Craftsman 316240320 Owner’s Manual

Operator's Manual

CRRFTSMRIq

2-Cycle

GAS MINI TILLER

Model No. 316.240320

INCREDI.PULU AU-P

UNBELIEVABLE STARTING EA S E TM

• SAFETY ASSEMBLY

OPERATION

CAUTION: Before using this product, read this manual and foJJow aJJits Safety RuJes and Operating instructions.

Sears Brands Management Corporation, Noffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.

Visit our website: www.craftsman.com

769-07010 P00 11/11

MAINTENANCE PARTS LIST

ESPANOL, R 19

TABLEOFCONTENTS

Safety............................................... 2

Warranty............................................. 5

KnowYourUnit........................................ 6

Specifications......................................... 6

Assembly............................................. 7

OilandFuel........................................... 8

StartingandStopping................................... 9

Operation............................................ 10

Maintenance......................................... 11

CleaningandStorage.................................. 13

Troubleshooting....................................... 14

RepairProtectionAgreements........................... 15

PartsList............................................ 38

ServiceNumbers.............................. BackCover

Allinformation,illustrationsandspecificationsinthismanualarebased onthelatestproductinformationavailableatthetimeofprinting.We reservetherighttomakechangesatanytimewithoutnotice.

Thepurposeofsafetysymbolsistoattractyourattentionto

possibledangers.Thesafetysymbols,andtheirexplanations, deserveyourcarefulattentionandunderstanding.Thesafety warningsdonotbythemselveseliminateanydanger.The instructionsorwarningstheygivearenotsubstitutesforproper accidentpreventionmeasures.

SYMBOL MEANING

DANGER: Signals an EXTREME hazard.

Failure to obey a safety DANGER signal WILL result in serious injury or death to yourself or to others.

WARNING: Signals a SERIOUS hazard.

Failure to obey a safety WARNING signal CAN result in serious injury to yourself or to others.

CAUTION: Signals a MODERATE hazard.

Failure to obey a safety CAUTION signal MAY result in property damage or injury to yourself or to others.

NOTE: Advises you of information or instructions vital to the

operation or maintenance of the equipment.

SPARK ARRESTOR NOTE

NOTE: For users on U.S. Forest Land and in the states of

California, Maine, Oregon and Washington. All U.S. Forest Land and the state of California (Public Resources Codes 4442 and

4443), Oregon and Washington require, by law that certain internal combustion engines operated on forest brush and/or grass-covered areas be equipped with a spark arrestor, maintained in effective working order, or the engine be constructed, equipped and maintained for the prevention of fire. Check with your state or local authorities for regulations pertaining to these requirements. Failure to follow these requirements could subject you to liability or a fine. This unit is factory equipped with a spark arrestor. Replacement requires Muffler Assembly Part #753-06792, installed at a Sears

Parts & Repair Service Center.

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65

WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents and

certain finished components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or

other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

Read the operator's manual and follow all warnings and safety instructions. Failure to do so can result in serious injury to the operator and/or bystanders.

READ ALL iNSTRUCTiONS BEFORE OPERATING

WARNING: When using the unit, all safety rules must be

followed. Please read these instructions before operating the unit in order to ensure the safety of the operator and any bystanders. Please keep these instructions for later use.

Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with the controls and proper use of the unit.

Do not operate this unit when tired, ill or under the influence of

alcohol, drugs or medication.

Children and teens under the age of 15 must not use the unit, except for teens guided by an adult.

All guards and safety attachments must be installed properly

before operating the unit.

Inspect the unit before use. Replace damaged parts. Check for

fuel leaks. Make sure all fasteners are in place and secure.

Replace parts that are cracked, chipped, or damaged in any

way. Do not operate the unit with loose or damaged parts.

Carefully inspect the area before starting the unit. Remove all debris and hard or sharp objects such as glass, wire, etc.

Be aware of the risk of injury to the head, hands and feet.

Clear the area of children, bystanders and pets; keep them outside a 50-foot (15 m) radius, at a minimum. Even then, they are still at risk from thrown objects. Encourage bystanders to wear eye protection. If you are approached, stop the unit

immediately.

Squeeze the throttle control and check that it returns automatically to the idle position. Make all adjustments or

repairs before using the unit.

SAFETY WARNINGS FOR GAS UNITS

_WARNING: Gasoline is highly flammable and its vapors j

• Store fuel only in containers specifically designed and approved

can explode if ignited.Takethe following precautions:

for the storage of such materials. Always stop the engine and allow it to cool before filling the

tank. Never remove the fuel tank cap or add fuel when the engine is hot. Always loosen the fuel tank cap slowly to relieve any pressure in the tank before fueling.

Always mix and add fuel in a clean, well-ventilated outdoor area where there are no sparks or flames. DO NOT smoke.

Never operate the unit without the fuel cap securely in place.

Avoid creating a source of ignition for spilled fuel. Wipe up any spilled fuel from the unit immediately, before starting the unit.

Move the unit at least 30 ft. (9.1 m) from the fueling source and

site before starting the engine. DO NOT smoke.

Never start or run the unit inside a closed room or building. Breathing exhaust fumes can kill. Operate this unit only in a well

ventilated outdoor area.

WHILE OPERATING

Wear safety glasses or goggles that meet ANSi Z87.1-1989 standards and are marked as such. Wear ear/hearing protection when operating this unit. Wear a face or dust mask if the operation is dusty.

Wear heavy long pants, boots, gloves and a long sleeve shirt. Do not wear loose clothing, jewelry, short pants, sandals or go

barefoot. Secure hair above shoulder level.

This unit has a clutch. The tines remain stationary when the

engine is idling. If they do not, take the unit to a Sears or other qualified service dealer for an adjustment.

Be sure the tines are not in contact with anything before starting the unit.

Use the unit only in daylight or good artificial light.

Avoid accidental starting. Be in the starting position whenever

pulling the starter rope. The operator and unit must be in a stable position while starting. Refer to Starting and Stopping.

Use the right tool. Only use this tool for its intended purpose. Use extreme caution when reversing or pulling the unit towards you.

Do not overreach. Always keep proper footing and balance. Take extra care when working on steep slopes or inclines.

Always hold the unit with both hands when operating. Keep a

firm grip on both handles or grips. Keep hands, face, and feet away from all moving parts. Do not

touch or try to stop the tines when they are rotating. Do not touch the engine or muffler. These parts get extremely hot

from operation, even after the unit is turned off. Do not operate the engine faster than the speed needed to cultivate.

Do not run the engine at high speed when you are not cultivating.

Always stop the engine when cultivating is delayed or when walking

from one cultivating location to another. If you strike or become entangled with a foreign object, stop the

engine immediately and check for damage. Do not operate before repairing damage. Do not operate the unit with loose or damaged parts.

Turn the engine to off and disconnect the spark plug for

maintenance or repair. Use only original equipment manufacturer (OEM) replacement

parts and accessories for this unit, as listed in the Parts List section of this manual. Use of any other parts or accessories could lead to serious injury to the user, or damage to the unit, and void the warranty.

Keep the unit clean of vegetation and other materials that may become lodged between the tines and guard.

To reduce fire hazard, replace a faulty muffler and spark arrestor.

Keep the engine and muffler free from grass, leaves, excessive grease or carbon build up.

OTHER SAFETY WARNINGS

Never store the unit with fuel in the tank, inside a building where fumes may reach an open flame (pilot lights, etc.) or sparks (switches, electrical motors, etc.).

Allow the engine to cool before storing or transporting. Be sure

to secure the unit while transporting. Store the unit in a dry place, secured or at a height to prevent

unauthorized use or damage. Keep out of the reach of children. Never douse or squirt the unit with water or any other liquid.

Keep handles dry, clean and free from debris. Clean after each use, see Cleaning and Storage instructions.

Clean tines with a household cleaner to remove any gum buildup. Oil the tines with machine oil to prevent rust.

Keep these instructions. Refer to them often and use them to instruct other users. If you loan this unit to others, also loan

them these instructions.

SAVE THESE iNSTRUCTiONS

o SAFETY & iNTERNATiONAL SYMBOLS o

This operator's manual describes safety and international symbols and pictographs that may appear on this product. Read the operator's manual for complete safety, assembly, operating and maintenance and repair information.

SYMBOL MEANING SYMBOL MEANING

_ • SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL

_]J J J[_ Read the operator's manual(s) and follow all warnings

4t _ - WEAR EYE AND HEARING PROTECTION

_! cause severe eye injury and hearing loss. Wear eye

m _ • UNLEADED FUEL

Indicates danger, warning or caution. May be used in

conjunction with other symbols or pictographs.

'_ WARNING - READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL

and safety instructions. Failure to do so can result in serious injury to the operator and/or bystanders.

WARNING: Thrown objects and loud noise can

protection meeting ANSI Z87.1-1989 standards and

. ear protection when operating this unit. Use a full face

shield when needed.

_ Always use clean fresh unleaded fuel

.aUl

OIL

Refer to operator's manual for the proper type of oil.

• DO NOT USE E85 FUEL iN THIS UNiT

/_ I WARNING: It has been proven that fuel containing

(_ I greater than 10% ethanol will likely damage this \_ I engine and void the warranty.

| I"ON/OFFSTOPCONTROL

| I

• ON/OFF STOP CONTROL

U . OgForSTOP

WARNING: Keep aii bystanders, espeCiallY Chi!dien

, EEP BYSTANDERS AWAY

and Pets, at least 50 feet (!5 m) from the operating area.

_71_ _THROWN OBJECTS AND ROTATING CUTTER CAN

/ :-_L_ CAUSE SEVERE INJURY

_< WARNING: small objects can be pr0peiied at high

speed, causing injury,Keep away from the rotating rotor.

, H0T SURFACE WARNING

Don0t touch a hot muffler or cyl!nder;You may get

burned. These parts get extremely hot from operation.

;_lllll/ll_l_ll),. When turned off they remain hot for a short t me.

_GARDEN CULTIVATORS _ ROTATING TINES CAN

CAUSE SEVERE iNJURY

WARNING: St0p the engine/m0t0r and

tines to stop before installing Or removing tines, or before cleaning Or performing any maintenancel Keep

hands and feet away from rotating tines;

AlwaYS keep proper footing and balance: DO not

@ _ NOSTEP

Overreach, take extra care when working on Steep

slopes or inclines.

, PLACER GHTFooTHERE

[ __-! _ Avoid accidental starting. Stand in the starting position

€_ whenever pulling the starter rope: The operator and Unit "_'_- . must be in a stable position while starting.

_ PRIMER BULB

_] Push prmerbulb fu yandsowly 10tmes

CRAFTSMANTWO YEAR FULL WARRANTY

FOR TWO YEARS from the date of purchase, this product is warranted against any defects in material or workmanship. A defective product will receive free repair or replacement if repair is unavailable.

For warranty coverage details to obtain free repair or replacement, visit the web site: www.craftsman.com This warranty covers ONLY defects in material and workmanship. Warranty coverage does NOT include:

• Expendable items that can wear out from normal use within the warranty period, such as blades, tines or belts. Product damage resulting from user attempts at product modification or repair or caused by product accessories.

Repairs necessary because of accident or failure to operate or maintain the product according to all supplied instructions. Preventive maintenance, or repairs necessary due to improper fuel mixture, contaminated or stale fuel.

This warranty is void if this product is ever used while providing commercial services or if rented to another person. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

Sears Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

FOR IN-WARRANTY SAFETY, OPERATION OR MAINTENANCE QUESTIONS, OR TO ORDER PARTS AND SCHEDULE SERVICE, CALL 1=800=4=MY=HOME®.

APPLiCATiON

• Cultivating sod and light to medium soil Cultivating in garden areas, around trees, etc.

NO ASSEMBLY TOOLS REQUIRED

Air Filter Cover

Throttle Control

On/Off Switch

Upper Handle

Starter

Muffler ope Grip

Handlebar

Knobs

Choke Lever

Primer Bulb

Tine Guard

Tines

FueICap

LowerHandle

Wheel Assembly

Engine Type ....................................................................................... Air-Cooled, 2-Cycle

Displacement ................................................................................................. 25 cc

Idle Speed RPM ...................................................................................... 2,600-3,600 rpm

Operating RPM ........................................................................................... 7,800+ rpm

Clutch Type .............................................................................................. Centrifugal

Spark Plug Gap .................................................................................. 0.025 inch (0.635 mm)

Lubrication ........................................................................................... Fuel/Oil Mixture

Fuel/Oil Ratio .................................................................................................. 40:1

Fuel Tank Capacity .................................................................................. 10 ounces (295 ml)

Cultivating Path Width (Maximum) ...................................................................... 9 inches (22.86 cm)

Cultivating Depth (Maximum) ........................................................................... 5 inches (12.7 cm)

Approximate Weight (no fuel) ............................................................................... 26 Ib (12 kg)

* All specifications are based on the latest product information available at the time of printing. We reserve the right to make changes at any time without notice.

ASSEMBLINGTHE UNiT _-.'_

Begin by carefully unpacking the contents and making sure that nothing is damaged.

INSTALLING AND ADJUSTING THE WHEEL ASSEMBLY

_ WARNING: To prevent serious personal injury, the wheelj

assembly must be installed when operating the unit.

gloves and a long sleeve shirt when installing the wheel

WARNING: To avoid injury from the tines, wear heavy

assembly.

Installing the Wheel Assembly

1. Set the unit on its side (Fig. 1).

2. Insert the wheel assembly into the wheel bracket (Fig. 1).

3. Insert the clevis pin through the wheel bracket and wheel assembly and lock it in place with the cotter pin (Fig. 1).

NOTE: It may be necessary to adjust the position of the wheel

assembly before using the unit.

unit, stop the motor, wait for all moving parts to stop and remove the battery. Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.

WARNING: Before inspecting, cleaning, or servicing the

Adjusting the Wheel Assembly

1. Set the unit on its side (Fig. 1).

2. Remove the cotter pin and the clevis pin from the wheel bracket and wheel assembly (Fig. 1).

3. Adjust the height by moving the wheel assembly along the wheel bracket.

4. Insert the clevis pin through the wheel bracket and assembly and lock it in place with the cotter pin (Fig. 1).

NOTE: Moving the wheel assembly down will raise the wheel height.

Moving the wheel assembly up will lower the wheel height.

Cotter Pir_

Wheel

Bracket

Wheel

Assembb

Fig. 1

Handlebar

Knobs

Fig. 2

Throttle Cable

and Switch Wires

Handlebar Knobs

POSiTiONiNG THE HANDLEBARS

installing the Wheel Assembly

1. Loosen the two knobs on the inside of the handlebars (Fig. 3).

2. With the unit upright, swing the handlebars up into the operating

position (Fig. 2).

NOTE: Take care not to pinch the throttle cable or switch wires

when positioning the handlebar (Fig. 3).

3. Tighten the knobs to secure the handlebars in place (Fig. 3).

NOTE: Do not over tighten the knobs.

4. Readjust the throttle cable and switch wires so they are smooth

and tight against the handlebar assembly. This will help prevent them from catching or snagging during normal operation.

Fig. 3

OiL AND FUEL MiXiNG iNSTRUCTiONS

The use of old and/or improperly mixed fuel is the most common cause of performance problems. Use only fresh, clean unleaded gasoline. Follow the instructions carefully for the proper gasoline/oil mixture.

Definition of Blended Fuels Today's fuels are often a blend of gasoline and oxygenates such as

ethanol, methanol or MTBE (ether). Alcohol-blended fuel absorbs water. As little as 1% water in the fuel can make fuel and oil

separate, forming acids when stored. ALWAYS use fresh fuel (less than 30 days old).

NOTE: Dispose of old fuel according to federal, state and local

regulations.

Using Blended Fuels If using a blended fuel:

• Always use the fresh fuel mix explained in your operator's manual Use the fuel additive STA-BIL® or an equivalent

Always agitate the fuel mix before fueling the unit

Drain the tank and run the engine dry before storing the unit

_ WARNING: DO NOT USE E85 FUEL IN THiS UNIT. It |

Using Fuel Additives

The bottle of 2-cycle oil provided with this unit contains a fuel additive to help inhibit corrosion and minimize gum deposits. Always use the brand of 2-cycle oil that came with this unit. Ifthis is unavailable, use a 2-cycle oil designed for air-cooled engines and mix it with a fuel additive, such as STA-BIL Fuel Stabilizer or an equivalent. Add 0.8 oz. (23 ml) of fuel additive per gallon of fuel, according to the instructions on the container. NEVER add fuel additives directly to the unit's fuel tank.

Mixing the Fuel NOTE: This unit comes with a 3.2 oz. bottle of 2-cycle oil. To obtain

has been proven that fuel containing greater than 10% ethanol will likely damage this engine and void the warranty.

the correct fuel mixture described below, pour the entire bottle

into one gallon of unleaded gasoline.

FUELING THE UNiT

WARNING: Gasoline is extremely flammable. Ignited vapors may explode. Always stop the engine and allow it

to cool before filling the fuel tank. Do not smoke while filling the tank. Keep sparks and open flames at a distance

from the area.

WARNING: Remove the fuel cap slowly to avoid injury

from fuel spray. Never operate the unit without the fuel cap securely in place.

WARNING: Add fuel in a clean, well ventilated outdoor area. Wipe up any spilled fuel immediately. Avoid creating a source of ignition for spilled fuel. Do not start the engine until fuel vapors dissipate.

1. Position the unit with the fuel cap facing up.

2. Remove the fuel cap.

3. Place the fuel container spout into the fill hole on the fuel tank and fill the tank.

NOTE: Do not overfill the tank.

4. Wipe up any fuel that may have spilled.

5. Reinstall the fuel cap.

6. Move the unit at least 30 ft. (9.1 m) from the fuel container and the fueling site before starting the engine.

CAUTION: For proper engine operation and maximum reliability, pay strict attention to the gasoline and oil mixing

instructions on the 2-cycle oil bottle. Using improperly mixed fuel can severely damage the engine.

Thoroughly mix the proper ratio of unleaded gasoline with 2-cycle engine oil. Do not mix them directly in the unit's fuel tank. Use a separate fuel can. Use a 40:1 gasoline/oil ratio. See the table below for specific gasoline and oil mixing ratios.

Unleaded gasoline

1 gallon U.S.

(3.8liters}

1 liter

MIXING RATIO =40:1

2=cycleoil

3.2 ft. oz.

(95ml)

25 rnl

outdoor area. Carbon monoxide exhaust fumes can be

I_IL IWARNING: Operate this unit only in a well-ventilated

lethal in a confined area.

Throttle Control

Stop/Off (O)

On/Off Switch

_L_____[ ARNING: Avoid accidentally starting the unit. To avoid

STARTING INSTRUCTIONS

1. Mix gasoline with oil. Refer to Oil and Fuel Mixing Instructions.

2. Fill the fuel tank. Refer to Fueling the Unit. NOTE: There is no need to turn the unit on. The On/Off switch is in

3. Slowly press and release the primer bulb 10 times (Fig. 5). If fuel

4. Flip the choke lever clockwise until it clicks (Fig. 6).

5. Stand in the starting position (Fig. 7). Hold the handlebar with

NOTE: Always tilt the unit back slightly to bring the tines off the

6. DO NOT squeeze the throttle control (Fig. 4). Pull the starter rope

NOTE: This unit uses the INCREDI-PULL TM starting system, which

7. Idle the engine for 5 to 10 seconds. If the unit stops during this

8. Squeeze and hold the throttle control. Allow the engine to warm

NOTE: The engine is properly warmed up when it accelerates

IF... the engine does not start, go back to step 3. IF... the unit is hot and fails to start within 3 pulls of the starter rope,

serious injury, the operator and the unit must be in a stable position when pulling the starter rope (Fig. 7).

the ON (I) position at all times (Fig. 4).

cannot be seen in the primer bulb, press and release the primer

bulb until fuel is visible.

one hand. Hold the starter rope with the other hand. Use one foot to hold the wheels in place.

ground when starting the unit (Fig. 6).

with a controlled and steady motion until the unit starts.

significantly reduces the effort required to start the engine.

time, squeeze the throttle control and pull the starter rope in a controlled and steady motion until the unit starts.

up for 30 to 60 seconds.

without hesitation.

squeeze the throttle control and pull the starter rope with a controlled and steady motion until the unit starts.

Start/On (I)

Fig.4

Primer Bulb

Fig. 5

Choke Lever

STOPPING INSTRUCTIONS

1. Release the throttle control and allow the engine to idle.

2. Press and hold the On/Off switch in the OFF (O) position until the engine comes to a complete stop (Fig. 4).

Fig. 6

Starting Position

Starter Ro

Throttle

Control

Fig. 7

WARNING: Dress properly to reduce the risk of injury

when operating this unit. Do not wear loose clothing or

jewelry. Wear eye and ear/hearing protection. Wear heavy

long pants, boots and gloves. Do not wear short pants, sandals or operate barefoot.

OPERATING TiPS

1. Move the cultivator to the work area prior to starting the engine. Refer to Moving the Unit.

L_J AUTION: To prevent serious personal injury, never

2. Start the unit as described in the Starting Instructions.

3. With the tines off the ground, squeeze the throttle control to

4. Hold the handlebar firmly with both hands and slowly lower the

5. As cultivating action begins, pull back on the cultivator so that

_ ARNING: To prevent serious personal injury,use extreme

6. Once the ground has been broken, continue at a moderate pace

pick-up or carry the unit while the engine is running.

increase the engine speed.

unit until the tines make contact with the ground (Fig. 8).

the tines can penetrate the ground.

caution when reversing or pulling the unit towards you.

until you are familiar with the controls and the handling of the cultivator.

Pull the cultivator backwards to improve the depth of cultivation

and reduce your effort.

If the tines are digging too deep or not deep enough, adjust

them according to Adjusting -FineDepth.

ADJUSTING THE TINE DEPTH

The tines should penetrate most garden soils approximately 4 to 5 inches. If necessary, adjust the tines as follows:

1. Stop the engine and allow it to cool. Grasp the spark plug wire

firmly and pull the cap from the spark plug.

2. Raise the wheel height for shallower tine penetration or lower

the wheel height for deeper tine penetration. Refer to Adjusting the Wheel Assembly in the Assembly Instructions section.

3. Reconnect the spark plug wire and continue use.

]

Fig. 8

MOVING THE UNiT

stop the engine when operation is delayed or when moving the unit from one location to another.

1. Stop the engine.

2. Tilt the unit back until the tines clear the ground.

3. Push or pull the unit to the next location.

WARNING: To prevent serious injury, never perform

maintenance or repairs while the unit is running. Always allow the unit to cool before servicing or repairing the unit. Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent the unit from starting accidentally.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Perform these required maintenance procedures at the frequency stated in the table. These procedures should also be a part of any seasonal tune-up.

NOTE: Some maintenance procedures may require special tools or

skills. If unsure about these procedures, take the unit to a Sears

or other qualified service dealer. Call 1-800-4-MY-HOME for more information.

NOTE: Maintenance, replacement, or repair of the emission control

devices and system may be performed by a Sears or other qualified

service dealer. Call 1=800-4-MY-HOME for more information.

NOTE: Please read the California/EPA statement that came with the

unit for a complete listing of terms and coverage for the emissions control devices, such as the spark arrestor, muffler,

carburetor, etc.

FREQUENCY MAINTENANCE REQUIRED Every 10 hours Clean and re-oil the air filter. Refer to

Maintaining the Air Filter.

Every 25 hours Check the spark plug condition and gap. Refer

to Maintaining the Spark Plug.

TINE REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT

__ l WARNJNG: To prevent serious personal injury, always j

wear heavy gloves when handling the tines.

NOTE: All installation instructions are explained from the operating

position.

All 4 tines should be replaced at the same time because they will wear evenly through normal use. Work on one side at a time.

1. Stop the engine and allow it to cool. Grasp the spark plug wire firmly and pull the cap from the spark plug.

2. Lay the cultivator back on a flat level surface with the handles touching the ground so that the cultivator is in a horizontal position.

NOTE: It may be necessary to wash any dirt off the tines and shaft

for easier tine removal.

3. Remove the click pins from each end of the tine shaft (Fig. 9). Slide the tines off of the shaft.

4. Clean and oil the shaft.

5. Slide on the new tines with the hubs facing in towards each other (Fig. 9).

NOTE: Each tine has a convex side. Make sure that all of the

convex sides are facing as shown in Figure 9.

6. Secure the new tines to the shaft with click pins (Fig. 9).

7. Reconnect the spark plug wire.

Click Pin

Convex

Side

Hubs

' Hubs

Direction of Convex Sides

Fig. 9

Click Pin

AiR FILTER MAINTENANCE

Cleaning the Air Filter

Failure to maintain your air filter properly can result in poor performance or can cause permanent damage to your engine.

1. Open the air filter cover by unscrewing the cover screw (Fig. 10).

2. Remove the air filter and the screen that sits behind it (Fig. 10).

3. Wash the filter in detergent and water. Rinse the filter thoroughly and allow it to dry.

4. Apply enough clean SAE 30 motor oil to lightly coat the filter.

5. Squeeze the filter to spread and remove excess oil.

6. Replace the air filter and the screen that sits behind it (Fig. 10).

NOTE: Operating the unit without the air filter will VOiD the warranty.

7. Reinstall the air filter cover, insert the hooks on the air filter housing into the slots on the air filter cover (Fig. 11).

8. Swing the air filter cover to the right and align the cover screw with the cover screw hole (Fig. 11). Tighten the cover screw to

secure the air filter cover.

NOTE: Do not over tighten as this may strip the screw.

Cover Screw Air Filter

Slots

iDLE SPEED ADJUSTMENT

Air Filter

_ WARNING: The tines may turn during idle speed _ Cover

adjustments. Wear protective clothing and observe all safety instructions to prevent serious personal injury.

Air Filter Cover

Fig. 10

Fig. 11

Screen

Air Filter Housing

Hooks Screw Hole

Cover

Air Filter

Housing

NOTE: Careless adjustments can seriously damage the unit. A Sears or

other qualified service dealer should make carburetor adjustments.

If after checking the fuel mixture and cleaning the air filter the engine still will not idle, adjust the idle speed screw as follows:

1. Start the engine and let it run for about 2-3 minutes at a high speed (full throttle) to warm up. Refer to the Starting and

Stopping Instructions.

NOTE: Ensure the tines are not in contact with the ground when

adjusting the idle.

2. Release the throttle control and let the engine idle. If the engine stops, use a small Phillips screwdriver to turn the idle speed screw clockwise, 1/8 of a turn at a time (as needed) until the engine idles smoothly (Fig. 12).

NOTE: The tines should not rotate during engine idle.

3. If the tines rotate when the engine idles, turn the idle speed screw counterclockwise 1/8 of a turn at a time (as needed), to reduce idle speed.

Checking the fuel mixture, cleaning the air filter, and adjusting the idle speed screw should solve most engine problems. If not, and any of the following conditions are true, take the unit to a Sears or other qualified service dealer:

• the engine will not idle the engine hesitates or stalls on acceleration

there is a loss of engine power

Idle Speed Screw

Fig. 12

+ 28 hidden pages