Craftsman 917371840 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

CRAFTSMAN°

ROTARY MOWER

675 Series Briggs & Stratton Engine

Power=Propelled Electric Start

21" Multi=Cut

Model No.

917.371840

• Espa_ol, p. 21

CAUTION'.

Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equipment

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

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

U.S.A.

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

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

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

Assembly / Pre-Operation ..................... 6-7

Operation ............................................. 8-12

Maintenance Schedule ........................... 13

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.

Maintenance ...................................... 13-16

Service and Adjustments ................... 17-18

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

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

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

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

This warranty applies only while this product is used in the United States. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which

vary from state to state.

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

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

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

CAUTION!H BECOME ALERT!H

YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

_, WARNING: In order to prevent ac-

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.

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.

_I,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.

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.

IoGENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand,and followall

instructionson the machineandin the manual(s)beforestarting. Bethoroughly

familiarwith the controls andthe proper

useof the machinebeforestarting.

• Do notputhands or feet nearor under

rotatingparts. Keepclearof thedis-

chargeopening atall times.

• Only allow responsibleindividuals,who

are familiarwith the instructions, to oper-

ate the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,

toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc., which could be picked up and thrown by blade.

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

enters the area.

Do not operate the mower when bare-

foot or wearing open sandals. Always wear substantial foot wear.

Do not pull mower backwards unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while moving

backwards.

• Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Material

may richochet back toward the opera-

tor. Stop the blade when crossing gravel surfaces.

• Do not operate the mower without

proper guards, plates, grass catcher or

other safety protective devices in place.

• See manufacturer's instructions for

proper operation and installation of

accessories. Only use accessories ap-

proved by the manufacturer.

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

• Stop the engine (motor) whenever you

leave the equipment, before cleaning the mower or unclogging the chute.

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

removing grass catcher.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificial

light.

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

• Never operate machine in wet grass. Always be sure of your footing: keep a

firm hold on the handle; walk, never run.

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

equipped before starting the engine.

• If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and check immediately for the cause. Vibra-

tion is generally a warning of trouble.

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

mower.

il, SLOPE OPERATION Slopes are a major factor related to slip &

fall accidents which can result in severe in-

jury. All slopes require extra caution. If you

feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it.

DO:

• Mow across the face of slopes: never

up and down. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.

• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

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

DO NOT:

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

footing or balance.

• Do not trim excessively steep slopes.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced foot- ing could cause slipping.

i11. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator

is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine

and the mowing activity. Never assume

that children will remain where you last

saw them.

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

responsible adult.

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

• Before and while walking backwards, look behind and down for small children.

• Never allow children to operate the ma- chine.

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

that may obscure vision.

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

Gasoline is extremely flammable and the

vapors are explosive.

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

• Use only an approved container.

• Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow engine to cool

before refueling.

• Never refuel the machine indoors.

• Never store the machine or fuel contain- er where there is an open flame, spark

or pilot light such as a water heater or on other appliances.

• Neverfill containers insideavehicle,on a truckor trailerbedwith aplastic liner.

Alwaysplace containerson the ground awayfrom yourvehicle beforefilling.

• Removegas-poweredequipmentfrom thetruck or trailer and refueliton the

ground. Ifthis is not possible,then refuelsuch equipmentwith a portable

container,ratherthan from a gasoline dispensernozzle.

• Keepthe nozzle in contactwith the rim of the fuel tank or containeropening at

all times untilfueling is complete. Do not use a nozzlelock-opendevice.

• Iffuel isspilled on clothing,change clothing immediately.

• Neveroverfill fuel tank. Replacegas cap andtightensecurely.

V. GENERAL SERVICE

• Never run a machine insidea closed area.

• Never makeadjustmentsor repairswith the engine(motor) running.Disconnect thespark plugwire, and keep thewire awayfrom theplugto preventaccidental

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.

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 Type (API SG-SL): SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)

Oil Capacity: 20 Ounces Spark Plug (Gap: .030") Champion RJ19HX

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 todayg Some limitations and exclusions apply.

For prices and additional information

call 1-800=827-6655.

Sears Installation Service

For Sears professional installation of home

appliances, garage door openers, water

heaters, and other major home items, in

the U.S.A. call 1-800=4=MY-HOME®.

These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears retail outlets and service centers. Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CLIPPING

DEFLECTORS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

STABILIZER

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

CANS

GAS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

AIR FILTERS

SPARK PLUGS

BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS

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, All parts such as nuts, washers,

bolts, etc,, necessary to complete the as- sembly 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 LAWN MOWER FROM

CARTON Handle

1. Remove loose parts included with bracket 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 lawn mower out of carton and check carton thorougly for additional

loose parts.

Operator MOWING presence POSITION

control bar

LIFT Upper UP handle

Handle

knob

Lower handle

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 handle with 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,

TOASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

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

Make sure the frame handJe 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.

// \ - // \ handle

Vinyl Frame

bindings opening

TO PREPARE BATTERY

NOTE: Your battery must be charged before you can start your lawn mower.

1. Connect battery charger connector (male) to harness connector (female).

2. Plug battery charger into 110 volt A.C. outlet.

3. Leave battery charger connected for 24 hours before starting your engine

for the first time.

4. After charging, disconnect harness connector (female) from battery char-

ger connector (male).

Connect your battery charger to charge

battery after each use. IMPORTANT: The engine will not re-

charge your battery. At the end of the mowing season the

battery should be charged for 48 hours to

,_otect the battery during winter storage.

CAUTION: Always disconnect the

engine connector (male) from the battery connector (female) to prevent accidental starting when transporting or storing your

lawn mower after the season.

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.

Battery charger

Charger

Harness connector

connector (male) (female)

Engine connector (male)

Battery

box

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

Drive control

lever_.

Key start

switch

Operator presence control bar

Handle knob

Drive cover

starter

handle

Engine oil cap with dipstick

Grass catcher

Gasoline filler ca

Mulcher door

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped

WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the

American National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Com-

mission. The blade turns when the engine is running.

Muffler

plug

Housing

"Wheel adjuster

(on each wheel)

)ark

Operator presence control bar = must be held down to the handle to start the

engine. Release to stop the engine.

Auxiliary starter handle = used for start-

ing engine.

Mulcher door = allows conversion to

discharging or bagging operation.

Key start switch - used for starting engine. Drive control lever- used to engage

power-propelled forward motion of mower.

The operationof any

lawnmower canresult inforeignobjects thrown

intothe eyes,which can resultin severeeye dam-

age.Always wearsafetyglassesor eye

shieldswhile operatingyour lawn mower or performingany adjustmentsor repairs. We recommenda standardsafety glasses

or widevisionsafety maskwornover

spectacles.

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 _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 mower forward slightly to disengage

drive wheels.

DRIVE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT

Over time, the drive control system may

become "loose", resulting in decreased speed. There is a turnbuckle on 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. Rotate turnbuckle on drive control to increase drive speed.

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

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

Adjustment turnbuckle

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

TO LOWER MOWER

Plate tab

Operator presence control bar

ENGAGE

DRIVE

CONTROL

Drive control

DRIVE

CONTROL

DISENGAGED

LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER Lever

lever

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.

Discharge deflector

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. To convert to mulching or bagging

operation, discharge deflector must be removed and mulcher door closed.

\ /

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.

_,CAUTION: 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.

Open mulcher door

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 empty- ing; it will cause unnecessary wear.

\/ /._\ Grass

(_, ,];'X_>-..._ catcher

'X_, "_ ""---.-_. _-,_,) frame

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.

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

near an open flame.

_i, 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.

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 turn the start key.

IMPORTANT: Do not crank engine more than five continous seconds between each

time you try to start. Wait 5 to 10 seconds

between each attempt.

• To start engine using the rope starter,

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

SCHEDULE

Check for Loose Fasteners

_ Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher *

Check Tires

_ Check Drive Wheels

Clean Lawn Mower ....

M Clean under Drive Cover *** O Check Drive Belt / Pulleys ***

_ Check / Sharpen / Replace Blade

R Lubrication

Clean and Recharge Battery **

Check Engine Oil level

I_ Change Engine Oil N Clean Air Filter

_ Inspect Muffler

N Replace Spark Plug I1_ 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 25 HOURS 100 BEFORE

USE USE HOURS OR SEASON HOURS STORAGE

i/ i/3

i/s

11_,2

14 I/

i/ 14

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this lawn mower does not

cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, operator must

maintain unit as instructed in this manual.

Some adjustments will need to be made

periodically to properly maintain your unit. At least once a season, check to see if

you should make any of the adjustments described in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual.

• At least once a year, replace the spark plug, clean or replace air filter element

and check blade for wear. A new spark plug and clean/new air filter element

assure proper air-fuel mixture and help your engine run better and last longer.

• Follow the maintenance schedule in this manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level.

• Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION

Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRICATION CHART").

LUBRICATION CHART

(_ Wheel

adjuster (on

each wheel)

(_) Engine oil

I / d)Mulcher

I \ /) door hingepin

1" ") (_ 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

3graphite 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 rub-

ber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage.

DRIVE WHEELS Check rear drive 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

area and must be cleaned to free drive

wheels.

If necessary to clean the drive wheels, be sure to clean both rear wheels.

BLADE CARE

For best results, blade must be kept sharp. Replace a bent or damaged blade. _i, 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 & attaching hardware (bolt, lock washer & hardened washer).

TO REPLACE BLADE

1. Position blade on the blade adapter aligning the two (2) holes in the blade

with the raised lugs on the adapter.

2. Be sure the trailing edge of blade (op- posite sharp edge) is up toward the engine.

3. Install the blade bolt with the lock

washer and hardened washer into

blade adapter and crankshaft.

4. 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.

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharp-

ening the blade - but if you do, be sure the

blade is balanced. An unbalanced blade

will cause eventual damage to mower or engine.

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

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

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

If blade is balanced, it should remain in

a horizontal position. If either end of the blade moves downward, sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced.

GRASS CATCHER

• 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.

Blade adapter Key Crankshaft

Lockwasher

Blade

Blade bolt Hardened

washer Trailing edge

Cranksha_

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.

• If lubricant is required, use only Texaco Starplex Premium 1 Grease, Part No.

750369. Do not substitute.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated

with API service classification SG-SL.

Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your expected operating

temperature.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

F -20 0 30 32 40 60 80 100

c -_0 -2_ -1_ _ _'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°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 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 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.

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 muf-

fler 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 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-

_iL 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

Lip

Cart_

'_ Slot

Cover

tab

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 lawn 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.

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.

Hose

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. A 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.

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.

+ 36 hidden pages

Craftsman 917371840 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual