CAUTION: ALWAYS DISCONNECT SPARKPLUG WIRE AND PUCE WIRE WHERE ITCANNOT CONTACTSPARK
plugtopreventACCIDENTAL STARTING WHEN SETTING UP, TRANSPORTING, ADJUSTING OR MAKING
A
REPAIRS.
A
IMPORTANT
SAFETY STANDARDS REQUIRE OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROLS TO MINIMIZE THE RISK OF INJURY. YOUR UNIT IS EQUIPPED WITH SUCH
CONTROLS. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DEFEAT THE FUNCTION OF THE OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROLS UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES.
TRAINING:
• Read this operator’s manual carefully. Become familiar with
the controls and know how to operate your mower properly.
Learn how to quickly stop mower.
• Do not allow children to use your mower. Never allow adults
to use mower without proper instructions.
Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, especially
small children and pets.
Use mower only as the manufacturer intended and as de
scribed in this manual.
Do not operate mower if it has been dropped or damaged in
any manner. Always have damage repaired before using
your mower.
Do not use accessory attachments that are not recommended
by the manufacturer. Use of such attachments may be
hazardous.
The blade turns when the engine is running.
PREPARATION;
Always thoroughly check the area to be mowed and clear it of
all stones, sticks, wires, bones, and other foreign objects.
These objects will be thrown by the blade and can cause
severe injury.
Always wear safety glasses or eye shields when starting and
while using your mower.
Dress properly. Do not operate mower when barefoot or
wearing open sandals. Wear only solid shoes with good
traction when mowing.
Check fuel tank before starting engine. Do not fill gas tank
indoors, when the engine is running or when the engine is hot.
Allow the engine to cool for several minutes before filling the
gas tank. Clean off any spilled gasoline before starting the
engine.
Always make wheel height adjustments before starting your
mower. Never attempt to do this while the engine is running.
Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
OPERATION:
Keep your eyes and mind on your mower and the area being
cut. Do not let other interests distract you.
Do not mow wet or slippery grass. Never run while operating
your mower. Always be sure of your footing - keep a firm hold
on the handles and walk.
Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep
clear of the discharge opening at all times.
• Always stop the engine whenever you leave or are not using
your mower, or before crossing driveways, walks, roads, and
any gravel-covered areas.
• Never direct discharge of material toward bystanders nor
allow anyone near the mower while you are operating it.
• Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing your mower, stop
the engine and make absolutely sure the blade and all
moving parts have stopped. Then disconnect the spark plug
wire and keep it away from the spark plug to prevent
accidental starting.
• Do not continue to run your mower if you hit a foreign object.
Follow the procedure outlined above, then repair any dam
age before restarting and operating you mower.
• Do not change the governor settings or overspeed the
engine. Engine damage or personal injury may result.
• Do not operate your mower if it vibrates abnormally. Exces
sive vibration is an indication of damage; stop the engine,
safely checkforthe cause of vibration and repair as required.
• Do not run the engine indoors. Exhaust fumes are danger
ous.
« Never cut grass by pulling the mower towards you. Mow
across the face of slopes, never up and down or you might
lose your footing. Do not mow excessively steep slopes.
Use caution when operating the mower on uneven terrain or
when changing directions - maintain good footing,
• Never operate your mower without proper guards, plates,
grass catcher or other safety devices iri place.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE;
• Check the blade and the engine mounting bolts often to be
sure they are tightened properly.
« Check all bolts, nuts and screws at frequent inten/als for
proper tightness to be sure mower is in safe working condi
tion.
• Keep all safety devices in place and working.
» To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine free of grass, leaves
or excessive grease and oil.
» Check grass catcher often for deterioration and wear and
replace worn bags. Use only replacement bags that are
recommended by and comply with specifications of the
manufacturer of your mower.
• Always keep a sharp blade on your mower.
• Allow engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.
» Never store mower with fuel in the tank inside a building
where fumes may reach an open flame or an ignition source
such as a hot water heater, space heater, clothes dryer, etc.
A
LOOK FOR THIS SYMBOL TO POINT OUT IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.
IT MEANS-ATTENTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
Page 3
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of Sears
Craftsman Lawn Mower. It has been designed, engineered
and manufactured to give you the best possible de
pendability and performance.
Should you experience any problems you cannot easily
remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Service Cen-
ter/Department. Sears has competent, well trained tech
nicians and the proper tools to service or repair this unit.
Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will
enable you to assemble and maintain your lawn mower
properly. Always observe the "SAFETY RULES".
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
HORSEPOWER;
DISPLACEMENT:
GASOLINE CAPACITY:
OIL (20 oz. Capacity):
5.0
12.04 cu. in.
1 quart
(Unleaded)
SAE 30 (Above 32°F)
5W30 (Below 32“F)
MODEL
NUMBER 917.372480
SERIAL
NUMBER
DATE OF
PURCHASE
THE MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBERS WILL BE
foundonadecalattachedtotherear
OF THE lawnmow er HOUSING.
YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER
AND DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP IN A SAFE
PLACE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
___________
________
________________
SPARK PLUG (GAP .030 in.):
(0,76 mm)
_
VALVE CLEARANCE: intake:
Exhaust;
SOLID STATE IGNITION
AIR GAP:
BLADE BOLT TORQUE:
Champion
RJ19LM or
Sears 21 33312
or STD 361458
or STD 360950
.008 in.
.008 in.
.0125 in.
35-40 ft.-lbs.
MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this product. Contact your nearest Sears store for details.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
• Read and observe the safety rules.
• Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and using your lawn mower.
. Follow the instructions under "Customer Responsibilities" and "Storage" sections of this Owner's Manual.
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER
For two years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained, lubricated, and tuned up
according to the operating and maintenance instructions in the owner’s manual, Sears will repair free of charge any
defect in material or workmanship.
If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty applies for only 90 days from
the date of purchase.
This Warranty does not cover:
. Expendable items which 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 crankshafts and the failure to
maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained in the owner's manual.
WARRANTY SERVICE IS AVAILABLE BY RETURNING THE CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER TO THE NEAREST
SEARS SERVICE CENTER/DEPARTMENT IN THE UNITED STATES. THIS WARRANTY APPLIES ONLY WHILE
THIS PRODUCT IS IN USE IN THE UNITED STATES.
This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/731CR-W SEARS TOWER, CHICAGO, IL 60684
Operator Presence Control Bar......................7
Options:
Attachments......
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS................
STORAGE
TROUBLESHOOTING
REPAIR PARTS - LAWN MOWER
5
REPAIR PARTS - ENGINE....................
PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE.BACK COVER
F
..............
........................................
.........................................
....................................
...........................
H
..................................... 16
L
...............
.................................
.........
M
............................
...........................
...............................
0
.................................... ..18
..............
....................................
.............
..........7
................
..............................
Repair Parts
Lawn Mower
17
6
12
12
12
.3
12
..It
11
.10
9
....5
Engine...............................
Responsibilities, Customer ....3,12-14
Safety Rules
Service and Adjustments;
Carburetor
Drive Control Cable...........
Drive Belt
Engine Speed
Handle
Spark Plug....
Specifications .................................
Starting the Engine ........................
Stopping the Engine
Storage
Trouble Shooting Chart
Warranty.........................................
Wheels:
Wheel Adjusters
15
.................17
.......
...............
..........27
......
...18-22
23-25
P
......................
R
S
....................................
......
....................... 16
................................
..........................
......................................
.............................
.....................
............................................17
T
W
........................
18-22
23-25
......
....14
.................
2
15
15
16
16
3
10
10
27
3
7
Page 5
LAWN MOWER ACCESSORIES
These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are also available at
catalog and service centers. Most Sears stores can also order repair parts for you, when you provide the mode! number of
your lawn mower. Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.
Your lawn mower has been assembled at the factory
except for the grass catcher bag and the grass catcher
frame.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
• Remove loose parts included with mower,
• Cut down two end corners of carton and lay end panel
down flat.
• Remove all packing materials except padding between
upper and lower handle and padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
• Roll lawn mower out of carton and check carton thor
oughly for additional loose parts.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN
MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE (See Fig. 1)
• Raise handles until lower handle section locks into
place in mowing position.
• Raise upper handle section into place on lower handle,
remove protective padding and tighten both handle
knobs.
• Remove handle padding holding operator presence
control bar to upper handle.
• Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted for your
mowing comfort. Refer to "Adjust Handle" in the
Service and Adjustment section of this manual.
TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER
{See Fig. 2)
• Put grass catcher frame into grass bag with stiff part of
bag on the bottom.
• 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.
OPERATOR PRESENCE
CONTROL BAR
UPPER HANDLE
yPTUP
MOWING POSITION
LOWER HANDLE
FIG. 1
CATCHER FRAME
FRMAE OPENING
FIG. 2
6
Page 7
OPERATION
KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER. Compare the
illustrations with your lawn mower to farniliarizeyoursBlf with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual
for future reference.
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 Commission. The blade turns when the engine is running.
OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL - must be held down
to the handle to start the engine. Release to stop the
engine,
PRIMER - pumps additional fuel from the carburetor to the
cylinder for use when starting a cold engine.
STARTER HANDLE used for starting the engine.
DRIVE CONTROL LEVER - used to engage power-pro
pelled forward motion of lawn mower.ENGINE SPEED CONTROL - located on the side of the
engine which allows you to select either "HiGH" (%») or
"LOW" (-m) engine speed.
Page 8
OPERATION
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
CAUTION: Do not ryn your lawn mower
without mulchar plate In place and door
closed or withoyf an approved clipping
deflector or grasscatcher in place.
Never attempt to operate the lawn
mower with the rear door removed or
propped open.
ENGINE SPEED (See Fig. 4)
The engine speed is controHed by a lever (red knob)
located on the side of the engine. “HIGH" (%) position
is for starting the engine, normal cutting, and better grass
bagging. "LOW" position is for light cutting, trim
ming and fuel economy.
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 un
der any circumstances attempt to de
feat the function of the operator control.
The blade turns when the engine is
running.
REAR DOOR
® Your lawn mower is equipped with an operator pres
ence control bar which requires the operator to be
positioned behind the lawn mower handle to start and
operate the lawn mower.
TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS
(See Figs. 5 & 6)
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a
mulcher. To install attachments for bagging or discharging:
• Open rear door and remove mulcher plate.
• You can now install catcher or optional clipping deflec
tor.
® To return to mulching operation reverse the above
steps. BE SURE MULCHER PLATE IS INSTALLED
BEFORE USING FOR MULCHING OPERATION.
TO INSTALL GRASS CATCHER (See Fig. 7)
• Lift the rear door on the lawn mower housing and place
the grass catcher frame onto the formed up tabs on the
rear door hinge bracket.
• The grass catcher is secured to the lawn mower when
the rear door is lowered onto the grass catcher frame.
FIG. 5
FIG. 7
8
Page 9
OPERATION
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER (Sea Fig. 8)
. To remove grass catcher, release operator presence
control bar to stop engine.
. Lift up rear door and remove the grass catcher by the
handle.
• Do not drag the bag when emptying; it will cause
unnecessary wear,
DRIVE CONTROL (See Fig. 9)
• Self-propelling is controlled by holding the operator
presence control bar down to the handle and pushing
the drive control lever forward until it clicks; then
release the lever.
. Forward motion will stop when the operator presence
control bar is released. To stop forward motion without
stopping engine, release the operatorpresence control
bar slightly until the drive control disengages. Hold
operator presence control bar down to handle to con
tinue mowing without self-propelling.
. To keep drive control engaged when turning corners,
push down on handle and lift front wheels off ground
while turning lawn mower.
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT (See Fig. 10)
• Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels for high cut.
. Wheels are set in low cut for shipping. Adjust cutting
height to suit your requirements. Medium position is
best for most lawns.
. To change cutting height, squeeze adjuster lever to
ward wheel. Move wheel up or down to suit your
requirements. Be sure all wheels are in the same
setting.
Page 10
OPERATION
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
OIL (See Fig. 11)
A 20 oz. bottle of Pennzoil SAE 30 oil is included with your
new lawn mower.
• Remove engine oil cap and fill to the FULL line on the
dipstick.
• Use 20 ozs. of oil. For type and grade of oil to use, see
"ENGINE“ in Customer Responsibilities section of this
manual.
• POUR OIL SLOWLY. DO NOT OVER FILL
• Check oil level before each use. Add oil if needed. Fill
to FULL line on dipstick.
• To read proper level, tighten engine oil cap each time.
• Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.
• After the first two (2) hours of mowing, change the oil,
and every 25 hours thereafter. You may need to
change the oil more often under dusty, dirty conditions.
GAS (See Fig. 11)
• Fill gasoline tank with fresh, clean unleaded gasoline.
DO NOT USE PREMIUM GASOLINE. BE CAREFUL
NOT TO OVER FILL TANK.
WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol blended
fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) 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 for 30 days or longer. Drain 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.
GASOLINE FILLER CAP
il
ENGINE OIL CAP
W/DiPSTICK
FIG. 11
TO START ENGINE
• To start a cold engine, push primer five (5) 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.
* Push engine speed control lever to HIGH (•%) posi
tion.
• Ho Id operator presence control bar down to the handle
and pull starter handle quickly. DO NOT allow starter
rope to snap back.
* To "STOP" engine, release operator presence con
trol bar.
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.
10
Page 11
OPERATION
MOWING TIPS
• 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 en
gine and leaving clumps of grass clippings.
• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of cut
and raise the rear of the lawn mower housing one (1 )
wheel adjuster setting higher than the front for better
discharge of grass.
• For better grass bagging and most cutting conditions,
the engine speed should be set in the "'HIGH" {*^)
(FAST) position,
« When using a rear discharge lawn mower in moist,
heavy grass, clumps of cut grass may not enter the
grass catcher. Reduce ground speed (pushing speed)
and/or run the lawn mower over the area a second
time.
• If a trail of grass clippings is left on the right side of a
rear discharge lawn mower, mow in a clockwise
direction with a small overlap to collect the clippings
on the next pass.
• Keep top of engine around starter clear and clean of
grass clippings and chaff. This will help engine air
flow and extend engine life.
. 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 catchers off
with water and let dry before using.
MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP
MOWER HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND
TRASH. CLEAN AFTER EACH USE. SEE "CLEANING"
IN CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES SECTION OF THIS
MANUAL. .
• The special mulching blade will reçut the grass clip
pings 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 recutting action of the
blades.
FIG. 12
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 and the
newly cut area will not be exposed to the direct sun.
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 (See Fig. 12). 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 mulching, reduce your width of cut,
mow slowly and raise the rear of the lawn mower one
wheel adjuster setting higher than the front.
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 second
cut, mow across or 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.
11
Page 12
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
1 ■ Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures.
2 - Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions.
3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.
GENERAL RECOIVIMENDATIONS
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
mower as instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to
properly maintain your unit.
All adjustments in the Service and Adjustments section of
this manual should be checked at least once each season,
• Once a year, replace the spark plug, replace air filter
element and check blade for wear. A new spark plug
and clean/new air filter element assures proper air-fuel
mixture and helps 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 CHART
LUBRiCATSON
Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRICATION CHART"
IMPORTANT: DO NOT OIL OR GREASE PLASTIC WHEEL
BEARINGS, VISCOUS LUBRICANTS WILL ATTRACT
DUST AND DIRT THAT WILL SHORTEN THE LIFE OF
THESELF LUBRICATING BEARINGS. IF YOU FEELTHEY
MUST BE LUBRICATED, USE ONLY A DRY, POWDERED
GRAPHITE TYPE LUBRICANT SPARINGLY.
12
Page 13
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when performing any mainte
nance,
TIRES
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chemi
cals which can harm rubber.
- Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and
other hazards that may cause tire damage.
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be kept sharp. Replace
bent or damaged blades.
TO REMOVE BLADE (See Fig, 13)
• Remove spark plug wire from spark plug and place
wire where it cannot come in contact with spark plug.
• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure air filter and
carburetor are up.
• Use a wood block between blade and mower housing
to prevent blade from turning when removing blade
bolt,
• Protect your hands with gloves and/or wrap blade with
heavy cloth.
• Remove blade bolt by turning counter-clockwise. Use
a 9/16" box or open-end wrench.
• Remove blade and attaching hardware (bolt, lock
washer and 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 (See Fig. 13)
Position the blade adapter on the engine crankshaft.
Be sure key in adapter and keyway in crankshaft are
aligned.
Position blade on the blade adapter aligning the two (2)
holes in the blade with the raised lugs on the adapter.
Be sure the word TOP (stamped on the blade) is
toward the engine.
Install the blade bolt with the lock washer and hardened
washer into blade adapter and crankshaft.
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. lbs.
IMPORTANT; BLADE BOLT iS GRADE 8 HEAT TREATED.
CAUTION:
A
Use only Sears authorized replacement blade to get the
best cutting results,
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening blade - but if
you do, be sure the blade is balanced,
TO SHARPEN BLADE
* 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 shou'd remain in a horizontal
position. If either end of the blade moves downward,
sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced,
gerous.
A loose blade can be dan-
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 iubricant needs
attention is if service has been performed on the gear
case,
• If lubricant is required, use only Texaco Starpiex Pre
mium Grease, part no. 750355, Do not substitute.
DRIVE WHEELS
Check front 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, check both front
wheels.
• Remove hubcaps, hairpin cotters and washers.
• Remove wheels from wheel adjusters.
• Remove any trash or grass cuttings from inside the
dust cover, pinion and/or drive wheel gear teeth.
• Put wheels back in place.
• If after cleaning, the drive wheels do not turn freely,
contact your nearest Sears Service Center.
GRASS CATCHER
• The grass catcher may be hosed with water, but must
be dry when used.
• Check your grass catcher often for damage or deterio
ration. Through normal use it will wear. If catcher
needs replacing, replace only with a manufacturer
approved replacement catcher from Sears. Give the
iawn mower model number when ordering.
13
Page 14
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated with API service
classification SG. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade
according to your expected operating temperature.
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 the first two hours of operation and
every 25 hours thereafter or at least once a year if the lawn
mower is not used for 26 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 (See Fig. 14)
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug,
• Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a clean surface.
• Tip lawn mower on its side and drain oil into a suitable
container. Rock lawn mower back and forth to remove
any oil trapped inside of engine.
• Wipe off any spilled oil on iawn mower and on side of
engine.
• Fill engine with SAE 30 or 10W 30 oil. All oil must meet
API service classification SG. Fill only to the "FULL"
line on the dipstick. DO NOT OVER FILL.
• Replace engine oil cap.
• 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 year, more often if you mow in
very dusty, dirty conditions. Do not wash air filter.
TO CHANGE AIR FILTER (See Fig, 15)
•Remove the airfiltercover by turning counterclockwise
to the stop and pull away from collar.
• Remove filter from inside of cover.
• Clean the inside of the cover and the collar to remove
any dirt accumulation.
•Insert new filter into cover.
•Put air filter cover and filter into collar aligning the tab
with the slot,
•Push in on cover and turn clockwise to tighten.
COLLAR
TURN
COUNTER
CLOCKWISE
SLOT
AIR FILTER COVER
FIG. 15
TO REMOVE
TURN CLOCKWISE
TO TIGHTEN
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it could create a
fire hazard and/or damage.
SPARK PLUG
Change your spark plug each year to make your engine
start easier and run better. Set spark plug gap at ,030 inch,
CLEANING
liyiPORTANT: FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP
MOWER HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND
TRASH. CLEAN UNDERSIDE OF MOWER HOUSING
AFTER EACH USE.
CAUTiON; Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
A
• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure air filter and
carburetor are up. 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
iawn mower unless the electrical system, muffler, air
filter and carburetor are covered to keep water out.
Water in engine can result in shortened engine life.
CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER
Clean under drive cover at toast 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,
14
cannot come in contact with the spark
plug. ^
Page 15
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS
CAUTION: BEFORE PERFORMING ANY SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS:
• Release control bar.
A
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CUTTiNG HEIGHT" in the Operation
section of this manual.
DISCHARGE GUARD
The discharge guard, attached to the discharge opening of
your lawn mower, is provided to prevent the possibility of
injury resulting from objects being thrown out of the dis
charge opening into the operator mowing position. If the
discharge guard becomes damaged, itshould be replaced.
TO REMOVE/REPLACE DRIVE BELT
(See Fig. 16)
• Remove drive cover. Remove belt by pushing down
on gear case pulley.
• Turn lawn mower on its side with carburetor and fuel
cap up.
• Remove blade.
® Remove debris shield.
" Remove belt from engine pulley on crankshaft.
• install new belt by reversing above steps.
• Always use factory approved belt to assure fit and
long life.
TO ADJUST DRIVE CONTROL CABLE
(See Fig. 17)
A drive control cable that needs adjustment will keep your
lawn mower from self-propelling properly and can also
cause gear case components to wear out sooner.
- Remove drive cover,
• Loosen cable clamp screw "A" and nuts "B" and "C".
• Hold down operator presence control bar to handle
and engage drive control.
• Move shifter arm to drive position while rotating front
wheels to be sure Jawclutch Is engaged. Pull threaded
sleeve with pliers. Do not pull on control cable.
• Tighten nut "C" until sleeve is snug.
• Tighten screw "A“ and nut "B".
» Push lawn mower back and forth to be sure gear case
is engaged.
• Replace drive cover.
• Release operator presence control bar.
• Make sure the blade and all moving parts have completely stopped.
" Disconnect spark plyg wire from spark plug and place where it cannot come in contact with plug.
nSs:sts£asiiS!E№ ^
FIG. 17
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the rear wheels of
your lawn mower, is provided to minimize the possibility
that objects will be thrown out the rear of the lawn mower
into the operator's mowing position.
If the rear deflector becomes damaged, it should be
replaced.
15
Page 16
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS
TO ADJUST HANDLE (See Figs. 18 Thru 20)
Your iawn mower handle can be raised or towered for your
mowing comfort. Four (4) positions are available: high,
medium high, medium low and low. Handles are shipped
mounted in the medium low position. ^
• To change from medium low to medium high position,
the upper and lower handle sections will have to be
turned over (See Fig. 18B).
• Remove the controls and operator presence control
bar from the upper handle.
» Remove the starter rope guide from the lower handle.
• Remove hairpin cotters.
• Disconnect the lower handle from the handle brackets
(See Fig. 20). , .
. Turn the handle over and reassemble the hairpin
cotters that have been removed.
• Reassemble the starter rope guide.
» Reassemble the controls and the operator presence
control bar to the upper handle.
CAUTION: The operator presence
control bar must pivot freely to permit
blade brake engagement when control
A
bar is released. Do not over tighten the
fasteners holding the controls to the
upper handl®.
SHIPPING POSITION
MEDIUM LOW
!
_______________________
FIG. 18A
n
HIGH
MEDIUM HIGH
_____
FIG. 18B
LOW
\ \
. To change from medium low to high position only the
upper handle section will have to be turned over (See
Fig. 19A).
. To change from medium low to low position, only the
lower handle section will have to be turned over (See
Fig. 19B).
ENGINE
ENGINE SPEED
Your engine speed has been factory set. Do not attempt
to increase engine speed or it may result in personal
injury. If you believe that the engine is running too fast or
too slow, take your lawn mower to an authorized Sears
Service Center for repair and adjustment.
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has a non-adjusiable fixed main jet for
mixture control. If your engine does not operate properly
due to suspected carburetor problems, take your iawn
mowerto an authorized Sears Service Centerfor repair and
adjustment.
FIG. 19A
FIG. 19B
FIG. 20
16
Page 17
STORAGE
Immediately prepare your lawn mower for storage at the
end of the season or if the unit will not be used for 30 days
or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower is to be stored for a period of time, clean
it thoroughly, remove all dirt, grease, ieaves, etc. Store in
a clean, dry area.
• Clean entire iawn mower (See "CLEANiNG" in the
Customer Responsibilities section of this manual).
• Lubricate as shown in the Customer Responsibilities
section of this manual.
• Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and pins are
securely fastened. Inspect moving parts for damage,
breakage and wear. Replace if necessary.
» Touch up all rusted or chipped paint surfaces; sand
lightly before painting.
HANDLE (See Fig. 21)
You can fold your lawn mower handle for storage,
• Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower handle toward
each other until the lower handle clears the handle
bracket, then move handle forward.
• Loosen upper handle mounting bolts enough to allow
upper handle to be folded back.
IMPORTANT: WHEN FOLDING THE HANDLE FOR
STORAGE OR TRANSPORTATION. BE SURE TO FOLD
THE HANDLE AS SHOWN OR YOU MAY DAMAGE THE
CONTROL CABLES,
• When setting up yourhandle from the storage position,
the lower handle will automatically lock into the mow
ing position.
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: IT IS IMPORTANT TO PREVENT GUM
DEPOSITS FROM FORMING IN ESSENTIAL FUEL
SYSTEM PARTS SUCH AS CARBURETOR, FUEL FILTER,
FUEL HOSE, OR TANK DURING STORAGE. ALSO.
EXPERIENCE INDICATES THAT ALCOHOL BLENDED
FUELS (CALLED GASOHOL OR USING ETHANOL OR
METHANOL) 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.
• Drain the fuel tank.
• Start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and
carburetor are empty.
• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the
fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.
• Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable alternative in
minimizing the formation of fuel gum deposits during stor
age. Add stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or storage
container. Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizer
container. Run engine at least 10 minutes after adding
stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to reach the carburetor. Do
not drain the gas tank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with clean engine
oil. (See "ENGINE” in the Customer Responsibilities
section of this manual).
CYLINDER
• Remove spark plug.
• Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through spark plug hole
into cylinder.
• Pull starter handle siowiy a few times to distribute oil.
• Replace with new spark plug.
OTHER
• Do not store gasoline from one season to another.
• Replace your gasoline can if your can starts to rust.
Rust and/or dirt in your gasoline will cause problems.
• If possible, store your unit indoors and cover it to give
protection from dust and dirt.
• Cover your unit with a suitable protective cover that
does not retain moisture. Do not use plastic. Plastic
cannot breathe which allows condensation to form and
will cause your unit to rust.
IMPORTANT: NEVER COVER MOWER WHILE ENGINE
AND EXHAUST AREAS ARE STILL WARM.
CAUTION: Never store the lawn mower
with gasoline in the tank inside a build
ing where fumes may reach an open
A
flameorspark. Ailowthe engine to cool
before storing In any enclosure.
17
Page 18
SRAFTSMAN 22" ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NUMBER 917.372480
REPAIR PARTS
Page 19
CRAFTSMAN 22" ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NUMBER 917.372480
REPAIR PARTS
KEY PART
NO. NO
1
133088X479
2
130861
3
STD522515
4
STD541425
5
85827
6
63688
■j
STD541425
8
851509
9
48137
10
750328
11
36953
12
STD512505
14
88644X479
15
133189
16
Ш
17
20
21
133190X417
87596X479
128796
133170X479
2285543
23
87677
24
77400
25
85179
26
52160
27
87748
28
84921
29
62335
30
85021X004
31
87877
32
850855X004
34
84920
35
850923
36
850924
DESCRIPTION
Upper Handle
Engine Zone Control Cable
Hex Head Bolt 1/4-20 x 1-1/2
Locknut 1/4-20
Cable Clip
Handle Knob
Locknut 1/4-20
Control Bar
Rear Door Kit (Incl. Key #10)
Hinge Rod
Drive Pulley
Drive Control Cable Kit
Woodruff Key #3
Wheel Adjuster Assembly (Left)
Gear Case Assembly
Spring
Locknut 1/4-20
Wheel Adjuster Assembly (Right)
Catcher Frame
Grassbag Assembly
Driveshaft Cover
Screw, Pan Head, Hi-Lo #10-16 x 1/2
Page 22
22“ POWER- PROPELLED -
lawnmower 917.372480
REPAIR PARTS
GEAR CASE ASSEMBLY PART NUMBER 132232
KEY PART
NO.
NO.
53838
1
85178
2
131483
3
57072
4
57388
5
48032
6
77881
7
77039
8
750430
9
57079
10
131484
11
131485
12
DESCRIPTION
Locknut, Keps 1/4-20
Bracket, Adjusting
Shifter
Seal
Pin, Grooved 1/8 x 1/2
Gear Case Halves, Upper and
Lower (Includes Key #4, 5 and 7)
Bearing
Bracket, Spring
Drive Shaft
Washer, Hardened
Yoke, Clutch
Bushing
KEY PART
NO. NO.
86447
13
133804
14
750436
15
750355
16
STD581050
17
850848
18
131481
19
65692
20
83680
21
STD522512
22
NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S. inches