Craftsman 917372751 Owner’s Manual

Owner’s Manual

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

725 Series Briggs & Stratton Engine Power-Propelled, All Wheel Drive 22" Multi-Cut

Model No.

917.372751

• Español, p. 22

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and In struc tions before operating this equipment

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

Visit our Craftsman website: www.craftsman.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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

Safe ty Rules ...........................................2-4

Prod uct Spec i fi ca tions .............................. 2

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

Op er a tion .............................................8-12

Maintenance Sched ule ...........................13

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

Ser vice and Ad just ments ...................17-18

Stor age ...............................................18-19

Trou ble shoot ing .................................19-20

Re pair Parts ........................................40-51

Sears Service ...........................Back Cov er

WARRANTY

CRAFTSMAN 2-YEAR FULL WARRANTY

For TWO YEARS from the date of purchase, this product is warranted against any defects in material or workmanship. Defective product will receive free repair or replacement if repair is unavailable.

For warranty coverage details to obtain free repair or replacement, visit the web page: www.craftsman.com/warranty

This warranty covers ONLY defects in material and workmanship. Warranty coverage does NOT include:

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

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

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

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

This warranty is void if this product is ever used while providing commercial services or if rented to another person.

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

Sears Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Serial Number: Date of Purchase: Gasoline Capacity / Type: 1.6 Quarts (Unleaded Regular) Oil Type (API SJ–SN): SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F) Oil Capacity: 15.5 Ounces Spark Plug (Gap: .020") Champion RC12YX Blade Bolt Torque: 35–40 ft. lbs.

• 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.

SAFETY RULES

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is

capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

Look for this symbol to point out im por tant safety precautions. It means CAU TION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR SAFE TY IS INVOLVED.

WARNING: In order to prevent ac ci-

den tal starting when setting up, trans port ing, ad just ing or making repairs, always dis con nect spark plug wire and place wire where it can not come in contact with plug.

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.

WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle com po nents contain or emit chem i cals known to the State of Cal i for nia to cause can cer and birth defects or oth er re pro duc tive harm.

WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of Cal i for nia to cause can cer and birth defects or oth er re pro duc tive harm. Wash

hands after handling.

WARNING: This lawn mower is

equipped with an internal com bus tion engine and should not be used on or near any un im proved forest-covered, brushcovered or grass-cov ered 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).

I. CHILDREN

WARNING: CHILDREN CAN

BE SERIOUSLY INJURED OR KILLED BY THIS EQUIPMENT. Carefully read and follow all of the safety instructions below.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children be a minimum of 12 year of age before operating a pedestrian controlled lawn mower and a minimum of 16 years of age before operating a riding lawn mower. Tragic accidents can occur if the op er a tor is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the ma chine and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

• Keep children out of the mowing area

and under the watchful care of a re spon si ble adult other than the operator.

• Be alert and turn machine off if chil dren

enter the area.

• Before and while walking back wards, look

behind and down for small chil dren.

• Never allow children to operate the machine.

II. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all in struc tions on the machine and in the manual(s) before starting. Be thor ough ly 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 in struc tions, to operate the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc., which could be picked up and thrown by blade. Stay behind the handle when the engine (motor) is running.

• Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop ma chine if anyone enters the area.

• Do not operate machine bare footed or while wearing sandals. Al ways wear substantial footwear with good ankle support while mowing.

• Do not pull mower backwards unless absolutely nec es sary. 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 operator. Stop blade when crossing gravel surfaces.

• Do not operate the mower without proper guards, plates, grass catcher or oth er safety protective devices in place.

• See manufacturer’s instructions for proper operation and installation of accessories. Only use accessories approved by the manufacturer.

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

• Never leave a running machine unattended.

• Stop the engine (motor) and wait until the blade comes to a complete stop before clean ing the machine, removing the grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge chute.

• 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 drive system, if so equipped, before starting the engine (motor).

• If the equipment should start to vi brate abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and check immediately for the cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.

• Always wear eye protection when op er at ing machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

• When loading or unloading this machine, do not exceed the maximum recommended operation angle of 15°.

• Wear proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) while operating this machine, including (at a minimum) sturdy footwear, eye protection, and hearing protection. Do not mow in shorts or open toed footwear.

Always let someone know you are outside mowing.

III. 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: nev er up and down. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.

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

• Watch for holes, ruts, bumps or hidden objects. Uneven terrain could cause a slip and fall accident. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

DO NOT:

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments. You could lose your footing or balance.

• Do not mow on wet grass or excessively steep slopes. Poor footing could cause a slip and fall accident.

IV. SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

To avoid personal injury or property damage, 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 container where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light such as a water heater or on other appliances.

• Never fill containers inside a vehicle, on a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on the ground away from your vehicle before filling.

• Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel such equipment with a portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.

• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.

• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately.

• Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas cap and tighten securely.

V. GENERAL SERVICE

• Never run machine inside a closed area.

• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine (motor) running. Dis con nect the spark plug wire, and keep the wire away from the plug to prevent ac ci den tal starting.

• Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation reg u lar ly. Never do anything to interfere with the intended function of a safety device or reduce the protection provided by a safety device.

• 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 nec es sary, before restarting.

• Never attempt to make wheel height adjustments while the engine is running.

• Grass catcher components are sub ject to wear, dam age, and de te ri o ra tion, which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check com po nents and replace with man u fac tur er’s recommended parts, when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra caution when ser vic ing them.

• Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed the engine.

• Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as necessary.

Repair Protection Agreements

Congratulations on making a smart purchase. Your new Craftsman® product is

designed and manufactured for years of dependable operation. But like all products, it may require repair from time to time. That’s when having a Repair Protection 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 25% from regular price of

service and service-related parts not covered by the agreement; also, 25% off regular price of preventive maintenance 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 appointment online. Sears has over 12,000 professional repair specialists, who have access to over 4.5 million quality parts and accessories. That’s the kind of professionalism you can count on to help prolong the life of your new purchase for years to come. Purchase your Repair Protection Agreement today!

Some limitations and exclusions apply. For prices and additional information call 1-800-827-6655.

Sears Installation Service

For Sears professional installation of home appliances, garage door openers, water heaters, and other major home items, in the U.S.A. call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.

ACCESSORIES

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.

ASSEMBLY / PRE-OPERATION

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 as sem bled at the factory with the exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping pur pos es. To ensure safe and proper op er a tion of your lawn mower, all parts and hard ware you assemble must be tight ened securely. Use the correct tools as nec es sary to ensure proper tightness. All parts such as nuts, wash ers, bolts, etc., nec es sary to complete the as sem bly have been placed in the parts bag.

TO REMOVE MOWER FROM CARTON

1. Remove loose parts included with mower.

2. Cut down two end corners of carton and lay end panel down flat.

3. Remove all packing materials except padding be tween upper and lower handle and padding holding operator presence control bar to upper handle.

4. Roll lawn mower out of carton and check carton thor ough ly for additional loose parts.

Operator presence control bar

LIFT

LIFT UP

Lower handle knob

MOWING

POSITION

Upper

handle

Upper handle

knob (“star”)

Lower handle

(“standard”)

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCH ER

1. Put grass catcher frame into grass bag with rigid part of bag on the bottom. Make sure the frame handle is outside of the bag top.

2. Slip vinyl bindings over frame.

NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold them in warm water for a few minutes. If bag gets wet, let it dry before using.

Frame

handle

HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN MOW ER

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 holes in lower handle with holes in handle brackets.

2. Insert handle bolts through lower handles and handle brackets; secure with lower (“standard”) knobs.

3. Remove protective padding, raise upper handle section into place on lower handle and tighten both upper (“star”) knobs.

4. 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 Adjustments section of this manual.

Vinyl bindings

opening

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a mulcher. To convert mower to bagging or discharging, see “TO CON VERT MOWER” in the Operation section of this manual.

Frame

OPERATION

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.

Operator presence control bar

Drive control levers

Handle knobs

Starter handle

Grass catcher

Engine oil cap with dipstick

Wheel adjuster (on each wheel)

Muffler

Mulcher door

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is

Gasoline filler cap

Air filter

Spark plug

shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine. NOTE: Gasoline containing up to

Housing

10% ethanol (E10) is acceptable for use in this machine. The use of gasoline exceeding 10% ethanol (E10) will void the product warranty.

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Com mis sion.

WARNING: The blade turns when the engine is running.

Operator presence control bar – must

be held down to the handle to start the engine. Release to stop the engine.

Starter handle – used for starting engine.

Mulcher door – allows con ver sion to dis-

charging or bagging operation. Drive control levers – used to engage power-pro pelled forward mo tion of mower.

The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your lawn mower or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recom-

mend standard safety glasses or a wide vision safety mask over spectacles.

Use ear protectors to avoid

damage to hearing.

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 re quire

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 func tion of the operator con trol. The blade turns when the engine is running.

• 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.

DRIVE CONTROL

• Self-propelling is controlled by hold ing

the operator presence control bar down to the handle and pulling either drive control lever rearward to the handle. The further toward the handle a lever is pulled, the faster the unit will travel.

• Forward motion will stop when either

the operator presence control bar or a drive control lever are released. To stop forward motion without stop ping engine, re lease a drive control lever only. Hold op er a tor presence control bar down against handle to con tin ue 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.

Operator presence control bar

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. Pro ceed 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 re placed.

Adjustment

turnbuckle

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels for high cut, adjust cutting height to suit your requirements. Me di um position is best for most lawns.

• To change cutting height, squeeze ad-

juster lever to ward wheel. Move wheel up or down to suit your re quire ments. 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.

ROTATE LEVER BACKWARD TO LOWER MOWER

TO ENGAGE

DRIVE CONTROL

Drive control levers

DRIVE CONTROL

DISENGAGED

Plate tab Lever

ROTATE LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER

TO CONVERT MOWER

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging or discharging:

REAR BAGGING

• Lift rear door of the lawn mower and place the grass catcher frame hooks onto the grass bag brackets.

• To convert to mulching or dis charg ing operation, remove grass catch er and close rear door.

Rear door

Grass bag bracket

Grass

catcher

handle

Unlock latch

Open mulcher door

Discharge deflector

Grass

catcher

frame hook

Full bag

indicator

window

NOTE: Rear door will remain open until operator presence control bar is held down to the handle.

CAUTION: Do NOT force rear door to

close. Serious damage to your mower could result.

SIDE DISCHARGING

• Rear door must be closed.

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

• Mower is now ready for side discharging operation.

• To convert to mulching or bagging operation, dis charge deflector must be removed and mulcher door must be closed and locked.

MOWER IS NOW READY FOR SIDE DISCHARGING OPERATION

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN MOWER

FOR MULCHING -

1. Rear door closed.

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

1. Grass catcher installed.

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

1. Rear door closed.

2. Discharge deflector installed.

CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mow-

er with out rear door closed or ap proved grass catcher in place. Never at tempt to op er ate the lawn mow er with the rear door re moved or propped open.

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER

Empty the grass catcher when clippings are visible in the full bag indicator window.

1. Lift up on grass catcher using the

frame han dle.

2. Remove grass catcher with clippings

from under lawn mower han dle.

3. Empty clippings from bag using both

frame handle and bag handle.

NOTE: Do not drag the bag when emptying; it will cause unnecessary wear.

Grass

catcher

frame

handle

CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or

fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels

(called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and for ma tion 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 stor age 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 In struc tions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

Bag handle

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

ADD OIL

Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in the engine. For type and grade of oil to use, see “EN GINE” 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.

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 quan ti ties that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.

Engine oil cap

Gasoline filler

cap

TO STOP ENGINE

• To stop engine, release operator presence con trol 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 han dle 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 over load ing the en gine 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 pre vi ous ly cut path and mow slowly.

• For side discharge operation, cut in a coun ter clock wise di rec tion, start ing at the outside of the area to be cut, in order to spread grass clip pings more evenly and to put less load on the engine. To keep clip pings off of walkways, flower beds, etc., make the first cuts in a clock wise direction.

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 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 bio de grade quick ly to provide nu tri ents for the lawn. Always mulch with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will provide the best recutting action of the blades.

• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet grass tends to form clumps and in ter feres with the mulch ing 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 over grown it will be nec es sary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from over load ing the engine and leaving clumps of mulched grass. For ex tremely heavy grass, reduce your width of cut by overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.

• If a trail of grass clipping is left on the right side of the lawn mower during rear discharge operation, mow in a clockwise direction with a small overlap to collect the clippings on the next pass.

• 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.

MAX 1/3

• Certain types of grass and grass con di tions may re quire that an area be mulched a second time to com pletely hide the clip pings. 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

Check for Loose Fasteners Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher * Check Tires Check Drive Wheels *** Clean Lawn Mower **** Clean under Drive Cover *** Check Drive Belt / Pulleys *** Check / Sharpen / Replace Blade Lubrication Clean and Recharge Battery **

Check Engine Oil level Clean Air Filter Inspect Muffler Replace Spark Plug Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge Empty fuel system or add Stabilizer

BEFORE

EACH

USE

AFTER

EACH

USE

EVERY

HOURS

EVERY

25 HOURS

OR SEASON

EVERY

100

HOURS

BEFORE

STORAGE

(if so equipped) Electric-Start mowers

Power-Propelled mowers Use a scraper to clean under deck

***

****

1 - And after each 5 hours of use. 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.

GENERAL REC OM MEN DA TIONS

The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover items that have been sub ject ed to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, operator must maintain unit as in struct ed 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 Ad just ments 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 mix ture and help your engine run bet ter 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 “LU BRI CA TION CHART”).

LUBRICATION CHART

Handle bracket mounting pins

Spray lubricant See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section.

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic

wheel bearings. Viscous lu bri cants will attract dust and dirt that will short en the life of the self-lu bri cat ing bearings. If you feel they must be lu bri cated, use only a dry, pow dered graphite type lubricant spar ingly.

Wheel

adjuster (on

each wheel)

Engine oil

Mulcher

door hinge

Rear door

hinge

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when per form ing any main te 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.

DRIVE WHEELS

Check wheels each time be fore you mow to be sure they move freely. The wheels not turning freely means trash, grass cuttings, etc. are in the drive wheel or dust cover area and must be cleaned to free drive wheels. If necessary to clean the drive wheels, be sure to clean all wheels.

1. Remove hubcaps, locknuts, and washers.

2. Remove wheels from wheel ad just ers.

3. Remove any trash or grass cuttings

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

4. Put wheels back in place.

NOTE: If after cleaning, the drive wheels do not turn freely, contact a Sears or other qualified service center.

BLADE CARE

For best results, blade must be kept sharp. Re place a bent or dam aged 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 hous ing to prevent blade from turning when re mov ing 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 wash er, hardened wash er).

6. Remove debris shield.

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 engine crank shaft. Be sure key in adapter and crankshaft keyway are aligned; and that the drive belt is inside the tab of the belt retainer.

2. Install debris shield.

3. Position blade on the blade adapter.

IMPORTANT: To ensure proper as sem bly, center hole in blade must align with star on blade adapter.

4. Be sure the trailing edge of blade (opposite sharp edge) is up toward the engine.

5. Install the blade bolt with the lock washer and hardened washer into blade adapter and crankshaft.

6. Use block of wood between blade and lawn mower housing and tighten the blade bolt, turning clockwise.

• The recommended tightening torque is

35–40 ft. lbs.

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

Belt retainer

Debris shield

Blade

Hardened washer

Lockwasher

Blade bolt

keyway

Trailing

TO SHARPEN BLADE NOTE: We do not recommend sharp en ing blade - but if you do, be sure the blade is balanced. An un bal anced blade will cause eventual damage to lawn mower or engine.

• The blade can be sharp ened with a file

or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower.

• To check blade balance, you will need

a 5/8" diameter steel bolt, pin, or a cone balancer. (When using a cone bal anc er, follow the in struc tions supplied with it.)

NOTE: Do not use a nail for balancing blade. The lobes of the center hole may appear to be centered, but are not.

Crank-

shaft

Key

edge

• Slide blade on to an unthreaded portion of the steel bolt or pin and hold the bolt or pin parallel with the ground. If blade is bal anced, it should remain in a horizontal po si tion. If either end of the blade moves downward, sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced.

Center hole

5/8" bolt or pin

Blade

GRASS CATCHER

• The grass catcher may be hosed with water, but must be dry when used.

• Check your grass catcher often for damage or de te ri o ra tion. Through normal use it will wear. If catcher needs replacing, replace only with ap proved replacement catcher shown in the Repair Parts section of this manual. Give the lawn mower model number when ordering.

GEAR CASES

• To keep your drive system working properly, the gear cases and area around the drive should be kept clean and free of trash build-up. Clean under the drive cover twice a season.

• The gear cases are filled with lubricant to the proper level at the factory. The only time the lubricant needs attention is if service has been performed on the gear case.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated with API service classification SJ–SN. 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 in creased oil consumption when used above 32°F. Check your engine oil level more frequently to avoid possible engine damage from running low on oil.

* NOTE: An oil change is not required but if you desire to change the oil follow the procedure below. 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 the spark 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 remove any oil trapped inside of engine.

Container

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

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

6. Stop adding oil when you reach the FULL mark on the dipstick. Wait a minute to allow oil to settle.

7. Continue adding small amounts of oil, rechecking the dipstick until oil level settles at FULL. DO NOT overfill, or engine will smoke heavily from the muffler on startup.

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

9. Re con nect 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 every 100 hours of operation or every season, whichever occurs first. Service air cleaner more often under dusty conditions. TO CLEAN AIR FILTER

1. Remove cover.

2. Carefully remove cartridge.

3. Clean by gently tapping on a flat surface. If very dirty, replace cartridge.

CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such

as ker o sene, are not to be used to clean car tridge. They may cause de te ri o ra tion of the cartridge. Do not oil car tridge. Do not use pres sur ized air to clean or dry car tridge.

4. Install cartridge, then replace cover.

Ta b

Slot

Cartridge

Filter cover

MUFFLER

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

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 “PROD UCT SPEC I FI CA TIONS” 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.

CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire

from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with plug.

• Clean the underside of your mower by scraping to remove build-up of grass / trash.

• Clean engine often to keep trash from accumulating. A clogged engine runs hotter and shortens engine life.

• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of all gasoline, oil, etc.

• With the exception of the water washout port (if equipped), we do not recommend using a garden hose to clean the outside of your lawn mower unless the elec tri cal system, muffler, air filter and carburetor are covered to keep water out. Water in engine can result in shortened engine life.

WATER WASHOUT FEATURE

Your lawn mower is equipped with a fitting that allows quick and easy cleaning of the underside of the housing. To use this feature, proceed as follows:

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

NOTE: Water, grass and other debris will drain from beneath the mower housing during the washout process.

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

3. Close mulcher door (if equipped).

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

IMPORTANT: Be sure the garden hose is not routed under the lawn mower housing or entangled in the wheels.

5. Turn on water supply and check for leaks at the fitting.

If no leaks are present, start engine (as described in the Operation section of this manual) and let engine run until the underside of the lawn mower is clean.

WARNING: Do not engage the drive

system during the washout process.

6. Shut off the engine.

7. Shut off water supply and remove hose from fitting.

CAUTION: Do not remove hose from fitting while engine is running. Water in engine can result in shortened engine life.

8. Start engine (as described in the Operation section of this manual) and let engine run for a full minute to remove excess water from mower.

Hose

Fitting

CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER

Clean under drive cover at least twice a season. Scrape underside of cover with putty knife or similar tool to remove any build-up of trash or grass on underside of drive cover.

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

WARNING: To avoid serious injury,

before performing any service and adjustments:

1. Release control bar and stop engine.

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

3. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with plug.

LAWN MOWER

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

See “TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT” in the Operation sec tion 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. Replace the deflector if dam aged.

TO REMOVE DRIVE BELT NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to

remove drive belt, empty fuel tank by running engine until fuel tank is empty.

1. Turn lawn mower on its side with air filter and car bu re tor up.

2. Remove blade bolt, lockwasher, hardened washer and blade.

3. Remove debris shield.

4. Remove rear baffle.

5. Disconnect return spring from rear baffle / rear gearcase belt keeper.

6. Disconnect cable from rear gearcase.

7. Remove drive cover.

8. Remove front belt keeper.

9. Remove belt from front gearcase pulley.

10. Remove all three idler pulleys from idler assembly.

11. Remove belt from blade adapter/engine pulley and idler assembly.

12. Remove rear gearcase pulley by clamping locking pliars to input shaft (beneath pulley) and loosening pulley with a 9/16" box wrench.

13. Remove old belt from mower and discard.

Rear baffle

Debris shield

Blade

Hardened washer

Drive

cover

Lockwasher

Blade bolt

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