Craftsman 917376804 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

®

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

625 Series Briggs & Stratton Engine

Power-Propelled

22" Multi-Cut

Model No.

917.376804

• Espariol, p. ! 9

CAUTION:

Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 UoSA.

Visit our Craftsman website: wwwsears com!craftsman

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

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

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

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

Operation ........................................................................7-t 1

Maintenance Schedule ........................................t 2

Maintenance ............................................................12-15

Service and Adjustments .................................I5-16

Storage ............................................................................t 6-17

Troubleshooting ........................................................17-t 8

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

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

2-YEAR FULL WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN LAWN MOWER

If this Craftsman Lawn Mower fails due to manufacturer defects in material or

workmanship within two years from the date of purchase, return it to any Sears store,

Parts & Repair Center or other Craftsman outlet for free repair (or replacement if repair

proves impossible).
This warranty applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase if this Lawn Mower is

ever used for commercial or rental purposes.

This warranty does not cover:

. Expendable items that 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
crackshafts and the failure to assemble, operate or maintain this Lawn Mower

according to all supplied product instructions_

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., 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.

_l,Look for this symbol to point out impor-

tant safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!!

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 contact

with plug..
_&WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its

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

of Califomiato 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.

_, CAUTION: Muffler and other engine

parts become extremely hot during
operation and remain hot after engine has
stopped.. To avoid severe bums on contact,
stay away from these areas°

1.GENERALOPERATION
* Read,understand,andfollowall

instructionsonthemachineandinthe
manual(s)beforestartingBethorough}y

familiarwiththecontrolsandtheproper
useofthemachinebeforestarting.

. Donotputhandsorfeetnearorunder

rotatingparts,,Keepclearofthedis-
chargeopeningatall 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.

o 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,

o Do not trim excessively steep slopes.

• Do not mow on wet grass., Reduced foot-

ing could cause slipping.

IlL 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 fuel contaim
er where there is an open flame, spark

or pilot light such as a water heater or on
other appliances

• Neverfillcontainersinsideavehicle,on
atruckortrailerbedwithaplasticliner,
Alwaysplacecontainersontheground

awayfromyourvehiclebeforefilling.

• Removegas-poweredequipmentfrom
thetruckortrailerandrefuelitonthe

groundIfthisisnotpossible,then
refuelsuchequipmentwithaportable

container,ratherthanfromagasoline
dispensernozzle.

• Keepthenozzleincontactwiththerim
ofthefueltankorcontaineropeningat

alltimesuntilfuelingiscomplete.Do
notuseanozzlelock-opendevice

• Iffuelisspilledonclothing,change
clothingimmediately

• Neveroverfillfueltank,Replacegas
capandtightensecurely..

V,GENERALSERVICE

• Neverrunamachineinsideaclosed
area..

. Nevermakeadjustmentsorrepairswith

theengine(motor)running..Disconnect
thesparkplugwire,andkeepthewire

awayfromtheplugtopreventaccidental
starting..

,&WARNING: 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 taws (if any).. If a spark arrester is used, it

should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.
In the state of Califomia 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)

•Keepnutsandbolts,especiallyblade
attachmentbolts,tightandkeepequip-

mentingoodcondition..

- Nevertamperwithsafetydevices.Check
theirproperoperationregularly.

•Keepmachinefreeofgrass,leaves,or
otherdebrisbuild-up.Cleanoilorfuel

spillageAllowmachinetocoolbefore
storing.

• Stopandinspecttheequipmentifyou
strikeanobject.Repair,ifnecessary,

beforerestarting

• Neverattempt 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,

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 J19LM or RJtgLM
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

4

RepairProtectionAgreements

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

designed and manufactured for years of
dependable operation.. But like air 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,.

These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced_ They are not

shipped with your mower. They are atso available at most Sears retail outlets and
service centers. Some of these accessories may not apply to your tawn mower

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CLIPPING

- 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 USoAo call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.

__ DEFLECTORSFOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

L&WN MOWERS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

BLADES

AIR FILTERS

BLADE ADAPTERS

5

,, , , , , , ,. ,, , , , , ,

_-_ GRASSCATCHERS

/ (/ FOR

}_ SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

SPARK PLUGS

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 Of L OR GASOLINE in the engine.

"Yournew lawn mower has been assembled at the factory with the exception 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 ptaced in the pads 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.

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

1. Put grass catcher frame into grass bag

with rigid part of bag on the bottom.

Make sure the frame handle is outside
of the bag top.

2. Slip vinyl bindings over frame.
NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold
them in warm water for a few minutes,. If

bag gets wet, let it dry before using

Frame

handle

HOW TO SET UP YOUR MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so

as not to pinch or damage control cables,.
I.. 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 hotding operator

presence control bar to upper handle.

Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted
for your mowing comfort.. Refer to '_kD-

Vinyl
bindin_

Frame

opening

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 mower to
bagging or discharging, see "TO CON-
VERT MOWER" in the Operation section

of this manual,.

UP handle

Upper

Handle

knob

Lower handle

6

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 ENGtNE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS

nR WARNING QN _FF AND FEET AWAY

Drive
control
bar,

Operator presence control bar

Handle knob

Starter
handle

Grass
catcher

Gasoline filler

Air filter

Mulcher door

Housin

Engine oil cap with dipstick

Primer

Muffler

)ark

plug

Drive coMer

uster

(on each wheel)

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 Primer- pumps additional fuel from the
be held down to the handle to start the carburetor to the cylinder for use when

engine, Release to stop the engine, starting a cold engine,,
Starter handle - used for starting engine Drive control bar - used to engage

Mulcher door- allows conversion to power-propelled forward motion of mower,

discharging or bagging operation 7

Theoperationofany

lawnmowercanresult
inforeignobjectsthrown

intotheeyes,whichcan
resultinsevereeyedam-

age°Alwayswearsafetyglassesoreye
shieldswhileoperatingyourlawnmower

orperforminganyadjustments 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. 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 inju_. Do not under
any circumstances attempt to defeat the

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

- "(our lawn mower is equipped with an

operator presence control bar which
requires the operator to be positioned

behind the fawn 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 bare

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

Operator
presence

control bar

DRIVE CONTROL ENGAGED

DRIVE CONTROL 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 setting.

NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned

when plate tab inserts into hole in lever..
Aiso, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)

allow lever to be positioned between the
plate tabs..

LEVER BACKWARD Plate tab

TO LOWER MOWER

LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER Lever

TO CONVERT MOWER

Your fawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging

or discharging:
REAR BAGGING

• Open rear door and remove mulcher
plug, Store mulcher plug in a safe

place.,

• You can now install the grass catcher or
optional clipping deflector°

° To convert to mulching or discharging

operation, install mulcher plug into rear
discharge opening of mower,

Mulcher plug

Discharge deflector

SIDE DISCHARGING

- Mulcher plug must be installed into rear
discharge opening of mower.,

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

• Mower is now ready for discharging
operation..

• To convert to mulching or bagging
operation, discharge deflector must be

removed and mulcher door closed.,

Open mulcher door

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER WHEN
CONVERTING YOUR LAWN MOWER

FOR MULCHING -
1,, Rear mufcher plug installed,

2., Mulcher door closed,,
FOR REAR BAGGING -

1., Rear mulcher plug removed.
2,. Grass catcher installed,,

3., Mulcher door closed.
FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -
1, Rear mulcher plug installed.

_ Discharge deflector installed,,

CAUTION; Do not run your lawn

mower without mulcher plug or approved
grass catcher in place, Never attempt to

operate the lawn mower with the rear door
removed or propped open,,

9

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER

1. Lift up on grass catcher using the

frame handle

2. Remove grass catcher with clippings

from under lawn mower handle,,

3. Empty clippings from bag.

NOTE: Do not drag the bag when empty-
ing; it will cause unnecessary wear

Grass

catcher

frame

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

ADD OIL
"Yourlawnmower 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 flit 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 !00% 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 OIE' in the Mainte-

nance section of this manual.

oil cap

Gasoline

filler cap

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 fue! fresh-

heSS,

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

near an open flame.

•_ CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels
(called gasohol or using ethanol or 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 occu_

Ine

10

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
_, 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,

- 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 one4hird 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 t/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.,

11

MAINTENANCE .EFOREA_E. EVERY EVERY EVERY
SCH_=DULE use USE HOURSORSEASON;.OU.S

Check for Loose Fasteners

L Ciean? Inspect Grass Catcher" _/ 6/

Check Tires V'
C_e_ Drive Wheels *'" t_

Clean Lawn Mower .... = _ :

M Clean under Drive Cover '*'. ..................................... _/

O C'heck Drive Belt / Pulleys """
W Check 1Sharpen I Replace B!ade=

R Lubrication

Clean and Recharge Battery "*

EACH EACH 10 25 HOURS 100

v'
v'

v' =4

che_ E,gineo, level ...................... =4

E Change Engine Oi}

C'lean Air Filter ...................................

l_i lnspect Muffler

N Replace 'Sp'ark"Piug

E Replace Air Filter Raper 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 ellen if operating under a heavy load or in high outdoor temperatures.
2 - Service more often if operating in didy or dusfy conditions

3 - Replace b_ades more otten when mowing In sandy soil
4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season,

5 - And after each 5 hours of use

V_,2

=4

v'

J
=4

BEFORE

STORAGE

v'
v'

v"

v'

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 offlevel

• Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated

(See "LUBRICATION CHART").

LUBRICATION CHART

adjuster (on

each wheel)

(_ Engine oil

I
f

[ Mulcher

\ j door hinge

I

..__ j"

k

\

2(_Spray lubricant

See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section,,

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic
wheel bearings, Viscous lubricants will

attract dust anddirt that will shorten the life of
the self-lubricating bearings. Ifyou feel they

must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered

2graphite type lubricant sparingly.

1

J

L_ Handle bracket mounting pins

(_ Rear door

Wheel

pin

hinge

LAWNMOWER
Alwaysobservesafetyruleswhenper-

forminganymaintenance.

TIRES

• Keeptiresfreeofgasoline,oil,orinsect
controlchemicalswhichcanharmrubber.

- Avoidstumps,stones,deepruts,sharp
objectsandotherhazardsthatmay

causetiredamage.

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

blade bolt, turning clockwise.

Recommendedtighteningtorque:35-40ft. 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.

Bladeadapter Key Crankshaft

DRIVEWHEELS
Checkfrontdrivewheelseachtimebefore

Lockwasher ,_

youmowtobesuretheymovefreely.
Thewheelsnotturningfreelymeanstrash, Blade

grasscuttings,etc.areinthedrivewheelarea
andmustbecleanedtofreedrivewheels..

Ifnecessarytocleanthedrivewheels,be
suretocleanbothfrontwheels,.

1_Removehubcaps,locknuts&washers
2, Removewheelsfromwheeladjusters

3. Removeanytrashorgrasscuttings
frominsidethedustcover,pinionand/

ordrivewheelgearteeth..

4. Putwheelsbackinplace,

NOTE:Ifaftercleaning,thedrivewheels
donotturnfreely,contactaSearsorother

qualifiedservicecenter
BLADECARE
Forbestresults,blademustbekeptsharp.

Replaceabentordamagedblade..
ACAUTION:Useonlyareplacementblade
approvedbythemanufacturerofyourmower.

Usingabladenotapprovedbythemanu-
facturerofyourmowerishazardous,could

damageyourmowerandvoidyourwarranty.
TOREMOVEBLADE

1..Disconnectsparkplugwirefromspark
plugandplacewirewhereitcannot

comeincontactwithplug..

2..Turnlawnmoweronitsside.Make
sureairfilterandcarburetorareup..

3..Useawoodblockbetweenbladeand
mowerhousingtopreventbladefrom

turningwhenremovingbladebolt.

NOTE:Protectyourhandswithgloves

and/orwrapbladewithheavycloth.
4_Removebladeboltbyturningcounter-

clockwise..

5,,Removeblade&attachinghardware

(bolt,lockwasher&hardenedwasher)..

TOREPLACEBLADE

1.,Positionbladeonthebladeadapter
aligningthetwo(2)holesintheblade

withtheraisedlugsontheadapter,

2. Besurethetrailingedgeofblade(oppo_
sitesharpedge)isuptowardtheengine.,

3 Install the blade bolt with the lock

washer and hardened washer into
blade adapter and crankshaft. !3

Blade
bolt H 'i. / \ " /

washer Trailing edge Crankshaft

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 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 weal, 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,

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 Texaco
Starplex Premium 1 Grease, Part No,

750369. Do not substitute,.

ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Useonlyhighqualitydetergent oi! rated with

API servicectassification SG-SL Selectthe

oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your
expected operating temperature..

[ SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

I _MPERATURE RANGE ANT|C|PATE D _ORE _T OiL CI_GE

NOTE: Although multFviscosity oils
(5W30, 10W30 etc+) improve starting in

cold weather, these multi+viscosity oils will
result in increased oil consumption when
used above 32°E Check your engine oil
level more frequently to avoid possible
engine damage from running low on oil.

Change the oil after every 25 hours of op+
eration orat least once a year if the 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 oit plug

securely each time you check the oil level.

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain
oi!, empty fuel tank by running engine until

fuel tank is empty.
I+ 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 containe_

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

Container

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

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

oil level with the dipstick..

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

7+ Continue adding smait 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 spark 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,

whichever 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.

_,CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such
as kerosene, are not to be used to clean

cartridge. 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

making sure the tabs are aligned with
the slots in the back prate, Fasten

screw securely.

Back plate

Cartridge

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-
ATIONS" section of this manual.

CLEANING
IMPORTANT; For best performance,

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

t4 mower after each use.

_,CAUTtON:Disconnectsparkplugwire
fromsparkplugandplacewirewhereit

cannotcomeincontactwithplug..

• Cleantheundersideofyourlawnmower
byscrapingtoremovebuild-upofgrass

andtrash..

. Cleanengineoftentokeeptrashfrom

accumulating..Acloggedengineruns
hotterandshortensenginelife.

• Keepfinishedsurfacesandwheelsfree
ofallgasoline,oil,etc..

_qLWARNING: To avoid serious injury, before performing any service and adjustments:

1_ Release control bar and stop engine.

2. Make sure the blade and al! 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 mowing position If the
deflector becomes damaged, it should be
replaced,.

TO REMOVE DRIVE BELT

11. Remove drive cover Remove belt

from gearcase pulley by pushing down
on pulley and rolling belt off it,

2,. Turn lawn mower on its side with air

filter and carburetor up.

3,. Remove blade.

4.. Remove debris shield.,
5,, Remove belt from engine pulley on

crankshafL

Drive

cover Belt

. 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 sea-

son. Scrape underside of cover with putty
knife or simifar tool to remove any build-up

of trash or grass on underside of drive cover.,

TO REPLACE DRIVE BELT

1. Install new belt on engine pulley..

2.. Reinstall debris shield and blade,.

3. Return mower to upright position..

4.. Install new belt on gearcase pulley.

5. Reinstall drive cover.
NOTE: Always use factory approved belt
to assure fit and long life.

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 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 Squeezelowerhandlein andposition holes

onto mounting pins on handle bracket.

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

Mowing . Mowing
position I"_ position "'-

r _ ///,l

': ', ( ,,

Ha! '

PUSH DOWN

cotter _) N_I Handle
Mounting__jj bracket

pin ' _r

LOW POSITION HIGHPOSITION

15