Craftsman 917.375013 User Manual [en, es]
Owner’s Manual
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
625 Series Briggs & Stratton Engine
Power-Propelled
22" Side Discharge
Model No.
917.375013
Espanol, p. 19
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
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Warranty.....................................................2
Safety Rules............................................2-4
Product Specifications................................4
Assembly / Pre-Operation
Operation
Maintenance Schedule
..............................................
..........................
............................
7-10
11
Maintenance
Service and Adjustments
Storage................................................16-17
6
Troubleshooting...................................17-18
Repair Parts
Sears Service
.......................................
....................
........................................
............................
11-13
14-16
36-45
Back Cover
WARRANTY
LIMITED 2-YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER
When used and maintained according to the operator’s manual instructions, ifthis power mowerfails due to a defect in material orworkmanship within two years from the date of purchase,
return it to 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 ofoperatorabuse, 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.
Thiswarranty 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
SAFETY RULES
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.
Alook for this symbol to point out impor
tant safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!!
YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
A 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.
AWARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its
constituents, and certain vehicle components
contain or emit chemicals known to the State
of California to cause cancerand 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.
hands after handling.
Wash
A 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 &
fall 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. A/everassume
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 fuel 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).
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
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. lbs.
• The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal on the rear of the lawn mower
housing. Record both serial number and date of purchase in space provided above.
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®.
ACCESSORIES
These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not
shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears retail outlets and
service centers. Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
ASSEMBLY / PRE-OPERATION
Read these instructions and this manual in
its entirety before you attempt to assemble
or operate your new lawn mower.
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped
WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the
engine.
Your new lawn mower has been as
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.
HOW 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.
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.
OPERATION
KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND ALL SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING
YOUR LAWN MOWER. Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize
yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for
future reference.
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the
product. Learn and understand their meaning.
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE
OR WARNING ON OFF
Drive
control
bar
Starter
handle
Gasoline
filler cap
Air filter
FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER,KEEP HANDS
AND FEET AWAY
Operator presence control bar
Handle knob
Engine oil cap
with dipstick
Primer
Muffler
Wheel
adjuster
(on each
wheel)
Mulcher
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower
is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR
GASOLINE in the engine.
Housing
Spark plug
Drive cover
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
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.
discharging or bagging operation.
The operation of any
SAFETY GLASSES
lawn mower can result
in foreign objects thrown
FORESIGHT IS BEnER
THAN NO SIGHT
into the eyes, which can
result in severe eye dam
age. Always wear safety glasses or eye
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
AcautiON: 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
u X / i / y ■
LEVER BACKWARD Plate tab
LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER Lever
TO CONVERT MOWER
Yourmowerwas 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.
DRIVE \ \ 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.
8
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
ADD OIL
Your I awn mower 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 oil fill requires only 18 oz.
due to residual oil in engine from the
manufacturers 100% quality testing. When
changing oil you may need 20 oz.
4. Insert and tighten dipstick.
IMPORTANT:
• Check oil level before each use. Add oil
if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.
• 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.
A 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.
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
A 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.
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.
10
MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE
Check for Loose Fasteners
L
Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher *
A
Check Tires
fir
Check Drive Wheels ***
N
Clean Lawn Mower ****
Clean under Drive Cover ***
M
O
Check Drive Belt / Pulleys ***
W
Check / Sharpen / Replace Blade
E
Lubrication
R
Clean and Recharge Battery **
Check Engine Oil level
E
Change Engine Oil
H
Clean Air Filter
G
Inspect Muffler
1
Replace Spark Plug
N
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge
E
Empty fuel system or add Stabilizer
* (if so equipped)
** Electric-Start mowers
*** Power-Propelled mowers
**** Use a scraper
to clean under deck
BEFORE
EACH
USE
✓ ✓
✓ ✓ ✓
✓
✓
✓ s
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.
AFTER
EACH
USE
✓ ✓
EVERY
10
HOURS
✓
EVERY
25 HOURS
OR SEASON
✓
✓
✓
^,2
✓
EVERY
100
HOURS
✓
1/2
BEFORE
STORAGE
✓
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
® Spray lubricant
@ See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will
attract dust and dirtthatwill shorten the life of
the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel they
must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered
graphite type lubricant sparingly.
11
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, locknuts & 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 EPOO. 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. lbs.
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is heat treated.
If bolt needs replacing, replace only with
approved bolt shown in the Repair Parts
section of this manual.
Blade adapter^ Key Crankshaft
' keyway
Blade
Hardened » \
washer Trailing' edge
retainer
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
i2 heavy end until the blade is balanced.
Belt
GRASS CATCHER
(If purchased as an accessory)
• 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
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.
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.
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 cover mak
ing sure the tabs are aligned with the slots
in the back plate. Fasten screw securely.
Up I Back plate
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.
mower or side of engine.
Slot
Cover
Cover tab
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-
13ATIONS” section of this manual.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
lawn mower housing free of built-grass and
trash. Clean the underside of your lawn
mower after each use.
ACAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come in contact with plug.
• Clean the underside of your mower by
scraping to remove build-up of grass/trash.
• Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runs
hotter and shortens engine life.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS
• 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
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.
AwARNING: 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.
14
Blade adapter^ Key
Lockwasher
Blade
bolt Hardened
washer Trailing edge
Crankshaft
keyway
Belt
retainer
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.
Remove hairpin cotters from lower
2.
handle bracket mounting pin.
Squeeze lower handle in to remove it
3.
from mounting pins.
Turn lower handle over to raise or
4.
lower handle.
Squeeze lower handle in and position
5.
holes onto mounting pins on bracket.
Reassemble upper handle and all parts
6.
removed from lower handle.
SQUEEZE
TO ADJUST
Lower handle
Mounting pin
Handle
bracket Hairpin cotter
Lower
handle
ROTATE
ENGINE
ENGINE SPEED
Yourengine 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 yourmowerto a Sears orotherqualified
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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