Craftsman 917371701 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

CRnFTSMFIN°

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

650 Series Briggs & Stratton Engine

Power-Propelled

21" Multi-Cut

Model No.

917.371701

• Espa_ol, p. 20

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equipment

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Service and Adjustments .................. 15-16

Storage ............................................. 16-17

Troubleshooting ................................ 18-19

Repair Parts ...................................... 38-47

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.

_kLook for this symbol to point out impor- tant safety precautions. It means

CAUTIONN! BECOME ALERTH!

YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

_i, 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.

_WARNING: 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

hands after handling.

A 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.

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 oper-

ating 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 operator is not alert to the presence of children.

Children are often attracted to the ma- chine and the mowing activity. Never as-

sume 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.

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.

• Neverfill containersinsidea vehicle,on atruckortrailerbedwitha plasticliner.

Alwaysplacecontainerson theground

awayfromyourvehiclebeforefilling.

• Removegas-poweredequipmentfrom thetruckortrailerandrefueliton the

ground. Ifthis is notpossible,then refuelsuchequipmentwith a portable container,ratherthanfromagasoline dispensernozzle.

• Keepthenozzlein contactwiththe rim ofthe fueltankor containeropeningat

alltimes untilfueling iscomplete. Do notusea nozzlelock-opendevice.

• Iffuel isspilledonclothing,change clothingimmediately.

• Neveroverfillfuel tank. Replacegas capandtightensecurely.

V. GENERAL SERVICE

• Neverruna machineinsideaclosed area.

• Nevermakeadjustmentsor repairswith theengine(motor)running.Disconnect thesparkplugwire,and keepthewire awayfromtheplugto preventaccidental starting.

• Keepnutsandbolts,especiallyblade attachmentbolts,tight andkeepequip- mentin goodcondition.

• Nevertamperwithsafetydevices.Check theirproperoperationregularly.

• Keepmachinefreeofgrass,leaves,or otherdebrisbuild-up.Cleanoil or fuel spillage.Allowmachineto coolbefore storing.

• Stopandinspecttheequipmentifyou strikean object.Repair,if necessary,

beforerestarting.

• Neverattemptto makewheelheight adjustmentswhiletheengineis running.

• Grasscatchercomponentsaresubject towear,damage,anddeterioration, whichcouldexposemovingpartsor

allowobjectstobe thrown.Frequently checkcomponentsand replacewith manufacturer'srecommendedparts,

whennecessary.

• Mowerbladesaresharpandcancut. Wrapthe blade(s)orweargloves,and

useextra cautionwhenservicingthem.

• Donotchangetheenginegovernorset- tingor overspeedtheengine.

• Maintainor replacesafetyand instruc- tion labels,as necessary.

AWARNING: 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 required by law (Section 4442 of the California 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 REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

Serial Number: Date of Purchase:

Gasoline Capacity / Type: 1.6 Quarts (Unleaded Regular) Oil Capacity: 20 Ounces

Oil Type (API SG-SL): SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F) Spark Plug: Champion RJ19HX (Gap: .030")

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 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.

• 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-HOIMIE®.

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

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 assembled at the factory with the exception of those

parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., necessary to complete the assembly have been placed in the parts bag. 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. TO REMOVE MOWER FROM

CARTON bracket

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. Knob

4. Roll moweroutofcarton and checkcarton thoroughly for additional loose parts.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so

as not to pinch or damage control cables.

1. Raise lower handle section to operating position and align hole in handlewith one of three height positioning holes.

2. Insert handle bolt through handle and bracket and secure with knob.

3. Repeat for opposite side of handle.

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

handle and tighten both handle knobs.

5. Remove any packing material from around control bar.

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.

Handle

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

1. Put grass catcherframe 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.

"Bolt

Operator MOWING f POSITION

control bar

Lower handle

Upper

handle Vinyl

Handle

knob

Frame

bindings

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be

used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging or discharging, see "TO CONVERT MOWER" in the Operation section of this manual.

opening

KNOWYOURLAWNMOWER READTHISOWNER'SMANUALANDALLSAFETYRULESBEFOREOPERATINGYOUR

LAWNMOWER.Comparethe illustrationswithyourlawnmowertofamiliarizeyourselfwith

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

Drive control

Starter

•Operator presence control bar

Handle knob

Engine oil fill cap with dipstick

Primer

Grass catcher

;park plug

Muffler

Mulcher plug

Gasoline filler cal

Air filter

Mulcher

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped door

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.

Wheel adjuster (on each wheel)

Operator presence control lever - must be held down to the handle to start the

engine. Release to stop the engine.

Drive control bar - used to engage

power-propelled forward motion of mower.

Mulcher door - allows conversion to

discharging or bagging operation.

Primer- pumps additional fuel from the carburetor to the cylinder for use when starting a cold engine. Starter handle - used for starting engine. Mulcher plug - located at the rear dis- charge opening. Must be removed when

7 converting to bagging operation.

Theoperationof anylawn mowercan resultinforeign objectsthrownintothe eyes,whichcan resultin

severeeyedamage.Always wearsafetyglassesor eyeshieldswhile operatingyourlawnmoweror performing

anyadjustmentsor repairs.We recom- mendstandardsafetyglassesor awide

visionsafetymaskwornoverspectacles.

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED

Engine speed was set at the factory for

optimum performance. It is not adjustable.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

_i, 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

• Self-propelling is controlled by hold- ing the operator presence control bar

down to the handle and pulling the drive control lever rearward to the handle.

The farther toward the handle the lever is pulled, the faster the unit will travel.

• Forward motion will stop when either the operator presence control bar or drive control lever are released. To stop

forward motion without stopping engine,

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

without self-propelling NOTE: If after releasing the drive control the mower will not roll backwards, push the mow-

er forward slightly to disengage drive wheels.

DRIVE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT Over time, the drive control system may be-

come "loose", resulting in decreased speed.

There is a turnbuckle on the underside of the drive control housing to increase tension on

the drive cable. Proceed as follows:

1. Turn unit off and disconnect spark plug

wire from spark plug.

2. Turn nut on underside of drive control to increase drive speed.

3. Operate mower to test drive speed. Readjust as required.

If condition fails to improve after the above steps (forward speed remains the same), your drive belt is worn and should be replaced.

O 3resence control bar

Drive

ENGAGE DRIVE

Adjustment DRIVE CONTROL turnbuckle CONTROL DISENGAGED

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 setting. 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.

LEVER BACKWARD Plate tab TO LOWER MOWER

LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER Lever

TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER

1. Lift the rear door of the lawn mower and place the grass catcher frame side

hooks onto the door pivot pins.

2. The grass catcher is secured to the lawn mower housing when the rear door is lowered onto the grass catcher frame.

ACAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower without mulcher plug or approved grass catcher in place. Never attempt to op-

erate the lawn mower with the rear door removed or propped open.

.... Pivot

8 Catcher frame hook

control

lever

Rear door Grass

catcher

handle

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER

1. Lift up on grass catcher using the frame handle.

2. Remove grass catcher with clippings from under lawn mower handle.

3. Empty clippings from bag. NOTE: Do not drag the bag when emp-

tying; it will cause unnecessary wear.

Grass

catcher

frame

TO CONVERT MOWER

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be

used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging

or discharging:

REAR BAGGING

• Open rear door and remove mulcher plug. Store mulcher plug in a safe place.

• You can now install the grass catcher or optional clipping deflector.

• To convert to mulching or discharging operation, install mulcher plug into rear

discharge opening of mower.

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

removed and mulcher door closed.

Open mulcher door

Install discharge

deflector

MOWER IS NOW READY FOR

DISCHARGING OPERATION

Mulcher plug

SIDE DISCHARGING

• Mulcher plug must be installed into rear discharge opening of mower.

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

• Mower is now ready for discharging operation.

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN MOWER

FOR MULCHING -

1. Rear mulcher plug installed.

2. Mulcher door closed. FOR REAR BAGGING -

1. Rear mulcher plug removed.

2. Grass catcher installed.

3. Mulcher door closed. FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -

1. Rear mulcher plug installed.

2. Discharge deflector installed.

ACAUTION: Do not run your lawn

mower without mulcher plug or approved grass catcher in place. Never attempt to

operate the lawn mower with the rear door removed or propped open.

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.

Engine

oil cap

Gasoline

filler cap

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.

• iLCAUTION: 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.

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.

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 necessary 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

attempting to start and do not repeat priming steps.

MOWING TIPS

A 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 wilt 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 recutting ac- tion 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.

1/3

SCHEDULE

Check for Loose Fasteners

I Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher*

_ Check Tires

N 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

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.

BEFORE AFTER EVERY EVERY EVERY

EACH EACH 10 25HOURS 100 BEFORE

USE USE HOURS OR SEASON HOURS STORAGE

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.

LU BRICATION Keep unit well lubricated

(See "LUBRICATION CHART").

LUBRICATION CHART

adjuster (on

each wheel)

Engine oil

door hinge pin

Rear door

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.

Wheel

Mulcher

hinge

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 rear drive wheels each time you

mow to be sure they move freely. The wheels not turning freely means trash, grass cuttings, etc., may be inside the

drive wheel and dust cover area and must

be cleaned out to free drive wheels.

If necessary to clean the drive wheels,

check both rear wheels.

BLADE CARE

For best results, 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 the trailing edge of blade (oppo- site 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. / 47-54 N-m.

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

Lockwasher _

Key /

Crankshaft

bolt Hardened

washer

TO SHARPEN BLADE NOTE: We do not recommend sharp-

ening 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, 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

• 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.

GEAR CASE

• To keep your drive system working

properly, the gear case 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 case is 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.

Crankshaft

• Iflubricantis required,useonlyTexaco StarplexPremium1Grease,PartNo.

750369. Donot substitute.

ENGINE LU BRICATION

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 1

F -20 0 30 32 40 60 80 100

i i i i i

C -30 -2; -10 ; 1'0 20 30 40

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°F. Check your engine oil level more frequently to avoid possible

engine damage from running low on oil.

Change the oil after every 25 hours of opera-

tion or at least once a year if the lawn 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 engine 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.

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 plug.

AIR FILTER Your engine will not run properly and may

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

]

hours of operation or every season, which- ever occurs first. Service air cleaner more

often under dusty conditions. TO CLEAN AIR FILTER

1. Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove.

2. Carefully remove cartridge.

3. Clean by gently tapping on a flat sur-

_i face. If very dirty, replace cartridge.

CAUTION: 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 making sure the tabs are aligned with the slots in the back plate. Fasten screw securely.

Back plate

Cartridge _ / ,

Container

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

Slowly pour oil down the oil fill spout, stopping every few ounces to check the oil level with the dipstick.

_ Slot

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 SPECIFIC-

ATIONS" section of this manual.

Cover

tab

CLEANING IMPORTANT:Forbestperformance,keep

mowerhousingfreeof built-upgrassand

trash.Cleantheundersideof yourmower

aftereachuse.

_LCAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it

cannot come in contact with plug.

• Clean underside of mower by scraping to remove build-up of grass and 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.

CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER Clean under drive cover at least twice a sea-

son. Scrape underside of cover with putty knife or similar tool to remove any build-up of trash or grass on underside of drive cover.

_WARNING: To avoid serious injury, before

performing any service or 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.

LAWN MOWER

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in

the Operation section of this manual.

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 into the operator

mowing position. If the deflector becomes damaged, it should be replaced. TO REMOVE DRIVE BELT

1. Remove drive cover.

2. Remove spring and belt keeper.

3. Remove belt from gearcase pulley.

4. Turn lawn mower on its side with air

filter and carburetor down.

5. Remove blade, engine pulley and debris shield.

6. Remove engine pulley and belt from debris shield.

TO REPLACE DRIVE BELT

1. Place new drive belt in engine pulley and belt retainer of debris shield.

2. Route the other end of the new drive belt through hole in housing.

3. Reinstall debris shield.

4. Return mower to upright position.

5. Install new belt on gearcase pulley.

6. Reinstall belt keeper and spring.

7. Reinstall drive cover. NOTE: Always use factory approved belt

to assure proper fit and long life.

8. Turn lawn mower on its side with air filter and carburetor down.

9. Reinstall blade.

Gearcase pulley

Engine pulley

Belt retainer

15 Debris shield

"Drive

cover

,Spring

Belt

Drive belt

+ 33 hidden pages

Craftsman 917371701 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual