Operator's Manual
®
2-Cycle
WEEDWACKER® GAS TRIMMER
Model No. 316.791870
CAUTION: Before using
this product, read this
manual and follow all
safety rules and operating
instructions.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179, U.S.A.
Visit our website" www.sears.com/craftsman
769-02958 02/07
• SAFETY
• ASSEMBLY
• OPERATION
• MAINTENANCE
• PARTS LIST
• ESPANOL, R 15
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING
THE ENGINE EXHAUST FROM THIS PRODUCT
CONTAINS CHEMICALS KNOWN TO THE STATE OF
CALIFORNIA TO CAUSE CANCER, BIRTH DEFECTS
OR OTHER REPRODUCTIVE HARM.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Safety Rules .................................... 2
Warranty ....................................... 4
Know Your Unit ................................. 5
Oil and Fuel Information ........................... 6
Assembly Instructions ............................ 6
Starting/Stopping Instructions ...................... 7
Operating Instructions ............................ 8
Maintenance and Repair Instructions ................ 9
Cleaning and Storage ........................... 11
Troubleshooting Chart ........................... 12
Specifications ................................. 12
Parts List ..................................... 28
Service Numbers ........................ Back Cover
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. If it requires
replacement, ask a Sears or other qualified service dealer to
install the Accessory Muffler Assembly, Part #753-05169.
All information, illustrations, and specifications in this manual
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.
* IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS *
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE OPERATING
• 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 must not operate the unit. Teens must be
accompanied and guided by an adult.
• Inspect the unit before use. Replace damaged parts. Check
for fuel leaks. Make sure all fasteners are in place and secure.
Replace cutting attachment parts that are cracked, chipped or
damaged in any way.
• Use only Hassle Free TM XTRA QUIET Spiral Line. Never use
metal-reinforced line, wire, chain or rope. These can break off
and become dangerous projectiles.
• Be aware of risk of injury to the head, hands and feet.
• Clear the area to be cut before each use. Remove rocks,
broken glass, nails, wire, string and other objects which may
be thrown or become entangled in the cutting attachment.
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.
FUEL SAFETY WARNINGS
• Store fuel only in containers specifically designed and
approved for the storage of such materials.
[,_ ARNING: Gasoline is highly flammable and its
vapors can explode if ignited. Take the following
precautions:
• Always stop the engine and allow it to cool before filling the
fuel tank. Never remove the fuel tank cap or add fuel when the
engine is hot. Never operate the unit without the fuel cap
securely in place.
• Loosen the fuel tank cap slowly to relieve any pressure in the
tank.
• Mix and add fuel in a clean, well-ventilated outdoor area where
there are no sparks or flames. Remove the fuel cap slowly, and
only after the engine stops. Do not smoke while fueling or
mixing fuel. Wipe up any spilled fuel from the unit immediately.
• Avoid creating a source of ignition for spilled fuel. Do not
start the engine until fuel vapors dissipate.
• Move the unit at least 30 feet (9.1 m) from the fueling source
and site before starting the engine. Do not smoke. Keep
sparks and open flames away from the area while adding
fuel or operating the unit.
WHILE OPERATING
• Never start or run the unit inside a closed room or building.
Breathing exhaust fumes can be fatal. Operate this unit only
in a well-ventilated outdoor area.
• Wear safety glasses or goggles that meet ANSI Z87.1
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.
• The cutting attachment shield must always be in place while
operating the unit. Do not operate unit without both trimming
lines extended, and the proper line installed. Do not extend
the trimming line beyond the length of the shield.
• This unit has a clutch. The cutting attachment remains
stationary when the engine is idling. If it does not, take the unit
to a Sears or other qualified service dealer for an adjustment.
• Adjust the D-handle to your size in order to provide the best grip.
• Be sure the cutting attachment is 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/Stopping Instructions.
• Use the right tool. Only use this tool for its intended purpose.
• 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 cutting attachment when it rotates.
• Do not touch the engine, gear housing 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
cut, trim or edge. Do not run the engine at high speed when
not cutting.
• Always stop the engine when cutting is delayed or when
walking from one cutting 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 replacement parts or accessories recommended for
this tool that are distributed by Sears or a Craftsman outlet.
Use of any replacement parts or accessories purchased
elsewhere may be hazardous, and will also void your warranty.
• Keep unit clean of vegetation and other materials. They may
become lodged between the cutting attachment and shield.
• 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 (p. 11).
• 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
• SAFETY & INTERNATIONAL SYMBOLS •
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
• SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL
Indicates danger, warning Or caution. May be used
in conjunction with other symbols or pictographs.
wARNING : READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL
SYMBOL MEANING
I • ON/OFF STOP CONTROL
O • ON/OFF STOP CONTROL
ON / START / RU_
OFF or STOP
ill I lID Readthe operator s manual(s)and fol!ow all warnings
and safety instructions, Failureto do so Canresult in
serious injury to the Operatorand/oi bystanders:
WEAR EYE AND HEARING PROTECTION
cause severe eye injury and hearing !ossl Wear
i_ WARNING: Thrown objects and loud noise can
eye protect on meeting ANSI Z87:1 standards
and ear protection when operating this unit. Use
a full face shield when needed.
UNLEADEDFUEL
_'_ A!waYS use clean, fres h unleaded fue!
_ •OIL
_ Referto operat0r's manual for the p[0per type 0f OiL
' SHARP BLADE
WARNING: Sharp blade on cutting attachment
_',_ shield, TO prevent serious injury, do net touch
_l_' the ne cutt ng bade.
• .. • THROWN OBJECTS AND ROTATING
_w
_ CUTTER CAN CAUSE SEVERE INJURY
/JAr WARNING: Do not operate without the cutting
_/_t_ attach-ment shield in place. Keep away from the
A • KEEP BYSTANDERS AWAY
L_',_¢_,'_ WARNING: Keep all bystanders, especially
/_,j_=fi_ children and pets, at least 50 feel (15 m) from
- - the operating area.
• HOT SURFACE WARNING
Do not touch a hot muffler, gear housing or
cylinder. You may get burned. These parts get
extremely hot from operation. They remain hot for
a short time after the unit is turned off.
rotating cutting attachment.
CRAFTSMANTWO-YEARLIMITED 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
Sears store, 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 cutting line, air cleaner or spark plug.
• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence and the failure to operate or maintain the equipment 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
Owner's Warranty Responsibilities
• As the small off-road engine owner, you are responsible for the performance of the required maintenance listed in your operator's
manual. Sears recommends that you retain all receipts covering maintenance on your small off-road engine, but Sears cannot deny
warranty solely for the lack of receipts or for your failure to ensure the performance of all scheduled maintenance.
• As the small off-road engine owner, you should however be aware that Sears may deny you warranty coverage if your small off-road
engine or a part has failed due to abuse, neglect, improper maintenance or unapproved modifications.
• You are responsible for presenting your small off-road engine to a Sears authorized service center as soon as problem exists. The
warranty repairs should be completed in a reasonable amount of time, not to exceed 30 days.
If you have any questions regarding your warranty rights and responsibilities, you should call 1-800-4-MY-HOME ®.
Manufacturer's Warranty Coverage
• The warranty period begins on the date the engine or equipment is delivered to the retail purchaser.
• The manufacturer warrants to the initial owner and each subsequent purchaser, that the engine is free from defects in material and
workmanship which cause the failure of a warranted part for a period of two years.
• Repair and replacement of warranted part will be performed at no charge to the owner at an authorized Sears service center. For
the nearest location please contact Sears at: 1-800-4-MY-HOME ®.
• Any warranted part which is not scheduled for replacement, as required maintenance or which is scheduled only for regular
inspection to the effect of "Repair or Replace as Necessary" is warranted for the period. Any warranted part which is scheduled for
replacement as required maintenance will be warranted for the period of time up to the first scheduled replacement point for that
part.
• The owner will not be charged for diagnostic labor which leads to the determination that a warranted part is defective if the
diagnostic work is performed at an authorized Sears Service Center.
• The manufacturer is liable for damages to other engine components caused by the failure of a warranted part still under warranty.
• Failures caused by abuse, neglect or improper maintenance are not covered under warranty.
• The use of add-on or modified parts can be grounds for disallowing a warranty claim. The manufacturer is not liable to cover failures
of warranted parts caused by the use of add-on or modified parts.
• In order to file a claim, go to your nearest authorized Sears Service Center. Warranty service or repairs will be provided at all
authorized Sears Service Centers.
• Any manufacturer approved replacement part may be used in the performance of any warranty maintenance or repair of emission
related parts and will be provided without charge to the owner. Any replacement part that is equivalent in performance or durability
may be used in non-warranty maintenance or repair and will not reduce the warranty obligations of the manufacturer.
• The following components are included in the emission related warranty: engine, air filter, carburetor, primer, fuel lines, fuel pick
up/fuel filter, ignition module, spark plug and muffler.
FuelCap
StarterRope
Grip
Primer Shoulder Strap
Bulb Loop
EZ Fire TM
Lever
Air Filter/Muffler
Cover
Muffler
Spark Plug
D-Handle
Convertible TM
Coupler
On/Off Stop Control
Throttle Control
Knob
Line Cutting
Blade
Shaft Housing
Cutting
Attachment
Shield
APPLICATIONS
As a trimmer:
• Cutting grass and light weeds.
• Edging
• Decorative trimming around trees, fences, etc.
Other optional accessories may be used with this unit.
Hassle Free IV®
Cutting Attachment
OIL AND FUEL MIXING INSTRUCTIONS
Old and/or improperly mixed fuel are the main reasons for the unit
not running properly. Be sure to use fresh, clean unleaded fuel.
Follow the instructions carefully for the proper fuel/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. It forms acids when stored. When using
alcohol-blended fuel, use fresh fuel (less than 60 days old).
Using Blended Fuels
If you choose to use a blended fuel, or its use is unavoidable,
follow recommended precautions:
• Always use the fresh fuel mix explained in your operator's manual
• Always agitate the fuel mix before fueling the unit
• Drain the tank and run the engine dry before storing the unit
Using Fuel Additives
The bottle of 2-cycle oil that came with your unit contains afuel
additive which will help inhibit corrosion and minimize the
formation of gum deposits. It is recommended that you use our 2-
cycle oil with this unit. If unavailable, use a good 2-cycle oil de-
signed for air-cooled engines along with a fuel additive, such as
STA-BIL ®Gas 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.
Thoroughly mix the proper
ratio of 2-cycle engine oil
with unleaded gasoline in
a separate fuel can. Use a
40:1 fuel/oil ratio. Do not
mix them directly in the
engine fuel tank. See the
table below for specific
gas and oil mixing ratios.
NOTE: One gallon (3.8
liters) of
unleaded
gasoline mixed
with one 3.2 oz. (95 ml.) bottle of 2-cycle oil makes a
40:1 fuel/oil ratio.
NOTE:
[,_[WARNING: Remove fuel cap slowly to avoid injury
Dispose of the old fuel/oil mix in accordance to
Federal, State and Local regulations.
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
WARNING: Gasoline is extremely flammable.
flames at a distance from the area.
from fuel spray. Never operate the unit without the
fuel cap securely in place.
UNLEADEDGAS 2-CYCLE OIL
UNLEADED GAS 2 CYCLE OIL
f GALLON US 3.2 FL. OZ.
(3.8 LITERS) 195 ml)
1 LITER 25 ml
MIXING RATIO - 40:1
maximum reliability, pay strict attention to the oil and I
fuel mixing instructions on the 2-cycle oil container.
'_1 CAUTION: For proper engine operation and
INSTALL AND ADJUST THE D-HANDLE
Install
1. Place D-handle the over the shaft housing and onto the
bottom clamp (Fig. 1). Place it a minimum of 6 inches (15.24
cm) from the end of the shaft grip.
2. Start screws with a flat-head or T-25 Torx screwdriver. Do not
tighten until handle is adjusted.
Adjust
3. While holding the unit in the operating position (Fig. 2), position
the D-handle to the location that provides you the best grip.
4. Tighten the clamp screws evenly until the D-handle is secure.
the engine.
Us ng mpropery m xed fue can severey damage
On/Off Stop Control
Shaft
Housing
Shaft Grip
Minimum 6
(15.24 cm)
Fig. 1
(4) Screws
Bottom Clamp
WARNING: Add fuel in a clean, well ventilated I
outdoor area. Wipe up any spilled fuel immediately.
Avoid creating a source of ignition for spilt fuel. Do
not start the engine until fuel vapors dissipate.
INSTALL LINE TRIMMER
ATTACHMENT
NOTE: To make installation easier,
place the unit on the ground or
on a workbench.
1. Turn knob counterclockwise to
loosen coupler (Fig. 11, p. 8).
2. While firmly holding attachment,
push it straight into the coupler
until the release button snaps into
the primary hole (Fig. 12, p. 8).
NOTE: Aligning the release button
with the guide recess (Fig. 12, p. _,
8) will help installation. Fig. 2
3. Turn the knob clockwise to
tighten (Fig. 13, p. 8).
LINE TRIMMER APPLICATIONS
Cutting grass and light weeds; edging; and decorative trimming
around trees, fences, etc.
-_4J¢
I
I
ventilated outdoor area. Carbon monoxide exhaust
,_[WARNING: Operate this unit only in a well-
fumes can be lethal in a confined area.
you are in the starting position when pulling the starter
rope (Fig. 5).To avoid serious injury, the operator and
WARNING: Avoid accidental starting. Make sure
unit must be in a stable position while starting.
STARTING INSTRUCTIONS
1. Mix gas with oil.
2. Fill the fuel tank with the fuel/oil mixture. See Oil
and Fuel Mixing Instructions.
NOTE: There is no need to turn the unit on. The On/Off
Stop Control is in the ON (I ) position at all times (Fig. 3).
.......................3. Fully press and release the primer bulb 10 times,
slowly. Some amount of fuel should be visible in
the primer bulb and fuel lines (Fig. 4). If you can't
see fuel in the bulb, press and release the bulb as
many times as it takes before you can see fuel in it.
4. Push the red EZ-Fire TM lever towards the primer
bulb until it clicks and locks into place (Fig. 4).
:: 5. Crouch in the starting position and do not squeeze
:: the throttle control (Fig. 5). Pull the starter rope out
with a controlled and steady motion up to 10 times.
::: Repeat until the engine starts.
: NOTE: The unit uses the INCREDI-PULU M starting
ii
system , which significantly reduces the effort
required to start the engine. You must pull the starter
i!
rope out far enough to hear the engine attempt to
start. There is no need to pull the rope briskly-- there
is no harsh resistance when pulling. Be aware that this
starting method is vastly different from (and much
.... easier than) what you may be used to.
H
6. When the engine starts, squeeze the throttle control
.... for 15 to 30 seconds. This will warm up the unit.
q
q
The red EZ-Fire TM lever will click off
automatically when you squeeze the throttle
control.
..........IF... The engine does not start, go back to step 3.
IF... The engine stops while you are squeezing the
throttle, go back to step 4.
IF... The engine stops before you squeeze the throttle
control, hold the throttle control and pull the
starter rope until the trimmer starts.
NOTE: If you are having trouble starting the unit or are
operating in extreme temperatures (below 40° F,
above 90 F), refer to the Troubleshooting section.
o
STOPPING INSTRUCTIONS
1. Release your hand from the throttle control. Allow the
engine to cool down by idling.
2. Press and hold On/Off Stop Control in the OFF (O) position
until engine comes to a complete stop (Fig. 3).
Stop/Off (0)
Start/On _
Throttle Control
Fig. 3
Primer
Bulb __
Red EZ-Fire TM
Lever
Fig. 4
Starting
Position
Incredi-Pull
Starting
Throttle Control
Fig. 5
body protection to reduce the risk of injury when
WARNING: Always wear eye, hearing, foot and
operating this unit.
HOLDING THE TRIMMER
Before operating the unit, stand in
the operating position (Fig. 6). Check
for the following:
• The operator is wearing eye
protection and proper clothing
• With a slightly-bent right arm, the
operator's hand is holding the
shaft grip
• The operator's left arm is slightly
bent, the left hand holding the D-
handle
• The unit is at waist level
• The cutting attachment is parallel to
the ground and easily contacts the "_
grass without the need to bend over Fig. 6
LINE REPLACEMENT
for Hassle-Free TM Cutting Head
Always use Craftsman Hassle-Free TM XTRA QUIET Spiral Line.
Choose the line size best suited for the job at hand. Red colored
line is designed for cutting grass and small weeds. Black colored
line is designed for cutting larger weeds and light brush.
NOTE: Before inserting new line into the holes in the cutting
head, identify the proper holes. Follow directions as shown
on the line glide plate. Do Not attempt to remove the
cutting head from the unit when replacing line.
1. Remove the old line and line glide plate from the cutting head.
2. Clean entire surface of cutting head. Note positions "A"
and "B" on the cutting head.
3. Reinstall line glide plate (Fig.
7). Align arrow with:
"A" when using medium (red) or
large (black) line, or
"B" when using lines with
diameters smaller than
medium (red)line
NOTE: Line glide plate must be
reinstalled in cutting head
before inserting new line.
4. Insert both ends of your
line through the proper
holes in the side of the
cutting head (Fig. 8).
5. Pull the line and make
sure the line is against the
hub and is fully extended
through the positioning
tunnels (Fig. 9).
6. Correctly installed line will
be the same length on
both sides.
NOTE: Do not rest the
Hassle-Free TM Cutting
Head on the ground
while the unit is running.
Some line breakage will occur
from:
• Entanglement with foreign
matter
• Normal line fatigue
• Attempting to cut thick, stalky weeds
• Forcing the line into objects such as walls or fence posts
Cutting Line Glide
Fig. 7
Positioning
Tunnel
Fig. 8
Line against
_ the hub
J Positioning
Fig. 9
Tunnel
TIPS FOR BEST TRIMMING RESULTS
• Keep the cutting attachment parallel to the ground.
• Cut from left to right whenever possible. Cutting to the right
improves the unit's cutting efficiency. Clippings are thrown
away from the operator.
• Trim only when grass and weeds are dry.
• The life of your cutting line is dependent upon:
- Following the trimming tips
- What vegetation is being cut
- Where vegetation is being cut
DECORATIVE TRIMMING
Decorative trimming is
accomplished by removing all
vegetation around trees, posts, 30°.
fences and more. Rotate the
whole unit so that the cutting
attachment is at a 30° angle to the
ground (Fig. 10). Fig. 10
USING THE CONVERTIBLE TM COUPLER
WARNING: Before you begin using any I
attachment, read and understand the manual that
came with the add-on. Follow all safety
information contained within.
You can convert this unit to edge grass. 90° Edging Hole
1. Make sure the unit is turned (Trimmer Only)
completely off.
2. Turn the knob counterclockwise
to loosen coupler (Fig. 11).
3. Push in the release button (Fig. 12)
and twist the shaft 90°until the
release button snaps into the 90°
hole (Fig. 11). Knob
4. Turn the knob clockwise to lock
the coupler (Fig. 13).
Fig. 11
Convertible TM Coupler Primary Hole Release Button
_ Guide
Knob _s___j Recess
Fig. 12
Upper Shaft
__ Housing
Attachment _ l_
Housing _ -- I
Fi . 13
CAUTION: Before operating this unit, be sure I
that the release button is fully snapped into the
primary hole (Fig. 12), and that the knob (Fig. 13) is
securely tightened.
I
I
I
Craftsman Convertible TMFeature
The coupler allows you to convert this unit for use with the
following add-on attachments:
• Cultivator
• Blade Edger
• Blower
• Brush Cutter
• Pruner
damage to the unit, shut the unit off before
WARNING: To avoid serious personal injury and
removing or installing add-ons.
To Install Attachments
NOTE: To make installation easier, place the unit on the ground
or on a workbench.
1. Make sure the unit is turned completely off.
2. Turn the knob counterclockwise to loosen the coupler (Fig. 11).
3. While firmly holding the add-on, push it straight into the
coupler until the release button (Fig. 12) snaps into the
primary hole (Fig. 12). The primary hole is on the opposite
side of the coupler from the knob (Fig. 12). Align the release
button with the Guide Recess (Fig. 12) to help installation.
4. Turn the knob clockwise to tighten (Fig. 13).
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
WARNING: To prevent serious injury, never I
perform maintenance or repairs with unit running. I
Always service and repair a cool unit. Disconnect the
spark plug wire to ensure that the unit cannot start.
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 you are unsure about these procedures
take your unit to any non-road engine repair
establishment, individual or authorized 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.
Inorder to assure peak performance of your engine, inspection of the
engine exhaust port may be necessary after 50 hours of operation. If
you notice lost RPM, poor performance or general lack of
acceleration, this service may be required. Ifyou feel your engine is in
need ofthis inspection, refer service to a Searsor other qualified
service dealer. Call 1-800-4-MY-HOME _ for more information. DO
NOT attempt to perform this process yourself as engine damage may
result from contaminants involved in the cleaning process for the port.
FREQUENCY MAINTENANCE REQUIRED SEE
Before star_ing Fill fuel tank with fresh fuel p. 6
engine
Every 10 hours Clean and re-oil air filter p. 9 & 10
Every 25 hours
Every 50 hours arrestor screen for clogging or p. 10
Check and clean spark arrestor p. 10
Check spark plug condition and gap p. 11
Inspect exhaust port and spark
obstruction
,_ CAUTION: These add-on attachments are to be I
To Remove Attachments
1. Make sure the unit is turned completely off.
2. Turn the knob counterclockwise to loosen the coupler (Fig. 11).
3. Press and hold the release button (Fig. 12).
4. While firmly holding the upper shaft housing (Fig. 13), pull
AIR FILTER MAINTENANCE
Removing the Air Filter/Muffler Cover
1. Remove the four (4) screws
securing the air filter/muffler
cover (Fig, 14). Use a flat
blade or T20 Torx bit
screwdriver.
2. Pull the cover from the
engine, Do not force.
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. Remove air filter/muffler
cover. Refer to Removing
the Air Filter/Muffler Cover
above, Fig. 14
2. Turn cover over and look inside to locate the air filter. Remove
the air filter from inside the air filter/muffler cover (Fig, 15).
3. Wash the filter in detergent and water (Fig. 16). Rinsethe filter
thoroughly, Squeeze out excess water, Allow it to dry completely.
4. Apply enough clean SAE 30 oil to lightly coat the filter (Fig, 17).
5. Squeeze the filter to spread and remove excess oil (Fig. 18).
snapped into the primary hole only. Using the wrong
hole could lead to personal injury or damage to the unit.
the attachment out of the coupler.
WARNING: To avoid serious personal injury,
always turn your unit off and allow it to cool before
clean or service it.
Screws
I
Air Filter
Cover
4. Clean the spark arrestor screen with a wire brush. Replace it
if it is damaged, or if you are unable to clean it thoroughly.
5. Reinstall the spark arrestor screen by putting the "raised" portion
of the screen inside the recessed hole of the muffler. Make sure
that the spark arrestor screen fits flat against the muffler.
6. Place the spark arrestor plate on top of the spark arrestor screen
with the raised side up and the opening facing toward the engine
(Fig. 19)
7. Place the spark arrestor hood on top of the spark arrestor
plate with the "raised" side up and the opening facing AWAY
from the engine (Fig. 19). Verify that the exhaust will be
directed AWAY from the engine.
8. Replace the screw you removed in Step 2 and tighten securely.
9. Reinstall the air filter/muffler cover (Fig. 14).
Fig. 15 Fig. 16
Fig. 17 Fig. 18
6. Replace the air filter inside the air filter/muffler cover (Fig. 15).
NOTE: Operating the unit without the air filter and air
filter/muffler cover assembly will VOID the warranty.
Reinstalling the Air Filter/Muffler Cover
1. Place the air filter/muffler cover over the back of the
carburetor and muffler. Align the screw holes.
2. Insert the four (4) screws into the holes in the air filter/muffler
cover (Fig. 14) and tighten. Do not over tighten.
SPARK ARRESTOR MAINTENANCE
NOTE: Pay close attention when disassembling the muffler so
you can put it back together correctly. Failure to do so will
damage the unit and may cause serious personal injury.
1. Remove air filter/muffler cover. Refer to Removing the Air
Filter/Muffler Cover (p. 9).
2. Locate the muffler, but do not remove it. Find the screw on
the bottom of
the muffler (Fig.
19).This screw
holds the Spark
Arrestor Hood
Assembly and
the spark
arrestor screen
to the bottom of
the muffler.
Remove this
screw using
either aTorx
T20 or flat blade screwdriver.
3. Using a small flat blade screwdriver, carefully pry up the
spark arrestor screen from the recessed hole, taking care to
notice that the "raised" part of the spark arrestor screen is
inside the recessed hole. Remove the spark arrestor screen
from the muffler.
Spark Arrestor Slots To Engine
Hood
Screw_ Spark Arrestor
Tabs Screen Muffler
Fig. 19
_ ARNING: If the spark arrestor hood and spark I
CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENT
The idle speed of the engine is adjustable through the air
filter/muffler cover (Fig. 20).
NOTE: Careless adjustments can seriously damage your unit.
Check Fuel Mixture
Old and/or improperly mixed fuel is usually the reason for
improper unit performance. Drain and refill the tank with fresh,
properly-mixed fuel prior to making any adjustments. Refer to
Oil and Fuel Information (p. 6).
Clean Air Filter
The condition of the air filter is important to the operation of the
unit. A dirty air filter will restrict air flow and change the air/fuel
mixture. This is often mistaken for an out of adjustment
carburetor. Check the condition of the air filter before adjusting
the idle speed screw. Refer to Air Filter Maintenance (p. 9).
arrestor screen are not tightened securely, they could
fall off causing damage to the unit and possible
serious personal injury.
Contact a Sears or other qualified service dealer to make
carburetor adjustments. Call 1-800-4-MY-HOME ® for
more information.
,I
Fig. 20
Idle
Speed
Screw
I
10