Craftsman 917377090 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

(RRFTSMRN °

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

6.5 Horsepower Power-Propelled

21" Multi-Cut

Model No.

917.377090

• Espahol, p. 20

CAUTION:

Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this equipment

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

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

U.S.A.

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

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

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

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

Operation ............................................ 7-11

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

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER For two years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,

lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or workmanship.

If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.

This Warranty does not cover:

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

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent crank- shafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions con-

tained in the owner's manual.

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

Service and Adjustments ................... 15-17

Storage .............................................. 17-18

Troubleshooting ................................. 18-19

Repair Parts ....................................... 38-47

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

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

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

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

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

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

jects. Failu re to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death. ALook for this symbol to point out important

safety precautions. It means CAUTION! BE- CO M E ALE RT!YOU R SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

&WARNING: In order to prevent accidental

starting when setting up, transporting, ad-

justing or making repairs, always disconnect

spark plug wi re and place wi re where it can not come in contact with plug. _i,WARNING: 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. _i,WARNING: 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, familiar with theinstructions,tooperatethemachine.

• Clearthe areaof objectssuch asrocks, toys,wire,bones,sticks,etc., which couldbepickedupand thrownby blade.

• Be surethe area is clearof otherpeople beforemowing.Stopmachineif anyone

entersthearea.

• Do notoperatethe mowerwhenbare- footorwearingopen sandals.Always wearsubstantialfootwear.

• Do notpull mowerbackwardsunlessab- solutelynecessary.Alwayslookdownand behindbeforeandwhilemovingbackwards.

• Neverdirect dischargedmaterial toward anyone.Avoiddischargingmaterialagainst awall orobstruction. Materialmay richo- chetback towardthe operator. Stopthe bladewhencrossinggravelsurfaces.

• Do notoperatethe mowerwithout properguards,plates,grasscatcheror othersafetyprotectivedevicesinplace.

• Seemanufacturer'sinstructionsfor properoperationandinstallationof

accessories.Only useaccessoriesap- provedbythe manufacturer.

• Stopthe blade(s)whencrossinggravel drives,walks,or roads.

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

• Shuttheengine(motor)off andwait until thebladecomestocompletestop before removinggrasscatcher.

• Mowonlyin daylight/ 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 wearsafety goggles or safety glass- es 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. 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 mower.

• 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 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 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 spill-

age. Allow machine to cool before storing.

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

before restarting.

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).

• 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.

Serial Number: Date of Purchase:

Gasoline Capacity/Type: 1.6 Quarts (Unleaded Regular) Oil Capacity: 20 Ounces Oil Type (API SG-SL): SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F) Spark Plug: Champion RJ19HX (Gap: .030") Blade Bolt Torque: 35-40 ft. Ibs.

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

Repair Protection Agreements

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

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

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

aggravation.

Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement

now and protect yourself from unexpected

hassle and expense.

Here's what's included in the Agreement:

• Expert service by our 12,000 profe-

sional repair specialists.

• Unlimited service and no charge for

parts and labor on all covered repairs.

• Product replacement if your covered

product can't be fixed.

• Discount of 10% from regular price of

service and service-related parts not covered by the agreement; also, 10%

off regular price of preventive mainte- nance check.

• Fast help by phone- phone support from a Sears technician on products

requiring in-home repair, plus conve-

nient repair scheduling. Once you purchase the Agreement, a simple phone call is all that it takes for you to schedule service. You can call anytime day or night, or schedule a service ap-

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

million quality parts and accessories. That's the kind of professionalism you can count on to help prolong the life of your

new purchase for years to come. Purchase your Repair Protection Agreement 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

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 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, wash- ers, 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.

Bolt

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

Knob

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.

Handle

bracket

HOWTOSET UPYOUR LAWN MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so

as not to pinch or damage control cables.

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

with one of the height positioning holes in handle bracket.

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

3. Repeat for opposite side of handle.

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

5. Remove any packing material from around control bar.

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

ments section of this manual.

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.

Operator MOWING I POSITION

control bar

////

Upper

handle

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 ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS

OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY

Operator presence control bar

Drive control lever

Starter handle knob

Engine oil cap with dipstick

Grass catchel

Muffler

Dual

point

height

Gasoline filler cap

Air filter

Mulcher door

Housing Spark plug

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.

adjuster

lever

Operator presence control bar - must be held down to the handle to start the

engine. Release to stop the engine.

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

Mulcher door - allows conversion to

discharging or bagging operation. Starter handle - used for starting engine.

Dual point height adjuster - used to

adjust cutting height of lawn mower.

Theoperationof anylawn

SAFETYGLASSESmowercan resultinforeign

objectsthrownintothe

eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always

wear safety glasses or eye shields while

operating your lawn mower or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recom- mend 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

_IbCAUTION: Federal regulations require

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

risk of blade contact injury. Do not under

any circumstances attempt to defeat the function of the operator control. The blade turns when the engine is running.

• Your lawn mower is equipped with an

operator presence control bar which requires the operator to be positioned

behind the lawn mower handle to start and operate the lawn mower.

DRIVE CONTROL

• Self-propelling is controlled by hold-

ing the operator presence control bar down to the handle and pulling the drive

control lever rearward to the handle. The farther toward the handle the lever

is pulled, the faster the unit will travel.

• Forward motion will stop when either

the operator presence control bar or drive control lever are released. To stop forward motion without stopping engine, release only the drive control lever. Hold operator presence control bar down against handle to continue mowing without self-propelling.

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

drive wheels.

O erator presence control bar

Drive

Adjustment ENGAGE

button (on DRIVE

underside) CONTROL

control lever

DISENGAGED

DRIVE

CONTROL

• To keep drive control engaged when turning corners, push down on the

handle to lift the front wheels off the ground while turning lawn mower.

DRIVE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT

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

There is a button on the underside of the drive control housing to increase tension on the

drive cable. Proceed as follows:

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

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

3. Operate mower to see if drive speed

has increased. If there is no increase,

the drive belt is worn and needs to be

replaced.

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

Both front wheels are adjusted by a single lever on the left front wheel. Likewise,

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

• Pull adjuster lever toward wheel. To

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

the lever backward to desired position.

Be sure to adjust both front and rear

wheels to the same height.

Height aster lever

TO LOWER MOWER

LEVER BACKWARD

LEVER FORWARD

TO RAISE MOWER

TO CONVERT MOWER Your lawn mower was shipped ready to

be used as a mulcher. To convert to rear bagging or side discharging:

REAR BAGGING

• Remove knob securing mulcher door to

lawn mower housing.

• Open mulcher door and insert tabs

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

threaded stud.

Hinge bracket Mulcher door

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

• Place rear handle of grass catcher on the crossbar of the lawn mower's lower

handle as shown.

• Lift the round door of the discharge chute and place the grass catcher into place on the discharge chute.

NOTE: Be sure round door of discharge

chute rests on grass catcher as shown.

• Mower is now ready for rear bagging operation.

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

chute. Secure mulcher door to mower housing with knob.

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

deflector and secure it to lawn mower housing with knob.

Crossbar

Grass

Round

door

Discharc

chute

Threaded

Mulcher door

stud

SIDE DISCHARGING

• Grass catcher and discharge chute must be removed.

• Open mulcher door and install front of side discharge deflector beneath door and position rear over threaded stud.

• Secure rear of side discharge deflector

to lawn mower housing with knob.

• Mower is now ready for side discharging operation.

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

and mulcher door secured to mower housing with knob.

• To convert to rear bagging opera-

tion, side discharge deflector must be

removed; discharge chute and grass

catcher installed and discharge chute

secured to mower housing with knob.

Mulcher door

stud

Side discharge

deflector

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER WHEN

CONVERTING YOUR LAWN MOWER

FOR MULCHING -

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

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

FOR REAR BAGGING -

1. Side discharge deflector removed.

2. Grass catcher and discharge chute

installed with discharge chute secured

to lawn mower housing with knob.

3. Round door of discharge chute resting on top of grass catcher.

FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -

1. Grass catcher and discharge chute removed.

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

_CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower without mulcher door closed; side dis-

charge deflector installed, or discharge chute and approved grass catcher in

place. Never attempt to operate the lawn mower with mulcher door or round door

removed or propped open.

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER

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

"X Front

OPEN

Round Starter

door rope

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

rear handles.

3. Empty clippings from grass catcher using both rear handle and strap. The weight of the grass will open the door.

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

NOTE: Do not drag the grass catcher when

emptying; it will cause unnecessary wear.

/ Rear

handle

Strap

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 OI1" in the Mainte-

nance section of this manual.

ATTACH FUEL CAP CARTRIDGE Your mower is equipped with a special

FRESH START TM fuel cap and continuous

fuel preserver cartridge. See the infor-

mation and instructions packed with the

FRESH START TM cartridge.

1. Snap cartridge into bottom of fuel cap. NOTE: Do not remove the silver foil seal on

the side of cartridge that snaps into fuel cap.

2. Grasp the white peel tab and pull to

remove the entire seal.

3. Screw fuel cap onto fuel tank after fill-

ing tank with gasoline.

Replace cartridge when empty (about once

a season). Check preserver level visually. A DANGER: Cartridge fluid is HARMFUL OR FATAL IF SWALLOWED. Avoid contact

to eyes, skin, or clothing. Do not take

internally. Do not inhale fluid vapor. Keep

out of reach of children. If swallowed, call a physician immediately.

Engine

oil cap

Front

handle

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.

• I, 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.

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. Pur-

chase fuel in quantities that can be used

within 30 days to assure fuel freshness. A CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

CAUTION: Alcoholblendedfuels

(calledgasohol orusingethanolormetha- nol)can attractmoisturewhichleadsto separationandformationof acidsduring storage. Acidicgascan damagethe fuel systemof anenginewhilein storage. To avoidengineproblems,thefuel system shouldbe emptiedbeforestorageof 30 daysorlonger. Emptythe gastank,start

theengineandlet it rununtilthe fuellines

andcarburetorareempty. Usefreshfuel nextseason. SeeStorageInstructionsfor

additionalinformation. Neveruseengine orcarburetorcleanerproductsinthefuel

tankor permanentdamagemayoccur.

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 prod- uct and should be considered normal.

NOTE: Your engine is equipped with an automatic choke system. No priming or

choking is required before starting.

1. To start engine, hold operator presence control bar down to the handle and pull starter handle quickly. Do not allow starter rope to snap back.

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 clip- pings. It may also be necessary to re- duce ground speed and/or run the lawn

mower over the area a second time.

• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of cut by overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.

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

• Pores in cloth grass catchers can be- come filled with dirt and dust with use

and catchers will collect less grass. To prevent this, regularly hose catcher off with water and let dry before using.

Keep top of engine around starter clear

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

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-up

grass and trash. See "CLEANING" in the

Maintenance section of this manual.

• The special mulching blade will recut the grass clippings many times and

reduce them in size so that as they fall onto the lawn they will disperse into

the grass and not be noticed. Also, the

mulched grass will biodegrade quickly

to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always

mulch with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will provide the best recut-

ting action of the blades.

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

interferes with the mulching action. The best time to mow your lawn is the early

afternoon. At this time the grass has dried, yet the newly cut area will not be

exposed to direct sunlight.

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

grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown it will be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from

overloading the engine and leaving clumps

of mulched grass. For extremely heavy

grass, reduce your width of cut by overlap-

ping previously cut path and mow slowly.

MAXI_

• Certain types of grass and grass conditions may require that an area be mulched a sec- ond time to completely hide the clippings.

When doing a second 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 SCHEDULE

Check for Loose Fasteners

_ Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher *

Check Tires

_ Check Drive Wheels

Clean Lawn Mower ....

M Clean under Drive Cover ***

O Check Drive Belt / Putleys ***

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 E 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.

BEFORE AFTER EVERY EVERY EVERY BEFORE

EACH EACH 10 25HOURS 100

USE USE HOURS OR SEASON HOURS STORAGE

_,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 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

Engine oil

(_ Mulcher

(

(_) Handle bracket mounting pins

_ Spray lubricant

See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section.

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic

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

the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel they

must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered

graphite type lubricant sparingly.

door hinge pin

(_) Rear door

hinge

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when per- forming any maintenance.

TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect

control chemicals which can harm rubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp

objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage.

DRIVE WHEELS

Check rear drive wheels each time you

mow to be sure they move freely. The wheels not turning freely means trash,

grass cuttings, etc., may be inside the

drive wheel and dust cover area and must

be cleaned out to free drive wheels.

BLADE CARE

For best results, mower blade must be kept

sharp. Replace a bent or damaged blade.

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).

TO REPLACE BLADE

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

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

3. Install the blade bolt with the lock washer and hardened washer into

blade adapter and crankshaft.

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

blade bolt, turning clockwise.

• The recommended tightening torque is

35-40 ft. Ibs.

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

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

Trailing

Blade adapter,

Lock-

washer

HaVened Blade

Blade washer bolt

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening

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

is balanced. Care should be taken to keep

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

• The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt

to sharpen while on the mower.

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

the straight nail exposed. Place center

hole of blade over the head of the nail. If blade is balanced, it should remain in a horizontal position. If either end of the

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

GRASS CATCHER

• The grass catcher may be hosed with

water, but must be dry when used.

• Check your grass catcher often for dam- age or deterioration. Through normal use it will wear. If catcher needs replac- ing, replace only with approved replace- ment catcher shown in the Repair Parts

section of this manual. Give the lawn mower model number when ordering.

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

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 t

F -20 0 30 32 40 60 80 100

i i i i i

C -30 -20 -10 0 1'0 20 30 40

TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

NOTE: Multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30

etc.) improve starting in cold weather, and you should check your engine oil level fre-

quently to avoid possible engine damage

from running low on oil.

Change the oil after every 25 hours of opera-

tion or at least once a year if the lawn mower

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

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

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

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

fuel tank is empty.

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

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

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

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

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 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.

_kCAUTION: 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

making sure the tabs are aligned with

the slots in the back plate. Fasten

screw securely.

Back plate

Slots

4. Wipe off any spilled oil from lawn 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.

Cover

Cartridge Cover tabs

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

14 mower after each use.

_IbCAUTION:Disconnectsparkplugwire from sparkplugandplacewirewhere it

cannotcomeincontactwithplug.

• Cleantheundersideof yourlawnmower byscrapingto removebuild-upof grass

andtrash.

• Cleanengineoftento keeptrashfrom accumulating.A cloggedengineruns

hotterand shortensenginelife.

• Keepfinishedsurfacesandwheelsfree of allgasoline,oil,etc.

• Wedonotrecommendusingagardenhose to cleanlawnmowerunlesstheelectrical

system,muffler,airfilterandcarburetorare coveredtokeepwaterout.Waterinengine can resultinshortenedenginelife.

CLEAN UNDERDRIVECOVER Cleanunderdrivecoverat leasttwicea season.Scrapeundersideofcoverwith

puttyknifeorsimilartool to removeany build-upoftrash orgrassonundersideof

drivecover.

AWARNING: Toavoidseriousinjury,before

performinganyserviceandadjustments:

1. Releasecontrolbar andstopengine.

2. Makesure thebladeandall moving partshavecompletelystopped.

3. Disconnectspark plugwirefromspark plugandplacewirewhereitcannot comeincontactwithplug.

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 deflector

becomes damaged, it should be replaced.

TO REMOVE DRIVE BELT

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

2. Remove screws retaining drive cover and remove drive cover from lawn

mower housing (See Figure A).

3. Remove drive cable from anchor, then detach it and return spring from idler

arm assembly (See Fig. B).

Return spring Drive cable anchor

/ Drive belt

Housing

hole

pulley Idler arm

Belt keeper PIVOT \ assembly

Figure B

4. Pivot idler arm assembly to slacken drive belt, then remove drive belt from

drive pulley, belt keepers and idler arm.

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

6. Remove screw securing debris shield.

Note that the debris shield has a tab

which fits into a gap in the housing

(See Figure C).

Drive

cove r

Figure A

Lawn

mower

housing

Crankshaft Tab Blade

Housing adapter hole X (pulley

Hardened

shield bolt

Screw

Trailing edge

Figure C

Lock-washer

end)

washer

Blade

+ 33 hidden pages

Craftsman 917377090 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual