6 Easy Steps: How to Start a Craftsman Riding Mower

Starting a Craftsman riding mower is a relatively simple task, but it’s important to follow the correct steps to ensure that the mower starts properly and runs safely. Before you begin, make sure that you have the owner’s manual for your specific mower model handy, as the instructions may vary slightly depending on the model. Additionally, you’ll need to gather a few basic tools, including a wrench, pliers, and a screwdriver.

The first step is to check the oil level. The oil level should be checked before each use, and it should be changed every 50 hours of operation or annually, whichever comes first. To check the oil level, simply remove the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag. Then, reinsert the dipstick into the engine and pull it out again. The oil level should be between the “Full” and “Add” marks on the dipstick. If the oil level is low, add oil until it reaches the “Full” mark. Once the oil level has been checked, you can proceed to the next step.

The next step is to check the battery. The battery should be checked before each use, and it should be replaced every 2-3 years. To check the battery, simply use a voltmeter to measure the voltage at the battery terminals. The voltage should be between 12.6 and 13.2 volts. If the voltage is below 12.6 volts, the battery needs to be replaced. Once the battery has been checked, you can proceed to the next step.

Prepping the Mower

Before attempting to start your Craftsman riding mower, it’s essential to prepare it properly for a safe and successful operation. This involves completing several crucial steps to ensure that the mower is in good working condition and ready for use.

1. Refueling the Mower

As a first step in preparing your Craftsman riding mower, ensure that it has sufficient fuel to operate. Different models may require specific fuel types, such as gasoline or diesel. Check the mower’s user manual to determine the recommended fuel type and follow the instructions for safe refueling.

Locate the fuel tank on the mower and carefully remove the fuel cap. Fill the tank with the appropriate fuel, leaving a small amount of space at the top to allow for fuel expansion. Avoid overfilling the tank, as this can lead to fuel spills and potential hazards.

Once the fuel tank is filled, securely tighten the fuel cap to prevent leaks. Wipe up any spilled fuel immediately to minimize the risk of fire or explosions.

Fuel Tank Capacity

| Mower Model | Fuel Tank Capacity |
|—|—|
| 917.288690 | 3.6 gallons |
| 917.288691 | 4.5 gallons |
| 917.288692 | 5.0 gallons |

Engaging the Blades

To engage the blades on your Craftsman riding mower, follow these steps:

Ensure the mower is on a level surface and the parking brake is engaged.
Locate the blade engagement lever, which is typically located on the right side of the mower near the steering wheel.
Pull the lever towards you to engage the blades. You should hear a “click” sound indicating that the blades are now rotating.

Additional Tips for Engaging the Blades:

Check the mower deck for any obstructions, such as rocks or debris, before engaging the blades.
Start the mower engine and let it idle for a few minutes before engaging the blades to allow the oil to circulate.
If you need to disengage the blades, simply push the lever away from you.
Never engage the blades when the mower is moving in reverse.

Blade Engagement Lever Location	Possible Blade Engagement Issues
Right side of mower, near steering wheel	– Lever may be stuck or broken – Wiring issues – Electrical switch malfunction

Adjusting the Mower Deck

Adjusting the mower deck is crucial to ensure a clean and even cut. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Measure the grass height: Determine the desired grass height and measure it using a tape measure or ruler.
Locate the deck adjustment levers: On most Craftsman riding mowers, there are levers on either side of the deck. These levers control the front and rear height of the deck.
Adjust the levers: Using a wrench or socket, loosen the nuts on the adjustment levers. Pull the levers up or down to raise or lower the deck. Ensure that the deck is parallel to the ground and the desired grass height is achieved.
Fine-tune the adjustment: Inspect the cut quality after mowing a small area. If the cut is too high, raise the deck slightly by adjusting the levers a few notches higher. If the cut is too low, lower the deck by adjusting the levers a few notches lower.

Desired Grass Height	Lever Position
1.5 inches	Lever 1
2 inches	Lever 2
2.5 inches	Lever 3

Safety Precautions

Before operating your Craftsman riding mower, ensure you read and understand the operator’s manual. Always wear appropriate safety gear, including safety glasses, earplugs, gloves, and closed-toe shoes. Inspect the mower before each use, checking for loose or damaged parts and ensuring the blades are sharp.

Starting the Mower

To start the mower, engage the parking brake and ensure the blade engagement lever is in the disengaged position. Insert the ignition key and turn it to the “Start” position. Once the engine starts, release the ignition key and allow the mower to idle for a few minutes before engaging the blades.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Battery-Related Issues:

If the mower fails to start, check the battery terminals for corrosion or loose connections. Clean or tighten the terminals as needed. If the battery is weak, recharge or replace it.

Fuel-Related Issues:

Ensure the fuel tank has sufficient fuel and is using the correct type of fuel specified in the operator’s manual. Check for fuel leaks or clogs in the fuel line or carburetor. Clean or replace the fuel filter if necessary.

Electrical Issues:

Inspect the electrical connections and wiring for any loose, damaged, or corroded components. Check the spark plug and replace it if necessary. Test the ignition switch and starter relay to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Blade-Related Issues:

If the blades fail to engage, check the blade engagement lever and ensure it is fully engaged. Inspect the blades for damage or excessive wear and sharpen or replace them as needed. Verify that the mower deck is properly adjusted and not obstructed.

Proper Mowing Techniques

1. Mowing Height: Adjust the mowing height according to the type of grass and the season. Taller grass during hot, dry weather helps conserve moisture and reduce stress on the lawn.

2. Mowing Frequency: Mow your lawn regularly, especially during active growth periods. Frequent mowing encourages denser, healthier growth and prevents grass from getting too long and matted.

3. Overlapping Mowing: Overlap your mowing paths by about one-third to ensure even coverage. This prevents missed areas and promotes a uniform appearance.

4. Alternating Mowing Patterns: Mow in different directions each time to prevent ruts and compaction. This also helps distribute clippings more evenly.

5. Sharp Blades: Sharp mower blades are essential for a clean, even cut. Dull blades tear the grass, leaving ragged edges and increasing the risk of disease.

6. Proper Blade Speed: The optimal blade speed varies depending on the type of grass and the mowing conditions. Generally, slower blade speeds are better for dense, wet grasses, while faster speeds are appropriate for dry, sparse grasses. Refer to the following table for recommended blade speeds:

Grass Type	Blade Speed
Fine-leaf grasses (e.g., Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass)	Slow (3,000-3,500 RPM)
Turf-type tall fescues	Moderate (3,500-4,000 RPM)
Coarse-leaf grasses (e.g., Bermuda grass, Zoysia grass)	Fast (4,000+ RPM)

Maintaining the Mower Regularly

Maintaining your Craftsman riding mower regularly is essential for its longevity and performance. Here’s a comprehensive guide to keep your mower running smoothly:

Changing Oil and Filter

Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended oil type and change intervals. Use high-quality oil and a new filter to ensure proper lubrication and prevent engine damage.

Servicing Air Filter

A clean air filter ensures the engine receives adequate air, improving performance and reducing fuel consumption. Clean or replace the air filter regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Inspecting and Replacing Spark Plugs

Examine the spark plugs for wear or damage. Replace them if necessary, ensuring the correct gap is set for optimal ignition timing and engine performance.

Checking and Adjusting Tire Pressure

Proper tire pressure ensures traction, handling, and ride comfort. Refer to the owner’s manual for the recommended tire pressure and adjust accordingly.

Lubricating Moving Parts

Lubricate all moving parts, including the mower deck, linkages, and pulleys, to reduce friction and wear. Use a high-quality lubricant specifically designed for outdoor power equipment.

Cleaning the Deck

A clean mower deck allows for efficient grass cutting. Remove any accumulated grass clippings, dirt, or debris to prevent clogging and ensure proper airflow.

Checking Blades

Inspect the mower blades regularly for sharpness and damage. Dull or damaged blades can result in uneven cuts and reduced mowing efficiency. Sharpen or replace the blades as needed, ensuring proper balance for optimal performance.

By following these maintenance steps, you can keep your Craftsman riding mower running optimally for years to come.

Winterizing the Mower

Before storing your Craftsman riding mower for the winter, properly winterizing it is crucial to prevent damage and ensure a smooth start-up come spring. Here’s a detailed guide on how to winterize your mower:

1. Clean the Mower

Thoroughly clean the mower’s deck, underside, and engine to remove grass clippings, debris, and grime. This prevents corrosion and prolongs the mower’s life.

2. Change the Oil

Drain the old oil and replace it with fresh, clean oil. You’ll ensure optimal lubrication and performance during the next season.

3. Stabilize the Fuel

Add fuel stabilizer to the gas tank and run the engine for a few minutes to distribute it throughout the fuel system. This prevents fuel degradation and potential carburetor damage.

4. Disconnect the Battery

Remove the negative battery cable to prevent battery drain during storage. Alternatively, use a trickle charger to maintain the battery’s charge.

5. Lubricate Moving Parts

Apply lubricant to all moving parts, such as wheels, levers, and linkages. This reduces friction and ensures smooth operation next season.

6. Store the Mower in a Dry Place

Find a dry, well-ventilated location to store the mower. Cover it with a tarp or plastic sheet to protect it from moisture and dust.

7. Remove the Spark Plugs

Remove the spark plugs and squirt a small amount of penetrating oil into the cylinders. This helps prevent corrosion and makes starting the mower easier in the spring.

8. Maintenance Schedule for Winter Storage

Refer to the table below for a detailed maintenance schedule to ensure your Craftsman riding mower is properly prepared for winter storage:

Task	Frequency
Clean the mower	Annually, before storage
Change the oil	Annually, before storage
Stabilize the fuel	Annually, before storage
Disconnect the battery	Monthly, during storage
Lubricate moving parts	Annually, before storage
Store the mower in a dry place	Throughout winter storage
Remove the spark plugs	Annually, before storage

Using Attachments Effectively

Attachments can greatly expand the capabilities of your Craftsman riding mower. Here are some tips on using them effectively:

Make sure you have the right attachment for the job. There are a variety of attachments available, so it’s important to choose the one that’s best suited for your needs.
Read the instructions for the attachment carefully before use. This will help you ensure that you’re using it safely and correctly.
Install the attachment securely. Follow the instructions in the manual to make sure that the attachment is properly installed and secured.
Start the mower and engage the attachment. Most attachments are engaged by pulling a lever or pushing a button.
Operate the attachment according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help you achieve the best results and avoid damaging the attachment or the mower.
Disengage the attachment when you’re finished using it. This will help prevent the attachment from damaging the mower or yourself.
Clean and store the attachment properly. This will help keep the attachment in good working condition and extend its lifespan.
Here is a table summarizing the steps to use attachments effectively:

Step	Description
1	Select the appropriate attachment for the task.
2	Read the instructions for the attachment carefully.
3	Install the attachment securely.
4	Start the mower and engage the attachment.
5	Operate the attachment according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6	Disengage the attachment when finished using it.
7	Clean and store the attachment properly.

By following these tips, you can use attachments effectively to improve the performance and versatility of your Craftsman riding mower.
Always be careful about the attachments’ safety design. Ensure all the safety features for the attachment you used are in a good condition.
Do regular maintenance for your mower and the attachment. It will prolong the life of your mower and the attachment. Make sure the attachment is free from any deformation, crack, corrosion, or other damages.

How to Start a Craftsman Riding Mower

Starting a Craftsman riding mower is a simple process that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can ensure that your mower starts quickly and easily every time.

Place the mower on a level surface. This will help to prevent the mower from tipping over when you start it.
Engage the parking brake. This will help to keep the mower from moving when you start it.
Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the “on” position. The engine should start after a few seconds.
Release the parking brake. The mower will now be ready to use.