Craftsman 917377661 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

CRIIFTSMRN°

I'l'l*l

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

6.5 Horsepower Power-Propelled

21" Rear Discharge

Model No.

917.377661

• EspaSol, p. 19

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 ............................................ 7-10

Maintenance Schedule ........................... 11

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 ...................................... 11-14

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

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

Troubleshooting ................................. 17-18

Repair Parts ....................................... 35-43

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, RoebuckAnd Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throw- ing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious

injury or death.

_/,Look for this symbol to point out

important safety precautions. It means

CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

A WARNING: In order to prevent ac- cidental starting when setting up, trans-

porting, adjusting or making repairs,

always disconnect spark plug wire and

place wire where it cannot come into contact with the spark plug. _IWARNING" 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.

AWARNING: Battery posts, terminals and

related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State

of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash

hands after handling.

& CAUTION: Muffler and other engine

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

I. GENERAL OPERATION

,, Read, understand, and follow all

instructions on the machine and in the manual(s) before starting. Be thoroughly

familiar with the controls and the proper use of the machine before starting.

• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of the dis-

charge opening at all times.

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

ate the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc., which could be picked up and thrown by 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 bare- foot or wearing open sandals. Always

wear substantial foot wear.

• Do not pull mower backwards unless absolutely necessary. Always look down

and behind before and while moving backwards.

• Do not operate the mower without proper guards, plates, grass catcher or

other safety protective devices in place.

• See manufacturer's instructions for proper operation and installation of

accessories. Only use accessories ap- proved by the manufacturer.

• Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads.

• Stop the engine (motor) whenever you leave the equipment, before cleaning the mower or unclogging the chute.

• Shut the engine (motor) off and wait until the blade comes to complete stop before

removing grass catcher.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

• Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Never operate machine in wet grass. Always be sure of your footing: keep a firm hold on the handle and walk; never run.

• Disengage the self-propelled mech- anism 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. Vibra- tion is generally a warning of trouble.

• Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operating

mower.

Ii. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents which can result in

severe injury. All slopes require extra cau- tion. 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 the ma- chine.

• 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.

. Keepnutsandbolts,especiallyblade

attachmentbolts,tightandkeepequip- mentingood condition.

• Nevertamperwithsafetydevices.Check their properoperationregularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or otherdebrisbuild-up.Cleanoilorfuelspill-

age.Allowmachinetocoo!beforestoring.

• Stop and inspecttheequipmentifyou strikeanobject.Repair,ifnecessary, beforerestarting.

• Neverattempttomakewheelheightadjust-

• Grass catcher componentsare subject towear, damage,and deterioration,

which could expose movingpartsor

allow objectsto bethrown. Frequently check componentsand replacewith manufacturer'srecommendedparts,

when necessary.

. Mowerblades aresharp andcancut.

Wrapthe blade(s)orwear gloves,and use extracautionwhen servicingthem.

. Donot changethe enginegovernorset-

ting oroverspeedtheengine.

mentswhiletheengine(motor)isrunning.

SerialNumber: Dateof Purchase:

GasolineCapacity/ Type: 1.6 Quarts (Unleaded Regular)

Oil Type (API-SF-SJ): SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F) Oil Capacity: 20 Ounces

Spark Plug (Gap: .030") Champion RJ19LM or J19LM 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 yourseff 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

STABILIZER

CANS

GAS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS

AIR FILTERS

GRASS CATCHERS

SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

WHEELS

FOR

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 inthe engine. Your new lawn mower has been as-

sembled at the factory with the excep- tion of those parts left unassembled for

shipping purposes. To ensure safe and

proper operation of your lawn mower, all parts and hardware you assemble must be

tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness. All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc.,

necessary to complete the assembly have been placed in the parts bag.

TO REMOVE 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 al! packing materials except padding between upper and lower handle and padding holding operator

presence control bar to upper handle.

4. Roll lawn mower out of carton and check carton thoroughly for additional

loose parts.

NOW TO SET UP YOUR 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 squeeze the bottom

ends of lower handle towards each other until the pin in handle can be

inserted into one of the three height adjustment holes.

2. Remove protective padding, raise up- per handle section into place on lower

handle and tighten both handle knobs.

3. 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.

Operator presence control bar

Upper handle

LIFT UP

Mowing position

Lower handle

Handle pin

SQUEEZE

Handle bracket

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.

Catcher frame

handle

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be

used as a mulcher. To convertto bagging, see

"TO CONVERT MOWER" in the Operation section of this manual.

Frame

opening

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

Starter handle

Drive control lever

Gasoline filler cap

Grass

Mulcher plug

Single point height adjuster handle

Air filter

Engine oil cap

with dipstick

Primer

Muffler

-Housing

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine. MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Com-

mission. The blade turns when the engine is running.

Operator presence control bar- must

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.

Starter handle - used for starting engine.

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

Mulcher plug - located at the rear dis-

charge opening. Must be removed when converting to bagging operation.

Single point height adjuster- used to

7 adjust cutting height of lawn mower.

The operationof any lawn

SAFETVG'ASSESmowercan resultin 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 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

,ACAUTION: Federal regulations require an engine control to be installed on this

lawn mower in order to minimize the risk of blade contact injury. Do not under

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

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

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

and operate the lawn mower.

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 the drive control lever only. 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 DRIVE

button (on DRIVE CONTROL

underside) CONTROL DISENGAGED

control

lever

DRIVE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT

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

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

drive cable. Proceed as follows:

1. Turn unit off and disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug.

2. Pull drive control lever ALL THE WAY BACK to the handle.

3. Push button on underside of drive control. While holding button in, return

drive control lever to disengaged posi-

tion ALL THE WAY FORWARD.

NOTE: Do not ratchet the adjustment.

4. Release button.

5. Operate mower to test drive speed. If condition becomes worse after

the above steps (forward speed has

become slower), your system was not "loose". Repeating the above steps will

return your unit to the proper adjust- ment and speed.

6. If condition fails to improve after the above steps (forward speed remains

the same), your drive belt is worn and

should be replaced.

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT All fourwheels are adjusted by a single lever.

. Pull adjuster lever toward wheel. To

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

the lever toward the rear.

LEVER BACKWARD

TO LOWER

MOWER

LEVER FORWARD

TO RAISE

MOWER

Single point

height adjuster

TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER

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

hooks into the slots of the rear door.

2. The grass catcher is secured to the lawn mower housing when the rear door is lowered onto the grass catcher frame.

,ACAUTION" Do not run your lawn mower without mulcher plug, clipping deflector or

approved grass catcher in place. Never at- tempt to operate the lawn mower with the

rear door removed or propped open.

lever

Rear door slots

Grass

catcher

handle

Catcher frame hook

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER

1. Lift up on grass catcher using the frame handle.

2. Remove grass catcher with clippings from under lawn mower handle.

3. Empty clippings from bag using both frame handle and bag handle.

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

Grass

catcher

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 or optional clipping deflector.

• To convert to mulching or discharging operation, install mulcher plug into rear discharge opening of mower.

_I,CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower without mulcher plug, clipping deflector or

approved grass catcher in place. Never at- tempt to operate the lawn mower with the

rear door removed or propped open.

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.

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.

4. Insert and tighten dipstick.

IMPORTANT:

• Check oil level before each use. Add oil if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.

• Change the oil after every 25 hours of operation or each season. You may need to change the oil more often under dusty, dirty conditions. See "TO

CHANGE ENGINE OIL" in the Mainte- nance section of this manual.

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler neck. Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean, regular

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

Ai_CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels

(called gasoho! or using ethanol or metha- nol) can attract moisture which leads to

separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system

should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Empty the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines

and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel

next season. See Storage Instructions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel

tank or permanent damage may occur.

Gasoline Engine filler ca oil cap

Mulcher plug 9

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 norma!.

1. To start a cold engine, push primer

three (3) times before trying to start. Use a firm push. This step is not

usually necessary when starting an engine which has already run for a few

minutes.

2. Hold operator presence control bar down to the handle and pull starter

handle quickly. Do not allow starter rope to snap back.

NOTE: In coolerweather 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

_i, 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.

• 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 be- come filled with dirt and dust with use

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

• Keep top of engine around starter clear and clean of grass clippings and chaff. This will help engine air flow and extend

engine life.

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

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

grass and trash. See "CLEANING" in the

Maintenance section of this manual.

• The special mulching blade will recut the grass clippings many times and reduce them in size so that as they fall

onto the lawn they will disperse into the grass and not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always

mulch with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will provide the best recut- ting action of the blades.

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

interferes with the mulching action. The best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon. At this time the grass has

dried, yet the newly cut area will not be exposed to direct sunlight.

• For best results, adjust the lawn mower cutting height so that the lawn mower

cuts off only the top one-third of the grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown it

will be necessary to raise the height of

cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine and leaving

clumps of mulched grass. For extremely heavy grass, reduce your width of cut

by overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.

MAX 1/3

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

mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a sec- ond cut, mow across (perpendicular) to the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow north to south one week

then change to east to west the next

week. This will help prevent matting and

graining of the lawn.

AS YOU COMPLETE /_ _/,_£0_ r SEr.RV/C E

REGULAR SERVICE /_r/,_/_,._ _)£:_¢._/'_.._y_ Jf" DATES

Lubrication

Check Tires tf Check Drive Wheels

(Power-Propelled Mowers) If Check for Loose Fasteners tf

M Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher O (If Equipped) Ik/

W Clean Lawn Mower

E Clean Under Drive Cover R (Power-Propelled Mowers)

Check drive belt/pulleys

(Power-Propelled Mowers) Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade Clean Battery/Recharge

(Electric Start Mowers)

E Check Engine Oil Level 1_5 N Change Engine Oil

G Clean Air Filter

[ Inspect Muffler

N Replace Spark Plug E Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge

1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures. 2 - Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions. 3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.

v' v' v' v'

_3 v'

_1_2

V'2

4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season. 5 - And after each 5 hours of use.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive

ful! 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

(_ Rear door

(_ 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 thatwill shorten the life of

the self-lubricating bearings. Ifyou feel they

must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered

graphite type lubricant sparingly.

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 rub- ber.

. 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.

If necessary to clean the drive wheels, check both rear wheels.

BLADE CARE

For best results, mower blade must be

kept sharp. Replace a bent or damaged

blade. 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).

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 (op- posite 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.

Blade adapter Crankshaft

Key _ keyway

Blade Lo_kwasher

Crank

Blade shaft bolt Hardenel \

washer Trailing edge Blade adapter

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 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.

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.

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.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

I[,.'!'=I= []

F -20 0 30 32 40 60 80 100

c -_0 -2_ __; ; ;0 10 _o 4;

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°F. 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 opera-

tion orat 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 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 re- move any oil trapped inside of engine.

AIR FILTER Your engine will not run properly and may

be damaged by using a dirty air filter. Replace the air filter cartridge every 100 hours of operation or every season, which-

ever occurs first. Service air cleaner more often under dusty conditions.

TO CLEAN AIR FILTER

1. Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove.

2. Carefully remove cartridge.

3. Clean by gently tapping on a flat sur- face. If very dirty, replace cartridge.

ACAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as

kerosene, are not to be used to clean car-

tridge. They may cause deterioration of the cartridge. Do not oil cartridge. Do not use

pressurized air to clean or dry cartridge.

4. Install cartridge, then replace cover

making sure the tabs are aligned with

the slots in the back plate. Fasten

screw securely.

Back plate

Slots

Lip

Container

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.

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.

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 mower after each use.

,I&CAUTION" Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with 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.

• Keepfinished surfacesandwheels free of all gasoline,oil, etc.

• We donotrecommendusinga garden hoseto clean lawn mowerunlessthe

electricalsystem, muffler,airfilterand carburetorarecoveredtokeepwater out. Waterin enginecanresultinshort-

enedenginelife.

CLEAN UNDER DRIVECOVER Cleanunderdrive coverat leasttwicea season.Scrapeundersideof coverwith

puttyknife or similartoolto removeany build-upof trashor grasson undersideof

drivecover.

_i, WARNING: To avoid serious injury,

before performing any service and

adjustments:

1. Release control bar and stop engine.

2. Make sure the blade and all moving parts have completely stopped.

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

LAWN MOWER

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

REAR DEFLECTOR

The rear deflector, attached between the rear wheels of your mower, isprovided to minimize

the possibility that objects will be thrown out of the rear of the mower into the operator

mowing position. If the deflector becomes

damaged, it should be replaced. TO REMOVE DRIVE BELT

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

2. Remove screws retaining drive cover (not shown); and remove drive cover from lawn mower housing.

3. Remove drive cable from anchor, then detach spring from idler arm assembly.

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

6. 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.

7. Remove blade bolt.

8. Remove blade, attaching hardware (bolt, lock washer, hardened washer),

blade adapter and debris shield. Note that the debris shield has a tab which

fits into the housing hole.

9. Remove drive belt from engine pulley; discard old belt.

Crankshaft

Housing hole

Debris shield

.......adapter

Blade

bolt

Drive _. Drive cable anchor pulley Drive belt

Belt Hex Idler arm Housing keepers nut assembly hole

Remove idler arm assembly from hous- ing by removing hex nut; then remove 8. drive belt from drive pulley, belt keepers

and idler arm assembly. 14

TO REPLACE DRIVE BELT

Place new drive belt on engine pulley.

Route the other end of the new drive

belt through hole in housing.

Return mower to upright position.

Install new drive belt into idler arm

assembly, then around the drive pulley.

Be sure belt is inside of belt keepers.

Reattach idler arm assembly with hex

nut previously removed.

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

Reattach debris shield to housing with

tab of debris shield in housing hole.

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

+ 30 hidden pages

Craftsman 917377661 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual