Craftsman 917, 385141 User Manual

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Owner's Manual

ROTARY

550 Series Briggs & Stratton Engine 22" Side Discharge

Model No.

917,385141

,, Espar_ol, p. 18

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equipment Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman

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U.S.A.

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Warranty ................................................... 2

Safety Rules .......................................... 2-4

Product Specifications .............................. 4

Assembly / Pre-Operation ........................ 6

Operation ............................................. 7-10

Maintenance Schedule ........................... 11

Maintenance ...................................... 11-13

Service and Adjustments ........................ 14

Storage .............................................. 15-16

Troubleshooting ................................. 16-17

Repair Parts ....................................... 34-39

Sears Service .......................... Back Cover

2=YEAR FULL WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN LAWN MOWER

If this Craftsman Lawn Mower fails due to manufacturer defects in material or

workmanship within two years from the date of purchase, return it to any Sears store, Parts & Repair Center or other Craftsman outlet for free repair (or replacement if repair

proves impossible). This warranty applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase if this Lawn Mower is

ever used for commercial or rental purposes. This warranty does not cover:

Expendable items that become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.

Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent

crackshafts and the failure to assemble, operate or maintain this Lawn Mower according to all supplied product instructions.

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

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throw- ing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious

injury or death.

&Look for this symbol to point out impor-

tant safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!!

YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

A WARNING: In order to prevent ac-

cidental starting when setting up, trans- porting, adjusting or making repairs,

always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot come in contact

with plug.

AWARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its

constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State

of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

AWARNING: Battery posts, terminals and

related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State

of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash

hand8 after handling.

_i CAUTION: Muffler and other engine

parts become extremely hot during operation and remain hot after engine has

stopped. To avoid severe burns on contact, stay away from these areas.

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I. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the

manual(s) before starting. Be thoroughly

familiar with the controls and the proper

use of the machine before starting.

• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of the dis- charge opening at all times.

• Only allow responsible individuals, who are familiar with the instructions, to oper-

ate the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc., which

could be picked up and thrown by blade.

• Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop machine if anyone

enters the area.

• Do not operate the mower when bare-

foot or wearing open sandals. Always

wear substantial foot wear.

• Do not pull mower backwards unless absolutely necessary. Always look down

and behind before and while moving backwards.

• Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid discharging material

against a wall or obstruction. Material may richochet back toward the opera-

tor. Stop the blade when crossing gravel surfaces.

• Do not operate the mower without proper guards, plates, grass catcher or

other safety protective devices in place.

• See manufacturer's instructions for proper operation and installation of

accessories. Only use accessories ap- proved by the manufacturer.

• Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads.

• Stop the engine (motor) whenever you leave the equipment, before cleaning the

mower or unclogging the chute.

• Shut the engine (motor) off and wait until the blade comes to complete stop before removing grass catcher.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

• Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Never operate machine in wet grass.

Always be sure of your footing: keep a firm hold on the handle; walk, never run.

• Disengage the self-propelled mech- anism or drive clutch on mowers so

equipped before starting the engine.

• If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and check immediately for the cause. Vibra- tion is generally a warning of trouble.

• Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operating

mower.

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to slip & fall accidents which can result in severe in-

jury. All slopes require extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it.

DO:

• Mow across the face of slopes: never

up and down. Exercise extreme caution

when changing direction on slopes.

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree

limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

DO NOT:

• Do not trim near drop-offs, ditches or embankments. The operator could lose

footing or balance.

• Do not trim excessively steep slopes.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced foot-

ing could cause slipping.

ill. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator

is not alert to the presence of children.

Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume

that children will remain where you last saw them.

• Keep children out of the trimming area and under the watchful care of another

responsible adult.

• Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.

• Before and while walking backwards,

look behind and down for small children.

• Never allow children to operate the ma- chine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects

that may obscure vision.

iV. SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE Use extreme care in handling gasoline.

Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.

• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of ignition.

• Use only an approved container.

• Never remove gas cap or add fuel with

the engine running. Allow engine to cool before refueling.

• Never refuel the machine indoors.

• Never store the machine or fuel contain-

er where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light such as a water heater or on

other appliances.

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• Never fill containers inside a vehicle, on a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner.

Always place containers on the ground

away from your vehicle before filling.

• Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the

ground. If this is not possible, then refuel such equipment with a portable

container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.

• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container opening at

all times until fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.

• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately.

• Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas cap and tighten securely.

V. GENERAL SERVICE

• Never run a machine inside a closed area.

• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine (motor) running. Disconnect

the spark plug wire, and keep the wire away from the plug to prevent accidental starting.

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep equip-

ment in good condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel

spillage. Allow machine to cool before storing.

• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary,

before restarting.

• Never attempt to make wheel height adjustments while the engine is running.

• Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and deterioration,

which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently

check components and replace with manufacturer's recommended parts, when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.

• Do not change the engine governor set- ting or overspeed the engine.

• Maintain or replace safety and instruc- tion labels, as necessary.

Serial Number: Date of Purchase:

Gasoline Capacity / Type: Oil Type (API SG-SL):

Oil Capacity: Spark Plug (Gap: .030") Blade Bolt Torque:

• The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal on the rear of the lawn mower housing. Record both serial number and date of purchase in space provided above.

1.0 Quarts (Unleaded Regular)

SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F) 20 Ounces

Champion RJ19LM or J19LM 35-40 ft. Ibs.

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Repair Protection Agreements

Congratulations on making a smart pur- chase. Your new Craftsman® product is

designed and manufactured for years of dependable operation. But like all prod-

ucts, it may require repair from time to time. That's when having a Repair Protec-

tion Agreement can save you money and aggravation.

Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement now and protect yourself from unexpected hassle and expense.

Here's what's included in the Agreement:

• Expert service by our 12,000 profe- sional repair specialists.

• Unlimited service and no charge for parts and labor on all covered repairs.

• Product replacement if your covered product can't be fixed.

• Discount of 10% from regular price of service and service-related parts not covered by the agreement; also, 10%

off regular price of preventive mainte-

nance check.

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• Fast help by phone- phone sup- port from a Sears representative on products requiring in-home repair, plus convenient repair scheduling.

Once you purchase the Agreement, a simple phone call is all that it takes for you

to schedule service. You can call anytime day or night, or schedule a service ap- pointment online.

Sears has over 12,000 professional repair specialists, who have access to over 4.5 million quality parts and accessories.

That's the kind of professionalism you can

count on to help prolong the life of your new purchase for years to come. Purchase

your Repair Protection Agreement today! Some limitations and exclusions apply. For prices and additional information

call 1-800-827-6655. Sears Installation Service

For Sears professional installation of home appliances, garage door openers, water

heaters, and other major home items, in the U.S.A. call 1-800-4=MY-HOME®.

These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears retail outlets and

service centers. Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CLIPPING

DEFLECTORS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

STABILIZER

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

CANS

GAS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

AIR FILTERS

SPARK PLUGS

BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS

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WHEELS

ENGINE OIL

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Read these instructions and this manual in

its entirety before you attempt to assemble or operate your new lawn mower.

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.

Your new lawn mower has been as- sembled at the factory with the excep-

tion of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your lawn mower, all parts and hardware you assemble must be

tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness.

All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., necessary to complete the assembly have been placed in the parts bag.

TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM CARTON

1. Remove loose parts included with mower.

2. Cut down two end corners of carton and lay end panel down flat.

3. Remove all packing materials except padding between upper and lower

handle and padding holding operator

presence control bar to upper handle.

4. Roll lawn mower out of carton and check carton thoroughly for additional

loose parts.

NOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so

as not to pinch or damage control cables.

1. Raise handles until lower handle sec- tion locks into place in mowing position.

2. Remove protective padding, raise up- per handle section into place on lower

handle and tighten both handle knobs.

3. Remove handle padding holding operator presence control bar to upper

handle.

Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted for your mowing comfort. Refer to 'AD-

JUST HANDLE" in the Service and Adjust- ments section of this manual.

Operator MOWING I POSITION

control bar _S/

//_//

Upper

UP handle

Handle

knob

Lower handle

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS Your lawn mower was shipped ready to

be used as a mulcher. To convert to bag- ging or discharging, see "TO CONVERT

MOWER" in the Operation section of this manual.

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KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND ALL SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING

YOUR LAWN MOWER. Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for

future reference.

These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.

CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS

OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY

Operator presence control bar

Starter handle

Gasoline

Discharge guard

Handle knob

Engine oil cap with dipstick

Air filter

Muffler

Housing

Primer Wheel adjuster

(on each wheel) Spark plug

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine. MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Com-

mission. The blade turns when the engine is running. Operator presence control bar- must

be held down to the handle to start the engine. Release to stop the engine.

Starter handle - used for starting engine.

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Primer - pumps additional fuel from the carburetor to the cylinder for use when

starting a cold engine.

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The operation of any lawn

SAFETYGLASSESmower can result in foreign

objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always

wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your lawn mower or performing

any adjustments or repairs. We recom-

mend a standard safety glasses or wide

vision safety mask worn over spectacles.

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED

The engine speed was set at the factory for optimum performance. Speed is not

adjustable.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

ACi,CAUTION: Federal regulations require an engine control to be installed on this

lawn mower in order to minimize the risk of blade contact injury. Do not under

any circumstances attempt to defeat the function of the operator control. The blade

turns when the engine is running.

• Your lawn mower is equipped with an operator presence control bar which

requires the operator to be positioned

behind the lawn mower handle to start and operate the lawn mower.

LEVER BACKWARD

TO LOWER MOWER

Plate tab

LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER

TO CONVERT MOWER Your lawn mower is shipped ready to be

used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging or discharging:

• Lift discharge guard and remove mulcher plate.

• Mower can now be used for side dis- charge or optional grass catcher can be

attached.

• To return to mulching operation, simply reinstall mulcher plate as shown.

• iI,CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower without discharge guard, approved grass

catcher or mulcher plate in place.

Hinge rod

Discharge

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels

for high cut, adjust cutting height to suit your requirements. Medium position is

best for most lawns.

• To change cutting height, squeeze ad- juster lever toward wheel. Move wheel

up or down to suit your requirements. Be sure all wheels are in the same set-

ting.

NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned

when plate tab inserts into hole in lever. Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)

allow lever to be positioned between the plate tabs.

opening

Mulcher plate

Hooks

Tab

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BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

ADD OIL

Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in the engine. For type and grade of oil to

use, see "ENGINE" in the Maintenance section of this manual.

• i CAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with oil, or it will smoke heavily from the muffler on startup.

1. Be sure lawnmower is level.

2. Remove oil dipstick from oil fill spout.

3. You receive a container of oil with the

unit. Slowly pour the entire container

down the oil fill spout into the engine.

NOTE: Initial oil fill requires only 18 oz. due to residual oil in engine from the

manufacturers 100% quality testing. When changing oil you may need 20 oz.

4. Insert and tighten dipstick. IMPORTANT:

• Check oil level before each use. Add oil

if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.

• Change the oil after every 25 hours of

operation or each season. You may need to change the oil more often

under dusty, dirty conditions. See "TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL[' in the Mainte-

nance section of this manual.

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler neck.

Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of

87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel fresh-

ness.

,_ CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or

fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

_l_ CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels

(called gasohol or using ethanol or metha- nol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel

system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system

should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Empty the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines

and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage Instructions for additional information. Never use engine

or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

Engine

oil cap

Primer

Gasoline

filler cap

TO STOP ENGINE

• To stop engine, release operator pres- ence control bar.

TO START ENGINE NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the

engine, a small amount of smoke may be present during the initial use of the prod-

uct and should be considered normal.

1. To start a cold engine, push primer three (3) times before trying to start.

Use a firm push. This step is not usually necessary when starting an

engine which has already run for a few

minutes.

2. Hold operator presence control bar down to the handle and pull starter

handle quickly. Do not allow starter

rope to snap back.

NOTE: In cooler weather it may be neces- sary to repeat priming steps. In warmer

weather over priming may cause flooding and engine will not start. If you do flood engine, wait a few minutes before attempt-

ing to start and do not repeat priming steps.

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MOWING TiPS

CAUTION: Do not use de-thatcher

blade attachments on your mower. Such attachments are hazardous, will damage

your mower and could void your warranty.

• Under certain conditions, such as very tall grass, it may be necessary to raise

the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine and leaving clumps of grass clip-

pings. It may also be necessary to re- duce ground speed and/or run the lawn

mower over the area a second time.

• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of cut by overlapping previously

cut path and mow slowly.

• For better grass bagging and most cut- ting conditions, the engine speed should

be set in the FAST position.

• For side discharge lawn mowers, cutting in a counter-clockwise direction, start-

ing at the outside of the area to be cut, spreads grass clippings more evenly and puts less load on the engine. To

keep clippings off of walkways, flower beds, etc., make the first cuts in a clock- wise direction.

• Pores in cloth grass catchers can be- come filled with dirt and dust with use

and catchers will collect less grass. To prevent this, regularly hose catcher off

with water and let dry before using.

• Keep top of engine around starter clear and clean of grass clippings and chaff.

This will help engine air flow and extend

engine life.

MULCHING MOWING TiPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-up grass and trash. See "CLEANING" in the

Maintenance section of this manual.

• The special mulching blade will recut the grass clippings many times and

reduce them in size so that as they fall onto the lawn they will disperse into the grass and not be noticed. Also, the

mulched grass will biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always

mulch with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will provide the best recut- ting action of the blades.

• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet.

Wet grass tends to form clumps and

interferes with the mulching action. The best time to mow your lawn is the early

afternoon. At this time the grass has dried, yet the newly cut area will not be

exposed to direct sunlight.

• For best results, adjust the lawn mower cutting height so that the lawn mower

cuts off only the top one-third of the grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown it

will be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep

from overloading the engine and leaving

clumps of mulched grass. For extremely heavy grass, reduce your width of cut

by overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.

• Certain types of grass and grass conditions may require that an area be

mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a sec-

ond cut, mow across (perpendicular) to the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow north to south one week

then change to east to west the next week. This will help prevent matting and

graining of the lawn.

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MAINTENANCE BEFORE AFTER EVERY EVERY EVERY BEFORE

SCHEDULE USE USE HOURS OR SEASON HOURS

Check for Loose Fasteners

_ Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher *

Check Tires

_ Check Drive Wheels

Clean Lawn Mower ....

M Clean under Drive Cover ***

O Check Drive Belt / Pulleys ***

_ Check / Sharpen / Replace Blade

R Lubrication

Clean and Recharge Battery ** Check Engine Oil level

_' Change Engine Oil

N Clean Air Filter

Inspect Muffler

N Replace Spark Plug

I_ Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge

Empty fuel system or add Stabilizer

• (if so equipped)

• * Electric-Start mowers

• ** Power-Propelled mowers

• *** Use a scraper to clean under deck

1 - Change more often if operating under a heavy load or in high outdoor temperatures. 2 - Service more often if operating in dirty or dusty conditions. 3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil. 4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season.

5 - And after each 5 hours of use.

EACH EACH 10 25 HOURS 100 STORAGE

it' v'

v' v' v'

v' v'

v' v'3 v' v'

_,2

v_ v'

v' v_

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS The warranty on this lawn mower does not

cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive

full value from the warranty, operator must maintain unit as instructed in this manual.

Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to properly maintain your unit.

At least once a season, check to see if you should make any of the adjustments

described in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

* At least once a year, replace the spark

plug, clean or replace air filter element and check blade for wear. A new spark

plug and clean/new air filter element assure proper air-fuel mixture and help your engine run better and last longer.

* Follow the maintenance schedule in this

manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level.

• Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION

Keep unit well lubricated

(See "LUBRICATION CHART").

LUBRICATION CHART

(_ Wheel

adjuster (on each wheel)

-- -- -" (_ Engine oil

I \ J Discharge

J guard hinge

k J pin

_ Spray lubricant

See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section,

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will

attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life of the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel they

must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered

1 1graphite type lubricant sparingly.

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LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when per- forming any maintenance.

TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect

control chemicals which can harm rubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp

objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage.

BLADE CARE For best results, mower blade must be kept

sharp. Replace a bent or damaged blade.

CAUTION: Use only a replacement

blade approved by the manufacturer of your mower. Using a blade not approved

by the manufacturer of your mower is hazardous, could damage your mower and

void your warranty. TO REMOVE BLADE

1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with plug.

2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure air filter and carburetor are up.

3. Use a wood block between blade and

mower housing to prevent blade from

turning when removing blade bolt.

NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.

4. Remove blade bolt by turning counter- clockwise.

5. Remove blade and attaching hardware

(bolt, lock washer, hardened washer).

NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and check the key inside hub of blade adapter. The key must be in good condition to work

properly. Replace adapter if damaged. TO REPLACE BLADE

1. Position the blade adapter on the en- gine crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter

and crankshaft keyway are aligned.

2. Position blade on the blade adapter aligning the two (2) holes in the blade with the raised lugs on the adapter.

3. Be sure trailing edge of blade (opposite sharp edge) is up toward the engine.

4. Install the blade bolt with the lock washer and hardened washer into

blade adapter and crankshaft.

5. Use block of wood between blade and

lawn mower housing and tighten the

blade bolt, turning clockwise.

• The recommended tightening torque is

35-40 ft. Ibs.

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is heat treated.

If bolt needs replacing, replace only with

approved bolt shown in the Repair Parts section of this manual.

Blade adapter

Key Crankshaft

bolt Hardened

washer

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening blade- but if you do, be sure blade is balanced.

An unbalanced blade will cause eventual

damage to mower or engine.

• The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower.

• To check blade balance, drive a nail into a beam or wall. Leave about one inch of

the straight nail exposed. Place center hole of blade over the head of the nail.

If blade is balanced, it should remain in

a horizontal position. If either end of the blade moves downward, sharpen the

heavy end until the blade is balanced.

GRASS CATCHER

(If purchased as an accessory)

• The grass catcher may be hosed with water, but must be dry when used.

• Check your grass catcher often for dam- age or deterioration. Through normal use it will wear. If catcher needs replac-

ing, replace only with approved replace- ment catcher shown in the Repair Parts

section of this manual. Give the lawn mower model number when ordering.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated with

API service classification SG-SL. Select the

oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your expected operating temperature.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

F -20 0 30 32 40 60 80 100

c -_0 -2; -1; ; 1; _0 10 4;

TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30,

10W30 etc.) improve starting in cold weather,

these multi-viscosity oils will result in in- creased oil consumption when used above

32°E Check your engine oil level more fre- quently to avoid possible engine damage

12 from running low on oil.

• Crankshaft

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+ 28 hidden pages