ICRAFTSMAN1
Operator's Manual
Snow Thrower
4 Horsepower 4-Cycle Engine
21-inch Single Stage
Auger Propelled
Model 536.881400
CAUTION: Before using this product,
read this manual and follow all of its
Safety Rules and Operating Instructions,
Manual del usario
Quitanieves
de 21 pulgadas
4 caballos de fuerza (hp)
Monoetapico
Propulsado por barrena
Modelo 536.881400
PRECAUCION: Antes de usar este producto,
lea este manual y siga todas las reglas de
seguridad e instrucciones de operaci6n,
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
F-041067C www.sears.com/craftsman
WARRANTY STATEMENT ...... 2
SAFETY RULES ............... 2
INTERNATIONAL SYMBOLS .... 4
ASSEMBLY ................... 6
OPERATION .................. 8
MAINTENANCE ............... 14
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENT .. 18
STORAGE .................... 22
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART .. 23
REPAIR PARTS ............... 28
ENGINE REPAIR PARTS ....... 36
SPANISH (ESPAI_IOL) .......... 43
PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE ..
BACK COVER
|Y/'-1 ;t ;r-'1_i tk'A[,,_
LIMITED ONE-YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN SNOW THROWER
For one year from the date of purchase, when this Craftsman Snow thrower is maintained,
lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in the
owner's manual, Sears will repair, free of charge, any defect in material or workmanship.
If this Craftsman Snow thrower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty ap-
plies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.
This warranty does not cover the following:
• Items which become worn during normal use, such asspark plugs, drive belts and shear pins.
• Repair necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent crankshafts
and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained in the
owner's manual.
WARRANTY SERVICE IS AVAILABLE BY RETURNING THE CRAFTSMAN SNOW
THROWER TO THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER IN THE UNITED STATES.
THIS WARRANTY APPLIES ONLY WHILE THIS PRODUCT IS IN USE IN THE UNITED
STATES.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may
vary from state to state.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., D817WA, Hoffman Estates. IL 60179
_k OOK FOR THIS SYMBOL TO POINT OUT IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.
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 repro-
ductive harm.
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 HANDS AFTER HANDLING.
_0410670 2
IT MEANS--ATTENTION!!! BECOME ALERTt!! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
,_ WARNING: Always discon-
IMPORTANT: Safety standards re-
quire operator presence controls to
minimize the risk of injury. Your snow
thrower is equipped with such controls.
Do not attempt to defeat the function of
the operator presence control under any
circumstances.
nect the spark plug wire
and place it where it cannot
make contact with spark plug to
prevent accidental starting during:
Preparation, Maintenance, or Stor-
age of your snow thrower.
TRAINING
1. Read this operating and service instruction
manual carefully. Be thoroughly familiar
with the controls and the proper use of the
snow thrower. Know how to stop the snow
thrower and disengage the controls quick-
ly.
2. Never allow children to operate the snow
thrower. Never allow adults to operate the
snow thrower without proper instruction.
3. Keep the area of operation clear of all per-
sons, particularly small children and pets.
4. Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling
especially when operating in reverse.
PREPARATION
1. Thoroughly inspect the area where the
snow thrower is to be used and remove all
doormats, sleds, boards, wires, and other
foreign objects.
2. Disengage all clutches before starting the
engine (motor).
3. Do not operate the snow thrower without
wearing adequate winter outer garments.
Wear footwear that will improve footing on
slippery surfaces.
4. Handle fuel with care; it is highly flam-
mable.
a. Use an approved fuel container.
b. Never remove fuel tank cap or add fuel
to a running engine (motor) or hot en-
gine (motor).
c. Fill fuel tank outdoors with extreme
care. Never fill fuel tank indoors.
d. Replace fuel cap securely and wipe up
spilled fuel.
e. Never store fuel or snow thrower with
fuel in the tank inside of a building
where fumes may reach an open flame
or spark.
f. Check fuel supply before each use, al-
lowing space for expansion as the heat
of the engine (motor) and/or sun can
cause fuel to expand.
5. For all snow throwers with electric starting
motors use electric starting extension
cords certified CSA/UL. Use only with a re-
ceptacle that has been installed in accord-
ance with local inspection authorities.
6. Let engine (motor) and snow thrower ad-
just to outdoor temperatures before starting
to clear snow.
7. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields
during operation or while performing an ad-
justment or repair to protect eyes from
foreign objects that may bethrown from the
snow thrower.
_0410670
OPERATION
1. Do not operate this snow thrower if you are
taking drugs or other medication which can
cause drowsiness or affect your ability to
operate this snow thrower.
2. Do not use the snow thrower if you are
mentally or physically unable to operate the
snow thrower safely.
3. Do not put hands or feet near or under ro-
tating parts. Keep clear of the discharge
opening at all times.
4. Exercise extreme caution when operating
on or crossing gravel drives, walks or
roads. Stay alert for hidden hazards or
traffic.
5. After striking a foreign object, stop the en-
gine (motor), remove the wire from the
spark plug, thoroughly inspect snow
thrower for any damage, and repair the
damage before restarting and operating
the snow thrower.
6. If the snow thrower should start to vibrate
abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and
check immediately for the cause. Vibration
is generally a warning of trouble.
7. Stop the engine (motor) whenever you
leave the operating position, before un-
clogging the auger/impeller housing or dis-
charge chute and when making any
repairs, adjustments, or inspections.
8. When cleaning, repairing, or inspecting,
make certain the auger/impeller and all
moving parts have stopped and all controls
are disengaged. Disconnect the spark plug
wire and keep the wire away from the spark
plug to prevent accidental starting.
9. Take all possible precautions when leaving
the snow thrower unattended. Disengage
the auger/ impeller, stop engine (motor),
and remove key.
10. Do not start or run engine in enclosed area,
even if doors or windows are open. Ex-
haust fumes are dangerous (containing
CARBON MONOXIDE, an ODORLESS
and DEADLY GAS).
11. Do not clear snow across the face of
slopes. Exercise extreme caution when
changing direction on slopes. Do not at-
tempt to clear steep slopes.
12. Never operate the snow thrower without
proper guards, plates or other safety pro-
tective devices in place.
13. Never operate the snow thrower near en-
closures, automobiles, window wells, drop-
offs, and the like without proper adjustment
of the snow discharge angle. Keep children
and pets away.
3
14.Donotover!cadthesnowthrowercapacity
byattemptingtoclearsnowattoofasta
rate.
2. Store the snowthrower away from ignition
15.Neveroperatethesnowthrowerathigh
transportspeedsonslipperysurfaces.
Lookbehindandusecarewhenbacking
up.
3. Always refer to operator's guide instruc-
16.Neverdirectdischargeatbystandersor
allowanyoneinfrontofthesnowthrower.
17.Disengagepowertothecollector/impeller
whensnowthroweristransportedornotin
use.
18.Useonlyattachmentsandaccessoriesap-
provedbythemanufacturerofthesnow
4. Maintain or replace safety and instruction
5. Run the snow thrower a few minutes after
thrower(suchastirechains,electricstart
kits,ect.).
19,Neveroperatethesnowthrowerwithout
goodvisibilityorlight,Alwaysbesureof
_lb WARNING: This snow thrower isfor use on sidewalks, driveways
yourfootingandkeepafirmholdonthe
handles.Walk;neverrun.
20,Donotover-reach.Keepproperfooting
andbalanceatalltimes,
21.Donotattempttousesnowthrowerona
roof.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
1. Check shear bolts and other bolts at fre-
quent intervals for proper tightness to be
sure the snow thrower is in safe working
condition.
_"_"_'_o_l_..-_
Caution should be exercised while using on
steep sloping surfaces. DO NOT USE
SNOW THROWER ON SURFACES ABOVE
GROUND LEVEL such as roofs of resi-
dences, garages, porches or other such
structures or buildings.
sources or appliances that have a pilot
light, such as hot water and space heaters,
clothes dryers, etc.... Allow the engine
(motor) to cool before storing in any enclos-
ure.
tions for important details if the snow
thrower is to be stored for an extended
period.
labels, as necessary.
throwing snow to prevent freeze-up of the
auger/impeller.
and other ground level surfaces.
IMPORTANT: Many of the following symbols are located on your snow thrower or on litera-
ture supplied with the product. Before you operate the snow thrower, learn and understand
the purpose for each symbol.
CONTROL AND OPERATING
SYMBOLS
Slow Fast Electric Start Engine Start Engine Run
I H N
Engine Off Engine Stop On Choke Off Choke On Neutral
I''J'" --'I"-
Throttle Primer Button Ignition Key
_0410670 4
®®
Ignition Off Ignition On
Drive Clutch Forward Reverse Auger Clutch Auger Collector Engage
Push To Engage Fuel Oil Fuel Oil Mixture
Electric Starter
Discharge DOWN Discharge UP Discharge LEFT Discharge RIGHT
Weight Transfer Weight Transfer Transmission Ignition Key
Lift Handle To Depress Pedal Insert To Run,
Engage To Disengage Pull Out To Stop.
Safety Warning Symbols
DANGER DANGER WARNING
Thrown Objects. Thrown Objects.
Keep Bystanders Away. Keep Bystanders Away.
IMPORTANT
Read Owner's Manual
Before Operating
This Machine.
WARNING
HotSurface
_0410670 5
DANGER
Avoid Injury From
Rotating Auger. Keep
Hands, Feet And
Clothing Away.
STOP
DANGER
Stop The Engine Before
Unclogging Discharge Chute!
Contents of Parts Bag (actual size)
1 - Owner's Manual (not shown)
1 - Packet of Fuel Stabilizer (not shown)
,_ WARNING: Always wear
safety glasses or eye shields
while assembling snow
thrower.
TOOLS REQUIRED
1 - Knife to cut carton
Figure 1 shows the snow thrower in the
operating position.
References to the right or left hand side
of the snow thrower are from the view-
point of the operator's position behind
the unit.
Auger Drive Lever _.
Chute
Deflector
Auger
Drive Cable
Crank
1- Container 5W30 Oil
2. Locate all parts packed separately
and remove from the carton.
NOTE: Place fuel stabilizer in a
safe place until needed for storage.
3. Remove and discard the packing
material from around the snow
thrower.
4. Cut down all four corners of the car-
ton and lay the panels flat.
5. Loosen the knobs holding the upper
handle to the lower handle (See
Figure 2). Raise the upper handle to
the operating position. Tighten the
knobs,
6. Roll snow thrower off the carton by
pulling on the lower handle,
CAUTION: DO NOT back over
cables.
7. Remove the packing material from
handle assembly, Remove the lower
insertfrom the axle.
Figure 1
HOW TO REMOVE FROM THE
CARTON
1. Locate and remove container of
Craftsman 5W30 oil.
F 041067C
Upper Handle
Knob
Figure 2
_" CHECKLIST
Before you operate your new snow
thrower, to ensure that you receive the
best performance and satisfaction from
this quality product, please review the
following checklist:
All assembly instructions have been
completed.
_' The discharge chute rotates freely.
_" No remaining loose parts in carton.
While learning how to use your snow
thrower, pay extra attention to the fol-
lowing important items:
v" Engine oil is at proper level. Use a
high quality detergent oil classified
"For Service SG, SH, SJ, SL, or
higher".
v" Make sure gas tank is filled properly
with clean, fresh, unleaded gasoline
with a minimum of 85 octane.
v" Become familiar with all controls-
their location and function. Operate
controls before starting engine.
F 041067C 7
[o)_J_P_o)_l
KNOW YOUR SNOW THROWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING
YOUR SNOW THROWER. Compare the illustrations with your SNOW THROWER
to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save
this manual for future reference.
Auge
Drive Lever
Chute Deflector
Discharge
Recoil
Starter
Handle
Chute
Crank
Auger Drive Lever- Star_ and stops
the auge_
Crank Assembly - Changes the direc-
tion of snow throwing through the dis-
charge chute,
Chute Deflector - Changes the distance
the snow is thrown.
Discharge Chute - Changes the direc-
tion the snow is thrown,
Primer
Button
Stop Switch Control
Choke
Figure 3
Stop Switch - Must be moved to the on
position to start the engine.
Recoil Starter Handle - Starts the en-
gine manually.
Choke Control - Used to start a cold
engine.
Primer Button - Injects fuel directly into
the carburetor manifold for fast starts in
cold weather.
F 0410670 8
[o)_J_P_o)_l
,_ WARNING: Read Owner's
charge toward bystanders. Stop the
engine before unclogging discharge
chute or auger housing and before
leaving the machine.
TO STOP YOUR
SNOW THROWER
1. To stop throwing snow, release the
2. To stop the engine, move the igni-
CAUTION: To stop the engine, do not
move the choke control to CHOKE
position. Backfire or engine damage
can occur.
TO CONTROL SNOW DISCHARGE
1. Turn the chute control rod to set the
2. Loosen the wing knob on the chute
Manual before operating
machine. Never direct dis-
auger drive lever. See Figure 3.
NOTE: If the snow thrower contin-
ues to slowly move forward, see
"How To Adjust The Auger Control
Cable" in the Service And Adjust-
ment Section.
tion lever to the off position.
direction of the snow throwing.
deflector and move the deflector to
set the distance. Move the deflector
(Up) for more distance, (Down) for
less distance. Then tighten the
wing knob (See Figure 4).
2. To stop throwing snow, release the
auger drive lever.
,_ WARNING: The operation of
wear safety glasses or eye shields
while operating the snow thrower.
any snow thrower can result
in foreign objects being
thrown into the eyes, which can re-
sult in severe eye damage. Always
We recommend standard safety
glasses or use a wide vision safety
mask over your glasses.
HOW TO MOVE FORWARD
1. Hold the auger drive lever against
the handle (See Figure 5). The au-
ger wil! begin rotating.
2. To go forward, raise the handle to al-
low the rubber auger blades to con-
tact the ground. Maintain a firm hold
on the handle as the snow thrower
starts to move forward. Guide the
snow thrower by moving the handle
either left or right. Do not attempt to
push the snow thrower.
3. To stop, release the auger drive le-
ver.
NOTE: If the auger continues to rotate,
see "How To Adjust The Auger Control
Cable" in the Service and Adjustments
section.
Deflector Down Deflector Up
Wing Knob Figure 4
HOW TO THROW SNOW
1. Engage the auger drive lever.
F 0410670
Auger
[o)_J_P_o)_l
FILL OIL:
NOTE: Engine may already contain
some residual oil. Check frequently
when filling the crankcase. DO NOT
overfill.
The snow thrower was shipped with a
container of 5W30 motor oil. This oil
must be added to the engine before op-
erating.
1. Make sure the unit is level.
2. Remove the oil fill cap/dipstick and
fill the crank case to "FULL" line on
dipstick. DO NOT overfill. See
Figure 6.
3. Tighten the fill cap/dipstick securely
each time you check the oil level.
NOTE: Synthet!c e!! !s recommended
for eperat!ng temperatures be!ew 32" F.
Synthet!c 5\?/90 !s acceptab!e for a!!
f_mnar_f_ _r_e rh_'h kl_'_T mlv roll _^Hfh
NOTE: Synthetic oil can assist with
starting in extreme cold temperatures.
Synthetic 5W30 is acceptable for all
temDeratures. DO NOT mix oil with
gasoline.
OII Fill Cap/Dipstick
NOTE: Oil level must be at FULL mark.
Figure 6
FILL GAS:
This engine is certified to operate on
gasoline. Exhaust Emission Control
System: EM (Engine Modifications).
,_ WARNING: Alcohol blended
fuels (called gaeohol or
those using ethanol or
methanol) can attract moisture
which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage.
Acidic gas can damage the fuel sys-
tem of an engine while in storage.
NOTE: To avoid engine problems, the
fuel system must be emptied before
storage for 30 days or longer. Start the
engine and let it run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh
fuel next season. See the Storage
F 0410670
section in this manual for additional in-
formation.
Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
1. Fill the fuel tank only with a fresh,
clean, unleaded regular, unleaded
premium, or reformulated automo-
tive gasoline with a minimum of 85
octane. DO NOT use leaded gaso-
line. We recommend that you add
fuel stabilizer to the gasoline. Use
the fuel stabilizer supplied with the
unit or purchase Craftsman Fuel
Stabilizer No. 3550. Make sure that
the container you pour the gasoline
from is clean and free from rust or
other foreign particles. Never use
gasoline that may be stale from long
periods of storage in the container.
10
[o)_J_P_o)_l
_b ARNING: Gasoline is flam-
gasoline.
• Turn engine off and let engine
• Do not fill fuel tank while snow
• Keep away from open flame or an
• Never fill the tank completely. Fill
• Always fill fuel tank outdoors and
• Make sure to wipe up any spilled
• Store gasoline in a clean, ap-
mable. Always use caution
when handling or storing
cool at least two minutes before
removing the gas cap.
thrower is running, when it is hot,
or when snow thrower is in an en-
closed area.
electrical spark and do not smoke
while filling the fuel tank.
the tank to within 1-1/2" from the
top to provide space for expan-
sion of fuel.
use a funnel or spout to prevent
spilling.
fuel before stating the engine.
proved container and keep the
cap in place on the container.
HOW TO START THE ENGINE
(RECOIL STARTER)
Make sure that the engine oil is at FULL
mark on dipstick. The engine is
equipped with a recoil starter. Before
starting the engine, make certain that
you have read the following information.
If engine floods, set the choke to the
OPEN/RUN position and crank until the
engine starts.
_ ARNING: Rapid retraction
arm toward the engine faster than
you can let go of the starter cord.
• When starting the engine, slow-
• Make sure components; such as
of the starter cord (kick-
back) will pull your hand or
ly pull the starter cord until re-
sistance is felt. Then, rapidly
pull the starter cord.
impellors, pulleys or sprockets,
are securely attached.
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
1. Before you service or start the en-
gine, familiarize yourself with the
snow thrower. Be sure you under-
stand the function and location of all
controls.
2. Be sure that all fasteners are tight.
3. Before starting the engine, make
sure all controls operate correctly.
HOW TO STOP THE ENGINE
To stop the engine, push the stop
switch to the OFF position.
CAUTION: To stop the engine, do not
move the choke control to CHOKE
position. Backfire or engine damage
can occur.
F 0410670
How To Start A Cold Engine
1. Push the stop switch to the ON
position (see Figure 3).
2. When starting the engine, do not
engage the auger drive lever.
3. Move the choke control to the FULL
choke position.
4. Push the primer button as speci-
fied below. Remove finger from
primer button between primes.
• Push two times if temperature is
15° F (-9 ° C) or higher.
• Push four times if temperature is
below 15° F (-9 ° C).
5. Slowly pull the recoil starter han-
dle until resistance is felt and then
pull rapidly to start the engine (See
Figure 7). Do not allow the recoil
starter handle to snap back. Slowly
return the recoil starter handle.
[o)_J_P_o)_l
Pull starter handle rapidly.
Figure 7
FROZEN STARTER
If the starter is frozen and will not turn
the engine, follow the steps below.
1. Pull as much starter rope as pos-
sible out of the starter.
2. Release the starter handle and let it
snap back against the starter. Re-
peat until the engine starts.
Warm engines will cause condensation
in cold weather. To prevent possible
freeze-up of recoil starter and engine
controls, proceed as follows after each
snow removal job.
1. With engine off, allow engine to coo!
for several minutes.
Pull starter rope very slowly until re-
sistance is felt, then stop. Allow the
starter rope to recoil. Repeat three
times.
With the engine not running, wipe all
snow and moisture from the carbu-
retor cover in area of controls and
levers. Also, move the choke control
and starter handle several times.
6. As the engine warms up, move
choke control to 1/2 choke posi-
tion. When engine runs smoothly,
move choke lever to OFF Position.
NOTE" Allow the engine to warm up for
several minutes before blowing snow in
temperatures below 0°R
How To Start A Warm Engine
If restarting a warm engine after a short
shutdown, leave choke at "OFF" and do
not push the primer button. If the en-
gine fails to start, follow the Cold Start
instructions.
,_ WARNING: Never run en-
gine indoors or in enclosed,
poorly ventilated areas. En-
gine exhaust contains CARBON
MONOXIDE, AN ODORLESS AND
DEADLY GAS, Keep hands, feet,
hair and loose clothing away from
any moving parts on engine and
snow thrower.
• Engine parts, especially the muf-
fler, become extremely hot. Se-
vere thermal burns can occur on
contact. Allow the engine to cool
before touching.
• Never allow children to operate
the snow thrower. Never allow
adults to operate the snow throw-
er without proper instruction.
• Keep the area of operation clear
of all persons, particularly small
children and pets.
• Never leave the enowthrower un-
attended while the engine is run-
ning. Anyone operating the en-
gine or equipment must carefully
read and understand the operat-
ing instructions.
F 0410670 12
[o)_J_P_o)_l
HOW TO REMOVE OBJECTS
FROM AUGER
_ ARNING: Do not attempt
auger with your hands. Use a pry
bar to remove snow or debris.
to remove snow or debris
that may become lodged in
• Release auger drive lever.
• Move the stop switch to the stop
position to stop the engine.
• Disconnect spark plug wire.
• Do not place your hands in the au-
ger or discharge chute. Use a pry
bar to remove snow or debris.
SNOW THROWING TIPS
1. When the handle is raised, the au-
ger blades will engage the ground
and the snow thrower will move for-
ward. When the auger drive lever is
released, the auger blades will stop.
If the blades do not stop, see "How
To Adjust The Auger Drive Cable" in
the Service And Adjustment section.
2. Most efficient snow throwing is ac-
complished when the snow is re-
moved immediately after if falls.
3. For complete snow removal, slightly
overlap each previous path.
4. Whenever possible, discharge the
snow down wind.
5. The distance the snow will be dis-
charged can be adjusted by moving
the discharge chute deflector. Raise
the deflector for more distance or
lower the deflector for less distance.
6. In windy conditions, lower the chute
deflector to direct the discharged
snow close to the ground where it is
less likely to blow into unwanted
areas.
7. For safety and to prevent damage
to the snow thrower, keep the area
to be cleared free of stones, toys
and other foreign objects.
8. When clearing snow from crushed
rock or gravel driveways, do not al-
low the auger blades to contact the
driveway. Move the handle down to
slightly raise the auger blades.
9. The forward speed of the snow
thrower is dependent on the depth
and weight of the snow. Experience
will establish the most effective
method of using the snow thrower
under different conditions.
F 0410670
10. After each snow throwing job, allow
the engine to run for a few minutes.
The snow and accumulated ice will
melt off the engine.
11. Clean the snow thrower after each
use.
12. Remove ice, snow and debris from
the entire snow thrower. Flush with
water to remove all salt or other
chemicals. Wipe snow thrower dry.
DRY AND AVERAGE SNOW
1. Snow up to eight inches deep can
be removed rapidly and easily by
walking at a moderate rate. For
snow or drifts of a greater depth,
slow your pace to allow the dis-
charge chute to dispose of the snow
as rapidly as the auger receives the
snow.
2. Plan to have the snow discharged in
the direction the wind is blowing.
WET PACKED SNOW
Move slowly into wet, packed snow. If
the wet, packed snow causes the auger
to slow down or the discharge chute be-
gins to clog, back off and begin a series
of short back and forth jabs into the
snow. These short back and forth jabs,
four to six inches, wil! "belch" the snow
from the chute.
SNOW BANKS AND DRIFTS
In snow of greater depth than the unit,
use the same "jabbing" technique de-
scribed above. Turn the discharge
chute away from the snow bank. More
time wil! be required to remove snow of
this type than level snow.
13
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
SERVICERECORDS
Fill in dates as you Before Every Every Every Every
completeregular Each 8 25 50 100 Each Before
service. Use Often Hours Hours Hours Hours Season Storage
Check EngineOil Level
Change Engine Oil
Tighten All Screws and
Nuts _
Checkand Clean Spark
Plug
Clean and Inspect
Spark Arrestor
Check Fuel
Auger Drive Belt *
i
* Adjust after 2 to 4 hours of use.
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this snow thrower does
not cover items that have been sub-
jected to operator abuse or negligence.
To receive full value from the warranty,
the operator must maintain the snow
thrower as instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be
made periodically to properly maintain
• Check for loose or damaged parts.
• Tighten any loose fasteners.
• Check and maintain the auger.
• Check controls to make sure they
are functioning properly.
• If any parts are worn or damaged,
replace immediately.
LUBRICATION BEFORE STORAGE
your snow thrower.
Maintenance, replacement, or repair of the
emission control devices and systems can
be performed by any non-road engine re-
pair establishment or individual. Regular
maintenance will improve the performance
and extend the life of the engine.
Lubricate chute control
flange. Lubricate flange
with a clinging type
grease such as
Lubriplate. _
AFTER EACH USE
• Run the machine to clear the auger
of snow.
• To prevent freezing of the auger or
controls, remove all snow and slush
from the snow thrower.
F 041067C
14
" Figure 8
ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS
HORSEPOWER 4 HP
DISPLACEMENT 190 cc
BORE 68mm (2.69 in.)
STROKE 52mm (2.05 in.)
GASOLINE 1.5 quarts
CAPACITY (unleaded)
OIL CAPACITY
(20 oz capacity) 5W30
SPARK PLUG: Champion RJ19LM
VALVE Intake: 0.004 0.006 in.
CLEARANCE: Exhaust: 0.009 0.011 in.
ARMATURE
AIRGAP: 0.010 0.014 in.
(Gap .030 in.) or
equivalent
POWER RATINGS
The power ratings for an individual
engine model are initially developed by
starting with SAE (Society of Automo-
tive Engineers) code J1940 (Small
Engine Power & Torque Rating Proce-
dure) (Revision 2002-05). Given both
the wide array of products on which our
engines are placed, and the variety of
environmental issues applicable to
operating the equipment, it may be that
the engine you have purchased will not
develop the rated horsepower when
used in a piece of power equipment
(actual "on-site" power). This difference
is due to a variety of factors including,
but not limited to, the following: differ-
F 0410670 15
ences in altitude, temperature, baro-
metric pressure, humidity, fuel, engine
lubrication, maximum governed engine
speed, individual engine to engine
variability, design of the particular piece
of power equipment, the manner in
which the engine is operated, engine
run-in to reduce friction and clean out of
combustion chambers, adjustments to
the valves and carburetor, and other
factors. The power ratings may also be
adjusted based on comparisons to
other similar engines utilized in similar
applications, and will therefore not
necessarily match the values derived
using the foregoing codes.
ADJUST AUGERCONTROLCABLE
The auger control cable was adjusted
at the factory. If the auger will not en-
gage or disengage correctly, adjust the
auger control cable as follows:
1. Loosen the nut that holds the cable
tension spring (See Figure 9).
2. Slide the cable tension spring to-
ward the rear of the unit until all
cable slack is removed.
NOTE: The auger control cable is
properly adjusted when the free
cable slack is removed and there is
no tension on the idler arm.
3. Tighten the nut that holds the cable
tension spring.
If belt stretch has occured, move the
end the auger control cable to the out-
side hole as follows:
1. Loosen the nut that holds the cable
tension spring (See Figure 9).
2. Move the cable tension spring to-
ward the front of the unit to achieve
maximum cable slack.
3. Remove the upper end of the auger
control cable from the auger drive
lever.
4. install the auger control cable in
the hole shown in Figure 10.
5. Slide the cable tension spring to-
ward the rear of the unit until all
cable slack is removed.
NOTE: The auger control cable is
properly adjusted when the free
cable slack is removed and there is
no tension on the idler arm.
6. Tighten the nut that holds the cable
tension spring.
Spring
Figure 9
Auger
Drive Lever
Handle
er control
Cable
Figure 10
F 0410670 16
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Check the crankcase oil level before
starting the engine and after each eight
(8) hours of continuous use. See
Figure 11. Add S.A.E. 5W30 motor oil
as needed. Synthetic 5W30 is accept-
able for all temperatures. Tighten oil fil!
cap/dipstick securely each time you
check the oil level.
1. Lift the rear of the snowthrower and
tilt the unit forward. In the correct
position, the snowthrower will be
setting on the front of the auger
housing.
2. Put an oil drain pan under the oil
fill tube (See Figure 12).
OII Fill Cap/Dipstick
NOTE: Oil level must be at FULL mark.
Figure 11
Change the oi! every fifty (50) hours or
at least once a year if the snow thrower
is not used for fifty (50) hours.
HOW TO CHANGE THE ENGINE OIL
To change the engine oi!, the engine
must be tilted forward and the oil
drained from the oil fill tube. Change oil
when the engine is warm.
SPARK PLUG
Check the spark plug every twenty-five
(25) hours. Replace the spark plug if
the electrodes are pitted or burned, if
the porcelain is cracked, or every 100
hours of use.
OII Fill Tube
OII Drain
Pan
Figure 12
3. Carefully remove the oil fill cap/dip-
stick. Oil will begin to flow into the
oil drain pan.
4. After all the oil has drained from the
engine, set the snowthrower in the
upright operating position.
5. Fill the engine with S.A.E. 5W30 oil.
Make sure the oil reaches the FULL
mark on the oil fil! cap/dipstick. DO
NOT OVERFILL.
NOTE: For extreme cold operating
conditions of 0°F and below, use a par-
tial synthetic 5W30 motor oil for easier
starting.
Before installing the spark plug,
coat the threads lightly with oil for
easy removal. Tighten the spark
plug to a torque of 15 foot-pounds.
Feeler Gauge
0.030"
1. Make sure the spark plug is clean.
Clean the spark plug by carefully
scraping the electrodes (do not
sand blast or use a wire brush).
2. Check the spark plug gap with a
feeler gauge and reset gap to 0.30"
if necessary. See Figure 13.
F 041067C
Spark Plug
Figure 13
17
[.,,."_o,,_ F_IZIB]P'_"_
HOW TO REMOVE THE TOP COVER
There are no adjustments under the top
cover. To clean the engine cooling sys-
tem, follow the steps below to remove
the cover.
1. Remove screws A that attach the
rod support clamp the the top cov-
er. Pivot crank assembly rod up
and lay on unit.
2. Remove screws B.
3. Remove attachment screws C.
4. Remove the top cover,
5. To install the top cover, reverse the
above steps.
A C
/ /
Crank
Assembly
Rod
Top
Cover
Figure lz
HOW TO REMOVE THE BELT COVER
1. Remove the screws A and nuts B
from the belt cover,
2. Remove attachment screw C from
the rear of the belt cover.
3. Remove the belt cover from the
unit.
B
B
F 041067C
4. To install the belt cover, reverse the
above steps.
NOTE: The belt cover has belt guides
moulded onto the inside of the cover. When
you install the belt cover, engage the auger
drive lever to tighten the belt against the
pulley. This wil! provide adequate clearance
for the belt guides when installing the belt
cover.
C
/
Belt Cover
A
A A
18
A Figure 15
[.,,."_o,,_ V_IZIB]P'_"_
HOW TO ADJUST
THE AUGER BRAKE
The auger brake is adjusted at the fac-
tory to assure safe operation of the
snowthrower. If the auger brake needs
an adjustment, follow the steps below:
1. To access the auger brake, tilt the
front of the unit up.
2. Make sure the auger drive belt is
properly installed. See "How To Re-
move The Auger Drive Belt".
Turn the adjueter nut (See
Figure 16) in or out until the brake
arm is in contact with the auger
drive belt (See Figure 17).
Hold the auger drive lever in the en-
gaged position and push the brake
arm down to remove all slack.
In correct adjustment, there will be
1/4 inch clearance between the
brake arm and the auger drive
belt when the auger drive lever is
engaged (See Figure 17).
Brake Arm
Drive Belt
1/4
Auger
Auger
Drive Lever
Adjuster
Nut
Brake Arm
Figure 16
Figure 17
F 0410670 19
[.,,."_o,,_ V_IZIB]P'_"_
HOW TO REMOVE
THE AUGER DRIVE BELT
The auger drive belt is made of special
construction and must be replaced with
an original equipment belt available
from Sears.
If the auger drive belt is damaged, the
snowthrower will not discharge snow
and will not move forward. Replace the
damaged belt as follows:
1. Disconnect the spark plug wire.
2. Remove the belt cover. See "How
To Remove The Belt Cover".
3. Note the path of the auger drive
belt. For assistance, a diagram de-
cal is provided.
4. Remove the belt guide screw and
the belt guide See Figure 18). To
remove the belt guide, rotate the
belt guide down.
5. Remove the idler screw and idler
pulley from the idler arm (See
Figure 19).
6. Remove the auger drive belt from
the engine pulley and pull through
side of motor box (See Figure 20).
7. To remove the auger drive belt
from the impeller pulley, move the
idler arm to the engaged position.
This will provide clearance between
the impeller pulley and the brake
arm to remove the auger drive belt
(See Figure 21).
8. To install a new auger drive belt, re-
verse the above steps.
9. Check the adjustment of the auger
drive cable. See "Adjust Auger Con-
trol Cable".
Idler
Idler Screw
Auger Drive Belt _[gure 20
Idler Arm
Figure 19
Belt
Guide
Screw
F 0410670
Auger I-
ure 18
Impeller
Pulley
Brake Arm
Clearance
20
Figure 21
[.,,."_o,,_ V_IZIB]P'_"_
HOW TO REMOVE THE AUGER
1. Remove the belt cover. See "How
To Remove The Belt Cover".
Remove the auger drive belt. See
"How To Remove The Auger Drive
Belt" in the Service And Adjustment
section.
3. Remove the auger pulley from the
auger shaft (threads are left hand;
turn clockwise to remove).
8. Slide the auger out of the right side
of the auger housing (See
Figure 22).
9. Slide the auger out of the bearing
on the left side of the auger hous-
ing.
10. To install the auger, reverse the
above steps.
4. To keep the auger from rotating, set
a 2"x4" piece of wood on the cen-
ter paddle to secure auger,
Washer
5. Remove bolts A, washer F, and nuts
B from front of right cover (See
Figure 23).
6. Remove screw C from back of right
cover.
7. Remove bolts D and nuts E, Auger Figure 22
Right Cover
AF
C
/
A
B
B
B
Auger
Housing
F 0410670 21
Auger
E
Auger Pulley
Figure 23
,_ WARNING: Never store your
snow thrower with gasoline
in the fuel tank indoors or in
an enclosed, poorly ventilated area.
If gasoline remains in the tank,
fumes may reach an open flame,
spark or pilot light from a furnace,
water heater, clothes dryer, ciga-
rette, etc.
To prevent damage (if snow thrower is
not used for more than 30 days) follow
the steps below.
SNOW THROWER
1. Thoroughly clean the snow thrower.
2. Lubricate all lubrication points. See
the Maintenance section.
3. Be sure that all nuts, bolts and
screws are securely fastened. In-
spect all visible moving parts for
damage, breakage and wear. Re-
place if necessary.
4. Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightly before paint-
ing.
5. Cover the bare metal parts of the
blower housing auger and the im-
peller with rust preventative, such
as a spray lubricant.
NOTE: A yearly checkup or tune-up by
a Sears service center is a good way of
ensuring that your snow thrower will
provide maximum performance for the
next season.
ENGINE
Gasoline must be removed or treated to
prevent gum deposits from forming in
the fuel tank, filter, hose, and carburetor
during storage. Also, during storage al-
cohol blended gasoline that uses etha-
nol or methanol (sometimes called
gasohol) attracts water. It acts on the
gasoline to form acids which damage
the engine.
1. Run the engine until the fuel tank is
empty and the engine stops.
F 041067C
If you do not remove the gasoline,
use fuel stabilizer supplied with unit
or purchase Craftsman Fuel Stabi-
lizer No. 3550. Add fuel stabilizer to
any gasoline left in the tank to mini-
mize gum deposits and acids. If the
fuel tank is almost empty, mix stabi-
lizer with fresh gasoline in a sepa-
rate container and add some to the
fuel tank.
Always follow the instructions on the
stabilizer container. After the stabi-
lizer is added to the fuel tank, run
the engine at least ten minutes to
allow the mixture to reach the car-
buretor.
4.
While the engine oil is warm,
change the engine oil.
5.
Remove the spark plug and pour
about 15 ml (1/2 oz) of engine oil
into the cylinder. Replace the spark
plug and crank slowly to distribute
the oi!.
,_ WARNING: Do not crank en-
gine with spark plug re-
moved.
6. Store in a clean and dry area, but
NOT near a stove, furnace or water
heater which uses a pilot light or
any device that can create a spark.
OTHER
1. If possible, store your snow thrower
indoors and cover it to give protec-
tion from dust and dirt.
2. If the snow thrower must be stored
outdoors, put the snow thrower on
blocks to raise it off of the ground.
3. Cover the snow thrower with a suit-
able protective cover that does not
retain moisture. Do not use plastic.
IMPORTANT: Never cover snow
thrower while engine and exhaust areas
are stil! warm.
22