Craftsman 247.887210 User Manual [en, es]

Operator’s Manual

CRRFTSMRN®

21” SELF PROPELLED MOWER

Model No. 247.887210

CAUTION: Before using this product, read this manual and follow ail safety rules and operating instructions.

•MAINTENANCE

•PARTS LIST ESPAÑOL

Sears, Roebuck and Co=, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179, U.S.A.

Visit our website: www.craftsman.com	FORM NO. 769-03781
	4/14/2009

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Warranty Statement.....................................	Page 2	Service and Maintenance.............................	Pages 14-19
Safe Operation Practices.............................	Pages 3-4	Off-Season Storage......................................	Page 20
Slope Guide..................................................	Page 5	Troubie Shooting...........................................	Page 21
Safety Labeis................................................	Page 7	Parts List.......................................................	Page 22-32
Assembiy......................................................	Pages 8-11	Espanoi.........................................................	Page 37
Operation......................................................	Pages 12-13	Service Numbers..........................................	Back Oover

WARRANTY

Craftsman Two Year Limited Warranty

If this Craftsman product fails due to a defect in material or workmanship within two years from the date of purchase, return it to any Sear Sears Service Center, or other Craftsman outlet in the United States for free repair.

This warranty does not include:

•Expendable items which can wear out from normal use within the warranty period, such as rotary mower blades, blade adapters, belt cleaners, and spark plug.

•Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent crankshafts and the failure to operate or maintain the eq ment according to all supplied instructions.

This warranty applies for only 90 days if this product is ever used for commercial or rental purposes. This warranty applies only while this product is used in the United States.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

	PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS				MODEL NUMBER
Engine Oil Type:		SAE 30		Model Number.......................................................
Engine Oil Capacity:		18 ounces		Serial Number........................................................
Fuel:		Unleaded Gasoline		Date of Purchase...................................................
Spark Plug:		Champion® RC12YC		Record the model number, serial number
Engine:		Briggs & Stratton			and date of purchase above

§ Sears Brands, LLC

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

J

	AWARNING			A DANGER
This symbol points out important safety instructions			This machine was built to be operated according to the rules tor
			safe operation in this manual. As with any type of power equipment,
which, if not followed, could endanger the personal
			carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious
safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read
and follow all instructions in this manual before			injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and

attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions
A		could result in serious injury or death.
instructions may result in personal injury. When you see this symbol,
HEED ITS WARNING!
			AWARNING
	AWARNING
		Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle

Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead andcomponents contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to causecause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if operator is not alert to presence of children. Chil­ dren are often attracted to mower and mowing activity. They do not understand the dangers. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

•Keep children out of the mowing area and under watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.

•Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.

•Before and while moving backwards, look behind and down for small children.

•Use extreme care when approaching blind corners, doorways, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure your vision of a child who may run into the mower.

•Keep children away from hot or running engines. They can suffer burns from a hot muffler.

•Never allow children under 14 years old to operate a power mower. Children 14 years old and over should read and understand operation instructions and safety rules in this manual and should be trained and supervised by a adult.

GENERAL OPERATION

•Read this operator’s manual carefully in its entirety before attempting to assemble this machine. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual(s) before operation. Be completely familiar with the controls and the proper use of this machine before operating it. Keep this manual in a safe place for future and regular reference and for ordering replacement parts.

•Be familiar with all controls and their proper operation. Know how to stop the machine and disengage them quickly.

•This machine is a precision piece of power equipment, not a plaything. Therefore, exercise extreme caution at all times. Your unit has been designed to perform one job: to mow grass. Do not use it for any other purpose.

•Never allow children under 14 years old to operate this machine. Chil­ dren 14 years old and over should read and understand the instructions in this manual and should be trained and supervised by a parent.

•Only responsible individuals who are familiar with these rules of safe operation should be allowed to use this machine.

•Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys and other foreign objects which could be tripped over or picked up and thrown by the blade. Thrown objects can cause serious personal injury.

•Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of material toward roads,

sidewalks, bystanders and the like. Also, avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction which may cause discharged material to ricochet back toward the operator.

To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury, stay in operator zone behind handles and keep children, bystanders, helpers, and pets at least 75 feet from mower while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters area.

Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during operation and while performing an adjustment or repair to protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can cause serious injury to the eyes.

Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover the arms and legs and steel-toed shoes

are recommended. Never operate this machine in bare feet, sandals, slippery or light weight (e.g. canvas) shoes.

Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under cutting deck. Contact with blade can amputate hands and feet.

A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade contact or thrown object injuries.

Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being pulled over the foot during a fall caused by slipping or tripping. Do not hold on to the mower if you are falling; release the handle immediately.

Never pull the mower back toward you while you are walking. If you must back the mower away from a wall or obstruction first look down and behind to avoid tripping and then follow these steps:

a.Step back from mower to fully extend your arms.

b.Be sure you are well balanced with sure footing.

c.Pull back slowly, no more than half way towards you.

d.Repeat these steps as needed.

Do not operate the mower while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on units so equipped while starting engine.

The blade control handle is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass its operation. Doing so makes the safety device inoperative and may result in personal injury through contact with the rotating blade. The blade control handle must operate easily in both directions and automatically return to the disengaged position when released.

Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal injury. If you feel you are losing your footing, release the blade control handle immediately and the blade will stop rotating within three seconds.

Mow only in daylight or good artificial light. Walk, never run. Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walks or roads.

SAFETY INSTRUCTION

I

	•	If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine and	lock-open device.
		check immediately for the cause. Vibration is generally a warning of	Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources
		trouble.	of ignition.
	•	Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to a complete stop	Never fuel machine indoors because flammable vapors will accumu­
		before removing the grass catcher or unclogging the chute.	late in the area.
		The cutting blade continues to rotate for a few seconds after the engine	Never remove gas cap or add fuel while engine is hot or running.
		is shut off. Never place any part of the body in the blade area until you
			Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before refueling.
		are sure the blade has stopped rotating.
			Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than 1 inch below bottom
	•	Never operate mower without proper trailshield, discharge cover, grass
			of filler neck to provide for fuel expansion.
		catcher, blade control handle, or other safety protective devices in place
			Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.
		and working. Never operate mower with damaged safety devices. Failure
			If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and equipment. Move unit
		to do so can result in personal injury.
			to another area. Wait 5 minutes before starting engine.
	•	Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do not touch.
			Never store the machine or fuel container near an open flame, spark
	•	Only use parts and accessories made for this machine by manufacturer.
			or pilot light as on a water heater, space heater, furnace, clothes dryer,
		Failure to do so can result in personal injury.
			or other gas appliances.
	•	When starting engine, pull cord slowly until resistance is felt, then pull
			To reduce fire hazard, keep mower free of grass, leaves, or other
		rapidly. Rapid retraction of starter cord (kickback) will pull hand and
			debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage and remove any fuel
		arm toward engine faster than you can let go. Broken bones, fractures,
			soaked debris.
		bruises or sprains could result.
			Allow a mower to cool at least 5 minutes before storing.

•If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use care and

		good judgment. Contact your Sears Service Center for assistance.	General Service:
				Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Engine
	SLOPE OPERATION
				exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.
	Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents which can result in			Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain the blade and
	severe injury. Operation on slopes requires extra caution. If you feel uneasy on
				all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire and
	a slope, do not mow it. For your safety, use the slope gauge included as part
				ground against the engine to prevent unintended starting.
	of this manual to measure slopes before operating this unit on a sloped or hilly
				Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at frequent intervals
	area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees, do not mow it.
				for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade for damage (e.g.,
	Do:
				bent, cracked, worn) Replace blade with the original equipment
	•	Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down. Exercise extreme
				manufacture’s (O.E.M.) blade only, listed in this manual. “Use of parts
		caution when changing direction on slopes.
				which do not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to
	•	Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or bumps which can cause
				improper performance and compromise safety!”
		you to slip or trip. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
			•	Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade or wear gloves,
	•
		Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal		and use extra caution when servicing them.
		injury. If you feel you are losing your balance, release the blade control
			•	Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in
		handle immediately, and the blade will stop rotating within 3 seconds.
				safe working condition.
	Do Not:
			•	Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation
	•	Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments, where you could
				regularly.
		lose your footing or balance.
			•	After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect the spark

•Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as shown on the

	slope gauge.		plug wire and ground against the engine. Thoroughly inspect the
			mower for any damage. Repair the damage before starting and
•	Do not mow on wet grass. Unstable footing could cause slipping.
			operating the mower.
SERVICE
		•	Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height adjustment while the
Safe Handling Of Gasoline:			engine is running.
•	To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme care in	•	Grass catcher components, discharge cover, and trailshield are

	handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are	subject to wear and damage which could expose moving parts or
		allow objects to be thrown. For safety protection, frequently check
	explosive. Serious personal injury can occur when gasoline is spilled on
		components and replace immediately with original equipment
	yourself or your clothes which can ignite. Wash your skin and change
		manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) parts only, listed in this manual. “Use of parts
	clothes immediately.
		which do not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to

•Use only an approved gasoline container.

	•	Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with a		improper performance and compromise safety!”
			•	Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed the engine.
		plastic liner. Always place containers on the ground away from your
				The governor controls the maximum safe operating speed of the
		vehicle before filling.
				engine. Do not crank engine with spark plug removed.
	•	Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on
		the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel such equipment on a trailer •		Check fuel line, tank, cap, and fittings frequently for cracks or leaks.
		with a portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.		Replace if necessary.
			•	Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as necessary.
	•	Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container
			•	Observe proper disposal laws and regulations. Improper disposal of
		opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle
				fluids and materials can harm the environment.
	Your Responsibility: Restrict the use of this power machine to persons whounderstand,read,				and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the
	machine.

SLOPE GUIO

Use this page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate safely. Do not operate the lawn mower on such slopes.

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AWARNING

This symbol points out important safety instructions which, it not followed, could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yours others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructio result in personal injury. When you see this symbol, HEED ITS WARNING!

This page left intentionally blank.

SAFETY LABELS

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INJURY, DO NOT

OPERATE UNLESS DISCHARGE C6VER OR

GRASS CATCHER IS IN ITS PROPER PLACE.

IF DAMAGED, REPLACE IMMEDIATELY.

KEEP HANDS and FEET AWAY

AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH

•KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY FROM ROTATING PARTS.

•REMOVE OBJECTS THAT CAN BE THROWN

BY THE BLADE IN ANY DIRECTION.

WEAR SAFETY GLASSES.

•DO NOT MOW WHEN CHILDREN OR OTHERS ARE AROUND.

•USE EHRA CAUTION ON SLOPES. DO NOT MOW SLOPES GREATER THAN 15°. MOW ACROSS NEVB UPANDDOWN. NEVER PULL MOWER CLOSE TO YOUR FEET. LOOK DOWN AND BEHIND BEFORE

AND WHILE MOVING BACKWARDS.

Si

READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL . KEEP SAFETY DEVICES (BLADE CONTROL. TRAILING SHIELD. DISCHARGE COVER, ETC.) IN PLACE AND WORKING. IF DAMAGED, REPLACE IMMEDIATELY.

CAUTION: Charge the battery for 8-10 hours prior to FIRST use. Failure to do so may result in diminished battery iife.

DO NOT CHARGE FOR MORE THAN 12 HOURS

I

	ASSEMBLY
IMPORTANT: This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil in the engine.
Be certain to service engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in the
Operation section before starting or running your machine.
NOTE: Reference to right and left hand side of the Lawn Mower is
observed from the operating position.
OPENING CARTON
1. Cut each corner of the carton vertically from top to bottom.
2. Remove all loose parts.
3. Remove loose packing material.
REMOVING UNIT FROM CARTON
1. Lift unit from the rear to detach it from underlying carton material
and roll unit out of carton.
2. Check carton thoroughly for any other loose parts.
LOOSE PARTS IN CARTON		Figure 1
Grass Catcher
Grass Catcher Adapter
Side Discharge Chute
Hardware Pack
Engine Cil
ASSEMBLY
Attaching The Handle
1. Remove any packing material which may be between upper and
lower handles.
a. Pull up and back on upper handle as shown in Figure 1.
Make certain the lower handle is seated securely into the
handle mounting brackets. Do not crimp cables while lifting
the handle up.
b. Tighten star knobs to secure upper handle to lower handle.
Make sure that each carriage bolt is seated properly in the
handle.
2. Locate the hairpin clip on the weld pin on each side of lower
handle.
a. Remove hairpin clip from this hole. Using a pair of pliers,
insert hairpin clip into the hole on pin closest to the bracket.
See Figure 2. Repeat on other side.
b. Insert a carriage bolt from the hardware pack into the upper
hole on the handle mounting bracket. Secure with one plastic
wing nut, also included in the hardware pack. Repeat on
other side with remaining items from hardware pack.
NOTE: Make certain the drive cable is routed around the outside and
above the lower handle so it does not interfere with attaching the grass
bag. The chute door has been designed to move the starter rope out of
the way of the bag when the chute door is opened.

ASSEMBLY

3.The rope guide, which is connected to the support rod, is located on the right side of the lower handle. See Figure 3.

a.Hold blade control against upper handle.

b.Pull starter rope out of the engine. Release blade control.

c.Slip starter rope into rope guide.

4.Attach cables to the lower handle with the cable ties already on the lower handle. Insert pegs on cable ties into the holes on the lower handle. See Figure 4. Pull cable ties tight and cut off the extra.

Attaching the Grass Catcher

The mower was shipped with the mulching baffle installed on the unit. For bagging purposes, you will have to attach the grass bag and its adapter in place of the mulching baffle.

1.Remove three wing nuts holding the mulching baffle in place and remove from unit. See Figure 5.

2.Replace with grass bag adapter, while making sure the front lip of adapter goes under the edge of the deck. Secure with wing nuts

3.Lift chute door on the grass bag adapter and slide grass bag ontor the adapter. See Figure 6.previously removed.

r

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

ASSEMBLY

ADJUSTMENTS

Cutting Height

The cutting height adjustment lever is located above the rear left wheel. See Figure 7A insert.

1.Pull lever out and away from mower.

2.Move lever forward or back for desired cutting height.

3.Release lever towards mower deck.

The front wheel cutting height is determined by selecting one of six positions on each caster assembly. To adjust front cutting height, refer to Figure 7B and proceed as follows:

1. Remove wing nut from axle bolt.					i
Slide axle bolt and wave washer
from the assembly and select a	1
cutting height.
		L
2. With wave washer on axle bolt,
reinsert hardware in the square					i
hole desired through wheel
assembly and secure with wing
			O H
nut previously removed.

IMPORTANT: All wheels must be placed in the same relative position. For rough or uneven lawns, move the height adjustment lever to a higher position. This will stop scalping of grass.

The casters can be locked in a straight ahead position or position to swivel freely. See Figure 7C insert.

1.Lift lock pins.

2.Place in larger holes to lock wheels. Place pins in smaller holes to allow casters to rotate freely for turning.

Drive Control

The adjustment wheel is located in the drive control handle housing and is used to tighten or loosen the drive belt. You will have to adjust the drive control it any of the following happens:

1.The mower does not propel itself with the drive control engaged.

2.The mower’s drive wheels hesitate with the drive control engaged. If either of these conditions occur, rotate the adjustment wheel clockwise to tighten and counter-clockwise to loosen cable to adjust the drive control. See Figure 8.

NOTE: For some people the drive control may not be in a comfortable position. You can adjust the handle by tightening the adjustment wheel.

10

Your mower is shipped as a mulcher. To discharge the grass clippings to the side instead, follow the instructions in the Assembly section to attach the side discharge chute.

AWARNING

Keep hands and feet away from the chute area on cutting deck. Refer to warning label on the unit.

RECOIL STARTER

The recoil starter is connected to the support rod and is located on the right side of the lower handle. Stand behind the unit and pull the recoil starter rope to start the unit.

GAS CAP

OPERATION

The blade control is attached to the upper handle of the mower. SeeThe electric start ignition key is located on the left side of the handle Figure 9. Depress and squeeze it against the upper handle to operatepanel. It is used only for the electric starter.

the unit. Release it to stop engine and blade. SIDE DISCHARGE CHUTE

AWARNING

This blade control is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass its operations.

CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

LEVER

The cutting height adjustment lever is located above the left rear wheel. To adjust the cutting height, refer to the Assembly section.

DRIVE CONTROL

The drive control is located on the upper handle. Squeeze the drive

control to engage the drive system. Release it to disengage the driveRemove the gas cap to add fuel to the fuel tank. Use clean, fresh,

system.	regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane.
SHIFT LEVER	SPARK PLUG
The shift lever is located on the drive control housing on the upper	Refer to the Maintenance section for instructions on spark plug
handle. This lever is used to select the forward speed of the mower. replacement.
When changing speed selection, release the drive control.	OIL CAP/DIPSTICK

IMPORTANT: Move the shift lever only when the engine is running. Refer to the Maintenance section for instructions on checking the oil. Changing the shift lever setting with the engine off can damage the

mower.

11

TO START ENGINE

OPERATION

GAS AND OIL FILL-UP

Oil (one bottle shipped with unit)

First Time Use

1.Remove oil fill dipstick.

2.With the lawn mower on level ground, use a funnel to empty entire contents of oil bottle provided into the engine.

3.Replace oil fill dipstick and tighten.

Subsequent Uses

Only use high quality detergent oil rated with API service classification SR SG, SH, or SJ. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade according to the expected operating temperature. Follow the chart below.

	/bolder-	■ 32T	-WarmeA
	5W30	SAE30
	Oil Viscosity Chart
	Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30,10W30, etc.) improve starting				A CAUTION
	in cold weather, they will result in increased oil consumption when			To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before
	used above 32°F. Check your engine oil level more frequently to avoid
	possible engine damage from running low on oil. See Figure 9.			storage for 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the engine
				and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use
	1. Check the oil level before each operation making certain not
				fresh fuel next season. See STORAGE Instructions for additional
	to rub the dipstick along the inside walls of the oil fill tube and			information.
	without screwing it in. This would result in a false dipstick
					A CAUTION
	reading. Refill to FULL mark on dipstick, it necessary. Capacity

is approximately 18 oz. Cverfilling will cause the engine to smokeNever use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or profusely and will result in poor engine performance. permanent damage may occur.

	2. Replace oil fill dipstick and tighten.
	3. Keep oil level at FULL. Running the engine with too little oil can				AWARNING
	result in permanent engine damage.			Be sure no one other than the operator is standing near the lawn
	Gasoline
				mower while starting engine or operating mower. Never run engine
		AWARNING		indoors or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas. Engine exhaust
				contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas. Keep hands,
	Use extreme care when handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely
	flammable and the vapors are explosive. Never fuel machine indoorsfeet, hair and loose clothing away from any moving parts on engine
	or while the engine is hot or running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars,			and lawn mower.

pipes, and other sources of ignition.

1.Remove fuel cap from the fuel tank.

2.Make sure the container from which you will pour the gasoline is1. clean and free from rust or foreign particles. Never use gasoline2. that may be stale from long periods of storage in its container. 3.

Gasoline that has been sitting for any period longer than four

weeks should be considered stale.

4.

3.Fill fuel tank with clean, fresh, unleaded regular gasoline only. Do

not use gasoline containing METHANCL. Replace fuel cap.

5.

A CAUTION

Use of alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and forma­ tion of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage.__________________________

Attach spark plug wire and rubber boot to spark plug. Gas tank should be at least 3/4 full before starting.

Push primer button 3 times. Do not prime on hot days or to restart a warm engine after a short shutdown. See Figure 10.

Standing behind the mower, depress the blade control and hold it against the upper handle. See Figure 10.

This mower has two separate starting systems, electric and recoil. Electric Start: Turn ignition key to the right to start the engine. Release the key after the engine starts.

Recoil Start: Grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly until engine reaches start of compression cycle (rope will pull slightly harder at this point). Let the rope rewind slowly. Pull rope with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke. Keeping a firm grip on the starter handle, let the rope rewind slowly.

12

AWARNING

OPERATION

TO STOP ENGINE

1.Release blade control to stop the engine and blade.

2.Disconnect spark plug wire and ground It to the retaining post to prevent accidental starting while the equipment Is unattended.

AWARNING

Walt for the blade to stop completely before performing any work on the mower or to remove the side discharge chute.

USING YOUR LAWN MOWER

Be sure lawn Is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other objects which could damage lawn mower or engine. Such objects could be accidently thrown by the mower In any direction and cause serious personal Injury to the operator and others.

1.Once the engine Is running, squeeze the drive control against the upper handle to propel mower. Release It to disengage the drive.

2.Use the shift lever to select the forward speed of the mower -1 is the slowest speed, 6 is the fastest. When changing speed selection, release the drive control.

IMPORTANT: Move the shift lever only when the engine is running. Changing the shift lever setting with the engine off can damage the mower.

AWARNING

If you strike a foreign object, stop the engine. Remove wire from the spark plug, thoroughly inspect mower for any damage, and repair damage before restarting and operating. Extensive vibration of mower during operation is an indication of damage. The unit should be promptly inspected and repaired.

USING GRASS CATCHER

You can use the grass catcher bag to collect clippings while you are operating the mower.

1.Attach grass catcher following instructions in the Assembly section. Grass clippings will automatically collect in the bag as you run the mower.

2.Operate the mower till the grass bag is full.

3.Stop engine completely by releasing the blade control. Make sure that the unit has come to a complete stop.

4.While holding the grass bag by both the rear handle and the lower handle, lift the grass bag straight up off the adapter. The chute door will move the rope out of the way of the bag.

5. Continuing to hold the lower handle, raise the rear of the grass

bag and release the lower handle over a proper receptacle. The The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects being grass bag will open and the grass clippings will disperse. When thrown into the eyes, which can damage your eyes severely. Always

replacing the grass bag, be sure the top of the bag rests on the	wear safety glasses while operating the mower, or while performing
wire support between the handles.	any adjustments or repairs on it.

USING SIDE DISCHARGE

Follow steps below to install the side discharge chute:	USING AS MULCHER
1. Remove mulching baffle or grass bag adapter from unit by	For mulching grass, remove the grass catcher or the side discharge
disconnecting wing nuts.	chute from the mower, and reattach the mulching baffle. Refer to page
	9 of Assembly section. For effective mulching, do not cut wet grass. If
2. Attach side discharge chute to unit and secure with the three wing
nuts. See Figure 11.	the grass has been allowed to grow in excess of four inches, mulching
	is not recommended. Use the grass catcher to bag clippings instead.

13

A CAUTION

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

AWARNING

Always stop engine, disconnect spark plug wire, and ground against engine before performing any type of maintenance on your machine.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

•Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance.

•The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from warranty, operator must maintain the equipment as instructed here.

•Changing of engine-governed speed will void engine warranty.

•All adjustments should be checked at least once each season.

•Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these are tight.

ENGINE MAINTENANCE

Checking the Spark Plug

Clean spark plug and reset the electrode gap to 0.030” at least once a season; replace every 100 hours of operation.

•Clean area around the spark plug base. Do not sandblast spark plug. Spark plug should be cleaned by scraping or wire brushing and washing with a commercial solvent.

•Remove and inspect the spark plug. Check gap to make sure it is set at .030”. See Figure 12.

•Replace the spark plug it electrodes are pitted, burned, or the porcelain is cracked.

Servicing the Air Cleaner

A CAUTION

Do not use pressurized air or solvents to clean the air cleaner cartridge.

The air cleaner prevents damaging dirt, dust, etc., from entering the carburetor and being forced into the engine and is important to engine life and performance. Never run the engine without an air cleaner completely assembled.

Clean or replace the air cleaner every 25 hours of operation.

1.Loosen screws that hold the air filter cover.

2. Open cover and remove cartridge. See Figure 13.

3.Install new air cleaner cartridge. Cartridge must fit securely in

		base.	After servicing the air cleaner, be sure all the removed parts are
			reinstalled properly in place. Failure to securely fasten together air
	4.	Place cover over air cleaner.
			cleaner case and air cleaner body may cause dirt or other foreign
	5.	Tighten screws.
			materials to enter the engine while it is running, resulting in engine
	NOTE: If the filter is torn or damaged in any way, replace it.
			troubles or failures.

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A CAUTION

A CAUTION

Used oil is a hazardous waste product. Dispose of used oil properly. Do not use water to clean engine parts. Water could contaminate fuel Do not discard with household waste. Check with your local authori­ system. Use a brush ordry cloth.

ties or Sears Service Center for safe disposal/recycling facilities.

Carburetor Adjustment

The carburetor on this engine is not adjustable.

Engine Speed

AWARNING

Do not tamper with the governor setting or the carburetor setting to increase the engine speed. Each carburetor is adjusted at the factory with either a cap or stop plate installed on the mixture screw. Any adjustments must be performed by a Sears or other qualified service dealer.

Temperature of muffler and nearby engine areas may exceed 150° F (65°C). Avoid contact with these areas.

Clean Engine

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

Check Engine Oil

Check oil level before each operation. Be sure oil level is maintained.

	1. Remove oil fill dipstick and wipe clean with cloth.
	2. Replace dipstick without screwing it in. Remove and check oil
	level. Level should be at FULL mark.
	3. If needed, add oil slowly - recheck. Do not overfill.					Oil Fill/ Dipstick
	4. Install and tighten dipstick.
		A CAUTION
	Do not overfill. Overfilling with oil may cause the engine to not start,
	hard starting, or engine smoking. If over the FULL mark on the
	dipstick, drain oil to reduce oil level to FULL mark on dipstick.
	Change Engine Oil
	• Only use high quality detergent oil rated with API service					Air Cleaner
	classification SF, SG, SH, or SJ. Select the oil's SAE viscosity
	grade according to the expected operating temperature. Refer to					Figure 14
	Operation section for viscosity chart.
	• Change engine oil after the first eight hours of operation, and			Service Muffler
	every fifty hours thereafter.			• Inspect muffler periodically, and replace if necessary. Replace­
	To Drain Oil
					ment parts for the muffler must be the same and installed in the
	1. Drain the fuel from the tank by running the engine until the fuel				same position as the original parts.
	tank is empty. Be sure the mower is level.
						AWARNING
	2. With engine OFF but still warm, disconnect spark plug wire and

keep it away from spark plug.

3. Tip the mower, keeping the air cleaner above the oil fill. See Figure 14.

4.Remove the dipstick from the engine and pour entire oil contents

•Daily or before every use, clean grass, chaff or accumulated

		from the crank case into an appropriate container.	debris from engine. Keep linkage, spring, and controls clean.
	5.	Put the mower back to its operating position (on all four wheels).
			Keep area around and behind muffler free of any combustible
	6.	Refill with approximately 18 oz. of fresh oil. Fill to FULL line on
			debris.
		dipstick. Do not overfill. Refer to Gas And Oil Fill-Up in Operation	Keeping engine clean allows air movement around engine.
		•
		section.	Engine parts should be kept clean to reduce the risk of overheat­
	7.	•
		Replace oil fill dipstick and tighten.	ing and ignition of accumulated debris.

8.Replace spark plug wire before starting.

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SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

LUBRICATION

AWARNING

Always stop engine, disconnect spark plug, and ground against engine before performing any type of maintenance on your machine.

Blade Control

Lubricate pivot points on the blade control at least once a season with light oil. The blade control must operate freely in both directions. See Figure 15.

Wheels and Casters

Lubricate the wheels and casters at least once a season with light oil (or motor oil). If wheels are removed for any reason, lubricate the axle bolt and inner surface of the wheel with light oil. See Figure 15.

Grass Catcher Adapter

Lubricate the torsion spring and pivot point on each end of the grass catcher adapter door at least once a season with light oil to prevent rust. See Figure 15.

Transmission

The transmission is pre-lubricated and sealed at the factory and does not require lubrication.

CLEANING DECK

Clean underside of the mower deck after each use to prevent build-up of grass clippings or other debris. Follow steps below tor this job.

1.Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain gasoline from lawn mower or place a piece of plastic under the gas cap.

2.Tip mower so that it rests on the housing, keeping the muffler side down. Hold mower firmly.

AWARNING

Never tip the mower more than 90° in any direction and do not leave the mower tipped for any length of time. Oil can drain into the upper part of the engine causing a starting problem.

3.Scrape and clean the underside of the deck with a suitable tool. Do not spray with water.

IMPORTANT: Do not use a pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit. These may cause damage to bearings, or the engine. The use of water will result in shortened life and reduce serviceability.

4.Put the mower back on its wheels on the ground. If you had put

plastic under the gas cap earlier, make sure to remove it now. REPLACING REAR FLAP

To replace rear flap, proceed as follows:

1. Cut off the flat end of the wire rod which secures it to the deck. See Figure 16.

2. Attach the new flap and new rod to the deck, bending the ends of the new rod over to secure to deck.

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SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

ADJUSTING SHIFT LEVER CABLE

Periodic adjustment of the six speed shift cable may be necessary due to normal wear on the cable. Adjustment is needed if all six speeds do not work. The adjustable cable bracket is located on the left side of the mower beside the engine. See Figure 17.

1.Start engine and place shift lever in the sixth speed position.

2.Stop engine and disconnect spark plug wire and ground it against engine.

3.Loosen hex nut which secures the adjustable cable bracket. See Figure 17.

4.Push back on the adjustable cable bracket.

5.Tighten hex nut.

BLADE CARE

AWARNING

When removing the cutting blade for sharpening or replacement, protect your hands with a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the blade.

Periodically inspect the blade adapter tor cracks, especially if you strike a foreign object. Replace when necessary. Follow the steps below for blade service.

1. Disconnect spark plug boot from spark plug. Turn mower on its side making sure that the air filter and the carburetor are facing up.

2. Remove the bolt and the blade bell support which hold the blade and the blade adapter to the engine crankshaft. See Figure 18.

NOTE: When removing the blade, blade adapter, etc., be careful not to remove or lose parts above it associated with the engine pulley.

3.Remove blade and adapter from the crankshaft. See Figure 18.

4.Remove blade from the adapter tor testing balance. Balance the blade on a round shaft screwdriver to check. Remove metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly. When sharpening the blade, follow the original angle of grind. Grind each cutting edge equally to keep the blade balanced.

AWARNING

An unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration when rotating at high speeds. It may cause damage to mower and could break causing personal injury.

5.Lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner surface of the bladeBELT CARE adapter with light oil. Slide the blade adapter onto the engine

crankshaft. Place the blade on the adapter such that the side of NOTE: Several components must be removed in order to change the the blade marked “Bottom” (or with part number) faces the groundmower’s drive belt. See an authorized Sears Service Center to have when the mower is in the operating position. Make sure that theyour belt replaced.

blade is aligned and seated on the blade adapter flanges.

6.Place blade bell support on the blade. Align notches on the blade bell support with small holes in blade.

7.Replace hex bolt and tighten hex bolt to torque: 450 in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.

To ensure safe operation of your mower, periodically check the blade bolt for correct torque.

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SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

REPLACING BATTERY

AWARNING

Batteries contain sulfuric acid which may cause burns. Do not short circuit or mutilate batteries in any way. Do not put batteries in fire as these may burst or release toxic materials.

1.Loosen star knobs securing upper and lower handles and carefully fold the upper handle down toward the lower handle as shown in Figure 19.

2.Remove the two screws securing battery cover to battery housing and place them to the side. See Figure 19.

3.Open battery cover, remove positive and negative leads from battery, remove and replace with new battery. Connect the positive lead to the positive side of the battery pack, then connect the negative side.

NOTE: The battery you have may differ slightly from the one shown in Figure 20. Refer to the Parts List.

IMPORTANT: When replacing battery pack in handle panel, battery pack must be positioned with the positive terminal to the left side and the negative terminal to the right side of panel (Positive terminal is closest to the key switch). See Figure 20. Replacing battery pack incorrectly will cause serious damage.

4.Reattach battery cover to battery housing by securing with the two screws removed earlier, making sure to snap the wire conduit on the left into place on the housing.

5.Fold handles back up and tighten star knobs.

AWARNING

Do not remove the battery pack from the electric starter housing for any reason other than replacement.

Charging Battery

AWARNING

The battery contains corrosive fluid and toxic material; handle with care and keep away from children. Do not puncture, disassemble, mutilate or incinerate the battery. Explosive gases could be vented during charging or discharging. Use in a well ventilated area, away from sources of ignition.

NOTE: The special designed plug on the charger will only tit into the plug on the battery box.

1.Plug the battery charger into the port on the underside of the battery housing. See Figure 21.

2.Insert the battery charger plug into a standard 120 volt household outlet. Charge battery for 8 to 10 hours before initial use. Failure to do so may result in diminished battery life. Do not charge longer than 12 hours. The battery should only need to be charged upon initial setup and after any other extended periods of non-use.

3.After charging, disconnect charger plug from outlet first, then disconnect charger lead from battery.

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