Operation Manual
Page 1
... For answers to your questions about this equipment. IMPORTANT: Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this product, Call: ! =800-659-5917 Sears Craftsman Help Line 5 am - 5 pm, Mon - Operator's Manual ® GARDE TRACTOR 28.0 HP,* 54" Mower Electric Start Automatic Transmission Model No. 917.28974 o EspaSol, p. 36 This product has a low emission engine which operates differently from previously built engines. Before you start the engine, read and understand this Owner's Manual.
... For answers to your questions about this equipment. IMPORTANT: Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this product, Call: ! =800-659-5917 Sears Craftsman Help Line 5 am - 5 pm, Mon - Operator's Manual ® GARDE TRACTOR 28.0 HP,* 54" Mower Electric Start Automatic Transmission Model No. 917.28974 o EspaSol, p. 36 This product has a low emission engine which operates differently from previously built engines. Before you start the engine, read and understand this Owner's Manual.
Operation Manual
Page 2
... ofoperatornegligence, including but nottimitedto, electrical and mechanical damage caused by improper storage, failure to use , 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 from the date of the exterior finishes, or product label replacement. This warranty applies only while this tractor is within 30 days...
... ofoperatornegligence, including but nottimitedto, electrical and mechanical damage caused by improper storage, failure to use , 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 from the date of the exterior finishes, or product label replacement. This warranty applies only while this tractor is within 30 days...
Operation Manual
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... handling, I. GENERAL OPERATION • Read, understand, and follow all parts to come to operate the machine. . Stop machine if anyone . Always look down before turning. • Never leave a running machine unat- Shut off blades, set parking brake, stop before cleaning the machine, removing the grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard. , Operate machine only in order to cool before operating or storing the machine. Clean any oil or fuel...
... handling, I. GENERAL OPERATION • Read, understand, and follow all parts to come to operate the machine. . Stop machine if anyone . Always look down before turning. • Never leave a running machine unat- Shut off blades, set parking brake, stop before cleaning the machine, removing the grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard. , Operate machine only in order to cool before operating or storing the machine. Clean any oil or fuel...
Operation Manual
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... behind before operating. Do not use extra caution when servicing them. ° Check brake operation frequently, Adjust and service as necessary. ° Be sure the area is complete. o Keep all times until fueling is clear of grass, leaves, or other than from the truck or trailer and refuel it on a slope. lutely necessary. o Never carry passengers. Replace gas cap and tighten securely. , Remove gas-powered equipment from...
... behind before operating. Do not use extra caution when servicing them. ° Check brake operation frequently, Adjust and service as necessary. ° Be sure the area is complete. o Keep all times until fueling is clear of grass, leaves, or other than from the truck or trailer and refuel it on a slope. lutely necessary. o Never carry passengers. Replace gas cap and tighten securely. , Remove gas-powered equipment from...
Operation Manual
Page 6
... other qualified service center. Sears has over 4.5 million quality parts and accessories. Purchase your nearest Sears service center (See REPAIR PARTS manual). Lbs. If a spark arrester is used on to assemble and maintain your purchase of a new tractor. That's when having a Repair Protection Agreernent can count on or near any unim- phone support from time to come. call anytime day or night, or schedule a service appointment online. W/O Filter: 60...
... other qualified service center. Sears has over 4.5 million quality parts and accessories. Purchase your nearest Sears service center (See REPAIR PARTS manual). Lbs. If a spark arrester is used on to assemble and maintain your purchase of a new tractor. That's when having a Repair Protection Agreernent can count on or near any unim- phone support from time to come. call anytime day or night, or schedule a service appointment online. W/O Filter: 60...
Operation Manual
Page 8
... new tractor has been assembled at 6-10 amps. (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance section of this manual). 4. Check for charging instructions). WARNING: Before starting, read, understand and foIIow all accessible loose parts and parts cartons from the skid. Release parking brake by depressing brake pedal. 3. TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Remove all instructions in seat. 2. Remove mower and packing materials. 4. Sit in the Operation section of this manual...
... new tractor has been assembled at 6-10 amps. (See "BATTERY" in Maintenance section of this manual). 4. Check for charging instructions). WARNING: Before starting, read, understand and foIIow all accessible loose parts and parts cartons from the skid. Release parking brake by depressing brake pedal. 3. TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY A socket wrench set will make assembly easier. Remove all instructions in seat. 2. Remove mower and packing materials. 4. Sit in the Operation section of this manual...
Operation Manual
Page 10
... lever to highest position. 17. Work from locking bracket (L). Conecte e GRO con DEL CHAI combustib If necessary, adjust gauge wheels before operating mower as shown in front mower bracket (H) and secure with washer and retainer spring (J). ! 5, Engage belt tension rod (K) on locking bracket (L), CAUTION: Belt tension rod is spring loaded, Have a tight grip on rear mower bracket (D) and secure with retainer spring (G) through hole in all mower pulley...
... lever to highest position. 17. Work from locking bracket (L). Conecte e GRO con DEL CHAI combustib If necessary, adjust gauge wheels before operating mower as shown in front mower bracket (H) and secure with washer and retainer spring (J). ! 5, Engage belt tension rod (K) on locking bracket (L), CAUTION: Belt tension rod is spring loaded, Have a tight grip on rear mower bracket (D) and secure with retainer spring (G) through hole in all mower pulley...
Operation Manual
Page 11
... factory). ,/Be sure mower deck is in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual). 11 i LAS RUE- See "TO LEVEL MOWER" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual. v' No remaining loose parts in the Operation section of this manual. z" Check wiring. Operate them before operating your new tractor, we wish to -rear for leveling), ,/Check mower and drive belts. CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM After you start the engine. #" Be sure brake system is properly leveled side-to-side...
... factory). ,/Be sure mower deck is in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual). 11 i LAS RUE- See "TO LEVEL MOWER" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual. v' No remaining loose parts in the Operation section of this manual. z" Check wiring. Operate them before operating your new tractor, we wish to -rear for leveling), ,/Check mower and drive belts. CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM After you start the engine. #" Be sure brake system is properly leveled side-to-side...
Operation Manual
Page 13
... to the applicable safety standards of battery. 13 Used for starting and controlling engine speed, (E) ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH - Lsde la cuchilla tede apuntando Mida la distananterior y el )r y el suelo. Locks clutch/ brake pedal into the brake position. (D) THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROLUsed for forward movement of tractor. (L) REVERSE DRIVE PEDAL- Allows operation of tractor. (M) FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Used for the engine and mower. (2:) AMMETER- Je la cuchilla no la punta posteante del tractor. 8" o de calibre _ndole varias de...
... to the applicable safety standards of battery. 13 Used for starting and controlling engine speed, (E) ATTACHMENT CLUTCH SWITCH - Lsde la cuchilla tede apuntando Mida la distananterior y el )r y el suelo. Locks clutch/ brake pedal into the brake position. (D) THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROLUsed for forward movement of tractor. (L) REVERSE DRIVE PEDAL- Allows operation of tractor. (M) FREEWHEEL CONTROL - Used for the engine and mower. (2:) AMMETER- Je la cuchilla no la punta posteante del tractor. 8" o de calibre _ndole varias de...
Operation Manual
Page 17
... mix oil with a minimum of 87 octane. (Use of acids during the engine warm up for one minute for the first time or if the engine has run smoothly. Acidic gas can be done during storage. Reserve Fuel Valve @ Primary TO START ENGINE When starting the engine for transmission to assure fuel freshness. _CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Move attachment clutch to fast position 5. Move throttle control to disengaged position. 4. If engine...
... mix oil with a minimum of 87 octane. (Use of acids during the engine warm up for one minute for the first time or if the engine has run smoothly. Acidic gas can be done during storage. Reserve Fuel Valve @ Primary TO START ENGINE When starting the engine for transmission to assure fuel freshness. _CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Move attachment clutch to fast position 5. Move throttle control to disengaged position. 4. If engine...
Operation Manual
Page 18
... ignition key is in the tractor seat, start engine. that is not running , move throttle control to slow position. Disengage transmission by placing freewheel control in disengaged position (See "TO TRANSPORT" in a more uniform cutting. • When mowing large areas, start engine. Disen_gage parking brake. Drive tractor forward for approximately five feet then backwards for normal operation. MOWING TIPS . See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in cold temperatures (below 32 ° F) the carburetor fuel mixture...
... ignition key is in the tractor seat, start engine. that is not running , move throttle control to slow position. Disengage transmission by placing freewheel control in disengaged position (See "TO TRANSPORT" in a more uniform cutting. • When mowing large areas, start engine. Disen_gage parking brake. Drive tractor forward for approximately five feet then backwards for normal operation. MOWING TIPS . See "TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING" in cold temperatures (below 32 ° F) the carburetor fuel mixture...
Operation Manual
Page 19
..., use only a dry, powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly, 19 A new spark plug and clean air filter assure proper air-fuel mixture and help your tractor. 31At least once a season, check to Maintenance "ENGINE" Section IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the pivot points which have been subjected to be lubricated, use ito de polvo I - G Clean Air Screen i !nsPecl MuffleriSp,ark Arresler N Replace Oil Fitter (l! Replace blades more often when operating under a heavy load or In high ambient...
..., use only a dry, powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly, 19 A new spark plug and clean air filter assure proper air-fuel mixture and help your tractor. 31At least once a season, check to Maintenance "ENGINE" Section IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease the pivot points which have been subjected to be lubricated, use ito de polvo I - G Clean Air Screen i !nsPecl MuffleriSp,ark Arresler N Replace Oil Fitter (l! Replace blades more often when operating under a heavy load or In high ambient...
Operation Manual
Page 20
... depressed, and the attachment clutch control is running with the ignition switch in the ROS "ON" position and the attachment clutch engaged, any maintenance. CHECK OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM - Raise mower to highest position to allow access to stop at 6q0 amperes for normal use. NOTE: The original equipment battery on a level, dry concrete or paved surface, then brake must be serviced. (See "TO CHECK BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of electrolyte...
... depressed, and the attachment clutch control is running with the ignition switch in the ROS "ON" position and the attachment clutch engaged, any maintenance. CHECK OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM - Raise mower to highest position to allow access to stop at 6q0 amperes for normal use. NOTE: The original equipment battery on a level, dry concrete or paved surface, then brake must be serviced. (See "TO CHECK BRAKE" in the Service and Adjustments section of electrolyte...
Operation Manual
Page 21
... possible damage to seals, do not use compressed air or high pressure sprayer to "leak" power. 1. To prevent damage to seals, do not use high quality detergent oil rated with wire brush until the pin is on the drain valve, 5. SAt_ VISCOSITY GRADES ! T_MPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEF'ORE HE-XT OIL CHANGE, V-BELTS Check V-belts for checking level. Oil Drain Valve Closed and __ Locked I ,\ Yellow I:Z X-# ENGINE LUBRICATION % _,-'- ./ "Drain Tube Only use high pressure water or steam to , but...
... possible damage to seals, do not use compressed air or high pressure sprayer to "leak" power. 1. To prevent damage to seals, do not use high quality detergent oil rated with wire brush until the pin is on the drain valve, 5. SAt_ VISCOSITY GRADES ! T_MPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEF'ORE HE-XT OIL CHANGE, V-BELTS Check V-belts for checking level. Oil Drain Valve Closed and __ Locked I ,\ Yellow I:Z X-# ENGINE LUBRICATION % _,-'- ./ "Drain Tube Only use high pressure water or steam to , but...
Operation Manual
Page 22
.... Fuel Filter CLEANING , Clean engine, battery, seat, finish, etc. Clean with automotive type wax. Place new fuel filter in position in fuel line with a blocked grass screen, dirty or plugged cooling fins, and/or cooling shrouds removed will shorten the useful life of operation (more than 100 hours in engine or transmission will cause engine damage due to keep water out. We do not recommend using a garden hose or pressure washer to prevent engine damage from tractor and mower. CLEAN AIR SCREEN Air screen...
.... Fuel Filter CLEANING , Clean engine, battery, seat, finish, etc. Clean with automotive type wax. Place new fuel filter in position in fuel line with a blocked grass screen, dirty or plugged cooling fins, and/or cooling shrouds removed will shorten the useful life of operation (more than 100 hours in engine or transmission will cause engine damage due to keep water out. We do not recommend using a garden hose or pressure washer to prevent engine damage from tractor and mower. CLEAN AIR SCREEN Air screen...
Operation Manual
Page 24
.... Turn tractor steering wheel to other side of this manual, MOVERSE HI ATRAS La direcci6n y est&n controta, adelante y atr_ 1. Disconnect spark plug wire from under right side of tractor. GAGED" position, 2, Lower attachment lift lever to "STOP" and remove key, 4. Disengage belt tension rod (K) from mower - remove retainer spring and washer. 6. TO INSTALL MOWER Follow procedure described in "INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT" in contact with plug. Make sure the blades and all moving parts...
.... Turn tractor steering wheel to other side of this manual, MOVERSE HI ATRAS La direcci6n y est&n controta, adelante y atr_ 1. Disconnect spark plug wire from under right side of tractor. GAGED" position, 2, Lower attachment lift lever to "STOP" and remove key, 4. Disengage belt tension rod (K) from mower - remove retainer spring and washer. 6. TO INSTALL MOWER Follow procedure described in "INSTALL MOWER AND DRIVE BELT" in contact with plug. Make sure the blades and all moving parts...
Operation Manual
Page 27
.... Install belt through stationary idler (C) and clutching idler (D). 6. TO CHECK BRAKE If tractor requires more than five (5) feet to slow leaks, purchase and use tire sealant from batteries. Repair tire and reassemble. Keep sparks, flame and smoking materials away from Sears. Contact a Sears or other qualified service center. BELT INSTALLATION 1. Pull belt toward front of tractor and roll belt around electric clutch and onto engine pulley (G). 3. Make sure belt is set frontwheel toe-in the MAINTENANCE...
.... Install belt through stationary idler (C) and clutching idler (D). 6. TO CHECK BRAKE If tractor requires more than five (5) feet to slow leaks, purchase and use tire sealant from batteries. Repair tire and reassemble. Keep sparks, flame and smoking materials away from Sears. Contact a Sears or other qualified service center. BELT INSTALLATION 1. Pull belt toward front of tractor and roll belt around electric clutch and onto engine pulley (G). 3. Make sure belt is set frontwheel toe-in the MAINTENANCE...
Operation Manual
Page 30
.... INSTALE I ANCEO (_ TRACTOR When tractor is to cool before painting. Remove spark plug(s). 2. WARNING: Never store the tractor with new spark plug(s). Inspect and replace belts, if necessary (See belt replacement instructions in storage. , Empty the fuel tank by starting the en- Inspect moving parts for a few seconds to rust. Touch up all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Allow the engine to be stored for storage. • After a period of time in storage, battery...
.... INSTALE I ANCEO (_ TRACTOR When tractor is to cool before painting. Remove spark plug(s). 2. WARNING: Never store the tractor with new spark plug(s). Inspect and replace belts, if necessary (See belt replacement instructions in storage. , Empty the fuel tank by starting the en- Inspect moving parts for a few seconds to rust. Touch up all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Allow the engine to be stored for storage. • After a period of time in storage, battery...
Operation Manual
Page 32
...Engine continues to Sears service CORRECTION center Engine clicks but will not start Loss of mower housing. 4 Clean/replace air fitter, 5 Low oil fevel/dirty oil. 5 Check oil level/change oil, 6 Faulty spark plug. 7 Dirty fuel filter. 6 Clean and regap or change spark plug, 7 Replace fuel filter. 8 Stale or dirty fuel. 8 Empty fuel tank and refill tank with fresh, clean gasoline. 9 Water in fuel, 10 Spark plug wire loose. 9 Empty fueltank and carburetor, refill tank with Faulty operator-safety presence control system, 1 Check wiring, switches and connections. Tighten blade bolt...
...Engine continues to Sears service CORRECTION center Engine clicks but will not start Loss of mower housing. 4 Clean/replace air fitter, 5 Low oil fevel/dirty oil. 5 Check oil level/change oil, 6 Faulty spark plug. 7 Dirty fuel filter. 6 Clean and regap or change spark plug, 7 Replace fuel filter. 8 Stale or dirty fuel. 8 Empty fuel tank and refill tank with fresh, clean gasoline. 9 Water in fuel, 10 Spark plug wire loose. 9 Empty fueltank and carburetor, refill tank with Faulty operator-safety presence control system, 1 Check wiring, switches and connections. Tighten blade bolt...
Operation Manual
Page 33
...Check/clean allconnections. 3 Faulty regulator (if so equipped). 4 Faut[y alternator. 3 Replace regulator. 4 Replace alternator. 33 Tighten blade bolt 2 Level mower deck. 3 Buildup of grass, leaves, and trash under mower. 8 Mower drive beltworn, 7 Clean underside of mower housing. 8 Replace mower drive belt. 9 Blades improperly installed. 9 Reinstall blades sharp edge down, 10 Improper blades used. 10 Replace with blades listed in clutch mechanism. 3 Clean underside of mower housing. 4 Contact a Sears or other qualified service center, 1 Place throttle control in "FAST" position...
...Check/clean allconnections. 3 Faulty regulator (if so equipped). 4 Faut[y alternator. 3 Replace regulator. 4 Replace alternator. 33 Tighten blade bolt 2 Level mower deck. 3 Buildup of grass, leaves, and trash under mower. 8 Mower drive beltworn, 7 Clean underside of mower housing. 8 Replace mower drive belt. 9 Blades improperly installed. 9 Reinstall blades sharp edge down, 10 Improper blades used. 10 Replace with blades listed in clutch mechanism. 3 Clean underside of mower housing. 4 Contact a Sears or other qualified service center, 1 Place throttle control in "FAST" position...