Craftsman 37501, 917.375012 User Manual

Owner's Manual

CRAFTSMAN°

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

625 Series Briggs & Stratton Engine

Power-Propelled

22" Side Discharge

Model No.

917.375012

• EspaSol, p. 19

CAUTION'.

Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equipment

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates,

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

IL 60179

U.S.A.

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

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

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

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

Operation ............................................. 7-10

Maintenance Schedule ........................... 11

LiMiTED 2=YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER

When used and maintained according to the operator's manual instructions,ifthis power mow- er fails due to a defect inmaterial orworkmanship within two years from the date of purchase,

return itto any Sears store, Parts & Repair Center, or other Craftsman outlet for free repair.

Warranty coverage does not include:

• Expendable items that become worn during normal use, including but not limited to

blade, blade adapters, spark plug, air cleaner and belts.

• Standard maintenance servicing, oil changes, or tune-ups.

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, including but not limited to damage caused

by impacting objects that bend the frame or crankshaft, or over-speeding the engine.

• Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, including but not limited to dam-

age caused by improper storage, or failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained in the operator's manual.

• Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs necessary because of fuel determined to be

contaminated or oxidized (stale). In general, fuel should be used within 30 days of its purchase date.

• Normal deterioration and wear of the exterior finishes, or product label replacement.

Maintenance ...................................... 11-13

Service and Adjustments ................... 14-16

Storage .............................................. 16-17

Troubleshooting ................................. 17-18

Repair Parts ....................................... 36-45

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

This warranty applies for only 90 days ifthis product is used for commercial or rental purposes. This warranty applies only while this product is within the United States. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which

vary, from state to state. Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throw-

ing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

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

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

_I, 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 contact

with plug. _kWARNING" Engine exhaust, some of its

constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State

of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

AWARNING" Battery posts, terminals and

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

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

hands after handling.

_I, 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.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all

instructions on the machine and in the manual(s) before starting. Be thoroughly

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 instructions, to oper- ate the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,

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

• Be sure the area is clear of other people

before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

• Do not operate the mower when bare-

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

• Do not pull mower backwards unless

absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while moving

backwards.

• Never direct discharged material toward

anyone. Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Material

may richochet back toward the opera- tor. Stop the blade when crossing gravel

surfaces.

• Do not operate the mower without

proper guards, plates, grass catcher or other safety protective devices in place.

• See manufacturer's instructions for

proper operation and installation of accessories. Only use accessories ap- proved by the manufacturer.

• Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel

drives, walks, or roads.

• Stop the engine (motor) whenever you

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

• Shut the engine (motor) off and wait until

the blade comes to complete stop before removing grass catcher.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificial

light.

• Do not operate the machine while under

the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Never operate machine in wet grass.

Always be sure of your footing: keep a firm hold on the handle; walk, never run.

• Disengage the self-propelled mech-

anism or drive clutch on mowers so equipped before starting the engine.

• If the equipment should start to vibrate

abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and check immediately for the cause. Vibra-

tion is generally a warning of trouble.

. Always wear safety goggles or safety

glasses with side shields when operating mower.

Ii. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to slip & fa!l accidents which can result in severe in-

jury. All slopes require extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it.

DO:

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

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

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

DO NOT:

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

footing or balance.

• Do not trim excessively steep slopes.

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

Iii. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator

is not alert to the presence of children.

Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume

that children will remain where you last saw them.

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

responsible adult.

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

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

• Never allow children to operate the ma- chine.

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

that may obscure vision.

IV. SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

Use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the

vapors are explosive.

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

• Use only an approved container.

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

before refueling.

• Never refuel the machine indoors.

• Never store the machine or fue! contain- er 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 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 from the plug to prevent accidental

starting.

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep equip- ment in good condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel

spillage. Allow machine to cool before storing.

• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.

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

• Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and deterioration,

which could expose moving parts or

allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with

manufacturer's recommended parts,

when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and

use extra caution when servicing them.

• Do not change the engine governor set- ting or overspeed the engine.

• Maintain or replace safety and instruc- tion labels, as necessary.

AWARNING: This lawn mower is equipped with an internal combustion engine and

should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark

arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.

In the state of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California

Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest Sears Parts & Repair Center (See the REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

Serial Number: Date of Purchase:

Gasoline Capacity / Type: 1.6 Quarts (Unleaded Regular) Oil Type (API SG-SL): SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)

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

Blade Bolt Torque: 35-40 ft. Ibs.

• The model and serial numbers wil! be found on a decal on the rear of the lawn mower housing. Record both serial number and date of purchase in space provided above.

Repair Protection Agreements

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

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

ucts, it may require repair from time to

time. That's when having a Repair Protec- tion Agreement can save you money and aggravation.

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

Here's what's included in the Agreement:

• Expert service by our 12,000 profe- sional repair specialists.

• Unlimited service and no charge for parts and labor on all covered repairs.

• Product replacement if your covered product can't be fixed.

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

off regular price of preventive mainte- nance check.

• Fast help by phone- phone sup- port from a Sears representative on products requiring in-home repair, plus convenient repair scheduling.

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

to schedule service. You can call anytime day or night, or schedule a service ap-

pointment online.

Sears has over 12,000 professional repair specialists, who have access to over 4.5

million quality parts and accessories.

That's the kind of professionalism you can count on to help prolong the life of your

new purchase for years to come. Purchase

your Repair Protection Agreement 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®.

These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears retail outlets and

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

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CLIPPING

DEFLECTORS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

STABILIZER

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

CANS

GAS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

AIR FILTERS

SPARK PLUGS

BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS

WHEELS

ENGINE OIL

Read these instructions and this manual in its entirety before you attempt to assemble

or operate your new lawn mower.

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped

WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.

Your new lawn mower has been 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.

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 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.

NOW TO SET UP YOUR MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so

as not to pinch or damage control cables.

1. Raise handles until lower handle sec- tion locks into place in mowing position.

2. Remove protective padding, raise up- per handle section into place on lower handle and tighten both handle knobs.

3. Remove handle padding holding operator presence control bar to upper

handle.

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 control bar

/ //

///

MOWING

POSITION

J+X

UP handle

/ Upper

Handle

knob

Lower handle

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS Your lawn mower was shipped ready to

be used as a mulcher. To convert to bag-

ging or discharging, see "TO CONVERT

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

Handle knob

Drive

control

bar

Engine oil cap

with dipstick

Starter

handle

Gasoline filler ca

Mulcher door

Primer

Muffler

Wheel

adjuster

(on each

wheel)

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower Drive cover is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR

GASOLINE in the engine.

Housing Spark plug

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. AWARNING: 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 conversion to

discharging or bagging operation.

Primer- pumps additional fuel from the carburetor to the cylinder for use when starting a cold engine.

Drive control bar- used to engage

power-propelled forward motion of mower.

The operationofany

SAFETYGLASSESlawnmowercan result

inforeignobjectsthrown intothe eyes,which can resultin severeeye dam-

age.Alwayswear safety glassesoreye

shields while operating your lawn mower or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a standard safety glasses or wide vision safety mask worn over

spectacles.

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED The engine speed was set at the factory for

optimum performance. It is not adjustable. ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

,_CAUTION: Federal regulations require

an engine control to be installed on this lawn mower in order to minimize the

risk of blade contact injury. Do not under any circumstances attempt to defeat the

function of the operator control. The blade turns when the engine is running.

• Your lawn mower is equipped with an operator presence control bar which

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

and operate the lawn mower.

TO OPERATE DRIVE SYSTEM . To start forward motion, lift drive con-

trol bar up to handle.

• To stop forward motion, release drive

control bar.

IMPORTANT: Always keep drive control fully engaged against handle when in use.

Operator presence control bar

LEVER BACKWARD

TO LOWER MOWER

LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER Lever

Plate tab

TO CONVERT MOWER

Your mowerwas shipped ready to be used as a mulcher. To convert to side discharging:

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

• Mower is now ready for discharging operation.

• To convert to mulching operation, dis- charge deflector must be removed and

mulcher door must be closed.

\ /

\ J

Open mulcher door

Discharge deflector

DRIVE

CONTROL CONTROL

ENGAGED DISENGAGED

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels

for high cut, adjust cutting height to suit your requirements. Medium position is

best for most lawns.

• To change cutting height, squeeze ad- juster lever toward wheel. Move wheel

up or down to suit your requirements. Be sure all wheels are in the same set-

ting.

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.

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. ,A 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 oi! fill requires only 18 oz.

due to residual oil in engine from the

manufacturers 100% quality testing. When

changing oil you may need 20 oz.

4. Insert and tighten dipstick.

IMPORTANT:

• Check oil level before each use. Add oil if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.

• Change the oil after every 25 hours of operation or each season. You may need to change the oil more often under dusty, dirty conditions. See "TO

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

ADD GASOLINE

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

unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.

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

ness.

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

near an open flame. ii, CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels

(called gasohol or using ethanol or metha- nol) can attract moisture which leads to

separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel

system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Empty the gas tank, start

the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage Instructions for additional information. Never use engine

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

TO STOP ENGINE

• To stop engine, release operator pres- ence control bar.

Gasoline filler cap

Engine

oil cap

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.

1. To start a cold engine, push primer three (3) times before trying to start.

Use a firm push. This step is not usually necessary when starting an engine which has already run for a few

minutes.

2. Hold operator presence control bar down to the handle and pull starter handle quickly. Do not allow starter

rope to snap back.

NOTE: In cooler weather it may be

necessary to repeat priming steps. In warmer weather over priming may cause flooding and engine will not start. If you do flood engine, wait a few minutes before

attempting to start and do not repeat priming steps.

MOWING TIPS

CAUTION: Do not use de-thatcher

blade attachments on your mower. Such attachments are hazardous, will damage your mower and could void your warranty.

• Under certain conditions, such as very tall grass, it may be necessary to raise

the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine and leaving clumps of grass clippings.

It may also be necessary to reduce

ground speed and/or run the lawn mower over the area a second time.

• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of cut by overlapping previously

cut path and mow slowly.

• For better grass bagging and most cut- ting conditions, the engine speed should be set in the FAST position.

• For side discharge lawn mowers, cutting in a counter-clockwise direction, start-

ing at the outside of the area to be cut, spreads grass clippings more evenly

and puts less load on the engine. To keep clippings off of walkways, flower beds, etc., make the first cuts in a clock-

wise direction.

• 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.

MAX 1/3

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

hide the clippings. When doing a sec- ond cut, mow across (perpendicular) to the first cut path.

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

then change to east to west the next

week. This will help prevent matting and

graining of the lawn.

MAINTENANCE BEFORE AFTER EVERY

EAC H EACH 10

SCHEDULE USE USE HOURS

Check for Loose Fasteners _#,

,_ Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher * V'

Check Tires _V'

_ Check Drive Wheels ***

Clean Lawn Mower****

M Clean under Drive Cover ***

O Check Drive Belt / Pulleys ***

W Check / Sharpen / Replace Blade

_ ubrication

Clean and Recharge Battery ** Check Engine Oil level

E Change Engine Oil N Clean Air Filter

_ Inspect Muffler

N Replace Spark Plug I_' 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.

EVERY EVERY

25 HOURS 100 BEFORE

OR SEASON HOURS

STO RAG E

v' v'

v' v'3

v' v'

V_,2

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 wil! need to be made

periodically to properly maintain your unit.

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

described in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

• At least once a year, replace the spark plug, clean or replace air filter element and check blade for wear. A new spark

plug and clean/new air filter element assure proper air-fuel mixture and help your engine run better and last longer.

• Follow the maintenance schedule in this manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level.

• Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION

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

LUBRICATION CHART

(_ Wheel

adjuster (on

each wheel)

Engine oil

Discharge

guard hinge

(_ Handle bracket mounting pins

_ Spray lubricant

See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section.

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic

wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will attract dust and dirt thatwill shorten the life of

the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel they

must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered

graphite type lubricant sparingly.

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when per- forming any maintenance.

TIRES

. Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect

control chemicals which can harm rubber.

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

DRIVE WHEELS Check front drive wheels each time before you mow to be sure they move freely.

The wheels not turning freely means trash, grass cuttings, etc. are in the drive

wheel area and must be cleaned to free drive wheels.

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

1. Remove hubcaps, Iocknuts & washers.

2. Remove wheels from wheel adjusters.

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.

GEAR CASE

. To keep your drive system working

properly, the gear case and area around the drive should be kept clean and free

of trash build-up. Clean under the drive cover twice a season.

• The gear case is filled with lubricant to the proper level at the factory. The only

time the lubricant needs attention is if service has been performed on the gear

case.

• If lubricant is required, use only ELF Multis EP00. Do not substitute.

BLADE CARE

For best results, mower blade must be kept sharp. Replace a bent or damaged blade. A 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 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 hardware (bolt, lock washer, 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

1. Position the blade adapter on the en- gine crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter and crankshaft keyway are aligned.

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

with the raised lugs on the adapter.

3. Be sure the trailing edge of blade (oppo- site sharp edge) is up toward engine.

4. Install the blade bolt with the lock

washer and hardened washer into

blade adapter and crankshaft.

5. 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.

Blade adapter Key Crankshaft

Lockwasher

Blade

bolt Hardened .....',:, \ "_

washer Trailing/edge

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening 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 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.

retainer

GRASS CATCHER

(Ifpurchasedas anaccessory)

• Thegrass catchermay be hosedwith water,but must bedrywhen used.

• Checkyour grass catcheroften for dam- age or deterioration. Throughnormal use it will wear. Ifcatcher needsreplac-

ing, replaceonlywith approvedreplace- mentcatcher shownin the Repair Parts

sectionof this manual. Givethe lawn mowermodel numberwhen ordering.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated with

API service classification SG-SL. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your

expected operating temperature.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

F -20 0 30 32 40 60 80 100 C -30 -2; -1; ; 1'0 20 30 4;

TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils

(5W30, 10W30 etc.)improve starting in cold weather, they will result in increased oil consumption when used above 32°F. Check your engine oil level more frequently

to avoid possible engine damage from run-

ning low on oil. Change the oil after every 25 hours of operation 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.

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. 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 cartridge every 100

hours of operation or every season, which-

ever occurs first. Service air cleaner more often under dusty conditions.

TO CLEAN AIR FILTER

1. Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove.

2. Carefully remove cartridge.

3. Clean by gently tapping on a flat sur-

face. If very dirty, replace cartridge.

ACAUTION: 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 covermak- ing sure the tabs are aligned with the slots

in the back plate. Fasten screw securely.

Back plate

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

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-

13ATIONS" section of this manual.

CLEANING IMPORTANT: Forbest performance,keep

lawnmower housingfreeof built-grassand

trash. Cleanthe undersideof your lawn

moweraftereach 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 scra ping to remove build-u pof 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 al! gasoline, oil, etc.

• We do not recommend using a garden

hose to clean lawn mower unless the

electrical system, muffler, air filter and carburetor are covered to keep water out. Water in engine can result in short-

ened engine life.

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.

_WARNING: To avoid serious injury, before

performing any service or 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 section 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's

mowing position. If the deflector becomes

damaged, it should be replaced.

DISCHARGE GUARD

The discharge guard, attached to the discharge opening of your lawn mower, is

provided to prevent the possibility of injury resulting from objects being thrown out of

the discharge opening into the operator

mowing position. If the discharge guard becomes damaged, it should be replaced.

TO REMOVE DRIVE BELT

1. Remove drive cover.

2. Remove belt from gearcase pulley by pushing down on arm and rolling belt off pulley.

3. Turn lawn mower on its side with air filter and carburetor down.

4. Remove blade and blade adapter.

TO REPLACE DRIVE BELT

5. Place new drive belt on blade adapter.

6. Route the other end of the new drive belt through hole in housing.

7. Reinstall blade and blade adapter.

8. Return mower to upright position.

9. Push down on arm, install new belt on gearcase pulley. Release arm slowly.

NOTE: Always use factory approved belt to assure proper fit and long life.

10. Reinstall drive cover.

PUSH

Drive cover

Pulley

Blade adapter Key Crankshaft

Lockwasher

Blade

Blade bolt Hardened ',,,, \ ,

washer TrailinYedge retainer

5, \ _j

TO ADJUST HANDLE The handle can be mounted in a high or

low position. The mounting holes in the bottom of lower handle are off center for

raising or lowering the handle.

1. Remove upper handle and all wire tie(s) securing cable(s) to lower handle.

2. Remove hairpin cotters from lower handle bracket mounting pin.

3. Squeeze lower handle in to remove it from mounting pins.

4. Turn lower handle over to raise or lower handle.

5. Squeeze lower handle in and position holes onto mounting pins on bracket.

6. Reassemble upper handle and all parts removed from lower handle.

Lower handle

ROTATE

ENGINE

ENGINE SPEED

Your engine speed has been factory set. Do

not attempt to increase engine speed or it may result in personal injury. If you believe

that engine is running too fast or too slow, take your mower to a Sears or other qualified

service center for repair and adjustment. CARBURETOR

Your carburetor is not adjustable. If your engine does not operate properly due to sus-

pected carburetor problems, take your lawn mower to a Sears or other qualified service

center for repair and/or adjustment.

IMPORTANT: Nevertamperwith the engine

governor, which is factory set for proper en- gine speed. Overspeeding the engine above

the factory high speed setting can be danger- ous. If you think the engine-governed high speed needs adjusting, contact a Sears or

other qualified service center, which has

proper equipment and experience to make

any necessary adjustments.

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