Craftsman 917377830 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

£RRFTSMnll°

6.0 HORSEPOWER 22" REAR DISCHARGE

POWER PROPELLED

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.

917.377830

• Safety ° Assembly

° Operation e Maintenance

o EspaSoi

, Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this equipment

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

Visit our Craftsman webslte:www,sears,com/craftsman

Warranty 2 Product Specifications 11 Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 14

Assembly 4 Storage 16 Operation 6 Troubleshooting t7 Maintenance Schedule 10 Repair Parts 37

Maintenance 10 Parts Orderin, 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 workman- ship,

If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase. This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during normat use, such as rotary mower

blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.

, Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent

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

Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman power mower to the nearest Sears Service Center/Department in the United States. This warranty applies only

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

Safety standard's requ!re.operator

presence controls to rntm_mlze 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 pete.

• 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.

o Do not use accessory attachments that

are not recommended by the manufac- turer° Use of such attachments may be

hazardous.

o 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,

° AIways wear safety glasses or eye

shfelds when starting and while using your mower.

o Dress properly. Do not operate mower

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

when mowlng.

- 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 severaf minutes before filling the gas tank.

Clean off any spilled gasoline before starting the engine.

o 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 cuL 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.

o Do not put hands or feet near or under

rotating parts. Keep clear of the dis-

charge 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-covered areas.

• Never direct discharge of material

toward bystanders nor allow anyone near the mower while you are operating

lto

o 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

itaway from the spark plug to prevent

accidental starting.

• Do not continue to run your mower if you

hit a foreign object. Follow the proce- dure outlined above, then repair any damage before restarting and operating

your mower.

• Do not change the govemor 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 indicalion of damage; stop the engine, safely check for the cause of vibration

and repair as required.

o 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 footing. 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

mounting bolts often to be sure they are tightened properly.

o Check all bolts, nuts and screws at

frequent intervals for proper tightness to be sure mower is in safe working

condition.

o 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 storing in

any enclosure.

,, Never store mower with fuel in the tank

inside a building where fumes may

reach an open flame or an ignition

source such as a hot water heater,

heater,

CAUTION. Always disconnect spark

p_gpaCe clothes dryer, etc.

wire and place wire where it cannot

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

transporting, adjusting or making repairs.

WAR,NING

engine exhaust from this product

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

other reproductive harm.

Theseaccessorieswereavailablewhenthislawnmowerwasproduced.Theyarenot

shippedwith your mower. They are also available at most Sears retail outlets and se_ce

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

,,.J_

CLIPPINGDEFLECTOR

FORRE,ARDI,SC,HARGE,,LAWNMOWERS

FOR

_ GRASSCATCHERS

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

1,1

................ , ,,,,,,,,,,,,, ,,,,

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS,

BELT8 i

BLADES

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 OILOR GASOLINE tn the engine°

Your new lawn mower has been as- sembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper

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

securely. Use the correct tools as neces- san/to ensure proper tightness. All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., neces-

sary to complete the assembly have been placed in the parts bag°

in , u i ,

BLAOE ADAPTERS WHEELS

MULCHER KITS

SIDE DISCHARGE

GRASS CATCHERS

LAWN MOWERS

AIR FILTERS

FOR

STABILIZER

GAS CANS

SPARK PLUGS

ENGINE OIL

TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM

CARTON

• Remove loose parts includedwithmower.

• Cut down two end comers of carton and

_ayend panel down flat.

• Remove all packing materials except padding between upper and lower handle and padding holding operator presence

control bar to upper handle.

° Rdl lawn mower out of carton and check

carton thoroughly for additional loose parts,

HOWTO SET UP YOUR LAWN MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE IMPORTANT: Unfold handles carefully so as

not to pinch or damage control cables

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

= Remove protecf_vepadding, raise upper

handle section Into place on lower handle and tighten both handle knob&

• Remove handle padding holding operator presence control bar to upper handle.

o Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted

for your mowing comfort. Refer to "Adjust

Handle" in the Sercice and Adjustment

section of this manual.

Operator presence control

bar

Upper handle

Jff up

Mowing position

Lower handle

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be

used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging or

discharging:

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

° You can now install catcher or optional

clipping deflector,

, 1"o return to mulching operation, install

muicher plug into discharge opening of mower.

d_IbCAUTION: Do not run your lawn

mower without mulcher plug in place or approved clipping deflector or grass

catcher in place. Never attempt to operate the lawn mower with the rear door removed or propped open.

TO PREPARE BATTERY

NOTE: Your battery must be charged before you can start your lawn mower.

° Disconnect engine battery connector

(male) from battery connector (female)

• Connect battery charger connector (male) to battery connector (female).

• Plug battery charger into 110 volt A.C. outlet.

° Leave battery charger connected for 24

hours before starting your engine for the first time.

, After charging, connect engine connec-

tor (male) to battery connector (female),

Your engine has an integral alternator for

partial charging. Connect your battery

charger to charge battery as required.

IMPORTANT: The engine alternator will not charge a discharged battery.

At the end of the mowing season the

battery should be charged for 48 hours to protect the battery during winter storage.

_b.OAUTION: Always disconnect the

engine connector (male) from the battery connector (female) to prevent accidental starting when transporting or storing your

lawn mower after the season.

Mulcher plug

Battery connector (female)

Engine connector

(male)

Battery

charger

Battery

charger connector

(male)

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULrES 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

i rl, ii ,111 , ,,i,,_.111 _ _

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

product.

Learn and understand their meaning,

CAUTION F..NGINt_ F.,NGtNE

OR WARNING ON OFF

i1,1 ,111

Engine zone control cable

Auxiliary starter handle

Grass catche_

Mulcher plug

Gasoline filler

FAST 8LOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS

, ,,,,,, ,,, ,,,, ,,,,,,,,,,,

AND FEET AWAY

presence control bar

Drive control lever

Key" start switch

Handle knob

oil cap w/dipstick

Housing

Primer

Drive cover

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped

WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the

engine,

i U['l 1,1[11111 , u I i,iii1,11,11

, Wheel adjuster

('on every wheel)

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the

American National Standards Institute and the US. Consumer Product Safety Commis-

sTon. The blade turns when the engine is running.

,11,11, i ,, i q!lll! ! : _m- -

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,

Auxiliary starter handle- used for starting the engine,

Drive control lever - used to engage

power-prope!Ied forward motion of lawn mower.

Mulcher plug - must be removed to

convert to bagging or discharging

operation. Key start switch - used for starting the

engine.

The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects thrown into the

eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or

eye shields while operating your lawn mower or performing any adjustments or repairs, We recommend a wide vision

safety mask over spectacles or standard safety glasses.

HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED

The engine speed was set at the factory

for optimum performance, Speed is not

adjustable,

ENGINEZONE 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 ts 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.

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

• Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels for high cut.

° Adjust cutting height to suit your

requirements. Medium position is best for most lawns.

• To change cutting height, squeeze adjuster lever toward wheel, Move

wheel up or down to suit your require -=

mentso Be sure all wheels are in the same setting_

NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned

when plate tab inserts into hole in lever. Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)

allow lever to be positioned between the plate tabs.

Lower Wheefs for High Cut Plate Tab

TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER

• Close the lift top lid. Lift top lid must be closed while operating lawn mower.

- Lift the rear door on the mower housing and place the grass catcher frame onto

the formed tabs on the rear door hinge bracket.

• 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 lawn

mower without clipping deflector or approved grass catcher in place. Never

attempt to operate the lawn mower with the rear door removed or propped open,

Hinge Grass bracket catcher frame

tabs

your

door

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER

° To remove grass catcher, release

operator presence control bar to stop engine.

, Lift up rear door and remove the grass

catcher by the handle.

NOTE: Do not drag the bag when empty-

ing; it will cause unnecessary wear.

Raise Wheels for Low Cut

DRIVE CONTROL

• Self-propelling is controlled by holding the operator presence control bar down to the

handle and pushing the drive control lever forward until it clicks; then release the drive

control lever_

• Forward motion wi{Istop when the operator presence control baris released. To stop forward motion without stopping engine,

release the operator presence control bar slightly until the drive control disengages.

Holcl operator presence control bar down to handle to continue mowing without self- propelling.

o To keep ddve control engaged when

turning comers, push down on handle and lift front wheels off ground while tuming

lawn mov_l_rato r presence

control bar '_,

\_ Drive _._ Drive

"" control _ control

To engage Drive control

ddve control BEFORE STARTING ENGINE "disengaged

OIL

Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in the

engine.

• Be sure mower is level and area around oi_ fill Is clean.

° Remove engine oil cap and fill to the full

line on the dipstick.

NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into engine for accurate dtpstick reading.

° Engine holds 20 ozs. of oil For type and

grade of oil to use, see "ENGINE" in Maintenance section of this manual.

° Pour oil stowly. Do not over fill.

• Check oil level before each use. Add oil if needed. Fillto fullline on dipstick.

° To read proper lever,tighten engine oi{ cap

each time.

° Reinstall engine olt cap and tighten.

• Change the oil after every 25 hours of

operation or each season. You may need to change the oil more often underdusty,

dirty conditions.

GAS

• Fillfuel 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

hol blended fuels (called gasohot or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and

formal]on of acids during storage. Ack_licgas can damage the fuel system of an engine

while in storage. To avoid engine problems,

the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas

tank, start the engine and let itrun until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh

fuel next season, See Storage tnstructions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products inthe fuel tank or

permanent damage may occur. TO START ENGINE

• To start a ce{dengine, push prfmer 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.

• Hold operator presence control bar down

to the handle.

• Turn e_ectricstart key clockwise to crank

engine.

IMPORTANT: Do notcrank engine more than five continours seconds between eahc

timeyou tryto start. Wait 5 to 10seconds between each attempt.

. To start engine using the auxiliary starter

hand{e, foIIow the steps above. Exchange

the useof the start key for starter handle.

Pull starter handle quickly. Do not altow starter rope to snap back.

o To stop engine, release operator presence

control bar.

NOTE: In cooler weather it may be neces., san] to repeat priming steps. Inwarmer

weather over pdming may cause llooding and englne will not start. If you do flood enginewait a few minutes before attempting to start and do not repeat priming steps.

Gasoline t_ller cap

(Discard

debris plug

inside)

Engine oil cap

MOWINGTIPS

• 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

tlmeo

• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of cut by overlapping previously

cut path and mow siowlyo

• For better grass bagging and most cutting conditions, the engine speed should be set in the fast position.

• When using a rear discharge lawn mower tn mofst, 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 trall of clippings is left on the right

side of a rear discharge mower, mow in a clockwise direction with a small

overlap to collect the clippings on the next pass.

° Pores in cloth grass catchers can

become filled with dirt and dust with use and catchers will collect less grass. To prevent this, regularly hose catcher

off with water and let dry before using.

= Keep top of engine around starter clear

and clean of grass clippings and chaff.

This will help engine air flow and

extend engine life.

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-up grass and trash. See "Cleaning" in MAINTENANCE

section of thismanual. ° The special mulching blade will recurthe

grass clippings many times and reduce them insize 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 providenutrients for the lawn. Always mulch with your highest

engine (blade) speed as this will provide the best recurringaction of the blades.

o Avoid cutting your lawn when Itiswet. Wet

grass tends to form clumps and interferes with the mulching action. The best time to mow your fawn is the eady aftemoonoAt this time the grass has dded and the newly cut area will not be exposed to the direct sun.

° For best results, adjust the lawn mower

cutting height so thatthe lawn mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass blades, If the lawn is overgrown it will be

necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine and leaving

clumps of mulched grass. For extremely

heavy mulching, reduce your width of cut

by overlapping previously cut path and

mow slowly.

° Certain types of grass and grass condi-

tions may require that an area be mulched a second time to completely hide the

clippings° When doing a second cut, mow across or perpendicular to the first cut path.

° Change your cutting pattern from week to

week. Mow north to south one week then

change to east towest the next week. This will help prevent matting and graining of

the lawn.

Max. 1/3

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

FILL IN DATES

AS YOU COMPLETE

REGULAR SERVICE

Chock for Loose Fasteners Clean/inspect Grass Catcher

(If Equipped)

M Clean Lawn Mower

v' v'

v'_v'

E_ v"

SERVICE DATES

........... N

O Groan I..IndorDrive Cover(Power-Propelled Mowers)

Chock drive belt/pulleys

RE (Power-PropelledMowers}

ChecktSharpen/Replace Blado

Lubrication Chart

Clean Battery/Recharge (E ectdo Start Mowers)

Check EngineOil Level

, v' i,,'4

v'3

N !Change Engine oil

G €_eanAlr,Filte,r .....................

InspectMuffler V'

Clean or Replace Spark Plug • J t 1_

v"2

E episgA,. .erP p rCa.t.d ,;....... ! :,

! - Change mo_e often when operating undera heavy toad or tnhigh ambient temperatures

2 - Servicemote of{onwhenoperatingtndirtyor dustyeond111or,s.

3 -Repiace blades more often when mowing Insandy soil, 4 - Charge 48 hours el and of season.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this lawn mower does

not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To

receive full value from the warranty, operator must maintain mower as

instructed in this manual.

Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to properly maintain your unit. All adjustments in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manual should

be checked at least once each season. ° Once a year, replace the spark plug,

replace air filter element and check blade for wear. A new spark plug and

clean/new air filter element assures

proper air-fuel mixture and helps 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

(_) Spay lubricant

IMPORTANT; Do not oit or grease plastic wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants

Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRICA- will attract dust and dirt that will shorten TION CHART"). the life of the self lubricating bearings. If

you feel they must be lubricated, use only

a dry, powdered graphite type lubricant

sparingly.

LUBRICATION CHART

Wheel Adjuster

(_) Rear door

(_) Handle bracket

mounting pin

Refer to MAINTENANCE "ENGINE"

section.

hinge

gtne oil

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL NUMBER

SERIAL NUMBER DATE OF PURCHASE

HORSEPOWER: GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYP E:

O1LTYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):

OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS.

SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030") VALVE CLEARANCE:

SOLID STATE IGNITION AIR GAP: .010 IN.

BLADE BOLTTORQUE: 35-40 F]'. LBS.

The m0del and sedal numbers wilt be found on a decal attached io ihe rear Of the

lawn mower housing.Record both serial number and date of purchase }n space

3rovided above,

917.377830

6.0

1.6 QUARTS UNLEADED REGULAR

SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)

CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM

INTAKE: .005" - .007"

EXHAUST: ,007" - .009"

, , ,I,,L

LAWN MOWER Always observe safety rules when

performing any maintenance.

TIRES o Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect

control chemfcats which can harm

rubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and other hazards that may

cause tire damage.,

BLADE CARE For best results, mower blade must be

kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged blades.

TO REMOVE BLADE

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

• Turn lawn mower on tts 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.

o Remove blade and attaching hardware

(bolt, lock washer and hardened washer).

NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and

check the key inside hub of blade

adapter. The key must be in good

condition to work properly. Replace

adapter if damaged.

TO REPLACE BLADE ° Position the blade adapter on the

engine crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter and crankshaft keyway are

aligned.

° Position blade on the blade adapter

aligning the two (2) holes in the blade

with the raised lugs on the adapter.

• Be sure the trailing edge of blade (opposite sharp edge) is up toward the

engine.

° Install the blade bolt with the lock

washer and hardened washer into

blade adapter and crankshaft.

° Use block of wood between blade and

lawn mower housing and tighten the blade bott, turning cfockwlse.

o The recommended tightening torque is

35-40 ft. lbs.

IMPORTANT: Bladeboltisgrade8 heat

treated. TO SHARPENBLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen-

ing blade - but ifyou 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.

o 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. Piace

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.

Crank-

Blade shaft ada )tar keyway

Blade ._._ :.,-_

bolt ' -:_',,_

Key

-../

i&i' Crack.

• Remove hubcaps, hairpin cotters and washers.

• Remove wheels from wheel adjusters.

• Remove any trash or grass cuttings

from inside the dust cover, pinion and/ or drive wheel gear teeth.

- Put wheels back in place. ° If after cleaning, the drive wheels do

not turn freely, contact your nearest authorized service center.

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 tlme 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 oitrated with

API service ciassificalion SF,,SG or SH. Setect the oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your expected operating temperature.

Hardened T g Blade washer edge adapter

GRASS CATCHER , The grass catcher may be hosed with

water, but must be dry when used.

° Check your grass catcher often for

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

needs replacing, replace only with a manufacturer approved replacement

catcher. Give the lawn mower model number when ordering.

DRIVE WHEELS

Check front drive wheels each time before you mow to be sure they move

freely. The wheels not turning freely means

trash, grass cuttings, etc. are in the drive

wheel area and must be cleaned to free drive wheels.

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

TI_'MPERA_URE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30,

10W30 etc,) improve sta_ng 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

operation or at least once a year if the lawn mower is not used for 25 hours in one year.

Check the crankcase oil level before starting the engine and after each five (5) hours of

continuous use. Tighten oil plug securely each timeyou check the oil level.

TOCHANGEENGINEOIL

NOTE: Beforetippinglawnmowertodrain

oil,drainfueltankbyrunningengineuntilfuel tankisempty.

• Disconnectsparkplugwirefromspark plugandplacewirewhereitcannotcome Incontactwithsparkplug.

- Removeengineoilcap;layasideona cleansurface.

• l]p lawnmoweronitssideasshownand drainoilintoa suitablecontainer.Rock

lawnmowerbackandforthtoremoveany oiltrappedinsideofengine,

- Wipeoffanyspilledoflonlawnmowerand onsideofengine.

• Fill engine with oil Fill only to 'dqe"FULL"

line on the dipstick. DO NOT overfill.

_, Replace engine oll cap. ° Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.

lj.Contatner

AIR FILTER Your engine will not run properly and may

be damaged by using a dirty air filter.

Replace the atr filter every year, more

often if you mow in very dusty, dirty conditions.

TO CLEAN AIR FILTER = Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove. ° Carefully remove cartridge.

• Clean by gently tapping on a flat surface. If very dirty, replace cartridge.

as_CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such

erosene, are not to be used to clean

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

not use pressurized air to clean or dry cartridge.

• Install cartridge, then replace cover making sure the tabs are aligned with

the slots In the back plate. Fasten screw securely.

Back

Slots

Cover

tabs

Cartridge Cover

MUFFLER

inspect and replace corroded muffler as it could create a fire hazard and/or dam-

age. SPARKPLUG

Change your spark plug each year to make your engine start easier and run

better. Set spark plug gap at .030 inch. CLEANING

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

trash. Clean the underside of your mower after each use.

&CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug

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

spark plug.

• "rumlawn mower on its side..Make sure air filterand carburetor are up. Clean the

underside of your lawn mower by scraping

to remove buildup of grass and trash.

o Clean engine often to keep trash from

accumulating. A dogged engine runs hotter and shortens engine llfe.

• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of al! 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 inshortened

engine fife_

GLEAN 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 buildup of

trash or grass on underside of drive cover.

AUTION: BEFORE PERFORMING SERVICE OR 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 can

not 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 lawn mower, is

provided to minimize the possibility that objects will be thrown out the rear of the

lawn mower into the operator's mowing position. If the rear 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 beff off it.

• Turn lawn mower on its side with

carburetor and fuel cap up.

• Remove blade.

° Remove debrls shield._ ° Remove belt from engine pulley on

crankshaft.

= Instatl new belt by reversing above

steps.

= Always use factory approved belt to

assure fit and long life.

o To change from medium low to medium

hlgh position, the upper and lower handle sections will have to be tumed over.

° Remove the cable dips.

• 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

resence 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 over tighten the

fasteners holding the controls to the upper handle.

• To change from medium tow to high position only the upper handle section

will have to be turned over.

o To change from medium low to low

position, only the lower handle section

wtli have to be turned over.

Shipping position

Medium low

Medium high

Drive

cover Belt

Push down

TO ADJUST HANDLE Your lawn mower handie 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 posltlon.

Low

Lower" handle Lower Frame

Squeeze to remove

Handle bracket

Hairpin cotter

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER o Insert teg of tubular frame through front

opening of grass catcher and thread

frame into sewn hem of bag. NOTE: Keep bag hem gathered on the straight leg of the tubular frame.

, When frame comes out the other end of

sewn hem, immediately work the end of

frame down inside the bag as shown in

inset.

° Slide sewn hem evenly around the

tubular frame until both ends of frame

are exposed out of the front opening.

• Assemble lower frame to tubular frame as shown. Be sure handle is outside of

bag and frames are fully seated as shown in inset.

• 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.

° Close the flip !id. Flip lid must be closed

while operating lawn mower.

_OAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower without clipping deflector or

approved grass catcher in place. Never attempt to operate the lawn mower with the rear door removed or propped open.

Sewn hem

Tubular frame

t ,

Sewn hem

Flip lid

(Frames must

,be fully

--7' _ ,

9 t -'

• Tubular Frame

Lower frame handle

"N J "

__bindings ""

ENGINE ENGINE SPEED

Your engine speed has been faclory set,

Do not attempt to increase engine speed

or it may result in personal injury. If you

believe that the engine is running too fast

or too stow, take your fawn mower to an authorized service center for repair and

adjustment.

CARBURETOR

Your carburetor is not adjustable. If your engine does not operate properly due to

suspected carburetor problems, take your lawn mower to an authorized service

center for repair and/or adjustment. IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the

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

engine above the factory high speed setting can be dangerous. If you think the engine-governed high speed needs

adjusting, contact your nearest

AUTHORIZED service center, which has

proper equipment and experience to make any necessary adjustments.

+ 33 hidden pages

Craftsman 917377830 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual