Craftsman 917.377422 User Manual

Owner's Manual

CRAFTSMAN

6.5 HORSEPOWER
22" EZ MULCH

POWER PROPELLED
ROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.

917.377422

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Espa_ol

• Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equipment

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

Warranty 2 Product Specifications 10
Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 13

Assembly 4 Storage 14

Operation 5 Troubleshooting 15
Maintenance Schedule 9 Repair Parts 33
Maintenance 9 Parts Ordering Back Cover

LIMITED TWO YEAF_ 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.

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

Sears Service CentedDepartment 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.

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

Safety standards require operator pres-

ence controls to minimize the risk of injury.
Your unit is equipped with such controls.

Do not attempt to defeat the function of the

operator presence controls under any

circumstances.

TRAINING:

• Read this operator's manual carefully.
Become familiar with the controls and

know how to operate your mower
properly. Learn how to quickly stop

mower.

• Do not allow children to use your mower.

Never allow adults to use mower without
proper instructions.

• Keep the area of operation clear of all

persons, especially small children and
pets.

• Use mower only as the manufacturer
intended and as described in this manual.

• Do not operate mower if it has been
dropped or damaged in any manner.

Always have damage repaired before
using your mower.

• Do not use accessory attachments that
are not recommended by the manufac-

turer. Use of such attachments may be

hazardous.

• The blade turns when the engine is
running.

PREPARATION:

• Always thoroughly check the area to be
mowed and clear it of all stones, sticks,

wires, bones, and other foreign objects.

These objects will be thrown by the blade
and can cause severe injury.

• Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields when starting and while using

your mower.

2

• Dross properly. Do not operate mower

when barefoot or wearing open sandals.
Wear only solid shoes with good traction

when mowing.

• Check fuel tank before starting engine.
Do not fill gas tank indoors, when the
engine is running or when the engine is

hot. Allow the engine to cool for several
minutes before filling the gas tank. Clean
off any spilled gasoline before starting the

engine.

• Always make wheel height adjustments

before starting your mower. Never
attempt to do this while the engine is

running.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificial

light.

OPERATION:

• Keep your eyes and mind on your mower

and the area being cut. Do not let other
interests distract you.

• Do not mow wet or slippery grass. Never
run while operating your mower. Always

be sure of your footing -- keep a firm
hold on the handles and walk.

• Do not put hands or feet near or under

rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge

opening at all times.

• Always stop the engine whenever you

leave or are not using your mower, or
before crossing driveways, walks, roads,

and any gravel--coverod areas.

• Never direct discharge of matedal toward

bystanders nor allow anyone near the
mower while you are operating it.

• Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing

your mower, stop the engine and make
absolutely sure the blade and all moving
parts have stopped. Then disconnect the

spark plug wire and keep it away from the
spark plug to prevent accidental starting.

• Do not continue to run your mower if you

hit a foreign object. Follow the procedure
outlined above, then repair any damage

before restarting and operating you
mower,

• Do not change the governor settings or

overspeed the engine. Engine damage or
personal injury may result.

• Do not operate your mower if it vibrates

abnormally. Excessive vibration is an
indication of damage; stop the engine,
safely check for the cause of vibration

and repair as required.

• Do not run the engine indoors. Exhaust

fumes are dangerous.

• Never cut grass by pulling the mower
towards you. Mow across the face of
slopes, never up and down or you might
lose your tooting. Do not mow exces-

sively steep slopes. Use caution when
operating the mower on uneven terrain
or when changing directions -- maintain
good footing.

• Never operate your mower without

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

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:

• Check the blade and the engine mount-
ing bolts often to be sure they are
tightened properly.

• Check all bolts, nuts and screws at
frequent intervals for proper tightness to

be sure mower is in sate working

condition.

• Keep all safety devices in place and
working.

• To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine

free of grass, leaves or excessive grease

and oil.

• Check grass catcher often for deteriora-

tion and wear and replace worn bags.

Use only replacement bags that are
recommended by and comply with
specifications of the manufacturer of your

mower.

• Always keep a sharp blade on your

mower,

• Allow engine to cool before stodng in any

enclosure.

• Never store mower with fuel in the tank
inside a building where fumes may roach

an open flame or an ignition source such
as a hot water heater, space heater,
clothes dryer, etc.

ACAUTION: Always disconnect spark
plug wire and place wire where it cannot

contact spark plug in order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,

transportir_g, adjusting or making repairs.

WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product

contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer, birth defects,

or other reproductive harm.

3

Theseaccessorieswereavailablewhenthis lawn mower was produced. They are also

available at most Sears retail outlets 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

' '

FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

CUPPING DEFLECTOR

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

I SIDEDISCHARGE

MULCHERKITS

GRASSGATCHERS

LAWN MOWERS

STABlUZER

FOR

GAS CANS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

BELTS BLADES

BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS

AIR RLTERS

SPARK PLUGS

i

ENGINE OIL

Read these instructions and this manual in • Remove all packing matedals except
its entirety before you attempt to assemble

or operate your new lawn mower. Your
new lawn mower has been assembled at

the factory with the exception of those

parts left unassembled for shipping
purposes. All parts such as nuts, washers,

bolts, etc., necessary to complete the

padding between upper and lower
handle and padding holding operator

presence control bar to upper handle.

• Roll lawn mower out of carton and check
carton thoroughly for additional loose

parts.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN

assembly have been placed in the parts
bag. To ensure safe and proper operation MOWER

of your lawn mower, all parts and hardware TO UNFOLD HANDLE
you assemble must be tightened securely. IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so

Use the correct tools as necessary to

ensure proper tightness.

TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON

• Remove loose parts included with
mower.

• Cut down two end corners of carton and
lay end panel down flat.

as not to pinch or damage control cables.

• Raise handles until lower handle section

locks into place in mowing position.

• Remove protective padding, raise upper
handle section into place on lower

handle and tighten both handle knobs.

• Remove handle padding holding
operator presence control bar to upper

handle.

4

• Yourlawnmowerhandlecan be

adjusted for your mowing comfort.

Refer to "Adjust Handle" in the Service
and Adjustment section of this manual.

Operatorpresence controlbar

Upper handle __Liftu_;

u.up n'n

°,nW;ir

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN
MOWER. Compare the illustrationswithyour lawn mower to familiarizeyourself with the

locationof various controlsand 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 Ct'K_KE FUEL C_L DANGER, KEEP HANDS

OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY

Operator presencecontrol
Enginezone control cable

Starter handle econtrol

Handle knob

Engineoilcap withdipstick

Mulcherdoor

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 tums when the engine is running.

Operator presence control bar- must be

helddown to the handle to start the engine.
Release to stop the engine.

Primer- pumps additional fuel from the
carburetor tothe cylinder for use when sta_r_g
a coldengine.

Starter handle - used for startingthe engine.
Drive control lever - used to engage power-

propelledforward motionof lawn mower.

Mulcher - allows conversion to discharge or
bagging operation.

,controllever

Gasoline fillercap

Primer

Drive cover

Wheel adjuster
(on eachwheel)

5

Theoperationofanylawnmowercanresultin

foreign objects thrown intothe eyes, which can

resultin severe eye damage. Always wear
safety glasses or eye shields while operating

your lawn mower or performing any adjust-
ments or repairs. We recommend a wide
visionsafety mask over spectacles orstandard
safety glasses.

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED CONTROL

The engine speed was set at the factory
for optimum performance. Speed is not

adjustable.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
ACALmON: Federal regulationsrequire an
engine controlto be installed on this lawn

mower in order to minimize the riskof blade

contact injury.Do notunder any circumstances
attempt to defeat the function ofthe operator

control. The blade turnswhen the engine is

running.

• Your lawn mower is equipped withan
operator presence controlbar which

requiresthe operator tobe pos'fdoned
behind the lawn mower handle to start and

operate the lawn mower.

DRIVE CONTROL

• Serf-propellingiscontrolledby holdingthe

operator presence control bar down to the
handle and pushing the drive control lever

forward untilitdicks; then release the lever.

• Forward motion willstop when the operator
presence control bar is released. To stop
forward motionwithout stoppingengine,

release the operator presence controlbar
slightlyuntilthe drive controldisengages.
Hold operator presence controlbardown to

handle to continue mowing withoutself-
propelling.

• To keep drive controlengaged when fuming

comers, push down on handle and liftfront
wheals offgroundwhile turning lawn

mower.

Operator presence control Drive
bar -,. _ \ . _ control

TO ADJUST cuTriNG HEIGHT

• Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels

for highcut,

• Adjustcuttingheight to suityour require-

ments. Medium positionis best for most

lawns.

• To change cuttingheight, squeeze adjuster
lever toward wheel. Move wheel up or

downto suityour requirements. Be sure all

wheels am in the same setting.

NOTE: Adjusteris properly positionedwhen
platetab insertsintohole in lever. Also, 9-
positionadjusters (ifso equipped) allow lever

to be positioned between the plate tabs.

Lowerwheels for
highcut

Raise wheelsfor low

NOTE: Your lawn mower has been
shipped ready for mulching operation. To

convert to discharging operation, you must
install the discharge deflector attachment
included with your mower.

TO INSTALL DISCHARGING
DEFLECTOR

• Lift door upward on it's hinge until the
deflector frame can be hooked over the

door mounting bracket as shown.

• Release the door to rest against

deflector frame.

• To retum to mulching operation, reverse

the above steps and be sure door is in
closed position.

Deflector _.__,_'-" MulcherDoor

ACAUTION: Do not operate your lawn

mower without mulcher door in closed

position, discharge deflector in place, or

approved grass catcher in place.

Platetab

Mounting
Bracket

To engage ddve control disengaged

6

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE OIL
Yourlawn mower isshipped wi_out oilin the

engine.

• Be sure mower is level and area around oil

fill is dean.

• Remove engine cq]cap and fill to the fullline

on the dipstick.

• Use 20 ozs. of oil. For type and grade of oil

to use, see _NGINE" in Maintenance

sectionof this manual.

• Pour o,1slowly. Do notover fill.

• Check oillevel before each use. Add oil if
needed. Fillto full line on d_

• To read properlevel, lighten engine oilcap

each time.

• Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.

• Change the oilafter every 25 hours of

operation or each season. You may need

to change the oil more often under dusty,

dirtyconditions.

GAS

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular

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

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

freshness.

WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol
blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol
or methanol) can attract moisturewhich loads

to separation and formation of acids during

storage. Acicr_cgas can damage the fue!
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 fuel tank, start the engine and let it

run untilfuel lines and carburetor are empty.
Use flesh fuel next season. See Storage

Instructionsfor additional information. Never
use engine or carburetor cleaner productsin

fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

TO START ENGINE

• To start a cold engine, push primer five

(5) 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.

• 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, release operator

presence control bar.

NOTE: In cooler weather it may be

necessary to repeat pdming steps. In

warmer weather over priming may cause

flooding and engine will not start. I! you do
flood engine, wait a few minutes before

attempting to start and do not repeat
priming steps.

Engine oilcap -------- Gasoline filler

cap

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.

• For side discharge lawn mowers, cutting

in a counter-clockwise direction, starting

at the outside of the area to be cut,

spreads grass clippings more evenly
and puts less load on the engine. To

keep clippings off of walkways, flower
beds, etc., make the first cuts in a

clockwise direction.

• 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.

7

MULCHINGMOWINGTIPS

IMPORTANT:Forbestperformance,keep
mowerhousingfreeofbuilt-upgrassand

trash.See "Cleaning" in MAINTENANCE

section of this manual

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

them in size so that as they fallontothe

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 recuttingaction ofthe blades.

• Avoid cuttingyour lawn when itiswet. Wet
grass tends to form clumps and interferes

with the mulching action. The best time to

mow your lawn is the early aftemoon. At
this time the grass has dried and the newly
cut area will not be exposed to the direct

sun.

• For best results,adjustthe lawn mower
cuffingheight so that the lawn mower cuts

offonly the top one-third of the grass blades.
Ifthe lawn isovergrown it willbe necessary

to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing

effortand to keep from overloading the
engine and leaving clumps ofmulched

grass. For extremely heaW mulching,
reduce your width of cut byoverlapping

previously cut path and mow slowly.

• Certain types of grass and grass conditions
may require that an area be mulched a

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

across or perpendicular to the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from weekto

week. Mow north to south one weak then
change to east to west the nextweek. This

will help prevent matting and graining ofthe
lawn.

8

Check for Loose Fasteners _ I I/
Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher

M Clean Lawn Mower

_V Clean Under Drive CoverIPower-Propened Mowers) _/

(Power-Propellad Mowers) b/

RE Check drive belt/pulleys

Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade it/3

LubricationChart _ f_

. Clean Battery/RecharQe

IElectdc Start MowersI I_ I//4

E Check Engine OilLevel q/_
N Change Engine Oil Iv/t.2

G Clean Air Filter I/=

I InspectMuffler

v'

N Clean or Replace Spark Plug i)/

E Replace Air FilterPaper Cartridge id/s

I - Changomornoee_wheno1_ undera h4mw I_KI or inhi_ Imblerd temperatm_,

2 - Sen4cemonl onen_.zenoperatingIndbtyorduslycondit_ns.
3 - Replace bladesrno_ onenwh_mmowing Inr,andysol,
4 - Charge48 holm It end of uason.

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 instructedin thismanual.

Some adjustmentswiUneed tobe mede

periodicallyto properly maintain your unit.
Alladjustments in the Service and Adjust-

merits sectionof this manual should be
checked at least once each season.

• Once a year, replace the spark plug, dean
or replace air filterelement and check blade

for wear. A new spark plug and dearVnew

airfilterelement assures proper air-fuel
mixtureend helps your engine run better

and last longer.

• Follow the maintenance .schedulein this

manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oillevel.

• Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION
Keep unitwell lubricated(See "LUBRICATION

CHART").

LUBRICATION CHART

(_) Wheel (_ Mulcher door

adjuster

oil

(_) Brake spring

(_) bracket

Handle bracket
mountingpin

(_) Spray lubricante
(_) Referto MAINTINANCE "ENGINE"

SECTION.

IMPORTANT: Do notoilor grease plastic
wheel bearings.Viscous lubricantswill attract

dust and dirtthat willshortenthe life of the serf

lubricating bearings. If you feel they must be

lubricated, use only a dn/, powdered graphite

typelubrk ntspar g .

9

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL NUMBER 917.377422
SERIAL NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE

HORSEPOWER: 6.5
DISPLACEMENT:

GASOLINE CAPACITY/"I'YPE:

OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°1=)

OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS.

;PARK PLUG(GAP: .030") CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM

VALVECLEARANCE: INTAKE: .004 - .008

SOLID STATE IGNITION

AIR GAP: .0125 IN.

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS.

• The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal attached to the rear of the

lawn mower housing.Record both serial number and date of purchase in space
provided above.

LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when performing

any maintenance.
TIRES

• Keep tires free ofgasoiine, oil,or insect
controlchemicals which can harm rubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep nJtS,sharp

objectsand other hazards that may cause

tire damage.

• Remove blade and attaching hardware

NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and
check the key inside hub of blade adapter.

The key must be in good condition to work
properly. Replace adapter if damaged.

TO REPLACE BLADE

• Position the blade adapter on the engine

BLADE CARE

For best results, mower blade must be

kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged

blades.
TO REMOVE BLADE

• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark

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

• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure

air filter and carburetor are up.

• Use a wood block between blade and

mower housing to prevent blade from
turning when removing blade bolt.

• Protect your hands with gloves and/or

wrap blade with heavy cloth.

• Remove blade bolt by turning counter-
clockwise.

• Position blade on the blade adapter

• Be sure the trailing edge of blade

• Install the blade bolt with the lock

• Use block of wood between blade and

• The recommended tightening torque is

10

11.5 CU. IN,

1.25 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR

SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32"F)

EXHAUST: .004 - .008

(bolt, lock washer and hardened
washer).

crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter and

crankshaft keyway are aligned.

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

(opposite sharp edge) is up toward the
engine.

washer and hardened washer into blade
adapter and crankshaft.

lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, turning clockwise.

35-40 ft. Ibs.

IMPORTANT:Bladeboltisgrade8heat

treated.

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening
blade - but if you do, be sure the blade is

balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade

balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause
eventual damage to 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, tf either end of the
blade moves downward, sharpen the

heavy end until the blade is balanced.

Blade

Key adapter Crankshaft

Blade

Lockwasher

\

Blade shaft
bolt

GEAR CASE

• To keep your drive system working

• The gear case is filled with lubricant to

Hardened Trailing
washer edge Bladeadapter

GRASS CATCHER
(If purchased as an accessory)

• The grass catcher may be hosed with

water, but must be dry when used.

• Check your grass catcher often for

damage or deterioration. Through
normal use it will wear. If catcher needs

replacing, replace only with a manufac-
turer approved replacement catcher.

Give the lawn mower model number
when ordering.

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 proper level at the factory. The only

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

case.

keyway

• If lubricant is required, use only Texaco
Starplex Premium Grease, part no.

750369. Do not substitute.

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 ddve
wheels.

If necessary to clean the drive wheels,

check both front wheels.

• Remove hubcaps, hairpin cotters and

washers.

• Remove wheels from wheel adjuster_.

• Remove any trash or grass cuttings from

inside the dust cover, pinion and/or ddve

wheel gear teeth.

• Put wheels back in place.

• If after cleaning, the drive wheels do not

turn freely, contact your nearest
authorized service center.

ENGINE
LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oilrated with
API service classificationSF, SG or SH.

Select the oil'sSAE viscositygrade according
to your expected operating temperature.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30,

10W30 etc.) improve startingin cold weather,

these multi-viscosityoils willresultin increased
oilconsumption when used above 32°F.

Check your engine oillevel more frequently to

avoidpossible engine damage from running

low on oil.
Change the oil afterevery 25 hours of

operation orat least once a year ifthe lawn
mower is not used for 25 hours in one year.

Check the crankcase oillevel before starting

the engine and after each five (5) hoursof
continuous use. "lightenoilplugsecurely each

time you check the oil level.

11

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

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

fuel tank is empty.

• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark

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

• Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a

clean surface.

• 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.

• Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower
and on side of engine.

• Fill engine with oil. Fill only to the
"FULL" line on the dipstick. DO NOT

OVER FILL.

• Replace engine oil cap.

• 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 year, more
often ifyou mow in very dusty, dirty
conditions. Do not wash air filter.

TO CHANGE AIR FILTER

• Remove the air filter by tuming clock-

wise to the stop and pull away from
collar.

• Remove filter from inside of cover.

• Clean the inside of the cover and the

collar to remove any dirt accumulation.

• Insert new filter into cover.

• Put air filter cover and filter into collar

aligning the tab with the slot.

• Push in on cover and turn counterclock-

wise to tighten.

Tum
clockwise

Clip to remove

MUFFLER
Inspectand replace corroded muffler as it

could create a fire hazard and/or damage.
SPARK PLUG

Change your spark plug each year to make
your engine starteasier and run better Set
spark plug gap at .030 inch

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance, kiip

mower housingfree of built-grassand trash.

Clean the undersideof yourmower after each

USe.

,&CAUTION: Disconnectspark plug wire

from spark plug and place wire where it cannot

: come in contact withthe sparkplug.

• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure air
filter and carburetorare up. 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 dogged engine runshotter
and shortensengine life.

• Keep finishedsurfaces 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 end

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 withputty
I_ife or similartool to remove any build-upof

trash or grasson underside of drivecover.

Slot

Air filter

Tum

Tab clockwise

Airfilter cover to tighten

12

ACAUTION: Before performing any
service and adjustments:

• Release control bar and stop engine.

• Make sure the blade and all moving

parts have completely stopped.

• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark

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

LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST Cut-rING HEIGHT

See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in
the Operation section of this manual.

DISCHARGE GUARD

The discharge guard, attached to the

discharge opening of your lawn mower, is
provided to prevent the possibility of injury

resulting from objects being thrown out of
the discharge opening into the operator
mowing position. If the discharge guard

becomes damaged, it should be replaced.

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

• Remove drive cover. Remove belt by
pushing down on gear case pulley and

rolling belt off it.

• Turn lawn mower on its side with
carburetor and fuel cap up.

• Remove blade.

• Remove debris shield.

• Remove belt from engine pulley on

crankshaft.

• Install new belt by reversing above
steps.

• Always use factory approved belt to

assure fit and long life.

• To change from medium low to medium

high position, the upper and lower
handle sections will have to be turned

over.

• Remove the cable clips.

• Remove the controls and operator

presence control bar from the upper

handle.

• Remove the starter rope guide from the

upper handle.

• Remove hairpin cotters.

• Disconnect the lower handle from the

handle brackets.

• Turn the handle over and reassemble

the hairpin cotters that have been

removed.

• Reassemble the starter rope guide.

• Reassemble the controls and the

operator presence control bar to the
upper handle.

_,CAUTION: The operator presence

control bar must pivot freely to permit
blade/brake engagement when control bar

is released. Do not overtighten the

fasteners holding the controls to the upper

handle.

ShippingPosition

Medium low Medium high

Drive
cover

Push

down

TO ADJUST HANDLE
Your lawn mower handle can be raised or

lowered for your mowing comfort. Four
(4) positions are available: high, medium

high, medium low and low. Handles are
shipped mounted in the medium low
position.

13

• To change from medium low to high

position only the upper handle section
will have to be tumed over.

• To change from medium low to low
position, only the lower handle section

will have to be turned over.

\ Lowerhandle

Squeeze to Handle bracket

remove

Hairpincotter

ENGINE
ENGINE SPEED

Your engine speed has been factory set.
Do not attempt to increase engine speed
or it may result in personal injury. If you

believe that engine is running too fast or
too slow, take your mower to an authorized
service center for repair and adjustment.

IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the

engine governor, which is factory set for
the proper engine speed. Overspeeding

the engine above the factory high speed

scan be dangerous. If you think the
engine-governed high speed needs

adjusting, contact your nearest authorized
service center, which has proper equip-
ment and experience to make any

necessary adjustments.
CARBURETOR

Your carburetor has a non-adjustable fixed
main jet for mixture control. If your engine

does not operate properly due to sus-
pected carburetor problems, take your

lawn mower to an authorized service
center for repair and/or adjustment.

Immediately prepare your lawn mower for
storage at the end ofthe season or ifthe unit
willnot be used for 30 days or more.

LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower is tobe stored for a period

of time, clean itthoroughly,remove all dirt,
grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean, dry area.

• Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEANING"

inthe Maintenance section ofthis manual).

• Lubricateas shown inthe Maintenance

sectionof this manual.

• Be sure that all nuts,bolts, screws, and pins

are securely fastened. Inspect moving
partsfor damage, breakage and wear.

Replace if necessary.

• Touch up all rustedorchipped paint

surfaces; sand lightlybefore painting.

HANDLE

You can fold your lawn mower handle for

storage.

• Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower
handle toward each other untilthe lower

handle clears the handle bracket, then
move handle forward.

• Loosen upper handle mounting bolts
enough to allow upper handle to be folded

back.

IMPORTANT: When folding the handle for

storageortransportation, be sure to fold the
handle as shown oryou may damage the

controlcables.

• When sctting up your handle from the
storage position,the lower handle will

automatically lockinto the mowing position.

Lowerhandle

Squeeze to
remove

7"

Hairpin

cotter

Operatorpresence control
bar

Upper handle

Fold toP,Nardfor
storage

Lowerhandle

14

pin

Fold
backward

Mowing
position

ENGINE

FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: Itis important to prevent gum
depositsfrom forming in essential fuel system
parts such ascarburetor,fuel filter, fuel hose,

or tank duringstorage. Also, experience
indicates that alcohol blended fuels (called

gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can

attract moisturewhich leads to separation and
formation of acids duringstorage. Acidic gas

can damage the fuel system of an engine

while instorage.

• Drain the fuel tank.

• Start the engine and letit run untilthe fuel
linesand carburetor are empty.

• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner

productsin the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.

• Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizerisan acceptable

alternativein minimizingthe formation of fuel
gum depositsduring storage. Add stabilizerto

gasoline infuel tank or storage container.
Always follow the mix ratiofound on stabilizer
container. Run engine at least 10 minutes

afteradding stabilizertoallow the stabilizer to
reach the carburetor. Do not drain the gas

tank and carburetor it usingfuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL

Drain oil(with engine warm) and replace with
clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" inthe

Maintenance section ofthis manual).

CYUNDER

• Remove spark plug.

• Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oilthrough spark
plug hole into cylinder.

• Pullstarterhandle slowlya few times to
distribute oil.

• Replace with new spark plug.

OTHER

• Do not store gasoline from one season to
another.

• Replace yourgasoline can if your can starts
to rust. Rust and/or dirtin your gasoline will

cause problems.

• If possible,store your unit indoorsand cover

it to give protectionfrom dust and dirt.

• Cover yourunitwith a suitable protective

cover that does not retain moisture. Do not

use plastic. Plastic cannot breathe which
allowscondensation to form and will cause

your unit to rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
engine and exhaust areas are still warm.

A, CAUTION: Never store the lawn
mower with gasoline in the tank inside a

building where fumes may reach an open
flame or spark. Allow the engine to cool

before storing in any enclosure.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM

Does not start

CAUSE

• Dirtyair filter.

• Out of fuel.

• Stale fuel.

• Water infuel.

• Spark plug wire is
disconnected.

• Bad spark plug.

• Loose blade or broken blade
adapter.

• Control bar in released

position.

• Control par defective.

CORRECTION

• Clean/replace air filter.

• Fillfuel tank.

• Drain tank and refillwith
fresh clean fuel.

• Drain fuel tank and

carburetorand refilltank

with fresh gasoline.

• Connect wire to plug.

• Replace spark plug.

• "rKjhtenblade bolt or
replace blade adapter.

• Depress control barto

handle.

• Replace control bar.

15

TROUBLESHOOTINGCHART

PROBLEM

Lossofpower

CAUSE

• Rear of lawn mower housing
or cuttingblade dragging

in heavy grass.

• Cutting too much grass,

• Dirty air filter.

• Buildup ofgrass, loaves,
and trash under mower.

• Too much oilin engine.

• Walking speed too fast.

CORRECTION

• Set to=Higher Cut"
position.

• Set to "Higher Cut"
position.

• Clean/replace air filter.

• Clean underside of mower

housing.

• Check oil level.

• Cut at slowerwalldng

speed.

Poor cut - uneven

Excessive
vibrat'mn

Starter rope hard

to pull

• Worn, bent or loose blade.

• Wheel heights uneven.

• Buildup ofgrass, loaves

and trash under mower.

• Worn, bent or looseblade.

• Bent engine crankshaft.

• Engine flywheelbrake ison

when controlbar is released.

• Bent engine crankshaft.

• Blade adapter broken.

• Blade dragging ingrass.

• Replace blade. TK:jhten
blade belt.

• Set all wheels at same

]height

• Clean underside of

mower housing.

• Replace blade. T_jhten

blade bolt.

• Contact an authorized
service center.

• Depress control barto
upper handle before
pullingstarter rope.

• Contact an authorized

service center.

• Replace blade adapter.

• Move lawn mower to cut

grass otto hard surface

Grass catcher
not filling ('dso

equipped)

Hard to push

• Cutting height too low.

• Lifton blade worn off.

• Catcher not venting air.

• Grass is too highor wheel

height istoo low.

• Rear of lawn mower
housing or blade dragging

in grass.

• Grass catcher too full.

• Handle height positionnot

rightfor you.

16

• Raise cuttingheight.

• Replace blade.

• Clean grass catcher.

• Raise cutting height.

• Raise rear of lawn mower

housing one (1) setting
higher.

• Empty grass catcher.

• Adjust handle height to

suit,

For the repair or replacement parts you need
delivered directly to your home
Call 7 am - 7 pro, 7 days a week

1-800-366-PART

(1-800-366-7278)

Para ordenar piezas con entrega a

domicilio - 1-800-659-7084

For in-house major brand repair service

Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-4-REPAIR

(1-800-47_3-7274)
Para pedlr servicio de reparaci6n a

domicilio - 1-800-676-5811

For the location of a Sears Parts and
Repair Center in your area

Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-488-1222

For information on purchasing a Sears
Maintenance Agreement or to inquire

about an existing Agreement
Call 9 am - 5 pm, Monday-Saturday

1-800-827-6655

When requesting service or ordering
parts, always provide the following

information:

• Product Type • Part Number

• Model Number • Part Description

166055 REV.1 02.12.99 VB Printed in U.S.A.

SEARS

America's Repair Specialists