Craftsman T1700 Lawn Tractor Manual

The Craftsman T1700 is a 42-inch riding lawn tractor featuring a 17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 6-speed manual transmission, electric start, adjustable cutting height, mulching capability, and a durable steel frame. Designed for residential use on medium to large lawns, it includes safety features, maintenance guidelines, and operational instructions. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Controls and Operation 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Cutting Deck Adjustment 7. Storage & Winterization 8. Safety Guidelines 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, 42-inch stamped steel cutting deck, 6-speed manual transmission, electric start with key, adjustable seat, cup holder, headlights, and mulching kit compatibility.

Feature	Description
Engine	17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, single-cylinder, OHV
Cutting Width	42 inches
Transmission	6-speed manual, gear drive
Starting System	Electric key start with 12V battery
Cutting Height	Adjustable from 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Fuel Capacity	2.5 gallons
Deck Engagement	Manual lever with PTO
Tires	Front: 15x6.00-6, Rear: 20x10.00-8
Weight	Approximately 450 lbs
Warranty	2-year limited warranty

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Install steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
Attach seat: Mount using provided bolts and washers.
Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Install cutting deck: Align with mounting points and secure with pins.
Check tire pressure: Front 14 PSI, Rear 10 PSI.
Add oil and fuel: Use SAE 30 oil (48 oz) and unleaded gasoline.

WARNING! Tractor is heavy; use assistance during assembly. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting.

Pre-start checklist: Check oil, fuel, tire pressure, and clear area of debris.
Starting: Insert key, set parking brake, engage clutch, turn key to start.
Driving: Release parking brake, select gear (1-6), slowly release clutch.
Mowing: Engage PTO lever to lower deck, adjust speed based on grass conditions.
Stopping: Disengage PTO, set parking brake, turn key off, remove key.

CAUTION! Always operate on level ground. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

Model: Craftsman T1700
Engine: 17.5 HP Briggs & Stratton, 500cc
Cutting Deck: 42-inch stamped steel, 3-blade
Transmission: 6-speed manual, gear drive
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher)
Oil Type: SAE 30 (above 32°F), 10W-30 (below 32°F)
Battery: 12V, 280 CCA
Max Slope: 15 degrees
Turning Radius: 18 inches
Collection: Optional bagger or side discharge

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check tire pressure, oil level, fuel, and for debris
First 5 hours	Change engine oil (break-in period)
Every 25 hours	Change oil, check air filter, inspect blades
Every 50 hours	Replace air filter, check spark plug, lubricate fittings
Every 100 hours	Change transmission fluid, inspect belts
Seasonally	Sharpen blades, check battery, clean deck

Tip: Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Cutting Deck Adjustment

Proper deck adjustment ensures even cutting.

Park on level surface and disengage PTO.
Set cutting height lever to desired position (1.5 to 4 inches).
Check deck level: Measure blade tips front to back (should be within 1/4 inch).
Adjust via front lift rod or rear hangers if uneven.
Sharpen blades annually or when dull; balance after sharpening.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug before adjusting or removing blades.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare tractor for off-season storage.

Clean thoroughly: Remove grass from deck and undercarriage.
Fuel: Add fuel stabilizer and run for 5 minutes, or drain tank completely.
Oil: Change oil and filter.
Battery: Disconnect and store in cool, dry place; charge monthly.
Store in dry, covered area; elevate deck if possible.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank without stabilizer; it may damage engine.

Safety Guidelines

Always follow safety rules to prevent injury.

Read manual completely before operation.
Wear sturdy shoes, eye protection, and long pants.
Clear mowing area of sticks, stones, and debris.
Never carry passengers; keep children and pets away.
Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
Disengage blades before crossing driveways or gravel.
Stop engine and wait for blades to stop before clearing blockages.

DANGER! Rotating blades can cause severe injury. Always exercise caution.

Warranty Information

Craftsman T1700 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials or workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact Craftsman customer service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep original receipt and complete warranty registration.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, empty fuel, bad spark plug	Charge/replace battery; add fuel; check/replace spark plug.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed, clogged deck	Sharpen blades; set throttle to full; clean deck underside.
Excessive vibration	Unbalanced blade, loose parts	Balance or replace blade; tighten bolts and fittings.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old fuel, clogged fuel line	Replace air filter; drain old fuel; clean fuel line.
Belt slipping or breaking	Worn belt, misaligned pulleys	Replace belt; check pulley alignment and tension.

Reset: For electrical issues, disconnect battery for 5 minutes then reconnect.

Service: 1-888-331-4569; www.craftsman.com