Craftsman 917.370880 User Manual

Owner's Manual

OTARY LAWN MOWER

625 Series Briggs &

Power-Propelled, All

22" Multi-Cut

Model No.

917.370880

Stratton Engine

Wheel Drive

• EspaSol, p. 22

CAUTION'.

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equipment

Sears Brands Management Corp., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.

Visit our Craftsman website: www.craftsman.com

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

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

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

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

Operation ............................................. 7-11

Maintenance Schedule ........................... 12

CRAFTSMAN 2-YEAR FULL WARRANTY

For TWO YEARS from the date of purchase, this product is warranted against any

defects in material or workmanship. Defective product will receive free repair or

replacement if repair is unavailable. For warranty coverage details to obtain free repair or replacement, visit the web page:

www.craftsman.com/warranty This warranty covers ONLY defects in material and workmanship.

Warranty coverage does NOT include:

• Expendable parts that can wear out from normal use within the warranty period, such as blades, blade adapters, belts, filters or spark plugs.

• Product damage resulting from user attempts at product modification or repair or caused by product accessories.

• Repairs necessary because of accident or failure to operate or maintain this product according to all supplied instructions.

• Preventative maintenance, or repairs necessary due to improper fuel mixture, contaminated or stale fuel.

This warranty is void if this product is ever used while providing commercial services or

if rented to another person.

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

Sears Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

Maintenance ...................................... 12-15

Service and Adjustments ................... 16-18

Storage .............................................. 18-19

Troubleshooting ................................. 19-20

Repair Parts ....................................... 40-49

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

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and

throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in

serious injury or death.

_i,Look for this symbol to point out impor-

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

YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

,& WARNING" In order to prevent acci-

dental starting when setting up, transport- ing, adjusting or making repairs, always

disconnect spark plug wire and place wire

where it cannot come in contact with plug.

_i, CAUTION: Muffler and other engine

parts become extremely ,4Fk,,-, hot during operation and

remain hot after engine has stopped. To avoid

severe burns on contact, stay away from these areas.

AWARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle compo-

nents contain or emit chemicals known to

the State of California to cause cancer and

birth defects or other reproductive harm.

_,WARNING: 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.

&WARNING: This lawn mower is equipped with an internal combustion

engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush- covered or grass-covered land unless the

engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is

used, it should be maintained in effective

working order by the operator.

In the state of California the above is re-

quired by law (Section 4442 of the Califor-

nia Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply

on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest

Sears Parts & Repair Center (See the RE- PAIR PARTS section of this manual).

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 richo-

chet back toward the operator. Stop 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 prop-

er operation and installation of accesso-

ries. Only use accessories approved 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. 3

• Disengage the self-propelled mecha- nism 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

injury. 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 footing could cause slipping.

III. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the opera- tor 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 machine.

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

that may obscure vision.

AWARNING: CHILDREN CAN BE

INJURED BY THIS EQUIPMENT. The

American Academy of Pediatrics recom-

mends that children be a minimum of 12

year of age before operating a pedestrian controlled lawn mower and a minimum of

16 years of age before operating a riding lawn mower.

• When loadingor unloadingthis ma- chine,do notexceedthe maximum

recommendedoperationangleof 15°.

• Wearproper PersonalProtectiveEquip-

ment(PPE)while operatingthis ma-

chine, including(at a minimum)sturdy footwear,eye protection,and hearing

protection. Donot mow in shorts or

opentoed footwear.

Alwayslet someone know you are outside mowing.

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.

• 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 acciden- tal 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: 0.8 Quarts (Unleaded Regular) Oil Type (API SG-SL): SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F) Oil Capacity: 15.5 Ounces

Spark Plug (Gap: .020") Champion RC12YX (or 33456 for MRS)

Blade Bolt Torque: 35-40 ft. Ibs.

• 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.

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 ifyour covered product can't be fixed.

• Discount of 25% from regular price of service and service-related parts not covered by the agreement; also, 25%

off regular price of preventive mainte- nance check.

• 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 OFTHESEACCESSORIES MAY NOTAPPLYTO 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

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

AIR FILTERS

SPARK PLUGS

BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS

WHEELS

ENGINE OIL

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 assem-

bled at the factory with the exception 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 tight-

ened 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 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.

,-_ erator presence ' _llllmml_ _ control bar

Lower

handle handle

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

1. Put grass catcher frame into grass bag with rigid part of bag on the bottom.

Make sure the frame handle is outside of the bag top.

2. Slip vinyl bindings over frame. NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold

them in warm water for a few minutes. If

bag gets wet, let it dry before using.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN

MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so as not to pinch or damage control cables.

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

handle and tighten both handle knobs.

2. Raise handles until they lock into place in the vertical position.

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

handle.

4. Move operator presence control bar forward to unlock the handle.

5. Lower handle to desired mowing posi- tion.

Refer to "ADJUST HANDLE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this

manual.

Vinyl Frame

bindings opening

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be

used as a mulcher. To convert mower to bagging or discharging, see "TO CON-

VERT MOWER" in the Operation section of this manual.

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

Drive control bar

Starter handle

Grass catcher

Engine oil cap

with dipstick

Wheel adjuster (on each wheel)

Muffler

Mulcher door-

Handle knob

Gasoline filler cap

Air filter

Housing

Spark plug

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped

WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.

NOTE: Gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol (El0) is acceptable for use in this machine.

The use of any gasoline exceeding 10% ethanol (El0) will void the product warranty.

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. _I,WARNING: The blade turns when the engine is running.

Operator presence control bar - must Mulcher door - allows conversion to be held down to the handle to start the discharging or bagging operation. engine. Release to stop the engine. Drive control bar - used to engage

Starter handle - used for starting engine. 7 power-propelled forward motion of mower.

The operation of any lawn

SAFETYGLASSESmower can result in foreign

objectsthrownintotheeyes,

whichcanresultinsevereeye

damage.Alwayswearsafety

glassesoreye shieldswhileoperatingyour lawnmoweror performinganyadjustments orrepairs.Werecommendastandardsafety

glasses or wide vision safety mask worn over spectacles.

HOW TO USE YOUR MOWER

ENGINE SPEED

Engine speed was set at the factory for optimum performance. It is not adjustable.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

_k,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.

DRIVE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT

Over time, the drive control system may

become "loose", resulting in decreased

speed. There is an adjustment turnbuckle on the drive control cable to increase ten-

sion on the drive belt. Proceed as follows:

1. Turn unit off and disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug.

NOTE: Your mower is shipped with no "gap" between drive control cable and jam

nut.

2. To increase drive speed, rotate turn- buckle on drive control cable until there

is a small "gap" between drive control cable and jam nut.

3. Operate mower to test drive speed.

Readjust as required.

IMPORTANT: Over-adjustment will make it difficult to lift control bar to handle and

will cause your mower to "creep" forward when control bar is released.

4. Tighten jam nut against turnbuckle.

If condition fails to improve after the above

steps (forward speed remains the same), your drive belt is worn and should be

replaced.

ORIGINAL FACTORY SETTING

(NO "GAP")

Jam nut

DRIVE CONTROL

• Self-propelling is controlled by holding the operator presence control bar down to the handle and pulling the drive con-

trol bar up to the handle. The closer to the handle the bar is pulled, the faster

the unit will travel.

• Forward motion will stop when either the operator presence control bar or drive control bar are released. To stop forward motion without stopping engine,

release the drive control bar only. Hold operator presence control bar down against handle to continue mowing with-

out self-propelling.

NOTE: If after releasing the drive control the mower will not roll backwards, push the mower forward slightly to disengage

drive wheels.

Operator presence control bar

DRIVE

CONTROL CONTROL

ENGAGED DISENGAGED

Turnbuckle

Drive control cable

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.

"GAP" WHILE ADJUSTING

"GAP" AFTER ADJUSTMENT

ROTATE LEVER TOWARD ENGINE TO LOWER MOWER

Plate tab .Lever

ROTATE LEVER AWAY FROM ENGINE

TO RAISE MOWER TO CONVERT MOWER

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be

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

REAR BAGGING

• Lift handle to vertical position. The rear door will rise to allow easy removal and

replacement of the grass catcher. Place

the grass catcher frame hooks onto the grass bag brackets.

• To convert to mulching or discharging operation, remove grass catcher and

close rear door.

positior Rear door

Grass bag

Grass

_ catcher

_handle

Grass frame hook

SIDE DISCHARGING

• Rear door must be closed.

• Open mulcher door and install dis- charge deflector under door as shown.

• Mower is now ready for discharging operation.

• To convert to mulching or bagging operation, discharge deflector must be

removed and mulcher door must be

closed and locked.

I \ \

Open mulcher door I

Discharge

deflector

MOWER IS NOW READY FOR DISCHARGING

OPERATION

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN MOWER

FOR MULCHING -

1. Rear door closed.

2. Mulcher door closed and locked. FOR REAR BAGGING -

1. Grass catcher installed.

2. Mulcher door closed and locked. FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -

1. Rear door closed.

2. Discharge deflector installed.

,_CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mow- er without rear door closed or approved

grass catcher in place. Never attempt to operate the lawn mower with the rear door

removed or propped open.

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER

1. Move operator presence control bar

forward to unlock the handle.

2. Lift handle to vertical position. The

rear door will rise to allow easy re- moval and replacement of the grass

catcher.

3. Lift up on grass catcher using the

frame handle.

4. Remove grass catcher with clippings

from under lawn mower handle.

5. Empty clippings from bag using both

frame handle and bag handle.

NOTE: Do not drag the bag when empty-

9 ing; it will cause unnecessary wear.

Operator presence

control bar

(MOVE FORWARD

TO UNLOCK)

Handle _

Vertical position "

frame

handle

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.

,_, 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.

_i, CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline

near an open flame.

Al_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 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 product and should be considered normal.

NOTE: Your engine is equipped with an automatic choke system. No priming or

choking is required before starting. * To start engine, hold operator presence

control bar down to the handle and pull starter handle quickly. Do not allow

starter rope to snap back.

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 clippings.

It may also be necessary to reduce

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.

• Pores in cloth grass catchers can

become 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.

MAX 1/3

• 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.

MAINTENANCE BEFOREAFTEREVERY

SCHEDULE USE USE HOURS

Check for Loose Fasteners

_ Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher *

Check Tires

_ Check Drive Wheels I_

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

IE Change Engine Oil

N Clean Air Filter

_ Inspect Muffler

N Replace Spark Plug

E 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

EVERY EVERY

25 HOURS 100

OR SEASON HOURS STORAGE

BEFORE

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

(_ Mulcher

door hinge

(_ Rear door

hinge

(_ Handle bracket mounting pins

(_) 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

2graphite type lubricant sparingly.

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.

DRIVE WHEELS Check wheels each time before you mow

to be sure they move freely. The wheels not turning freely means trash,

grass cuttings, etc. are in the drive wheel or dust cover area and must be cleaned to

free drive wheels.

If necessary to clean the drive wheels, be sure to clean all wheels.

1. Remove hubcaps, Iocknuts, and wash-

ers.

2. Remove wheels from wheel adjusters.

3. Remove any trash or grass cuttings

from inside the dust cover, pinion and/ or drive wheel gear teeth.

4. Put wheels back in place. NOTE: If after cleaning, the drive wheels

do not turn freely, contact a Sears or other qualified service center.

BLADE CARE

For best results, blade must be kept sharp. Replace a bent or damaged blade.

A 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 haz- ardous, 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 hard-

ware (bolt, lock washer and hardened washer).

6. Remove debris shield. NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and

check the key

inside hub of blade adapter. 13appear to be centered, but are not.

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; and that the drive belt is inside the tab

of the belt retainer.

2. Install debris shield.

3. Position blade on the blade adapter. IMPORTANT: To ensure proper assembly,

center hole in blade must align with star on blade adapter.

4. Be sure the trailing edge of blade (op-

posite sharp edge) is up toward the engine.

5. Install the blade bolt with the lock

washer and hardened washer into

blade adapter and crankshaft.

6. 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.

"" _ nk-

adapter \ shaft

Belt retainer

shield edge

Blade bolt

keyway

trailing

washer

TO SHARPEN BLADE

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

balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause

eventual damage to lawn 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, you will need a

5/8" diameter steel bolt, pin, or a cone balancer. (When using a cone balancer, follow the instructions supplied with it.)

NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing blade. The lobes of the center hole may

Slide bladeon to an unthreadedportion of the steel bolt or pin and hold the

bolt or pin parallelwith the ground. If bladeis balanced,it shouldremain in a

horizontalposition. Ifeitherend ofthe blademoves downward,sharpenthe

heavyend untilthe bladeis balanced.

Center hole

5/8" bolt or pin

Blade

GRASS CATCHER

• 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.

Change the oil after every 25 hours of op- eration orat least once a year if the mower

is not used for 25 hours in one year.

Check the crankcase oil level before starting the engine and after each five (5)

hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plug

securely each time you check the oil level. TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain oil, empty fuel tank by running en- gine until fuel tank is empty.

1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot

come in contact with plug.

2. Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a clean surface.

3. Tip lawn mower on its side as shown and drain oil into a suitable container.

Rock lawn mower back and forth to re-

move any oil trapped inside of engine.

GEAR CASES

• To keep your drive system working properly, the gear cases and area

around the drive should be kept clean and free of trash build-up. Clean under

the drive cover twice a season.

• The gear cases are filled with lubricant

to the proper level at the factory. The only time the lubricant needs attention

is if service has been performed on the

gear case.

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 -30 -20 -1; ; 1'0 20 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 increased oil consumption when used above 32°R Check your engine oil level more frequently to avoid possible engine damage from running low on oil.

4. Wipe off any spilled oil from lawn mower or side of engine.

5. Slowly pour oil down the oil fill spout, stopping every few ounces to check

the oil level with the dipstick.

6. Stop adding oil when you reach the

FULL mark on the dipstick. Wait a

minute to allow oil to settle.

7. Continue adding small amounts of oil, rechecking the dipstick until oil level settles at FULL. DO NOT overfill, or

engine will smoke heavily from the muffler on startup.

8. Always be sure to retighten oil dipstick before starting engine.

9. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.

AIR FILTER Your engine will not run properly and may

be damaged by using a dirty air filter. Replace the air filter every 100 hours of

operation or every season, whichever oc- curs first. Service air cleaner more often

under dusty conditions.

TO CLEAN AIR FILTER

1. Remove cover.

2. Carefully remove cartridge.

3. Clean by gently tapping on a flat sur- face. If very dirty, replace cartridge.

,ACAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as

kerosene, are not to be used to clean car- tridge. They may cause deterioration of the

cartridge. Do not oil cartridge. Do not use pressurized air to clean or dry cartridge.

4. Install cartridge, then replace cover.

Tab

Slot

Cartridge

Filter cover

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it could create a fire hazard and/or damage.

SPARK PLUG Replace spark plug at the beginning of

each mowing season or after every 100 hours of operation, whichever occurs first.

Spark plug type and gap setting are shown in the "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"

section of this manual. CLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-grass and

trash. Clean the underside of your mower

after each use.

,ACAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it

cannot come in contact with plug.

• Clean the underside of your mower by

scraping to remove build-up of grass/trash.

• Clean engine often to keep trash from

accumulating. A clogged engine runs

hotter and shortens engine life.

• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free

of all gasoline, oil, etc.

• We do not recommend using a garden

hose to clean lawn mower unless the

electrical system, muffler, air filter and carburetor are covered to keep water out. Water in engine can result in short-

ened engine life.

WATER WASHOUT FEATURE Your lawn mower is equipped with a fitting

that allows quick and easy cleaning of the underside of the housing. To use this

feature, proceed as follows:

1. Move lawn mower to an area of cut grass or another hard surface.

NOTE: Water, grass and other debris will drain from beneath the mower housing

during the washout process.

2. Remove grass catcher and discharge chute assembly from lawn mower.

3. Close mulcher door (if equipped).

4. Connect a garden hose to the fitting where shown.

IMPORTANT: Be sure the garden hose is not routed under the lawn mower housing

or entangled in the wheels.

5. Turn on water supply and check for

leaks at the fitting.

If no leaks are present, start engine (as

described in the Operation section of this manual) and let engine run until the

underside of the lawn mower is clean.

,_, WARNING: Do not engage the drive

system during the washout process.

6. Shut off the engine.

7. Shut off water supply and remove

hose from fitting.

CAUTION: Do not remove hose from fitting while engine is running. Water in

engine can result in shortened engine life.

8. Start engine (as described in the Op- eration section of this manual) and let

engine run for a full minute to remove excess water from mower.

Hose

...... I

Fitting

CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER Clean under drive cover at least twice a season. Scrape underside of cover with

putty knife or similar tool to remove any build-up of trash or grass on underside of

drive cover.

A WARNING" To avoid serious injury, TO REMOVE DRIVE BELT

before performing any service and adjustments:

1. Release control bar and stop engine.

2. Make sure the blade and all moving parts have completely stopped.

3. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot

come in contact with plug.

1. Turn lawn mower on its side with air filter and carburetor up.

2. Remove blade bolt, Iockwasher, hard- ened washer and blade.

3. Remove debris shield.

4. Remove rear baffle.

5. Disconnect return spring from rear baffle

/ rear gearcase belt keeper.

6. Disconnect cable from rear gearcase.

7. Remove drive cover.

LAWN MOWER

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in

the Operation section of this manual.

8. Remove front belt keeper.

9. Remove belt from front gearcase pulley.

10. Remove all three idler pulleys from idler assembly.

11. Remove belt from blade adapter/engine

REAR DEFLECTOR

The rear deflector, attached between the

rear wheels of your mower, is provided to minimize the possibility that objects will

be thrown out of the rear of the mower

pulley and idler assembly.

12. Remove rear gearcase pulley by clamp- ing locking pNars to input shaft (beneath

pulley) and loosening pulley with a 9/16" box wrench.

13. Remove old belt from mower and discard.

into the operator mowing position. If the

deflector becomes damaged, it should be

replaced.

Rear baffle

Debris shield

Blade

Hardened washer

Drive

chb cover

Lockwasher

Blade bolt 16

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