lever to 1st gear.
8. Slowly release clutch/orake pedal and
slowly drive tractor off skid.
9. Apply brake to stop tractor, set park-
ing brake and place gearshift lever in
neutral position.
10. Turn ignition key to "STOP" position.
Continue with the instructions that follow.
REPOSITION RIGHT REAR GAUGE
WHEEL
For shipping purposes, the right rear
gauge wheel assembly is mounted upside
down on the mower. Remove the gauge
wheel assembly and reinstall from the
bottom as shown. To adjust gauge wheels,
see the Operation section in this manual.
INSTALL MULCHER PLATE
(If previously removed)
1. Raise and hold deflector shield in
upright position.
2. Place front of mulcher plate over front
of mower deck opening and slide into
place, as shown.
8. Hook front latch into hole on front of
mower deck.
4. Hook rear latch into hole on back of
mower deck.
Deflector
Shield
Mulcher
Plate
AcautTion: Do not remove deflector
shield from mower.
TO CONVERT TO BAGGING OR
DISCHARGING
Simply remove mulcher plate and store in
a safe place. Your mower is now ready for
discharging or installation of optional grass
catcher accessory.
NOTE: It is not necessary to change
blades. The mulcher blades are designed
for discharging and bagging also.

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
The tires on your tractor were overin-
flated at the factory for shipping purposes.
Correct tire pressure is important for best
cutting performance.
* Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown in
“PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS” section
of this manual.
CHECK DECK LEVELNESS
For best cutting results, mower hous-
ing should be properly leveled. See “TO
LEVEL MOWER HOUSING’ in the Service
and Adjustments section of this manual.
CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION
OF ALL BELTS
See the figures that are shown for replac-
ing motion and mower blade drive belts
in the Service and Adjustments section
of this manual. Verify that the belts are
routed correctly.
CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM
After you learn how to operate your trac-
tor, check to see that the brake is properly
adjusted. See “TO ADJUST BRAKE” in
the Service and Adjustments section of
this manual.
/ CHECKLIST
Before you operate and enjoy your new
tractor, we wish to assure that you receive
the best performance and satisfaction
from this Quality Product.
Please review the following checklist:
/ All assembly instructions have been
completed.
/¥ No remaining loose parts in carton.
/ Battery is properly prepared and
charged. (Minimum 1 hour at 6 amps).
/¥ Seat is adjusted comfortably and tight-
ened securely.
/ All tires are properly inflated. (For ship-
ping purposes, the tires were overin-
flated at the factory).
/ Be sure mower deck is properly leveled
side-to-side/front-to-rear for best cutting
results. (Tires must be properly inflated
for leveling).
/¥ Check mower and drive belts. Be sure
they are routed properly around pulleys
and inside all belt keepers.
/¥ Check wiring. See that all connections
are still secure and wires are properly
clamped.
While learning how to use your tractor, pay
extra attention to the following important
items:
/¥ Engine oil is at proper level.
/¥ Fuel tank is filled with fresh, clean, regu-
lar unleaded gasoline.
/¥ Become familiar with all controls - their
location and function. Operate them
before you start the engine.
/ Be sure brake system is in safe operat-
ing condition.