Craftsman 917377784 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

JCRHFTSMRN°J

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

6.75 Horsepower Power-Propelled

21" Multi-Cut

Model No.

917.377784

• EspaSol, p. 20

CAUTION: Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this equipment

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Service and Adjustments ................... 15-16

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

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

Repair Parts ....................................... 38-45

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

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.

Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman power mower to the nearest Sears Parts & Repair Center in the United States. This warranty applies only while this product is used in the United States.

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

Sears, Roebuck And Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, Illinois 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!H BECOME ALERT!H YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

_:i,WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and

related accessories contain lead and lead

compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth

defects or other reproductive harm. Wash

&WARNING: In order to prevent ac-

hands after handling.

cidental starting when setting up, trans- porting, adjusting or making repairs, always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot come in con- tact with plug.

_, 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.

_,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.

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 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 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 oper- ating 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

3 from the plug toprevent accidental starting.

• Keepnutsand bolts,especiallyblade attachmentbolts,tightand keepequip-

mentin good condition.

• Nevertamperwithsafetydevices.Check their properoperationregularly.

• Keep machinefree of grass, leaves,or otherdebrisbuild-up.Cleanoilorfuelspill- age.Allowmachinetocoolbeforestoring.

• Stopandinspectthe equipmentifyou strikeanobject.Repair,if necessary, beforerestarting.

• Neverattempttomakewheelheightadjust-

• Grasscatchercomponentsaresubject towear,damage,anddeterioration, whichcouldexposemovingparts or allowobjectsto bethrown.Frequently checkcomponentsandreplacewith manufacturer'srecommendedparts, whennecessary.

• Mowerbladesaresharpandcancut. Wraptheblade(s)or weargloves,and useextracautionwhen servicingthem.

• Donot changetheenginegovernorset- tingor overspeedtheengine.

mentswhiletheengine(motor)isrunning.

SerialNumber: Dateof Purchase:

GasolineCapacity/Type: 1.25 Quarts (Unleaded Regular)

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

Spark Plug (Gap: .030") Champion 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 yourself from unexpected hassle and expense.

Here's what's included in the Agreement:

• Expert service by our 12,000 profe- sional repair specialists.

• Unlimited service and no charge for parts and labor on all covered repairs.

• Product replacement if your covered product can't be fixed.

• Discount of 10% from regular price of service and service-related parts not covered by the agreement; also, 10% off regular price of preventive mainte-

nance check.

Fast help by phone - phone support

from a Sears technician on products

requiring in-home repair, plus conve- nient repair scheduling.

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

pointment online. Sears has over 12,000 professional repair

specialists, who have access to over 4.5

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

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

Some limitations and exclusions apply.

For prices and additional information

call 1-800-827-6655.

Sears Installation Service

For Sears professional installation of home appliances, garage door openers, water

heaters, and other major home items, in the U.S.A. call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.

These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears retail outlets and service centers. Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CLIPPING

DEFLECTORS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

-- STABILIZER

_\_ \\\ FOR

\\ GRASS CATCHERS

LAWN MOWERS

REAR DISCHARGE

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS AIR FILTERS SPARK PLUGS

BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS ENGINE OIL

Read these instructions and this manual in its entirety before you attempt to assemble or operate your new lawn mower.

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.

Your new lawn mower has been 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 all packing materials except padding between upper and lower

handle and padding holding operator

presence control bar to upper handle.

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

loose parts.

HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWN MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so

as not to pinch or damage control cables.

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

LIFT

Mowing position

Lower handle

Handle pin

SQL

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 convert to bagging or discharging, 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,KEEPHANDS

ORWARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY

Operator presence control bar

Drive control bar

Starter

Handle knob

Grass catcher

Mulcher plug

Single point height adjuster handle

Mulcher door"

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.

Engine oil cap with dipstick

Gasoline filler cap

Air filter

'Housing

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. Drive control bar - used to engage power-propelled forward motion of mower. 7

Starter handle - used for starting engine. Mulcher plug - located at the rear dis-

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

Mulcher door - allows conversion to

discharging or bagging operation. Single point height adjuster - used to adjust cutting height of lawn mower.

Theoperationof anylawn

mowercanresultin foreign

objectsthrownintothe eyes,whichcan resultin

severeeyedamage.Always wearsafetyglassesor eyeshieldswhile operatingyour lawnmoweror performing anyadjustmentsor repairs.Werecom- mendastandardsafetyglassesor wide visionsafetymaskwornoverspectacles.

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER ENGINE SPEED

The engine speed was set at the factory

for optimum performance. Speed is not adjustable.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL _CAUTION: Federal regulations require

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

risk of blade contact 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 bar up to the handle. The closer to the handle the bar is pulled, the faster

the unit will travel.

• Forward motion will stop when either the operator presence control bar or drive

control bar are released. To stop forward

motion without stopping engine, release the drive control bar 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.

_rator presence control bar

}rive

control bar

DRIVE DRIVE

CONTROL CONTROL

ENGAGED DISENGAGED

DRIVE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT

Over time, the drive control system may

become "loose", resulting in decreased

speed. There is a thumbscrew on the

underside of the drive control housing to increase tension on the drive cable. Pro-

ceed as follows:

f. Turn unit off and disconnect spark plug

wire from spark plug.

2. Rotate thumbscrew counter-clockwise to tighten the drive cable.

3. Operate mower to test drive speed.

4. If condition fails to improve after the

above steps (forward speed remains

the same), your drive belt is worn and

should be replaced.

NOTE: If mower begins to "creep" forward,

the drive cable is too tight. Rotate thumb- screw clockwise to loosen drive cable.

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT All four wheels 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

Height adjuster 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.

_CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower without mulcher plate or plug, clipping de- flector 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

REAR BAGGING

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

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

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

Mulcher

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 or discharging:

SIDE DISCHARGING

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

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

• Mower is now ready for discharging operation.

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

removed and mulcher door closed.

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN MOWER

FOR MULCHING -

1. Rear mulcher plug installed.

2. Mulcher door closed.

FOR REAR BAGGING -

1. Rear mulcher plug removed.

2. Grass catcher installed.

3. Mulcher door closed.

FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -

1. Rear mulcher plug installed.

_:_ Discharge deflector installed.

CAUTION: Do not run your lawn

mower without mulcher plug or approved

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

removed or propped open.

Discharge

deflector

,Open mulcher door

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.

NOTE: Initial oil fill requires only 18 oz.

due to residual oil in engine from the

manufacturers 100% quality testing. When

changing oil you may need 20 oz.

4. Insert and tighten dipstick.

IMPORTANT:

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

• Change the oil after every 25 hours of operation or each season. You may

need to change the oil more often under dusty, dirty conditions. See "TO

CHANGE ENGINE OIE' 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.

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

Bess.

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

near an open flame.

• 1=CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or metha-

nol) can attract moisture which leads to

separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel

system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system

should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Empty the gas tank, start

the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel

next season. See Storage Instructions for

additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

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.

Gasoline

filler cap

Engine

oil cap

TO STOP ENGINE

• To stop engine, release operator pres- ence control bar.

NOTE: In cooler weather it may be neces- sary 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 attempt- ing to start and do not repeat priming steps.

TO START ENGINE NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the

engine, a small amount of smoke may be present during the initial use of the prod-

uct and should be considered normal.

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.

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 clip- pings. It may also be necessary to re-

duce ground speed and/or run the lawn

mower over the area a second time.

• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the

width of cut by overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.

• For better grass bagging and most cut-

ting conditions, the engine speed should be set in the FAST position.

• Pores in cloth grass catchers can be-

come filled with dirt and dust with use and catchers will collect less grass. To

prevent this, regularly hose catcher off with water and let dry before using.

• Keep top of engine around starter clear

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

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance,

keep mower housing free of built-up

grass and trash. See "CLEANING" in the

Maintenance section of this manual.

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

reduce them in size so that as they fall

onto the lawn they will disperse into the grass and not be noticed. Also, the

mulched grass will biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always

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

• Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet grass tends to form clumps and interferes with the mulching action. The best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon. At this time the grass has dried, yet the newly cut area will not be exposed to direct sunlight.

• For best results, adjust the lawn mower cutting height so that the lawn mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown it will be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine and leaving clumps of mulched grass. For extremely heavy grass, reduce your width of cut by overlapping 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 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.

MAINTENANCE BEFOREAPTEREVERY EVERY EVERYBEFORE

EACH EACH 10 25HOURS 100

SCHEDULE USE USE HOURS ORSEASON HOURS STORAGE

Check for Loose Fasteners

L Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher *

Check Tires

_ Check Drive Wheels

Clean Lawn Mower ....

M Clean under Drive Cover *** D Check Drive Belt / Pulleys ***

_ Check / Sharpen / Replace Blade R Lubrication

Clean and Recharge Battery ** Check Engine Oil level

E Change Engine Oil

_ Clean Air Filter

Inspect Muffler

_1 Replace Spark Plug

E Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge

Empty fuel system or add Stabilizer

* (if so equipped)

** Electric-Start mowers

*** Power-Propelled mowers

**** Use a scraper

to clean under deck

1 - Change more often if operating under a heavy load or in high outdoor temperatures. 2 - Service more often if operating in dirty or dusty conditions. 3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil. 4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season.

5 - And after each 5 hours of use.

i/ i/

t_,2

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, operator must

maintain unit as instructed in this manual.

Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to properly maintain your unit.

At least once a season, check to see if you should make any of the adjustments

described in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

• At least once a year, replace the spark plug, clean or replace air filter element and check blade for wear. A new spark plug and clean/new air filter element assure proper air-fuel mixture and help your engine run better and last longer.

• Follow the maintenance schedule in this

manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level.

• Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION

Keep unit well lubricated

(See "LUBRICATION CHART").

LUBRICATION CHART

f _'_ _ Brake spring

(' "_ bracket

\ _" Mulcher

_ door hinge

(_) Rear

Handle bracket mounting pins door hinge

_ Spray lubricant

See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section.

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic

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

the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel they

must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered

2graphite type lubricant sparingly.

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when per- forming any maintenance.

TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chemicals which can harm rubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage.

DRIVE WHEELS Check rear drive wheels each time you

mow to be sure they move freely. The wheels not turning freely means trash, grass cuttings, etc., may be inside the

drive wheel and dust cover area and must be cleaned out to free drive wheels.

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 plug.

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

3. Use a wood block between blade and

mower housing to prevent blade from

turning when removing blade bolt.

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

4. Remove blade bolt by turning counter- clockwise.

5. Remove blade and attaching hardware

(bolt, lock washer, hardened washer). 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

1. Position the blade adapter on the en- gine 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 (oppo- site 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 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

Crank Blade shaft bolt j \

washer Trailing edge Blade adapter

TO SHARPEN BLADE

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

is balanced, 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.

GEAR CASE

• To keep your drive system working properly, the gear case and area around the drive should be kept clean and free of trash build-up. Clean under the drive

cover twice a season.

• The gear case is filled with lubricant to the proper level at the factory. The only time

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

• If lubricant is required, use only Texaco Starplex Premium 1 Grease, Part No.

750369. Do not substitute.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated with

API service classification SG-SL. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your expected operating temperature.

SAE V_SCOSITY GRADES

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, re- checking 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 plug.

-20 0 30 32 40 60 80 _00

.30 -20 .10 0 10 20 30 40 TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICEPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

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 opera-

tion orat least once a year ifthe 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

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properly and may be damaged by using a dirty air filter. Re- place the cartridge every 100 hours of op- eration or every season, whichever occurs

first. Service air cleaner more often under dusty conditions. Do not wash cartridge.

TO CHANGE AIR FILTER

1. Remove the cartridge by turning clock- wise to the stop and then pulling it away

from the collar.

2. Remove cartridge from inside of cover.

3. Clean the inside of the cover and the collar to remove any dirt accumulation.

4. Insert new cartridge into cover.

5. Put air filter cover and cartridge into collar aligning the tab with the slot.

6. Push in on cover and turn counter- clockwise to tighten.

oil, empty fuel tank by running engine until fuel tank is empty.

1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark tC°llar plug and place wire where it cannot __

come in contact with plug.

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

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

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

TURN CLOCKWISE

REMOVE

Clip

Slot

3ontainer

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.

Cartridge

Tab TURN

COUNTER-

Air filter cover CLOCKWISE TO TIGHTEN

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. /ICAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire

from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with 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 short- ened 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.

ACIWARNING: 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 plug.

LAWN MOWER

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

REAR DEFLECTOR

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

the possibility that objects will be thrown out of the rear of the mower into the operator mowing position. If the deflector becomes damaged, it should be replaced.

TO REMOVE DRIVE BELT

1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot

come in contact with plug.

2. Remove screws retaining drive cover (not shown); and remove drive cover

from lawn mower housing.

3. Remove drive cable from anchor, then

detach spring from idler arm assembly.

Drive

pulley Drive belt

Belt

nut assembly

Housing 3. Return mower to upright position.

hole15

4. Remove idler arm assembly from housing by removing hex nut; then remove drive belt from drive pulley, belt keepers and 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.

Crankshaft

Housing hole

Hardened

washer

Tab-

Blade

bolt

Trailing edge

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.

TO REPLACE DRIVE BELT

1. Place new drive belt on engine pulley.

2. Route the other end of the new drive belt through hole in housing.

+ 33 hidden pages

Craftsman 917377784 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual