Craftsman 917.273100 2000 Estate find

[larrybl]

I'll get to some pictures of the 917.273100, but for now I was doing research at work and it looks like the Transaxle may give me some trouble. I was able to locate the Operators Manual (L0010518) and the Engine Service Manual (CV22S-75534), but all I can find on the (222-3010L) transaxle is a parts breakdown. Looking for service procedures resulted in a mess of "Not Serviceable" to "It can be serviced but not easily".
I do plan on removing the transaxle at some point in the restore process, so this may make it easier.

 

[KennyP]

Is that a Hydro Gear transaxle?

 

[larrybl]

I believe so. Still at work, but I plan to move it in the shop this weekend for closer looks at things. Here is the .pdf I found.

 

[KennyP]

You might snoop around in here for what you need:
Service & Repair Manuals - Hydro-Gear

 

[larrybl]

Thanks, looks like I'll need the information off the transaxle tag for that site. Making room in the shop this evening so i can move him in here tomorrow.

 

[larrybl]

Making room in the Man Cave to bring this monster in.

So, I pulled the deck to make the tractor smaller to fit in the shop. After blowing the clippings off here is the initial evaluation.

• Craftsman got away from the fully enclosed belt cover, Yaa
• Deck shell looks good except for Shute area damage.
• One plastic shield has a gouge, wonder how that happened. Plastic weld will fix.
• Dent behind the front roller. Rollers look good.
• Bottom is clean.
• One mandrill felt loose, but it looks like the blade bolt is loose.
• Chute side skid is MIA.
• Discharge shoot is missing.

Overall, I think this can be repaired with some welding and parts. Still need to check the pullies. Idlers, belts, and mandrills when I dissemble to get the shell repaired.

 

[larrybl]

Plan to weed whack in the morning, then pressure wash the tractor and let him dry. then bring him into the shop.

 

[ol' stonebreaker]

larry, I have the service and repair manual for the 0500/0750 and 0510 hydrogear I found for the one in my Wheelhorse. It covers everything from adjustments, oil change and overhaul. If it covers your's PM me your email add and I'll see if I can send it to you.
Mike

 

[larrybl]

Pressure washed, and checked things out. Started surprising easy. I tried to move it and it felt like it wanted to but no-go. Dummy me, I forgot to move the free travel lever. Charging the battery again for another try.

 

[larrybl]

It moves!

 

[larrybl]

Just found out this is a 2000 model, can someone update the thread title?

 

[larrybl]

I think the biggest challenge will be fixing the deck. I have a second 50" Craftsman deck but the mounts are different. took a lot of tear down pictures, and PB Blasted all the bolts so to strip down to the shell. Hopefully can find someone that can make this look like my other deck.

 

[KennyP]

I think the biggest challenge will be fixing the deck. I have a second 50" Craftsman deck but the mounts are different. took a lot of tear down pictures, and PB Blasted all the bolts so to strip down to the shell. Hopefully can find someone that can make this look like my other deck.

I fixed the title. Also have a 54" deck that will work under there but it's yellow/orange!

 

[larrybl]

I have paint! Do I need to schedule a road trip? Stripping the deck down as we speak, waiting on shade. On another note I am finding strainge markings on the deck, hood, and engine. Anyone know what these may be for?

 

[KennyP]

I'd have to see more of your lift system to be sure it'll work. It's from a 2005 model!

 

[larrybl]

I only need the shell. Here are the deck pictures before and after removal.

 

[KennyP]

I need to see the tractor lift. Deck looks different.

 

[larrybl]

The only lift points I see atr towards the back. Two brackets that provide the lift, ans a single back point that connects to a ceoss member on the back of the deck.

 

[larrybl]

Mower deck is a shell now. Bearings look good... But I;ll need to drill 4 bolts out.

 

[KennyP]

I think it would fit. I can look up the parts manual for yours to be sure.