Craftsman 917377132 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

ICRAFTSMAH°I

6.0 HORSEPOWER 22" REAR DISCHARGE

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.

917.377132

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Espa_ol

• Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equipment

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

Visitour Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman

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

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

Assembly .............................................. 5

Operation .......................................... 6-9

Maintenance Schedule ...................... 10

Maintenance ................................. 10-13

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER

For two years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained, lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or workman-

ship.

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

crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained in the owner's manual.

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

Sears Service Center/Department in the United States. This warranty applies only

while this product is in use in the United States. This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which

vary from state to state.

Product Specifications ........................ 11

Service and Adjustments .............. 14-15

Storage ......................................... 15-16

Troubleshooting ........................... 16-17

Repair Parts .................................. 34-43

Parts Ordering ..................... Back Cover

SEARS, ROEBUCKAND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179

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

throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in

serious injury or death.

I.GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the

manual(s) before starting. Be thor- oughly 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

discharge opening at all times.

• Only allow responsible individuals, who are familiar with the instructions, to

operate the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such as

rocks, toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc.,

which could be picked up and thrown

by the 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 barefoot 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. 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

approved 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 and walk;

never run.

• Disengage the self-propelled mecha-

nism or drive clutch on mowers so equipped before starting the engine

(motor).

• If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine (motor)

and check immediately for the cause. Vibration is generally a warning of

trouble.

• Always wear safety goggles or safety

glasses with side shields when operating mower.

I1. SLOPE OPERATION Slopes are a major factor related to slip

and fall accidents which can result in severe injury. 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 footing 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 oft if children

enter the area.

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

children.

• Never allow children to operate the

machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind

corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

IV. SERVICE

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

-Use only an approved container.

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

engine to cool before refueling. Do not smoke.

-Never refuel the machine indoors.

- Never store the machine or fuel container inside where there is an

open flame, such as a water heater.

• Never run a machine inside a closed

area.

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

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep

equipment 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 (motor) is

running.

• Grass catcher components are subject

to wear, damage, and deterioration, which could expose mqving 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 setting or overspeed the engine.

_,Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means

CAUTION!H BECOMEALERT!H YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

_,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.

A CAUTION: Always disconnect spark

Wash hands after handling.

plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug in order to prevent accidental starting when setting up,

transporting, adjusting or making repairs.

_,WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle compo-

nents contain or emit chemicals known to

the State of California to cause cancer

and birth defects or other reproductive

harm.

•_ 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.

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

shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears retailoutlets and service

centers. Most Sears stores can also order repair parts for you, when you provide the model

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

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CLIPPING DEFLECTOR

FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

BELTS BLADES

MULCHER KITS

FOR

SIDE DISCHARGE

GRASS CATCHERS

LAWN MOWERS

AIR FILTERS

BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS

STABILIZER

GAS CANS

SPARK PLUGS

ENGINE OIL

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

assemble or operate your new lawn mower.

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OiL OR GASOLINE in

the engine. Your new lawn mower has been as-

sembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. All parts such as nuts,

washers, bolts, etc., necessary to com- plete the assembly have been placed in the parts bag. 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.

TO REMOVE LAWN 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 thorougly for additional

loose parts.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so

as not to pinch or damage control cables.

1. Raise handles until lower handle section locks into place in mowing

position.

2. Remove protective padding, raise upper 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

Adjustments section of this manual.

Operator r

control bar

Upper

LIFT uf

Mowing

position

Lower handle

TO INSTALL AI-FACHMENTS Your lawn mower was shipped ready to

be used as a mulcher, To convert to

bagging or discharging, see "TO CON-

VERT MOWER" in the Operation section of this manual).

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER. Compare the illustrationswith your lawn mower to familiarize yourself

with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future

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

product, Learn and understand their meaning.

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

OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY

Throttle control

Grass catcher

Gasoline filler cap

Mulcher plug

Operator presence control bar

Drive control lever

Engine zone control cable

Handle knob

Engine oil cap with dipstick

Primer

Muffler

Drive cover

Air filter

Housing

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped

WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine

,.Wheel adjuster

(on each wheel)

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 Commis- sion. 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. Primer - pumps additional fuel from the

carburetor to the cylinder for use when starting a cold engine. Drive control lever - used to engage power-propelled forward motion of lawn

mower.

Mulcher plug - Located at the rear

discharge opening. Must be removed to convert to bagging or discharging

operation.

Starter handle- used for starting the

engine.

Throttle control - Used for startingthe

engine and allows you to select either

FAST or SLOW engine speed.

The operation of any lawn

mower can result in foreign

objects thrown into the

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 recommend a wide vision safety

mask over spectacles or standard safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED

The engine speed is controlled by a

throttle located on the side of the upper handle. FAST position is for starting,

normal cutting, trimming and better grass bagging. SLOW position is for light cutting, trimming and fuel economy.

_, SLOW

FAST "'"';-

, ÷

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

_I=CAUTION: Federal regulations require

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

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

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

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

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

and operate the lawn mower.

DRIVE CONTROL

• Self-propelling is controlled by holding the operator presence control bar down to the handle and pushing the drive

control lever forward until it clicks; then

releasing the lever.

• Forward motion will stop when the

operator presence control bar is released. To stop forward motion

without stopping engine, release the

operator presence control bar slightly until the drive control disengages. Hold operator presence control bar down

against handle to continue mowing without self-propelling.

• To keep drive control engaged when

turning corners, push down on handle

and lift front wheels off ground while tuming lawn mower.

\ Operator pr ence control bar Drive

\ \ control

AGE _\ CONTROL

_'_ DISEN-

OL &_ GAGED

TO ADJUST cu'n'ING 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

adjuster lever toward wheel. Move wheel up or down to suit your require-

ments. Be sure all wheels are in the

same setting. 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.

LOWER WHEELS Plate tab FOR HIGH CUT

RAISE WHEELS FOR LOW CUT Lever

TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER

1. Lift the rear door of the lawn mower and place the grass catcher frame

side hooks onto the door pivot pins.

2. The grass catcher is secured to the lawn mower housing when the rear

door is lowered onto the grass catcher

frame.

_I_CAUTION" Do not run your lawn

mower without mulcher plate or plug, clipping deflector or approved grass

catcher in place. Never attempt to operate the lawn mower with the rear door

removed or propped open.

Pivot Rear

Grass

catcher

handle

7 Catcher frame hook

TOEMPTYGRASSCATCHER

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 using both frame handle and bag handle.

NOTE: Do not drag the bag when

emptying; it will cause unnecessary wear.

Grass

frame

handle

Bag handle

TO CONVERT MOWER

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

bagging:

• Open rear door and remove mulcher

plug. Store mulcher plug in a safe place.

• You can now install grass catcher.

• To convert to mulching operation,

install mulcher plug into rear discharge opening of mower.

• I,CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower without rear mulcher plug or approved grass catcher in place. Never attempt to operate the lawn mower with

the rear door removed or propped open.

1. Be sure lawnmower is level and area around oil fill is clean.

2. Remove engine oil cap and fill to the full line on the dipstick. Pour oil slowly.

Do not over fill.

NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into engine

for accurate dipstick reading. To read

proper level, tighten engine oil cap, then remove it to read the dipstick.

3. Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.

• 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.

ADD GASOLINE

NOTE: Before filling fuel tank, remove

and discard the debris plug that is inside the tank.

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of

87 octane. Do not mix oil with gaso- line. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure

fuel freshness.

_I,WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or

using ethanol or methanol) 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. Drain 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.

A CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any

spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

Mulcher plug

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

ADD OIL Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in

the engine. Engine holds 20 oz. of oil.

For type and grade of oil to use, see

"ENGINE" in the Maintenance section of this manual.

Gasoline

filler cap Engine (Discard oil cap debris

plug

Primer

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. Move throttle control lever to FAST position.

3. Hold operator presence control bar

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

rope to snap back.

TO STOP ENGINE

• To stop engine, release operator presence control bar.

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

• 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 cutting conditions, the engine speed

should be set in the fast position.

• When using a rear discharge lawn mower in moist, heavy grass, clumps of cut grass may not enter the grass catcher. Reduce ground speed

(pushing speed) and/or run the lawn mower over the area a second time.

• If a trail of clippings is left on the right

side of a rear discharge mower, mow in

a clockwise direction with a small

overlap to collect the clippings on the next pass.

• Pores in cloth grass catchers can become 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 recutting 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 and the newly

cut area will not be exposed to the direct

sun.

• 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 mulching, reduce your width of cut

by overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.

MAX 1/3

• Certain types of grass and grass condi- tions may require that an area be mulched

a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a second cut, mow across or 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.

,,,A,NTENANCESO.EOU'E

F,.L..OATES

Check for Loose Fasteners i,/ i,/ Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher

(if Equipped) if _ $ Clean Lawn MowerClean Under Drive Cover

(Power-Propelled Mowers) !,/

_E Check belt/pulleys

a Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade Q/s

E Check Fn_]ine Oil Level If

? Clean Air Filter t_.#2 N Clean or Replace Spark Plug

1 - Change more oflen when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures.

2 - Service more oflen when operating in dirty or dusty conditions. 3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.

4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season.

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 mower as

instructed in this manual. Some adjustments will need to be made

periodically to properly maintain your unit.

All adjustments in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manual

should be checked at least once each season.

• 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

1. Check engine oil level.

2. Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRI-

CATION CHART").

drive

(Power-Propelled Mowers) if

Lubrication Chart if ik/

Clean Battery/Recharge (Electric Start Mowers! if tf4

Change Engine Oil _1,2

Inspect Muffler

Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge V'2

LUBRICATION CHART

(_) 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-lubricat-

ing bearings. If you feel they must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered

graphite type lubricant sparingly.

(!) Handle bracket mounting pins

Wheel

adjuster (on

each wheel)

gine oil

Rear door

hinge

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

SERIAL NUMBER:

DATE OF PURCHASE: GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.6 QUARTS (UNLEADED REGULAR)

OILTYPE (API-SF-SJ): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F) OIL CAPACITY: 20 OUNCES

SPARK PLUG (GAP: .030") CHAMPION RESISTOR TYPE RJ19LM or J19LM BLADE BOLT TORQU E: 35-40 FT. LBS.

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

LAWN MOWER Always observe safety rules when :)erform-

ing 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.

BLADE CARE

For best results, mower blade must be kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged

blades.

TO REMOVE BLADE

1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark

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

2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make

sure air filter and carburetor are up.

3. Use a wood block between blade and

mower housing to prevent blade from

turning when removing blade bolt.

NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.

4. Remove blade bolt by turning counter-

clockwise.

5. Remove blade and attaching hard-

ware (bolt, lock washer and hardened washer).

NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and check the key inside hub of blade adapter. The key must be in good condi- tion to work properly. Replace adapter if

damaged.

TO REPLACE BLADE

1. Position the blade adapter on the

engine 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

(opposite sharp edge) is up toward the engine.

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

blade adapter and crankshaft.

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

blade bolt, turning clockwise.

• The recommended tightening torque is 35-40 ft. Ibs.

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat

treated. TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen- ing blade - but if you do, be sure the

blade is balanced. Care should be taken to keep the blade

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

or engine.

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

to sharpen while on the mower.

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

inch of the straight nail exposed. Place

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

remain in a horizontal position. If either end of the blade moves downward,

sharpen the heavy end until the blade

is balanced.

Blade adaptel Crankshaft

Ke / keyway

Blade

Blade ,,

bolt Hat, _<_J/ shaft

washer Trailing edge Blade adapter

GRASSCATCHER

• The grass catcher may be hosed with water, but must be dry when used.

• Check your grass catcher often for damage or deterioration. Through

normal use it will wear. If catcher needs replacing, replace only with a

manufacturer approved replacement

catcher. Give the lawn mower model

number when ordering.

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,

check both front wheels.

1. Remove hubcaps, hairpin cotters and 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 your nearest Sears or other qualified service center.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated

with API service classification SF-SJ.

Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your expected operating

temperature.

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity 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

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.

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.

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain oil, drain 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 spark 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

remove any oil trapped inside of engine.

4. Wipe off any spilled oil from lawn

mower or side of engine.

5. Fill engine with oil. (See "ADD OIL" in

the Operation section of this manual.)

6. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.

Container _ _

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properly and may be damaged by using a dirty air filter.

Replace the air filter every 100 hours of operation or every season, whichever

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 surface. If very dirty, replace cartridge.

ACAUTION: 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 plate. Fasten screw securely.

Back

Slots

Lip _-_

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it

could create a fire hazard and/or dam- age.

SPARK PLUG

Replace spark plugs 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 "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" in Maintenance section of this manual.

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance,

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

your mower after each use. _I,CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire

from spark plug and place wire where it

cannot come in contact with the spark plug.

• Clean the underside of your lawn mower by scraping to remove build-up

of grass and trash.

• Clean engine often to keep trash from accumulating. A clogged engine runs

hotter and shortens engine life.

• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of 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 shortened 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.

Cover

\Cartridge Cover tabs

_I_CAUTION: 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 where it cannot come

in contact with plug.

LAWN MOWER

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

See 'qO 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/REPLACE DRIVE BELT

1. 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 debds shield.

5. Remove belt from engine pulley on

crankshaft.

6. Install new belt by reversing above steps.

7. Always use factory approved belt to

assure fit and long life.

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

3. Squeeze lower handle in to remove it

from mounting pins.

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

5. Squeeze lower handle in and position

holes onto mounting pins on handle bracket.

6. Reassemble upper handle and all

parts removed from lower handle.

\...

Lower

ROTATE

Mowing position

r'_ Mowing Fo

I I I I I i

position /

J t

a _

Hairpin

Drive

cover Belt

Push

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 parts attached to lower handle.

Mounting- pin

LOW POSITION

HIGH POSITION

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.

_,CAUTION: Do not run your lawn

mower without clipping deflector or

approved grass catcher in place. Never attempt to operate the lawn mower with

the rear door removed or propped open.

+ 30 hidden pages

Craftsman 917377132 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual