Craftsman 917372871 Owner’s Manual

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9!7.372871 OWNER'S MANUAL

Convertible

Assembly Operation

=Customer

ResponsibiUities Service

, Adjustments

• Repair Parts

Caution:

Read and Follow

all Safety Rules and Instructions

Before Operating

This Equipment

150298 0616,95 Printed in US,A,

Safe Operation Practices for Walk-Behind Mowers

IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT tN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH,

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

SAFETY RULES

TRAINING:

• Read thisoperator'smanual carefully Become familiar with the controls and know how to operate your mower properly,,

Learn how to quickly stop mower,.

. Do not anewchildren to use your mower Never allow adults

touse mower withoutproper 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 thismanual..

• Do not operate mower ifit 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 thoroughlycheck the area to be mowed and clear itof all stones, sticks, wires, bones, and other foreign objects_

These objects wiU be thrown by the blade and can cause severe injury.

• Always wear safety glasses or eye shields when starting and

white 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 lhe engine is running orwhen 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 thiswhile the engine is running_

• Mow only in daylight or goodartificial light

OPERATION:

• Keep youreyes and mind on yourmower and the area being cut° Do not let other interestsdistract you_

= Do not mow wet or slippery grass. Never runwhileoperating

yourmower. Always be sure of yourfooting- 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 iL

• Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing your mower, stop the engine and make absolutely sure the blade and alt 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 ifyou hit a foreign object Follow the procedure outlined above, then repair any dam-

age before restarting and operating you mower.

• Do not change the governer settings or overspeed the

engine_ Engine damage or personal injurymay result.

° Do notoperate your mower ifitvibrates abnormally. Exces-

sive vibrationis an indicationof damage; stop the engine,

safelycheck for thecause of vibrationand repairas 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

loseyour footing. Do not mow excessively steep sFopes Use caution when operating the mower on uneven terrain orwhen

changing directions - maintain good footing,

• Never operate your mower without proper guards, plates, grass catcher or other safety devices in place.

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:

• Check the blade and the engine mounting bolts oftento be

sure they are tightened properly.

• Check all boils, nuts and screws at frequent intervals 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..

Atlow engine to cool before storing in any encIosure_.

Never store mower with fuel in the tank inside a building where fumes may reach an open flame oran ignition source

such as a hot water heater, space heater, clothes dryer-,etc.

Look for this symbol to point out im- portant safety precautions. It means

CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

CAUTION: Always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it can-

not contact spark plug in order to pre-

vent accidental starting when setting

up, transporting, adjusting or making repa,rs.

,A WARNING

The engine exhaust from this product con- tains ctiemicals known to the State of Califor-

nia to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of aSears Lawn Mowen It has been designed, engineered and manufac-

tured to give you the best possible dependability and

performance,.

Should you experience any problem you cannot easily

remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Authorized Service CentedDepartment. We have competent, well- trained technicians and the proper toots to service or repair

this lawn mower.. Please read and retain this manual The instructions wilt

enable you to assemble and maintain your lawn mower properly, Always observe the "SAFETY RULES".

MODEL NUMBER 917°372871

SERIAL NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE

THE MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBERSWlLL BE FOUND ON A DECAL ATTACHED TO THE REAR OF THE

LAWN MOWER HOUSING°

YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER AND DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE

FOR FUTURE REFERENCE..

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

HORSEPOWER: 6..0 DISPLACEMENT: 12.56CU.IN, GASOLINECAPACITY 1o5QUARTS

ANDTYPE: UNLEADEDREGULAR OILTYPE(API-SF/SG): SAE 30 (ABOVE32°F)

SAE5W-30(BELOW32°F)

OILCAPACITY: 27 OZS,. SPARKPLUG: CHAMPIONJ19-LM, RJ19-LM

(GAP: °030") STD361458

VALVECLEARANCE: INTAKE: ,008

EXHAUST: ,.008

SOLIDSTATEIGNITION

AIR GAP: ..0125IN

BLADE BOLTTORQUE: 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.

• Fo!low 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 appfies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.

This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during normat use, such as rotary mower blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark pfugo

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, includingbent crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained in the owner s manual

WARRANTY SERVICE ISAVAILABLE 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

iiillllll ........

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SAFETY RULES ............................................................ 2

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ...................................... 3

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ...................... 3,12-15

WARRANTY .................................................................. 3

ASSEMBLY ................................................................... 6

OPERATION .................................................................. 8

iNDEX

Adjustments:

Carburetor .................................................17

Drive Control ............................ 16

Engine Speed ................................17

Handle Height ............................17

Height of Cut ......................................9

Air Filter:

Replacement .................................15

Service ...........................................15

Assembly ............................................................6

Blade:

Sharpening ..............................................13

Replacement ......................................13

Controls:

Drive Control ......................................8

Engine Zone Control ..................8

Engine Speed Control ......................8

Operator Presence Control Bar 8

Customer Responsibilities ........3,12-15

Air Filter ......................................15

Blade Care/Replacement ...........13

Drive Wheels ......................................14

Engine ...............................................!5

Lubrication ........................................15

Spark Plug .......................................15

Cutting Levels ........................................9

Engine:

Air Filter ........................................15

Oil Change ...................................15

Oil Level .............................................15

Oil Type ......................................................15

Starting .................................................10

Stopping ..................................................10

Storage .......................................................18

Fuel:

Capacity ..........................................3

Storage ..............................................18

Type .......................................................10

Handle Adjustment:

Assembly ........................................................6

Cutting Height .................................I7

Lubrication:

Engine ................................................t5

Lawn Mower ....................................12

Maintenance Agreement ...........................3

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

Mowing Tips ......................................................11

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES .............................. 12

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ................................ 16

STORAGE ................................................................... 18

REPAIR PARTS - LAWN MOWER ........................ 19-23

REPAIR PARTS ,-ENGINE .................................... 24-26

TROUBLESHOOTING ................................................. 27

PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE ............... BACK COVER

Operation:

Drive Control ........................................ 10

Engine Control ...............................................9

Grass Catcher ......................................9

Mower'. ..................................................9

Operator Presence Control Bat' 9

Repair Parts:

Engine ..........................................24-26

Lawn Mower ..................... 19-23

Responsibilities, Customer ......3,12-15

Safety Rules ..............................................2

Service and Adjustments ......................16

Carburetor _..............................................17

Drive Belt ..................................................16

Drive Control ...................................17

Engine Speed .................................17

Handle ............................................17

Spark Plug ...............................................t5

Specifications .......................................3

Speed Control:

Engine ............................................17

Starting the Engine .............................10

Stopping the Engine ..........................10

Storage ..................................................................18

Trouble Shooting Chart ....................27

Oil:

Warranty .........................................................3

LAWN

These accessories were available whenthis lawnmower was produced, They are also available at most Sears retail outlets and service centers_ Most Sears stores can also order repair parts for you, when you providethe model number of your lawn

mower.. Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower_

ENGINE

CLIPPING DEFLECTOR

FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

............ i i Ill,

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

/ Ill/lUll]

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

MULCHER KITS

I'll............................. II' , I'l'l

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

AIR FILTERS

STABILIZER

GAS CANS

SPARK PLUGS

BELTS

BLADES

WHEELSBLADE ADAPTERS

ENGINE OIL

Read these instructions and this manual in its entirety before you attempt to assemble or operate your new lawn mower'..Your new lawn mower has been assembled atthe

factory with the exception of those parts left unassembled

for shipping purposes, To ensure safe and proper opera- tion of your lawn mower, all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely.. Use the correct

tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness, All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc.,,necessary to complete

the assembly have been placed in the parts bag,.

TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM

CARTON

• Remove loose parts included with mower_ o Cut down two end corners of carton and lay end

panel down flat,,

o Remove all packing materials except padding be-

tween upper and lower handle and padding holding operator presence control bar to upper handler

° Roll lawn mower out of carton and check carton

thoroughly for additional loose parts_

HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN

MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE (See Figs. 1 & 2)

IMPORTANT: UNFOLD HANDLE CAREFULLY SO AS NOT TO PINCH OR DAMAGE CONTROL CABLES..

= Raise lower handle section to operating position and

align hole in handle with one ofthree height positioning holes,

° Insert handle bolt through handle and bracket and

secure with knob.,

o Repeat for opposite side of handle° ° Raise upper handle section to operating position, re-

move protective padding and tighten handle knobs securely,

• Remove any packing material from around control bar., ° Your handles may be adjusted for your mowing com-

fort. Refer to Service and Adjustments section of this

manual.

OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL BAR

UPPER HANDLE

LIFT UP

LOWER HANDLE

HANDLE ADJUSTMENT

BRACKET

MOWING POSITION

FIG. 1

FIG. 2

TO CONVERT MOWER

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a

mulchen To convert to bagging or discharging: REAR BAGGING (See Fig, 3A)

° Open rear door and remove mulcher plate. Store

mulcher plate in a safe place,, . You can now install grass catcher. . To convert to mulching or discharging operation, install

mulcher plate into rear discharge opening of mower,

making sure all tabs are seated properly, SIDE DISCHARGING (See Fig. 3B) -

• Mulcher plate must be installed into rear discharge

opening of mower (see above instructions).

• Unlockclosed discharge guard by liftinglatchand allow

guard to swing open to discharging position,, ° Mower is now ready for discharging operation. ° To convert to mulching or bagging operation, dis-

charge guard must be closed and locked securely,,

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER

WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN MOWER

FOR MULCHING -

• Rear mulcher plate installed.

• Side discharge guard closed and locked securely., FOR REAR BAGGING -

° Rear mulcher plate removed, ° Grass catcher installed,

° Side discharge guard closed and locked securely. FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -

° Rear mulcher plate installed. ° Side discharge guard unlocked and open,,

MULCHER PLATE

TABS

FIG, 3A

LIFT LATCH TO UNLOCK

AND OPEN

DISCHARGE GUARD CLOSED POSITION

OPEN POSITION

FJG.3B

CATCHER

FRAME

HANDLE

CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower without rear mulcher plate in place or

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

propped open.

TO ASSEMBLE & ATTACH GRASS

CATCHER (See Figs. 4 & 5)

° Put grass catcher frame intograss bag with rigid part

of bag on the bottom. Make sure the frame handle is outside of the bag top,

• Slip vinyl bindings over frame,, NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold them inwarm

water for a few minutes, If bag gets wet, let it dry before using,

. Lift the rear door on the mower housing and place the

grass catcher frame side hooks onto handle bracket hooks.

- The grass catcher is secured to the lawn mower

housing when the rear door is lowered onto the grass

catcher frame.,

FIG. 4

CATCHER FRAME SIDE HOOK

HANDLE

BRACKET

HOOK

7 FIG, 5

FRAME OPENING

REAR DOOR

CATCHER HANDLE

OPERATION

lllIHH I'u " '""l'"'l

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 familiarize yourself with the location of vadous controls and adjustments, Save this

manual for future reference°

OPERATOR PRESENCE

CONTROLBAR

DRIVE CONTROL BAR

DRIVE SPEED CONTROL LEVER

STARTER HANDLE

HANDLE KNOB

GRASS BAG

MULCHER PLATE

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL LEVER

PRIMER

SIDE DISCHARGE GUARD /

GASOLINE FILLER CAP

ENGINE OiL CAP WITH DIPSTICK

WHEEL ADJUSTER (ON EACH WHEEL)

HOUSING

FIG. 6

I'Jl'/H'l'H'"I"/'lW

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Sears rotarywalk-behind power'lawn mowersconformto the safetystandards ofthe American National Standards Institute and the US. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The blade turnswhen the engine is running.

OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL BAR - must be held down to the handle to start the engine° Release to stop the

engine,

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL LEVER -located onthe side

ofthe engine whichallowsyou to select eitherhigh (,_) or low (,_) engine speed..

DRIVE SPEED CONTROL LEVER - used to select the drive speed of your lawn mower.

PRIMER - pumpsadditional fuel from the carburetor to the

cylinder for' use when starting a cold engine,, STARTER HANDLE - used for starting the engine,

DRIVE CONTROL BAR -used toengage power-propelled

forward motion of lawn mower'.

MULCHER PLATE- located at the rear discharge opening, mustbe removed when convertingto bagging operation°

i ii

OPEBATI

iiii i i llllll,,lll,lll

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED (See Fig. 7)

The engine speed is controlled by a lever located on the

side ofthe engine° High (,_) position isfor starting engine, normal cutting and better grass bagging. Low (,_) posi-

tion is for light cutting, trimming and fuel economy°

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

ENGINE SPEED

CONTROL LEVER

CAUTION: Federal regulations require

an engine control tobe installed onthis

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 con- trol. 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 lawnmower handle tostart andoperatethe lawn mower.

TO CONVERT MOWER

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a mulchen To convert to rear bagging or side discharging, see 'q'O CONVERT MOWER" in Assembly section of this manual°

CAUTION: BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO

CONVERT LAWN MOWER:

o Release control bar to stop engine. ° Make sure the blade and all moving

parts have completely stopped.

PRIMER

FIG. 7

GRASS CATCHER

FRAME HANDLE

FIG. 8

LOWER WHEELS RAISE WHEELS FOR HIGH CUT FOR LOW CUT

----_

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER (See Fig. 8)

° Simply lift up rear door and remove the grass catcher

by the handle.,

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

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT (See Fig, 9)

• Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels for high cuto

• 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.

FIG. 9

OPERATION

GROUND DRIVE THREE SPEEDS (See Fig. 10)

Your Iawn mower provides three (3) speeds to let you select the speed that suits you best,.

• Speed 1 is for slow, heavy/thick grass cutting or

tnmming, o Speed 2 is for normal grass cutting or trirnming_ o Speed 3 is for light cutting and for ground transport.

TO OPERATE DRIVE SYSTEM (See Figs. 10 & 11)

° Select ground speed by moving speed controlleverto

desired position_

• To start forward motion, lift drive control bar up to

handle.

• To stop forward motion, release drive control bar. IMPORTANT: ALWAYS KEEP DRIVE CONTROL BAR

FULLY ENGAGED AGAINST HANDLE WHEN IN USE

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

OIL (See Fig. 12)

Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in the engine. = Be sure mower is level and area around oilfill isclean

° Remove engine oil cap w/dipstick and fi]lto thefull line

on the dipstick. ° Use27ozs, of oil. Fortypeandgradeofoiltouse, see

"ENGINE" in Customer Responsibilities section of this

manual. o Pour oil slowly. Do not over fill.

° Check oil level before each use. Add oil ifneeded_ Filt

to full line on dipstick. o 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 theoil more often under dusty, dirtyconditions.

GAS (See Fig. 12)

° Fillgasoline 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) carl attract moisture which leadsto 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 stor- age of 30 days or Ionger_ Drain the fuel tank, start the engine and let it run until fuel lines and carburetor are

empty. Use fresh fuel next season_ See Storage Instruc- tions for additional information Never use engine or

carburetor cleaner' products in fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

DRIVE SPEED CONTROL LEVER

FIG. 10

DRIVE CONTROL PRESENCE ENGAGED CONTROL

OPERATOR

BAR \

DRIVE

CONTROL

DISENGAGED

FIG. 11

GASOLINE FILLER CAP

ENGINE OIL CAP W/DIPSTICK

FIG. 12

TO START ENGINE

• To start acold engine, push primer five (5) timesbefore trying to starL Use afirm push. This step is not usually

necessary when starting an engine which has already run for a few minutes.

o Move engine speed control lever to high (,€_) position.

° Hordoperator 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 control 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. Ifyou do flood engine wait a few minutes before atternpting to start and do not repeat

priming steps.

i iirlrrll I II IIIJlllllllllllll

OPERATmON

ill ii ..NININ..Nlll.ll.I

MOWING TIPS

o Under certain conditions, such as very tall grass, itmay

be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading theengine

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 (t)

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 (,_)

position..

° When using a rear discharge lawn mower in moist,

heavy grass, clumps of cut grass may not enter the grasscatcher. Reduce ground speed (pushing speed) and/or runthe lawn mowerover thearea asecond time..

, Ifa trail of grass clippings isleft on the rightside ofa rear

discharge lawn mower, mow in a clockwise direction with a small overlap to collect the clippings on the next

pass,

° Pores incloth grass catchers can become filled with dirt

and dust with use and catchers will collect lessgrass. 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 fife..

MAX, 113

FIG. 13

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP MOWER HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND

TRASH. SEE "CLEANING" IN CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES 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 intothe 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.

• Avoid cutting your lawn when itiswet, Wet grass tends toform clumps and interferes with the mulching action.

The best time to mow your lawn isthe 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. 13),. If the lawn is overgrown itwill 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 andraise the rear of the lawn mower one

wheel adjuster setting higher than the front°

o Certain types of grass and grass conditions may re-

quire that an area be mulched a second time to com-

pEetelyhide 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 tosouth oneweek then change to east to west the

next week, This will help prevent matting and graining of the lawn.

CUSTOM

n........ ' ............ .......... .......

AS YOU COMPLETE _._#_ SE_'_" R

REGULAR SERVICE ....................... ViCE DATE S

...........Check for Loose Fasteners _ I ..... _ ........

SIBILITIES

, , v' ......................

R check/SharpeniRepiace Biade ................. _#'3 ............. ......

Lubrication Chart =_ ......

=Ci6an Batten/iRecharge ........

(E!ectric Start Mowers) ...................... . . _ 6/4

i_E Check. Engine. O.!..ILevel _ .....................

N Chang e Engine Oil .................... __.......... ' _ _ : _ii,12 ........ ................

G Clean Air Filter' ............................. _'2 .........

I Inspect Muffler ............. _ ........

N ....C.lean'"orReplace Spar k Plug ............... ............. _ ...........

E Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge V_2 .................

1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or tn high ambient temperatures

2 - Service more often when 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 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 mower' as instructed in this manual.

Some adjustments witl need to be made periodically to properly maintain your' unit..

Atl adjustments in the Service and Adjustments section of

this manual should be checked at [east once each season.

• Once a year, replace the spark plug, replace air filter elernent and check blade for wear_ A new spark plug

and clean/new air filter' element assures proper air4uel mixture and helps your engine run better' and last longer.

o Follow the maintenance schedule inthis manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level.

- Check for Ioosefasteners.

LUBRICATION

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

LUBRICATION CHART

,WHEELADJUSTERS

ENGINE OIL

i REAR

DOOR (_ DRIVEPINIONS HINGE

DRIVE PINS

(_) SPRAY LUBRICANT

_) REFERTO CUSTOMERRESPONSIBILITIES"ENGINE"

SECTION,

IMPORTANT: DO NOT OIL OR GREASE PLASTIC WHEEL BEARINGS. VISCOUS LUBRICANTS WILL ATTRACT

DUST AND DIRT THAT W_LL SHORTEN THE LIFE OF

THE SELF-LUBRICATING BEARINGS. IF YOU FEEL THEY MUST BE LUBRICATED, USE ONLY A DRY,

POWERED GRAPHITE TYPE LUBRICANT SPARINGLY.

CUSTOMER

ii i ll,lll,i ii llll,llll ll,ll i ii iiHi

IBILmTIES

i ill, ............................................

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 Forbest results, mower blade must be keptsharp. Replace

bent or damaged blades° TO REMOVE BLADE (See Fig..14)

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

, Turn lawn mower on itsside.. 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 boll

• Protect your hands with gloves and/or wrap blade with

heavy cloth.

• Remove blade bolt by turning counter-ctockwise_ 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. 14)

o Position the blade adapter on the engine crankshaft°

Be sure key in adapter and crankshaft keyway are aligned..

• Position blade on the blade adapter aligningthe two (2) holes in the blade with the raised tugs onthe adapter.

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

• Install the blade bolt with the tockwasher and hardened

washer into blade adapter and crankshafL

° 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 ISGRADE 8 HEATTREATED_

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

BLADE

ADAPTER_

KEY

BLADE

BL CRANK- B( SHAFT

LOCK WASHER EDGE BLADE ADAPTER

HARDENED WASHER

TRAILING

CRANK- SHAFT

KEYWAY

FIG. 14

TO SHARPEN BLADE

Care should be taken to keep the blade balanced.. An unbalanced blade witl cause eventual damage to lawn

mower or engine..

o The blade can be sharpened with a file oron a grinding

wheel, Do not attempt to sharpen while onthe mower..

- To check blade balance, drive a nail into a beam orwall 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 dr'.,/when used.

Check your grass catcher often for damage or deterio- ration.. Through normal use it wilt wear. If catcher

needs replacing, reptace only with a manufacturer approved replacement catcher.. Give the lawn mower model number when ordering..

CUSTOMER RESPONSiBiLiTiES

H i i=lll ======l

DRIVE WHEELS (See Fig. 15)

Check reardrivewheelseach timeyoumowto besurethey move freely. The wheels not turningfreely means trash, grasscuttings,etc. may be insidethedrivewheeland dust

cover area and must be cleaned out tofree drivewheels.

If necessary to clean the drive wheels, check both rear wheels.

= Remove hubcaps and washers., o Remove wheels from wheel adjuster axles.,

. Remove any trash or grass cuttings from inside the

dust cover', pinion and/or drive wheel gear teeth..

o Ifyou remove the drive pinions, clean and lubricate with

spray lubricant or dry powdered graphite type lubricant before reinstalling°

° The pinion gear must be installedwith the left gear on

the left side and with the right gear on the right side, from an operator's view,_

• The pinion gear is stamped with an "L" (left) or "R" (right) on the inside._ if instaIled incorrectly, the drive system will not work.

• Place wheels back on adjuster axles..

• Replace washers and hubcaps..

LOCKNUT

HUBCAP

WASHER

DRIVE PIN

DUST COVER

PINION

E-RING

FIG. 15

CUSTOMER RESPO

ii ..............................

LITIES

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated with API service classification SForSGo Selecttheoil'sSAEviscositygrade according to your expected operating temperature_

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

_F -20" 0 _ _ 30" 32' ,_0_ 60_ _0° 100_ =

"C -30° -20" ,10° 0" t0° 20_..... 30" 40=

.... TEMPERATURERANGEA_CIPATEO_EFORENEXTell CHA.GE i CONTAINER

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30 etc,) improve starting in cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils

will result in increased oi! 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 ifthe lawn

mower is not used for 25 hours in one year°

Check the crankcase oil level before starting the engine and after each five (5) hours of continuous use°Tighten oil plug securely each time you check the oil level.

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL (See Fig.. 16) NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain oil, drain fuel

tank by running engine until fue! tank isempty_

• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where itcannot come in contact with spark plugo

• Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a clean surface_

o Tip lawn mower on its side and drain oi! into a suitable

container° Rock lawnmower back and forth to remove any oil trapped inside of engine°

• Wipe off any spilied oil on fawn mower and on side of engine.,

° Fill engine with oi!, 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 property 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. I7)

• Loosen cover screw.

• Swing cover down and remove from hinge.

• Pul! paper filter out of air cleaner body. ° Clean air cleaner cover and body..

• Install a new paper filter ° Reinstall cover to air cleaner body.. Be sure hinge is

assembled properly.

° Swing cover up and tighten cover screw,. (Do not

overtighten)..

FIG. 16

AIR FILTER COVER

HINGE

PAPER FILTER

FIG. 17

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 °030inch.

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND TRASH.

CLEAN THE UNDERSIDE OF YOUR MOWER AFTER EACH USE..

from spark plug and place wire where it

i_ CAUTION: Disconnectsparkplugwire

• Turn lawn mower on its side, Make sure air filter and

carburetor are up_Clean,the underside of your lawn mower by scraping to r,e'Fnovebuild-up of grass and

trash.

o 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 ouL

Water in engine can result in shortened engine life

cannot come in contact with the spark plug.

ii ,i,llL i . UIHII.IL H ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,'lL

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SCREW

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Craftsman 917372871 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual