Craftsman BRUSH GUARD 486.246283

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Overview

Function Description
Important Technical Specifications
Usage Features
Maintenance Features

This document is an operator's manual for a Craftsman Brush Guard, Model No. 486.246283. It provides comprehensive information regarding the assembly, operation, maintenance, and parts of the brush guard.

Function Description:

The Craftsman Brush Guard is an accessory designed to be attached to a tractor, likely a riding lawn mower or garden tractor, to protect its front end. Its primary function is to shield the tractor's hood and other front components from brush, debris, and minor impacts during operation. The brush guard features a tilting mechanism, allowing it to be moved out of the way for tasks such as raising the tractor hood for maintenance or access. When not needed, it can be locked into an upright position.

Important Technical Specifications:

The manual outlines the specific hardware required for assembly, which includes various bolts, washers, nuts, and springs. Key components of the brush guard assembly are:

Brush Guard Assembly (Part No. 421265): The main protective structure.
Latch (Part No. 66696): A mechanism for securing the brush guard in its upright or down position.
Frame Brace (Part No. 26729): Components that connect the brush guard to the tractor frame.
Hardware: A variety of fasteners are used, including:
- Carriage Bolt, 3/8-16 x 1" (Part No. 43350)
- Hex Bolt, 3/8-16 x 1" (Part No. 43001)
- Hex Bolt, 1/4-20 x 1-1/4" (Part No. 1509-90)
- Shoulder Bolt, 3/8-16 (Part No. 48106)
- Washers: 3/8" (Part No. 43070), 1/2" (.5312 x 1 x .0598") (Part No. R19171616)
- Nuts: Whizlock Nut, 3/8" (Part No. 44072), Lock Nut, 3/8" (Part No. 43082), Hex Nut (SIMS), 1/4" (Part No. 46978)
- Springs (Part No. 42117)
Shroud (Part No. 422754) and End Cap (Part No. 422752): Likely decorative or protective covers for parts of the brush guard.
Rivet (Part No. C-9M5732): Used in some assembly steps.

The assembly process requires specific tools:

Two 7/16" wrenches
Two 9/16" wrenches
One 3/4" wrench

Usage Features:

The brush guard is designed for ease of use with a tilting feature.

Tilting Mechanism: To raise the tractor hood, the brush guard can be tilted down. This involves pushing lightly on the top of the bumper, pulling the latch located under the front of the bumper, and then pulling the bumper down.
Locking Mechanism: To secure the brush guard in its upright position, it is simply pushed up until the latch locks it into place.
Safety: The manual emphasizes safety, advising users to refer to their tractor owner's manual for "Rules For Safe Operation" and to allow the engine muffler to cool down before installation due to high temperatures.

Maintenance Features:

While the manual does not detail specific maintenance procedures for the brush guard itself, it implies that the brush guard is designed to be durable and withstand normal use. The "Parts" section of the manual, which includes a detailed exploded view and parts list, facilitates easy identification and ordering of replacement parts should any component become damaged or worn. This ensures that the brush guard can be maintained and repaired over its lifespan, rather than requiring full replacement for minor issues. The Craftsman Full Warranty covers defects in material or workmanship for one year from the date of purchase for residential use (90 days for commercial/rental use), indicating a commitment to product quality and support for repairs. The availability of replacement parts, including various fasteners and structural components, supports the long-term maintainability of the product.