Craftsman 917374803 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

JCRHFTSMRN°J

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

6.5 Horsepower Power-Propelled

21" Multi-Cut

Model No.

917.374803

• EspaSol, p. 21

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equipment

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

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

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

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

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

Assembly / Pre-Operation ..................... 5-6

Operation ............................................ 7-12

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

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.

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

Service and Adjustments ................... 16-18

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

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

Repair Parts ....................................... 40-47

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

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 crank-

shafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions con- tained in the owner's manual.

Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman power mower to the nearest Sears

Parts & Repair Center in the United States. This warranty applies only while this product is used in the United States.

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

Sears, Roebuck And Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

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

_¢ILook for this symbol to point out

important safety precautions. It means

CAUTIONN! BECOME ALERT!N YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

&WARNING: In order to prevent ac- cidental starting when setting up, trans-

porting, adjusting or making repairs,

always disconnect spark plug wire and

place wire where it cannot come in con-

tact with plug. Ai:IWARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its

constituents, and certain vehicle compo-

nents contain or emit chemicals known

to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive

harm.

Ai:IWARNING: Battery posts, terminals and

related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State

of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

_, 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.

1.GENERAL OPERATION

• Read,understand,andfollowall instructionsonthe machineandin the

manual(s)beforestarting.Be thoroughly

familiarwiththecontrolsandthe proper

useof themachinebeforestarting.

• Donotput handsor feet nearor under rotatingparts.Keepclearof thedis-

chargeopeningat alltimes.

• Only allowresponsibleindividuals,who

are familiarwith the instructions,tooper- atethe machine.

• Clearthe areaof objectssuchas rocks,

toys,wire,bones,sticks,etc., which couldbepickedup and thrownbythe

blade.

• Be surethe areaisclearof otherpeople beforemowing.Stopmachineifanyone

entersthearea.

• Donotoperatethe mowerwhenbare-

footor wearingopensandals.Always wearsubstantialfootwear.

• Donotpull mowerbackwardsunless

absolutelynecessary.Alwayslookdown and behindbeforeandwhile moving

backwards.

• Donotoperatethe mowerwithout properguards,plates,grasscatcheror

other safetyprotectivedevicesinplace.

• Seemanufacturer'sinstructionsfor properoperationandinstallationof

accessories.Onlyuse accessoriesap-

provedby themanufacturer.

• Stopthe blade(s)whencrossinggravel

drives,walks,or roads.

• Stopthe engine(motor)wheneveryou leavethe equipment,beforecleaningthe moweror uncloggingthechute.

• Shutthe engine(motor)offandwait until

the bladecomesto completestop before

removinggrasscatcher.

• Mowonly in daylightorgood artificial light.

• Do notoperatethemachinewhile under

the influenceof alcoholor drugs.

• Neveroperatemachineinwetgrass.

Alwaysbe sureof yourfooting:keepa firm hold onthe handleand walk;never

run.

• Disengagetheself-propelledmech-

anismor driveclutchon mowersso equippedbeforestartingthe engine

(motor).

• If the equipmentshouldstart to vibrate

abnormally,stopthe engine(motor)and check immediatelyforthe cause.Vibra- tion is generallya warningof trouble.

• Alwayswearsafetygogglesor safety

glasseswith sideshieldswhenoperating

mower.

11.SLOPE OPERATION Slopes are a major factor related to slip

and fall accidents which can result in severe injury. All slopes require extra cau-

tion. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not

mow it.

DO:

• Mow across the face of slopes: never up and down. Exercise extreme caution

when changing direction on slopes.

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

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

DO NOT:

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

footing or balance.

• Do not trim excessively steep slopes.

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

111.CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator

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

and the mowing activity. Never assume

that children will remain where you last

saw them.

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

responsible adult.

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

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

• Never allow children to operate the ma- chine.

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

IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are flammable and vapors are explosive.

- Use only an approved container.

- Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running.

Allow engine to cool before refueling.

Do not smoke.

- Never refuel the machine indoors.

- Never store the machine or fuel

container inside where there is an open flame, such as a water heater.

• Never run a machine inside a closed area.

• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine (motor) running. Disconnect the spark plug wire, and keep the wire away

3 fromthe plugto prevent accidentalstarting.

• Keepnutsand bolts,especiallyblade attachmentbolts,tight andkeepequip-

mentin goodcondition.

• Nevertamperwithsafety devices.Check their properoperationregularly.

• Keep machinefree of grass, leaves,or otherdebrisbuild-up.Cleanoilorfuelspill- age.Allowmachinetocoolbeforestoring.

• Stopandinspectthe equipmentif you strikean object.Repair,if necessary,

beforerestarting.

• Neverattempttomakewheelheightadjust-

• Grasscatchercomponentsare subject towear,damage,anddeterioration, whichcould exposemovingparts or allowobjectsto bethrown.Frequently checkcomponentsandreplacewith manufacturer'srecommendedparts, whennecessary.

• Mowerbladesaresharpandcan cut. Wrapthe blade(s)or weargloves,and useextracautionwhen servicingthem.

• Donotchangethe enginegovernorset- tingor overspeedtheengine.

mentswhiletheengine(motor)isrunning.

SerialNumber: Dateof Purchase:

GasolineCapacity/ Type: 1.0 Quarts (Unleaded Regular)

Oil Capacity: 18.5 Ounces Oil Type (API SG-SL): SAE 30 (above 32°F) or SAE 10W-30 Spark Plug (Gap: .030") NGK BPR6ES

Valve Clearance (+ 0.04 mm): Intake: 0.015 ram; Exhaust: 0.020 mm

Blade Bolt Torque: 35-40 ft. Ibs.

The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal on the rear of the lawn mower

housing. Record both serial number and date of purchase in space provided above.

Repair Protection Agreements

Congratulations on making a smart pur- chase. Your new Craftsman@ product is

designed and manufactured for years of dependable operation. But like all prod-

ucts, it may require repair from time to time. That's when having a Repair Protec- tion Agreement can save you money and aggravation.

Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement now and protect yourself from unexpected hassle and expense.

Here's what's included in the Agreement:

Expert service by our 12,000 profe-

sional repair specialists.

Unlimited service and no charge for parts and labor on all covered repairs. Product replacement if your covered product can't be fixed.

Discount of 10% from regular price of service and service-related parts not covered by the agreement; also, 10%

off regular price of preventive mainte-

nance check.

Fast help by phone - phone support

from a Sears technician on products

requiring in-home repair, plus conve- nient repair scheduling.

Once you purchase the Agreement, a simple phone call is all that it takes for you

to schedule service. You can call anytime

day or night, or schedule a service ap- pointment online.

Sears has over 12,000 professional repair specialists, who have access to over 4.5 million quality parts and accessories.

That's the kind of professionalism you can

count on to help prolong the life of your new purchase for years to come. Purchase

your Repair Protection Agreement todayT

Some limitations and exclusions apply. For prices and additional information

call 1-800-827-6655.

Sears Installation Service

For Sears professional installation of home appliances, garage door openers, water heaters, and other major home items, in

the U.S.A. call 1-800-4-MY-HOME@.

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

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CLIPPING

FOR -- STABILIZER

___ DEFLECTORS --

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS ,\

_\\ \\ FOR FOR

\\ GRASS CATCHERS GRASS CATCHERS

LAWN MOWERS LAWN MOWERS

REAR DISCHARGE SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

BELTS BLADES

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-

sembled at the factory with the excep- tion of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and

proper operation of your lawn mower, all

parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness. All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc.,

necessary to complete the assembly have

been placed in the parts bag.

BLADE ADAFq'ERS WHEELS

AIR FILTERS

SPARK PLUGS

ENGINE OIL

TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM CARTON

1. Remove loose parts inctuded with mower.

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

3. Remove all packing materials except padding between upper and lower

handle and padding holding operator presence control bar to upper handle.

4. Roll lawn mower out of carton and check carton thoroughly for additional

loose parts.

HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWN MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so

as not to pinch or damage control cables.

1. Raise lower handle section to operat- ing position and align hole in handle

with one of the height positioning holes

in handle bracket.

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

3. Repeat for opposite side of handle.

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

handle and tighten both handle knobs.

5. Remove any packing material from

around control bar.

Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted for your mowing comfort. Refer to "AD- JUST HANDLE" in the Service and Adjust-

ments section of this manual.

Operator presence control bar

Upper

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

1. Slide grass catcher bag over the frame. Make sure the rear handle is on top (the same side as the front handle) and the strap is on the bottom.

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.

3. Close grass catcher door. NOTE: When fully closed, door will "snap" shut over frame and vinyl bindings.

handle

Str / i _

Front

LIFT

Knob

Handle"

bracket

Mowing position

Lower handle

(__ Grass

Bolt frame_

Door,

catcher

Vinyl

bindinc

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.

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND ALL SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING

YOUR LAWN MOWER. Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for

future reference.

These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the

product. Learn and understand their meaning.

CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS

OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY

Operator presence control bar

Drive control lever

Starter handle

Drive cover

Gasoline filler cap

Grass Dual point height catcher ,adjuster lever

valve lever

Engine oil cap

with di

Mulcher door

Housing

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

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

mission. The blade turns when the engine is running. Operator presence control bar - must

be held down to the handle to start the

engine. Release to stop the engine.

Drive control lever - used to engage power-propelled forward motion of mower.

Starter handle - used for starting engine. Mulcher door - allows conversion to

discharging or bagging operation. Dual point height adjuster - used to adjust cutting height of lawn mower.

Theoperationof anylawn

mowercanresultin foreign

objectsthrown intothe eyes,which canresultin

severeeyedamage.Always wearsafetyglassesor eyeshieldswhile operatingyourlawnmoweror performing anyadjustmentsor repairs.Werecom- menda standardsafetyglassesor wide visionsafetymaskworn overspectacles.

HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER ENGINE SPEED

The engine speed was set at the factory for optimum performance. Speed is not

adjustable.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

_CAUTION: Federal regulations require an engine control to be installed on this

lawn mower in order to minimize the

risk of blade contact injury. Do not under any circumstances attempt to defeat the function of the operator control. The blade turns when the engine is running.

• Your lawn mower is equipped with an

operator presence control bar which

requires the operator to be positioned behind the lawn mower handle to start

and operate the lawn mower.

DRIVE CONTROL

• Self-propelling is controlled by hold-

ing the operator presence control bar

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

The farther toward the handle the lever

is pulled, the faster the unit will travel.

• Forward motion will stop when either

the operator presence control bar or drive control lever are released. To stop forward motion without stopping engine,

release only the drive control lever. Hold operator presence control bar down against handle to continue mowing without self-propelling.

NOTE: If after releasing the drive control the mower will not roll backwards, push the mower forward slightly to disengage

drive wheels.

• To keep drive control engaged when

turning corners, push down on the

handle to lift the front wheels off the

ground while turning lawn mower.

OI controlbar

Drive control

Adjustment ENGAGE DRIVE

button (on DRIVE CONTROL underside) CONTROL DISENGAGED

DRIVE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT

TO lever

Over time, the drive control system may be- come "loose", resulting in decreased speed.

There isa button on the underside of the drive

control housing to increase tension on the drive cable. Proceed as follows:

1. Turn mower engine off and disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug.

2. Pull out button on underside of drive control, then push it back in.

3. Operate mower to see if drive speed has increased. Ifthere is no increase, the drive belt is worn and needs to be replaced.

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

Both rear wheels are adjusted by a single lever on the left rear wheel.

• Pull adjuster lever toward wheel. To

raise mower, move lever forward to desired position. To lower mower, move

the lever toward the rear.

NOTE: There are seven (7) height adjust- ment positions for the rear wheels. Both front wheels are adjusted as follows:

1. Remove wheel, bolt, and hardware and reassemble in desired adjustment hole.

2. Reinstall wheel components in the same order as they were before re- moval. Tighten securely.

NOTE: There are seven (7) height adjust- ment holes for the front wheels. Be sure

both front wheels are in the same hole. IMPORTANT: Be sure to adjust both front and rear wheels to the same height.

LEVER BACKWARD

TO LOWER

REAR OF MOWER

Lockbar ("locked'

position)

8 Wing

Washer

O-Ring position)

adjuster lever

LEVER FORWARD

TO RAISE REAR

OF MOWER

Bolt

Lockbar

("freewheel"

CASTER WHEEL OPERATION The front wheels can be "locked" into

position or set to "freewheel" for better maneuverability. Placing the Iockbars in the outer holes of the adjustment brackets "locks" the front wheels. Likewise, placing

the Iockbars in the inner holes of the ad-

justment brackets allows the front wheels

to spin freely ("freewheel").

• Lift Iockbar until the frontmost end

clears the adjustment bracket, then pivot

Iockbar to desired position.

IMPORTANT: Front wheels must be "locked" into position when operating on

a slope. Mow across the face of slopes:

never up and down.

TO CONVERT MOWER

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to

be used as a mulcher. To convert to rear

bagging or side discharging:

REAR BAGGING

• Remove knob securing mulcher door to

lawn mower housing.

• Open mulcher door and insert tabs

of discharge chute into hinge bracket opening and position rear of chute over

threaded stud.

• To convert to side discharging opera- tion, remove grass catcher and dis- charge chute. Install side discharge

deflector and secure it to lawn mower

housing with knob.

Grass

door

Knob

chute

Threaded

stud

Discharge chute tabs

Hinge bracket Mulcher door

• Secure rear of discharge chute to lawn mower housing with knob.

• Place rear handle of grass catcher on

the crossbar of the lawn mower's lower

handle as shown.

• Lift the round door of the discharge

chute and place the grass catcher into

place on the discharge chute.

NOTE: Be sure round door of discharge

chute rests on grass catcher as shown.

• Mower is now ready for rear bagging

operation.

• To convert to mulching operation, remove grass catcher and discharge

chute. Secure mulcher door to mower

housing with knob.

Mulcher door

SIDE DISCHARGING

• Grass catcher and discharge chute must be removed.

• Open mulcher door and install front of side discharge deflector beneath door

and position rear over threaded stud.

• Secure rear of side discharge deflector to lawn mower housing with knob.

• Mower is now ready for side discharging operation.

• To convert to mulching operation, side discharge deflector must be removed

and mulcher door secured to mower

housing with knob.

• To convert to rear bagging opera- tion, side discharge deflector must be removed; discharge chute and grass catcher installed and discharge chute secured to mower housing with knob.

Mulcher door Knob

stud

Side discharge

deflector

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER WHEN

CONVERTING YOUR LAWN MOWER

FOR MULCHING-

1. Grass catcher, discharge chute and side discharge deflector removed.

2. Mulcher door secured to mower hous- ing with knob.

FOR REAR BAGGING -

1. Side discharge deflector removed.

2. Grass catcher and discharge chute installed with discharge chute secured

to lawn mower housing with knob.

3. Round door of discharge chute resting

on top of grass catcher.

FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -

1. Grass catcher and discharge chute removed.

2. Side discharge deflector installed and secured to mower housing with knob.

_CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower without mulcher door closed; side dis- charge deflector installed, or discharge chute and approved grass catcher in

place. Never attempt to operate the lawn

mower with mulcher door or round door removed or propped open.

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER

1. Open round door of discharge chute to move starter rope out and away from grass catcher.

\ Front

OPEN

Round Starter

door rope

2. Remove grass catcher with clippings from lawn mower using both front and

rear handles.

3. Empty clippings from grass catcher using both rear handle and strap. The

weight of the grass will open the door.

4. Snap door shut over frame before installing grass catcher on mower.

NOTE: Do not drag the grass catcher

when emptying; it will cause unnecessary wear.

handle

Str_

Front

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

ADD OIL

Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in the engine. For type and grade of oil to use, see "ENGINE" in the Maintenance

section of this manual.

CAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with

oil, or it will smoke heavily from the muffler on startup.

1. Be sure lawnmower is level.

2. Remove oil dipstick from oil fill spout.

3. You receive a container of oil with the unit. Slowly pour the entire container

down the oil fill spout into the engine.

4. Insert and tighten dipstick.

IMPORTANT:

• Check oil level before each use. Add oil

if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.

• Change the oil after every 25 hours of

operation or each season. You may

need to change the oil more often under dusty, dirty conditions. See "TO

CHANGE ENGINE OIL:' in the Mainte- nance section of this manual.

Gasoline

fi!ler cap

Oil

cap

• il CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called gasohot or using ethanol or metha-

nol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Empty the gas tank, start

the engine and let it run until the fuel lines

and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage Instructions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel

tank or permanent damage may occur.

TO STOP ENGINE

• To stop engine, release operator pres-

ence control bar. Wait until blade and all moving parts have stopped and turn

fuel valve to OFF position if you do not intend to restart the engine soon.

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 prod-

uct and should be considered normal.

1. Be sure fuel valve is in the ON position.

2. Move choke lever to ON ( I\1 ) position.

3. Hold operator presence control bar

down to the handle and pull starter handle quickly. Do not allow starter

rope to snap back.

NOTE: The choke lever automatically begins moving to the OFF position when

operator presence control bar is held down to handle.

OFF ,Choke lever

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler neck. Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean, regular

unleaded gasoline with a minimum of

87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.

Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel fresh-

ness.

CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or

fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline

near an open flame.

Fuel valve lever

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 engine and leaving clumps of grass clip-

pings. It may also be necessary to re-

duce ground speed and/or run the lawn

mower over the area a second time.

• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the

width of cut by overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.

• For better grass bagging and most cut-

ting conditions, the engine speed should

be set in the FAST position.

• Pores in cloth grass catchers can be-

come filled with dirt and dust with use and catchers will collect less grass. To

prevent this, regularly hose catcher off

with water and let dry before using.

• Keep top of engine around starter clear

and clean of grass clippings and chaff. This will help engine air flow and extend

engine life.

MULCHING MOWING TIPS IMPORTANT: For best performance,

keep mower housing free of built-up grass and trash. See "CLEANING" in the

Maintenance section of this manual.

• The special mulching blade will recut the grass clippings many times and reduce them in size so that as they fall onto the lawn they will disperse into the grass and not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always mulch with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will provide the best recut- ting action of the blades.

• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet grass tends to form clumps and

interferes with the mulching action. The

best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon. At this time the grass has dried, yet the newly cut area will not be exposed to direct sunlight.

• For best results, adjust the lawn mower cutting height so that the lawn mower cuts off only the top one-third of the

grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown it will be necessary to raise the height of

cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine and leaving

clumps of mulched grass. For extremely

heavy grass, reduce your width of cut by overlapping previously cut path and

mow slowly.

• Certain types of grass and grass conditions may require that an area be mulched a second time to completely

hide the clippings. When doing a sec-

ond cut, mow across (perpendicular) to the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow north to south one week

then change to east to west the next week. This will help prevent matting and

graining of the lawn.

MAINTENANCE BEFORE AFTER EVERY EVERY EVERY BEFORE

EACH EACH 10 25 HOURS 100

SCHEDULE USE USE HOURS ORSEASON HOURS STORAGE

Check for Loose Fasteners

Check Tires

_ lean / inspect Grass Catcher *

Check Drive Wheels ***

Clean Lawn Mower ....

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

_ Check / Sharpen / Replace Blade R Lubrication

Clean and Recharge Battery ** Check Engine Oil level

m Change Engine Oil

Clean Air Filter

Inspect Muffler

_1 Replace Spark Plug

m Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge

Empty fuel system or add Stabilizer

* (if so equipped)

** Electric-Start mowers

*** Power-Propelled mowers

**** Use a scraper

to clean under deck

1 - Change more often if operating under a heavy load or in high outdoor temperatures. 2 _ Service more often if operating in dirty or dusty conditions. 3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil. 4 _ Charge 48 hours at end of season.

5 - And after each 5 hours of use.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, operator must

maintain unit as instructed in this manual.

Some adjustments will need to be made

periodically to properly maintain your unit.

At least once a season, check to see if you should make any of the adjustments

described in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

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

and check blade for wear. A new spark

plug and clean/new air filter element

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

• Follow the maintenance schedule in this manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level.

• Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION Keep unit well lubricated

(See "LUBRICATION CHART").

LUBRICATION CHART

(_ Mulcher

door hinge pin

(_ Rear door

(_) Handle bracket mounting pins

_ Spray lubricant

See ENGINE in Maintenance section.

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic

wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will

attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life of

the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel they

must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered

3graphite type lubricant sparingly.

ine oil

hinge

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when per- forming any maintenance.

TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect

control chemicals which can harm rubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp

objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage.

DRIVE WHEELS

Check rear drive wheels each time you mow to be sure they move freely. The wheels not turning freely means trash, grass cuttings, etc., may be inside the drive wheel and dust

cover area and must be cleaned out to free drive wheels. If necessary to clean the drive

wheels, check both rear wheels.

BLADE CARE

For best results, mower blade must be kept

sharp. Replace a bent or damaged blade.

TO REMOVE BLADE

1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot

come in contact with plug.

2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure air filter and carburetor are up.

3. Use a wood block between blade and

mower housing to prevent blade from

turning when removing blade bolt.

NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves

and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.

4. Remove blade bolt by turning counter- clockwise.

5. Remove blade and attaching hard- ware (bolt, lock washer and hardened washer).

TO REPLACE BLADE

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

with the raised lugs on the adapter.

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

engine.

3. Install the blade bolt with the lock

washer and hardened washer into

blade adapter and crankshaft.

4. Use block of wood between blade and lawn mower housing and tighten the

blade bolt, turning clockwise.

• The recommended tightening torque is

35-40 ft. Ibs.

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is heat treated. If bolt needs replacing, replace only with

approved bolt shown in the Repair Parts section of this manual.

Trailing

Lock-

washer

Hardened Blade

Blade washer bolt

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening

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

is balanced. Care should be taken to keep the blade

balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause eventual damage to lawn mower or

engine.

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

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

the straight nail exposed. Place center

hole of blade over the head of the nail. If blade is balanced, it should remain in

a horizontal position. If either end of the

blade moves downward, sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced.

GRASS CATCHER

The grass catcher may be hosed with water, but must be dry when used. Check your grass catcher often for dam- age or deterioration. Through normal

use it will wear. If catcher needs replac-

ing, replace only with approved replace- ment catcher shown in the Repair Parts section of this manual. Give the lawn

mower model number when ordering.

ENGINE

Maintenance, repair, or replacement of the emission control devices and systems, which are being done at the customers ex-

pense, may be performed by any non-road

engine repair establishment or individual. Warranty repairs must be performed by an

authorized engine manufacturer's service

outlet.

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated

with API service classification SG-SL Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade

according to your expected operating temperature.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

°F _0 0 30 32 40 80 80 100

-._ -_ -lo o lo _

TEMPERA"RJRE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

NOTE: Multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in cold weather, and you should check your engine oil level fre- quently to avoid possible engine damage from running tow on oil. Change the oil after every 25 hours of opera- tion or at least once a year if the lawn mower

is not used for 25 hours in one year. Check the crankcase oil level before

starting the engine and after each five (5)

hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plug securely each time you check the oil level.

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain oil, empty fuel tank by running engine until fuel tank is empty.

1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot

come in contact with plug.

2. Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a clean surface.

3. Tip lawn mower on its side as shown and drain oil into a suitable container.

Rock lawn mower back and forth to re- move any oil trapped inside of engine.

Use guage on oil fill cap/dipstick for checking level. Insert dipstick into the tube and rest the oil fill cap on the tube. DO NOT thread the cap into the tube when taking reading.

7. Continue adding small amounts of oil and rechecking the dipstick until it reads full. DO NOT overfill, or engine will smoke on startup.

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

9. Reconnect spark plug wire to plug.

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properly and may be damaged by using a dirty air filter. Replace the air filter every 100 hours of operation or every season, whichever oc-

curs 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 sur- face. If very dirty, replace cartridge.

AqLCAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as

kerosene, are not to be used to clean car- tridge. They may cause deterioration of the

cartridge. Do not oil cartridge. Do not use pressurized air to clean or dry cartridge.

4. Install cartridge, then replace cover.

Filter

Cover

Tabs

Filte

Oil filler cap/dipstick

limit

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

5. Fill engine with oil. The engine oil capacity is 18.5 oz. If oil is not completely drained

from engine, you may not need the entire container of a 20 oz. bottle of oil. Slowly

pour 3/4 of the oil from the container down

the oil fill spout into the engine.

6. Wait one minute to allow oil to settle.

MUFFLER

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

SPARK PLUG Replace spark plug at the beginning of

each mowing season or after every 100 hours of operation, whichever occurs first. Spark plug type and gap setting

are shown in the "PRODUCT SPECIFIC- ATIONS" section of this manual.

CLEANING IMPORTANT: For best performance,

keep mower housing free of built-grass and trash. Clean the underside of your

mower after each use.

+ 33 hidden pages

Craftsman 917374803 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual