Altering the pushed wheels on a Craftsman 917.370440 garden tractor restores the machine’s capacity to self-propel. This entails eradicating the outdated, worn, or broken wheels and putting in new ones. This course of sometimes requires fundamental hand instruments and might typically be accomplished by the proprietor.
Practical drive wheels are important for the correct operation of a self-propelled garden tractor. With out them, the tractor can’t transfer ahead or backward underneath its personal energy, making mowing a tough and strenuous process. Restoring this performance via wheel alternative contributes considerably to the convenience of garden upkeep and extends the usable lifetime of the machine. Over time, drive wheels put on down, lose traction, or turn into broken. This part’s design has advanced alongside developments in garden tractor know-how to enhance sturdiness and efficiency.
The next sections will element the process for changing the drive wheels on a Craftsman 917.370440, together with vital instruments, security precautions, step-by-step directions, and troubleshooting suggestions.
1. Appropriate Wheel Identification
Appropriate wheel identification is paramount for profitable drive wheel alternative on a Craftsman 917.370440 garden tractor. Utilizing incorrect wheels can result in improper perform, untimely put on, and potential injury to different parts. Correct identification ensures compatibility with the tractor’s drive system and general efficiency.
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Figuring out Wheel Dimension and Kind
The Craftsman 917.370440 requires particular wheel dimensions and tread patterns. These specs guarantee correct floor clearance, traction, and compatibility with the transmission. Data concerning the right wheel dimension and kind might be discovered within the proprietor’s guide or by consulting a elements retailer. Utilizing incorrect dimensions can result in decreased efficiency and potential injury.
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Figuring out OEM Half Numbers
Unique Tools Producer (OEM) half numbers present essentially the most correct option to establish the right alternative wheels. These numbers guarantee compatibility and high quality. OEM half numbers might be discovered within the proprietor’s guide, on current elements, or via on-line elements catalogs. Utilizing aftermarket wheels with out verifying compatibility can result in fitment points and decreased efficiency.
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Contemplating Tire Tread and Materials
Completely different tire treads and supplies provide various ranges of traction and sturdiness. The suitable tread sample is determined by the everyday terrain and working situations. Selecting the best materials ensures enough put on resistance and longevity. Utilizing incorrect tread patterns or supplies can result in decreased traction and untimely put on.
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Verifying Axle Compatibility
The alternative wheels should be suitable with the axle diameter and keyway of the Craftsman 917.370440. This ensures correct fitment and prevents slippage or injury to the axle. Measurements might be taken from the prevailing wheels and axle to substantiate compatibility. Ignoring axle compatibility can result in set up points and potential security hazards.
Cautious consideration to those elements ensures the chosen alternative wheels are appropriate for the Craftsman 917.370440, facilitating a profitable alternative course of and optimum tractor efficiency. Incorrect wheel choice can compromise the drive system, leading to inefficient operation and potential mechanical points.
2. Correct Instruments and Tools
Using applicable instruments and gear is crucial for environment friendly and damage-free drive wheel alternative on a Craftsman 917.370440 garden tractor. Using incorrect or insufficient instruments can lengthen the method, improve the danger of harm, and probably injury parts. Correct instruments guarantee the duty is accomplished appropriately and effectively.
Particular instruments are required to take away and set up the drive wheels successfully. A jack is important to lift the tractor and supply entry to the wheels. Jack stands are essential for security, guaranteeing the tractor stays secure throughout the process. A lug wrench or socket set with the right dimension is required for eradicating and tightening lug nuts. Penetrating oil might be useful for loosening cussed nuts. A rubber mallet can help with seating the wheels appropriately. Utilizing instruments like a breaker bar as an alternative of a typical wrench might strip lug nuts or injury the wheel hub. Improper jack placement can injury the tractor body. Failure to make use of jack stands creates a big security hazard.
Deciding on the right instruments contributes considerably to the general success of the drive wheel alternative. It minimizes the danger of injury to the tractor and ensures the process is carried out safely and effectively. Applicable instruments permit for correct torque utility to lug nuts, stopping loosening or over-tightening. Additionally they facilitate the removing of cussed parts with out inflicting injury. The proper instruments contribute to a smoother and extra environment friendly course of, minimizing downtime and maximizing the lifespan of the brand new parts. This meticulous method underscores the significance of correct tooling in sustaining the integrity and efficiency of the Craftsman 917.370440.
3. Protected Jacking Procedures
Protected jacking procedures are paramount when changing drive wheels on a Craftsman 917.370440 garden tractor. Elevated stability is crucial to stop accidents throughout part removing and set up. Improper jacking can result in the tractor collapsing, inflicting potential harm and gear injury. Selecting the right jacking factors and using jack stands ensures a safe working atmosphere.
The Craftsman 917.370440’s body options designated jacking factors particularly designed to help the tractor’s weight when lifted. Finding these factors, typically indicated within the proprietor’s guide, is essential for stopping body injury. As soon as the tractor is raised, jack stands present redundant help, safeguarding towards unintended slippage or jack failure. Positioning jack stands on strong, stage floor additional enhances stability. A failure to make use of jack stands might consequence within the tractor falling onto the person performing the restore, resulting in critical harm. Equally, utilizing incorrect jacking factors can deform the body, compromising the tractor’s structural integrity and probably affecting different parts.
Adhering to protected jacking procedures minimizes dangers related to working beneath a raised garden tractor. This follow prevents accidents and ensures the drive wheel alternative course of can proceed safely and effectively. Past the rapid process, understanding and making use of these procedures contribute to general workshop security and accountable gear upkeep. Neglecting these precautions can have vital penalties, impacting each private security and the longevity of the gear.
4. Correct Set up Methods
Correct set up strategies are essential for the profitable alternative of drive wheels on a Craftsman 917.370440 garden tractor. Correct set up ensures the performance and longevity of the drive system, contributing to the general efficiency and lifespan of the machine. Deviation from these strategies can result in rapid or eventual mechanical points, affecting the tractor’s operation and probably inflicting security hazards.
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Securing Lug Nuts with Appropriate Torque
Making use of the right torque to lug nuts is crucial for safe wheel attachment and prevents injury to the wheel studs and hub. Over-tightening can strip threads or warp parts, whereas under-tightening dangers wheel detachment throughout operation. A torque wrench ensures correct tightening in accordance with producer specs. This precision safeguards towards potential wheel detachment, sustaining operational security and stopping untimely put on.
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Correct Key Engagement
Making certain correct engagement of the keyway on the axle with the important thing on the wheel is essential for transmitting energy successfully. A misaligned or improperly seated key could cause slippage, decreasing drive energy and probably damaging the axle or wheel hub. Cautious alignment and a agency press match are important for a safe connection. This safe connection ensures environment friendly energy transmission and prevents untimely part put on.
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Aligning Wheel with Axle
Correct alignment of the wheel with the axle ensures clean operation and minimizes stress on associated parts. Misalignment could cause wobbling, uneven tire put on, and pressure on bearings and different drive practice parts. Cautious visible inspection and adjustment are vital throughout set up. This cautious method maximizes part lifespan and contributes to clean, environment friendly operation of the drive system.
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Verifying Free Rotation
After set up, verifying free wheel rotation is crucial for confirming correct fitment and performance. Any resistance or binding signifies a possible concern with alignment, key engagement, or different parts. Addressing these points earlier than operation prevents additional injury and ensures optimum efficiency. This remaining verify confirms the success of the set up course of and contributes to the general security and longevity of the machine.
Correct execution of those set up strategies ensures the newly put in drive wheels perform appropriately and contribute to the protected and environment friendly operation of the Craftsman 917.370440. Neglecting these procedures can result in a spread of points, compromising the tractor’s efficiency and probably creating security hazards. Diligence in these practices maximizes the lifespan of the parts and contributes to the general reliability of the machine.
5. Safe Key and Axle Match
A safe match between the wheel key and the axle is key to the profitable operation of the Craftsman 917.370440’s drive system after a wheel alternative. This small, typically missed part performs a essential position in transmitting torque from the axle to the wheel, enabling the tractor’s self-propulsion. With out a correctly seated key, the connection between the axle and wheel is compromised, resulting in slippage and inefficient energy switch. This slippage manifests as decreased traction, issue transferring uphill, and extreme put on on each the important thing and the keyway within the axle and wheel hub. In excessive circumstances, a very sheared key can render the tractor motionless.
Contemplate a state of affairs the place a landscaper replaces the drive wheels on their Craftsman 917.370440 however fails to make sure a safe key match. Throughout a mowing job on a slight incline, the wheels start to slide, stopping the tractor from climbing the slope. This slippage not solely reduces effectivity but additionally will increase the danger of the tractor rolling backward, probably making a hazardous state of affairs. One other instance entails a house owner who replaces their drive wheels with out correctly seating the important thing. Over time, the continual slippage wears down the important thing and keyway, finally requiring extra intensive and expensive repairs to the axle and wheel hub. These examples illustrate the sensible significance of guaranteeing a safe key and axle match throughout drive wheel alternative.
Making certain a safe key and axle match is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness and longevity of the drive system following wheel alternative on the Craftsman 917.370440. Neglecting this essential element can result in a spread of points, from decreased efficiency and elevated put on to potential security hazards. A correct match ensures environment friendly energy switch, minimizes part put on, and contributes to the general reliability and security of the machine. This understanding underscores the significance of meticulous consideration to element throughout the alternative course of and highlights the importance of seemingly small parts in sustaining the optimum perform of advanced equipment.
6. Publish-Alternative Testing
Publish-replacement testing is an important remaining step within the means of changing drive wheels on a Craftsman 917.370440 garden tractor. This process verifies the effectiveness of the alternative and ensures the tractor’s drive system capabilities appropriately. Testing identifies any missed points throughout set up, stopping potential injury and guaranteeing protected operation. With out post-replacement testing, underlying issues might go unnoticed, resulting in untimely put on, decreased efficiency, or security hazards.
Contemplate a state of affairs the place a person replaces the drive wheels however neglects post-replacement testing. A unfastened lug nut, missed throughout set up, might work itself free throughout operation, probably inflicting wheel detachment and lack of management. Alternatively, an improperly seated wheel key won’t be instantly obvious however might result in slippage and eventual injury to the axle or wheel hub. Publish-replacement testing serves as a essential verify, mitigating these dangers. A easy check drive, partaking the drive system in each ahead and reverse on a stage floor, can reveal such points earlier than they escalate into extra vital issues. Observing the tractor’s motion for any uncommon vibrations, noises, or slippage offers worthwhile insights into the set up’s success. Additional checks, corresponding to verifying correct lug nut torque and visually inspecting the important thing engagement, add an additional layer of assurance.
Publish-replacement testing, subsequently, represents a essential high quality management measure within the drive wheel alternative course of. It offers a chance to establish and rectify any set up oversights, guaranteeing the long-term performance and security of the Craftsman 917.370440. This follow minimizes the danger of future mechanical points, extends the lifespan of parts, and contributes to the general reliability of the machine. Correct post-replacement testing demonstrates a dedication to thorough upkeep practices, maximizing the return on funding in new parts and guaranteeing the protected and environment friendly operation of the gear.
7. Common Upkeep Practices
Common upkeep practices play a significant position in maximizing the lifespan of drive wheels and associated parts on a Craftsman 917.370440 garden tractor, typically delaying and even stopping the necessity for untimely alternative. Constant maintenance minimizes put on and tear, contributing to optimum efficiency and long-term price financial savings. Neglecting these practices can speed up part degradation, necessitating extra frequent replacements and probably resulting in extra intensive repairs.
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Routine Cleansing
Accrued particles, corresponding to grass clippings, mud, and dust, can speed up put on on drive wheels and axles. Common cleansing removes these abrasive supplies, preserving the integrity of the parts. For instance, neglecting to wash the drive wheels after mowing in moist situations can result in corrosion and untimely tire put on. This seemingly easy follow considerably contributes to the longevity of the drive wheels.
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Lubrication
Correct lubrication of transferring elements inside the drive system, corresponding to axle bearings and bushings, is crucial for minimizing friction and put on. Common lubrication, utilizing the suitable grease, ensures clean operation and extends the lifespan of those parts. Failure to lubricate these elements can result in elevated friction, warmth buildup, and untimely put on, in the end necessitating earlier drive wheel alternative. For example, dry axle bearings can seize, inflicting injury to the axle and requiring pricey repairs.
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Tire Stress Monitoring
Sustaining appropriate tire strain is essential for optimum traction and even put on. Underneath-inflated tires improve rolling resistance, pressure the drive system, and result in uneven put on patterns. Over-inflated tires cut back traction and improve the danger of punctures. Commonly checking and adjusting tire strain ensures correct efficiency and extends tire life. Constant monitoring prevents untimely put on and maintains optimum efficiency of the drive system.
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Inspection for Put on and Injury
Common inspections of the drive wheels and associated parts can establish early indicators of wear and tear, injury, or misalignment. Addressing these points promptly prevents additional injury and extends the lifespan of the parts. For instance, a worn or cracked drive belt, if left unaddressed, can result in slippage and finally full failure, impacting the performance of the drive wheels. Common inspection permits for proactive upkeep, stopping extra intensive repairs and maximizing the lifespan of the parts.
These common upkeep practices contribute considerably to the longevity and efficiency of the drive system on a Craftsman 917.370440 garden tractor. By minimizing put on and tear and addressing potential points proactively, these practices can prolong the intervals between drive wheel replacements, saving money and time whereas guaranteeing optimum gear operation. Neglecting these practices accelerates put on, growing the frequency and value of repairs, in the end decreasing the lifespan of the machine. A proactive method to upkeep ensures the continued dependable efficiency of the tractor and maximizes its usable life.
Continuously Requested Questions
This part addresses widespread inquiries concerning drive wheel alternative on a Craftsman 917.370440 garden tractor. Understanding these features contributes to a profitable alternative course of and ensures optimum tractor efficiency.
Query 1: How can one decide the right dimension and kind of alternative drive wheels for a Craftsman 917.370440?
Consulting the proprietor’s guide or contacting a Sears PartsDirect consultant offers definitive info concerning applicable wheel specs. Measurements from the prevailing wheels may also be used to find out the right dimensions. Utilizing incorrect wheel sizes can adversely have an effect on efficiency and injury the drive system.
Query 2: What instruments are vital for changing drive wheels on this mannequin?
Vital instruments sometimes embrace a jack, jack stands, a lug wrench or socket set (with applicable dimension sockets), penetrating oil, and a rubber mallet. A torque wrench is really useful for guaranteeing correct lug nut tightness. Using incorrect instruments can injury parts or trigger harm.
Query 3: How can one guarantee protected jacking procedures are adopted throughout the alternative course of?
Consulting the proprietor’s guide identifies designated jacking factors. Utilizing jack stands on a stage floor offers important security and stability. By no means work underneath a tractor supported solely by a jack. Ignoring security precautions can result in critical harm.
Query 4: What’s the significance of the important thing within the drive wheel meeting?
The important thing transmits torque from the axle to the wheel, enabling correct drive perform. Making certain its correct engagement is essential for efficient energy transmission. A unfastened or broken key could cause slippage and eventual part failure.
Query 5: What post-replacement checks must be carried out?
Publish-replacement procedures ought to embrace verifying correct lug nut torque, confirming safe key engagement, and testing the drive system in each ahead and reverse on a stage floor. Pay attention for uncommon noises and observe for any vibrations or slippage. Neglecting these checks can result in additional injury or security hazards.
Query 6: How can one prolong the lifespan of newly put in drive wheels?
Common cleansing, lubrication of axle parts, sustaining appropriate tire strain, and periodic inspections for put on or injury contribute considerably to the longevity of drive wheels. These practices decrease put on and tear, maximizing the lifespan of the parts and decreasing the necessity for frequent replacements.
Cautious consideration to those steadily requested questions ensures a profitable drive wheel alternative, contributing to the protected and environment friendly operation of the Craftsman 917.370440.
The subsequent part will present an in depth, step-by-step information for changing the drive wheels on this particular mannequin.
Ideas for Craftsman 917.370440 Drive Wheel Alternative
This part presents sensible steerage to make sure a clean and profitable drive wheel alternative course of. Cautious consideration to those suggestions minimizes potential problems and maximizes the lifespan of the brand new parts.
Tip 1: Safe the Space: Earlier than initiating the process, make sure the garden tractor is parked on a stage floor, the engine is off, the parking brake is engaged, and the secret’s eliminated. This establishes a protected working atmosphere and prevents unintended beginning.
Tip 2: Seek the advice of the Guide: Check with the proprietor’s guide for model-specific directions and security tips. The guide offers essential info concerning jacking factors, torque specs, and part diagrams.
Tip 3: Penetrating Oil Utility: Making use of penetrating oil to the lug nuts a number of hours earlier than removing can considerably ease the method, significantly if they’re rusted or seized. This prevents extreme drive that would injury the studs.
Tip 4: Spend money on High quality Replacements: Choosing high-quality alternative wheels ensures sturdiness and optimum efficiency. Whereas inexpensive options is likely to be tempting, they typically compromise longevity and reliability.
Tip 5: Double-Verify Key Engagement: Prior to completely tightening the lug nuts, visually affirm correct engagement of the wheel key with the axle keyway. This essential step ensures correct energy transmission and prevents slippage.
Tip 6: Torque Wrench Utilization: Make use of a torque wrench when tightening lug nuts. This ensures correct torque utility, stopping over-tightening (which may injury studs) or under-tightening (which dangers wheel detachment).
Tip 7: Publish-Set up Inspection: After set up, conduct an intensive visible inspection of the wheels, axles, and associated parts. Search for any indicators of injury or misalignment. A check drive confirms correct perform and divulges any missed points.
Tip 8: Doc the Course of: Taking pictures or movies throughout the alternative course of can function a worthwhile reference for future upkeep or troubleshooting. This documentation aids in recalling particular steps and part orientations.
Adhering to those suggestions contributes to a profitable drive wheel alternative and ensures the long-term efficiency and security of the Craftsman 917.370440.
The next part offers a concise conclusion summarizing the important thing factors mentioned all through this information.
Conclusion
Profitable drive wheel alternative on a Craftsman 917.370440 garden tractor requires cautious consideration to element, from correct part identification and protected jacking procedures to specific set up strategies and thorough post-replacement testing. Correct device choice and adherence to producer specs are important for guaranteeing the longevity of the brand new parts and the general efficiency of the machine. Understanding the perform of key parts, such because the wheel key and axle keyway, and their significance in energy transmission is essential for reaching a safe and practical drive system. Common upkeep practices, together with cleansing, lubrication, and tire strain monitoring, contribute considerably to maximizing the lifespan of the drive wheels and associated parts.
Correct drive wheel alternative restores important performance to the Craftsman 917.370440, enabling environment friendly and protected garden upkeep. Diligence in following really useful procedures and proactive upkeep practices ensures optimum efficiency and extends the usable lifetime of the machine. This meticulous method to upkeep contributes not solely to the longevity of the gear but additionally to the protection and satisfaction of its operation. Investing effort and time in correct drive wheel alternative and ongoing upkeep represents a dedication to preserving the worth and performance of this worthwhile piece of kit.
