Craftsman 917377841 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

CRIIFTSMRN°

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

6.5 Horsepower Power-Propelled

21" Multi-Cut

Model No.

917.377841

• Espahol, p. 20

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 ..................... 5-6

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

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

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

Service and Adjustments ................... 15-17

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

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

Repair Parts ....................................... 38-47

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, Roebuck And 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.

_¢l,Look for this symbol to point out

important safety precautions. It means

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

• I,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 in con-

tact with plug. A_,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.

Ai_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

hands after handling.

• 1,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 aclosed 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 to prevent accidental starting.

• Keepnutsandbolts,especiallyblade attachmentbolts,tightand keepequip-

mentingoodcondition.

• Nevertamperwith safetydevices.Check theirproperoperationregularly.

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

• Stopandinspectthe equipmentifyou strikean object.Repair,if necessary, beforerestarting.

• Neverattempttomakewheelheightadjust-

• Grasscatchercomponentsaresubject to wear,damage,anddeterioration,

whichcouldexposemovingpartsor allowobjectsto bethrown.Frequently checkcomponentsand replacewith

manufacturer'srecommendedparts,

whennecessary.

• Mowerbladesare sharp and can cut. Wrapthe blade(s)or weargloves,and

useextracautionwhenservicingthem.

• Donotchangethe enginegovernorset- ting or overspeedtheengine.

mentswhiletheengine(motor)isrunning.

SerialNumber: Dateof Purchase:

GasolineCapacity/Type: 1.0 Quarts (Unleaded Regular)

Oil Type (API-SF-SJ): SAE 10W30 Oil Capacity: 18.5 Ounces

Spark Plug (Gap: .030") NGK BPR6ES

Valve Clearance (± 0.04 mm): Intake: 0.015 mm; Exhaust: 0.020 mm

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

\\ GRASS CATCHERS GRASS CATCHERS

_\\ \\\ FOR FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

LAWN MOWERS LAWN MOWERS

REAR DISCHARGE SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

BELTS BLADES

FOR STABILIZER

AIR FILTERS

BLADE ADAFq'ERS WHEELS

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 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 align hole in handle with one of the height positioning holes

in handle bracket.

2. Insert handle bolt through handle and bracket and secure with knob.

3. Repeat for opposite side of handle.

4. Remove protective padding, raise up- per handle section into place on lower handle and tighten both handle knobs.

5. 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

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

1. Slide grass catcher bag over the frame. Make sure the rear handle is on top

(the same side as the front handle) and the strap is on the bottom.

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.

3. Close grass catcher door. NOTE: When fully closed, door will "snap" shut over frame and vinyl bindings.

_Rear

handle

LIFT UF

Knob

Handle" bmc_t

Mowing position

Lower handle

4__ Bolt

Front

Grass catcher

Vinyl

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS

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

bagging or discharging, see "TO CON- VERT MOWER" in the Operation section

of this manual.

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND 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

Drive control lever

Starter handle

Grass catcher

Engine oil cap

with

Muffler

Mulcher door

Gasoline filler cap

Air filter

Dual

point

height

adjuster

lever

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.

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

Starter handle - used for starting engine. Mulcher door - allows conversion to

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

Theoperationof any lawn mowercan resultinforeign objectsthrownintothe eyes,whichcanresultin

severeeye damage.Always wearsafetyglassesor eyeshieldswhile operatingyourlawnmoweror performing any adjustmentsor repairs.Werecom-

mendastandardsafetyglassesor wide

visionsafetymask wornoverspectacles.

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

• i,CAUTION: Federal regulations require an engine control to be installed on this

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

any circumstances attempt to defeat the function of the operator control. The blade

turns when the engine is running.

• Your lawn mower is equipped with an

operator presence control bar which requires the operator to be positioned

behind the lawn mower handle to start and operate the lawn mower.

DRIVE CONTROL

• Self-propelling is controlled by 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 only the drive control lever. 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.

_=ratorpresence control bar

Drive

Adjustment ENGAGE

button (on DRIVE

underside) CONTROL

control lever

DISENGAGED

DRIVE

CONTROL

• To keep drive control engaged when turning corners, push down on the

handle to lift the front wheels off the

ground while turning lawn mower.

DRIVE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT Over time, the drive control system may be-

come "loose", resulting in decreased speed. There isa button on the underside ofthe drive

control housing to increase tension on the drive cable. Proceed as follows:

1. Turn mower engine off and disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug.

2. Pull out button on underside of drive control, then push it back in.

3. Operate mower to see if drive speed has increased. If there is no increase,

the drive belt is worn and needs to be replaced.

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

Both front wheels are adjusted by a single

lever on the left front wheel. Likewise, both rear wheels are adjusted by a single

lever on the left rear wheel.

• Pull adjuster lever toward wheel. To

raise mower, move lever forward to

desired position. To lower mower, move the lever backward to desired position.

Be sure to adjust both front and rear

wheels to the same height.

usterlever

LEVER BACKWARD TO LOWER MOWER

LEVER FORWARD

TO RAISE MOWER

TO CONVERT MOWER

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

bagging or side discharging:

REAR BAGGING

• Remove knob securing mulcher door to

lawn mower housing.

• Open mulcher door and insert tabs

of discharge chute into hinge bracket opening and position rear of chute over

threaded stud.

. Discharge chute tabss _.

Hinge bracket Mulcher doer

• Secure rear of discharge chute to lawn mower housing with knob.

• Place rear handle of grass catcher on the crossbar of the lawn mower's lower

handle as shown.

• Lift the round door of the discharge chute and place the grass catcher into place on the discharge chute.

NOTE: Be sure round door of discharge

chute rests on grass catcher as shown.

• Mower is now ready for rear bagging operation.

• To convert to mulching operation, remove grass catcher and discharge

chute. Secure mulcher door to mower housing with knob.

• To convert to side discharging opera- tion, remove grass catcher and dis- charge chute. Install side discharge

deflector and secure it to lawn mower housing with knob.

Grass

door

chute

Threaded

Mulcher door

stud

SIDE DISCHARGING

• Grass catcher and discharge chute must be removed.

• Open mulcher door and install front of

side discharge deflector beneath door and position rear over threaded stud.

• Secure rear of side discharge deflector

to lawn mower housing with knob.

• Mower is now ready for side discharging

operation.

• To convert to mulching operation, side

discharge deflector must be removed and mulcher door secured to mower

housing with knob.

• To convert to rear bagging opera-

tion, side discharge deflector must be

removed; discharge chute and grass

catcher installed and discharge chute secured to mower housing with knob.

Mulcher door - Knob

eaded

stud

Side discharge

deflector

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER WHEN

CONVERTING YOUR LAWN MOWER

FOR MULCHING -

1. Grass catcher, discharge chute and side discharge deflector removed.

2. Mulcher door secured to mower hous-

ing with knob.

FOR REAR BAGGING -

1. Side discharge deflector removed.

2. Grass catcher and discharge chute installed with discharge chute secured

to lawn mower housing with knob.

3. Round door of discharge chute resting on top of grass catcher.

FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -

1. Grass catcher and discharge chute

removed.

2. Side discharge deflector installed and secured to mower housing with knob.

• I_CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower without mulcher door closed; side dis- charge deflector installed, or discharge chute and approved grass catcher in place. Never attempt to operate the lawn

mower with mulcher door or round door

removed or propped open.

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER

1. Open round door of discharge chute to move starter rope out and away from

grass catcher.

\ Front

OPEN

Round Starter

door rope

2. Remove grass catcher with clippings from lawn mower using both front and

rear handles.

3. Empty clippings from grass catcher

using both rear handle and strap. The weight of the grass will open the door.

4. Snap door shut over frame before

installing grass catcher on mower.

NOTE: Do not drag the grass catcher

when emptying; it will cause unnecessary wear.

handle

Front

A 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.

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

Bess.

A CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or

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

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.

Gasoline

filler cap

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.

Oil

cap

TO STOP ENGINE

• To stop engine, release operator pres- ence control bar. Wait until blade and

all moving parts have stopped and turn fuel valve to OFF position if you do not

intend to restart the engine soon.

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. Be sure fuel valve is in the ON position.

2. Move choke lever to ON ( I\1 ) position.

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

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

NOTE: The choke lever automatically

begins moving to the OFF position when operator presence control bar is held down to handle.

OFF .Choke lever

Fuel valve lever

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

wil_ 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.

MAINTENANCE BEFOREAPTEREVERY EVERY EVERYBEFORE

EACH EACH 10 25HOURS 100

SCHEDULE USE USE HOURS ORSEASON HOURS STORAGE

Check for Loose Fasteners

_ Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher *

Check Tires

_ Check Drive Wheels

Clean Lawn Mower ....

M Clean under Drive Cover *** O 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

_ 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.

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

(_) Mulcher

door hinge pin

(_ 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 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.

ine oil

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 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.

BLADE CARE

For best results, mower blade must be

kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged

blades. TO REMOVE BLADE

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

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

3. Use a wood block between blade and mower housing to prevent blade from

turning when removing blade bolt.

NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves

and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.

4. Remove blade bolt by turning counter- clockwise.

5. Remove blade and attaching hard- ware (bolt, lock washer and hardened washer).

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.

Trailin

Blade adapter

Lock-

washer

Hardened Blade

Blade washer bolt

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

Maintenance, repair, or replacement of the emission control devices and systems,

which are being done at the customers ex- pense, may be performed by any non-road engine repair establishment or individual. Warranty repairs must be performed by an authorized engine manufacturer's service

outlet.

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

Oil filler cap/dipstick

'F _0 0 30 32 40 80 80 100

'c _ _ -lo o lo 2o

TEMPERA'RJRE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

NOTE: Multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30

etc.) improve starting in cold weather, and you should check your engine oil level fre- quently to avoid possible engine damage from running low on oil. Change the oil after every 25 hours of opera- tion or at 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 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 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.

4. Wipe off any spilled oil from lawn mower or side of engine.

5. Fill engine with oil. The engine oil capacity is 18.5 oz. If oil is not completely drained

from engine, you may not need the entire

container of a 20 oz. bottle of oil. Slowly pour 3/4 of the oilfrom the container down

the oil fill spout into the engine.

6. Wait one minute to allow oil to settle. Use guage on oil fill cap/dipstick for

checking level. Insert dipstick into the

tube and rest the oil fill cap on the tube.

DO NOT thread the cap into the tube when taking reading.

7. Continue adding small amounts of oil and rechecking the dipstick until it reads full. DO NOT overfill, or engine will smoke on startup.

8. Always be sure to retighten oil dipstick before starting engine.

9. Reconnect spark plug wire to plug.

limit

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properly and may

be damaged by using a dirty air filter. Replace the air filter every 100 hours of

operation or every season, whichever oc- curs first. Service air cleaner more often

under dusty conditions.

TO CLEAN AIR FILTER

1. Remove cover.

2. Carefully remove cartridge.

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

AqLCAUTION: 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.

Filter Filter

Cover

Tabs

MUFFLER Tabs

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 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 sea-

son. Scrape underside of cover with putty knife or similar tool to remove any build-up of trash or grass on underside of drive cover.

_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 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 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 and remove drive cover from lawn

mower housing (See Figure A).

Screws_

3. Remove drive cable from anchor, then detach the drive cable spring from the

idler arm assembly (See Figure B).

Idler arm Drive cable anchor

Drive belt

pulley Belt keeper

PIVOT

\ Housing

\ hole

Figure B

4. Pivot idler arm assembly to slacken drive belt, then remove drive belt from

drive pulley, belt keepers and idler arm.

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

6. Remove screw securing debris shield. Note that the debris shield has a tab

which fits into a gap in the housing (See Figure C).

Crankshaft Tab _ Blade

Housing adapter hole (pulley

end)

Lawn

mower

housing

Drive cover

Figure A 15

Trailing edge

Figure C

Hardened

washer

Blade

bolt

Lock-washer

+ 33 hidden pages

Craftsman 917377841 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual