Craftsman 917378030 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

JCRIIFTSMHN" JMOWER

ROTARYLAWN

6.0 Horsepower Power-propelled

22" Side Discharge

Model No.

917.378030

CAUTION:

Read and follow all Safety Rulesand Instructions

beforeoperatingthisequipment

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

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

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

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

Assembly / Pre-Operation ...................... 5

Operation ............................................. 6-9

Maintenance Schedule ........................ 10

Maintenance .................................... 10-13

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 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 crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions

contained in the owner's manual.

Product Specifications .......................... 11

Service and Adjustments ................. 13-14

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

Troubleshooting .............................. 16-17

Repair Parts ..................................... 34-39

Sears S_t,,'ice ......................... Back Cover

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 this product is used in the United States. This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which

vary from state to state.

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

IMPORTANT" This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing 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!!! BECOMEALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

WARNING: In order to prevent accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs,

always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark

plug. A,WARNING" Engine exhaust, some of

its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals

known to the State of California to cau-_e cancer and birth defects or other repro-

ductive harm.

A,WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and

related accessories contain lead and leadcompounds, chemicals known to the

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

Wash hands after handling.

A, 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 thor- oughly 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

discharge 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 barefoot 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 approved 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 mecha- nism 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. Vibration is generally a warning of

trouble.

• Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operat-

ing 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 caution. 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 footing 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 machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

IV. SERVICE

• Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are flammable

and vapors are explosive.

-Use only an approved container.

- Never remove gas cap or add fuel

with the engine running. Allow

engine to cool before refueling. Do

not smoke.

-Never refuel the machine indoors.

- Never store the machine or fuel

container inside where there is an open flame, such as a water heater.

• Never run a machine inside a closed

area.

• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine (motor) running.

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

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep

equipment in good condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to cool before storing.

• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary,

before restarting.

• Never attempt to make wheel height adjustments while the engine (motor) is

running.

• Grass catcher components are subject

to wear, damage, and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or

allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with manufacturer's recommended parts, when necessary.

• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and

use extra caution when servicing them.

• Do not change the engine governor

setting or overspeed the engine.

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. 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

CLIPPING DEFLECTOR

FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS MULCHER KITS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

SIDE DISCHARGE

GRASS CATCHERS

LAWN MOWERS

FOR

STABILIZER

GAS CANS

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 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 necessary to ensure proper tightness. All parts such as nuts, wash-

ers, 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.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so

as not to pinch or damage control cables.

1. Raise handles until lower handle

section locks into place in mowing position.

2. Remove protective padding, raise

upper handle section into place on lower handle and tighten both handle

knobs.

3. Remove handle padding holding

operator presence control bar to upper handle.

Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted

for your mowing comfort. Refer to "ADJUST HANDLE" in the Service and

Adjustments section of this manual.

Operator[ control bar

Upper

LIFT UF

Mowing position

Lower handle

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS Your lawn mower was shipped ready to

be used as a mulcher. To convert mower to bagging or discharging, see "TO

CONVERT MOWER" in the Operation section of this manual.

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND ALL SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR

LAWN MOWER. Compare the illustrationswith your lawn mower to familiarize yourselfwith the locationof variouscontrols 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

Throttle control

"Drive control lever

.Engine zone control cable

Starter handle

Gasoline filler cap

Discharge

guard

Air filter

-Handle knob

Engine oil cap with dipstick

Primer

Muffler

Wheel adjuster (on eachwheel)

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 Commis- sion. The blade turns when the engine is running.

Operator presence control bar - must be held downto the handle to startthe engine.

Release to stop the engine. Starter handle - used for startingthe engine.

Pdmer - pumps additional fuel from the carburetorto the cylinderfor use when startinga coldengine.

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

mower. Throttle control - used for starting the engine and allows you to select either

FAST or SLOW engine speed.

The operation of any lawn

_=_,_._.s 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 standard safety glasses or wide vision safety mask worn over spectacles.

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED

The engine speed is controlled by a

throttle located on the side of the upper handle. FAST position is for starting,

normal cutting, trimming and better grass bagging. SLOW position is for light

cutting, trimming and fuel economy.

SLOW

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

releasing the lever.

• Forward motion will stop when the operator presence control bar is

released. To stop forward motion

without stopping engine, release the

operator presence control bar slightly until the drive control disengages. Hold operator presence control bar down

against handle to continue mowing without self-propelling.

• To keep drive control engaged when

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

turning lawn mower.

Operator presence control bar Drive

control

FAST

! \

I ii I It

\ I( //

/_, //

I I

/p--

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

TO ENGAGE

DRIVE CONTROL

CONTROL

DISENGAGED

TO ADJUST cu'n'ING 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-

ments. 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 WHEELS FOR HIGH CUT

RAISE WHEELS FOR LOW CUT Lever

TO CONVERT MOWER

Your mower is shipped ready to be used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging or

discharging:

• Lift discharge guard and remove mulcher plate.

• Mower can now be used for side discharging or optional grass catcher

can be attached.

• To return to mulching operation, simply reinstall mulcher plate as shown.

• I,CAUTION" Do not run your lawn mower without discharge guard, ap-

proved grass catcher or mulcher plate in place.

Discharge

guard

Mulcher

plate

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. A CAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with

oil, or it will smoke on startup.

1. Be sure lawnmower is level and area around oil fill is clean.

2. Remove oil dipstick from oil fill spout. Make sure that rim of spout is clean.

3. You receive a container of oil with the

unit. Slowly pour 3/4 (15 oz.) of the oil

from the container down the oil fill

spout into the engine,

4. Wait one minute to allow oil to settle.

Insert and tighten dipstick, then remove it to check oil level.

5. Continue adding small amounts of oil

and rechecking the dipstick until it

reads full. DO NOT overfill, or engine will smoke on startup.

6. Always be sure to retighten oil dipstick

before starting engine.

• 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.

ADD GASOLINE NOTE: Before filling fuel tank, remove

and discard the debris plug that is inside

the tank.

• 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 freshness.

_1_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 methanol) 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. Drain 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 Engine

(Discard debris cap

ptug inside)

Prim

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 product 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.

TO STOP ENGINE

• To stop engine, release operator

presence control bar.

NOTE: In cooler weather it may be necessary to repeat priming steps. In

warmer weather over priming may cause flooding and engine will not start. If you do flood engine, wait a few minutes

before attempting to start and do not repeat priming steps.

MOWING TIPS

• Under certain,conditions, such as very

tall grass, it rfiay be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the

engine and leaving clumps of grass clippings. It may also be necessary to

reduce ground speed and/or run the lawn mower over the area a second

time.

• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the

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

• For better grass bagging and most cutting conditions, the engine speed

should be set in the FAST position.

• For side discharge lawn mowers, cutting in a counter-clockwise direction,

starting at the outside of the area to be

cut, spreads grass clippings more

evenly and puts less load on the engine. To keep clippings off of walkways, flower beds, etc., make the

first cuts in a clockwise direction.

• Pores in cloth grass catchers can

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

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

• Keep top of engine around starter clear

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

extend engine life.

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

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

trash. See "CLEANING" inthe Maintenance

section of thismanual.

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

them insize so that as they fallonto the

lawn they will disperse intothe grass and not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass

willbiodograde quickly to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always mulchwith your

highest engine (blade) speed as this will providethe best recuttingaction ofthe

blades.

• Avoid cuttingyour lawn when it iswet. Wet grass tends to form clumps and interferes with the mulchingaction. The besttime to

mow your lawn isthe early afternoon. At thistime the grass has dried and the newly

cut area will not be exposed to the direct

sun.

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

off only the top one-third of the grass

blades. If the lawn is overgrown it will be necessary to raise the height of cut to

reduce pushing effort and to keep from

overloading the engine and leaving clumps of mulched grass. For extremely

heavy grass, reduce your width of cut by overlapping previously cut path and mow

slowly.

MAX 1/3

• Certain types of grass and grass 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 firstcut path.

• Change your cuttingpattern from week to week. Mow northto south one week then

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

the lawn.

FI'L,NDATES

AS YOU COMPLETE /_',_/'_0_',,_'_'_ ......

Check for Loose Fasteners Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher

(If Equipped) I_ _ _'

M Clean Lawn MowerClean Under Drive Cover

(Power-Propelled Mowers)

_E Check drive belt/pulleys

(Power-Propelled Mowers) I_

R Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade b/3

Lubrication Chart V' II/

Clean Battery/Recharge (Electric Start Mowers ! I_ V'4

E Check Engine Oil Level I_

Change En_line Oil I/1,2

Inspect Muffler

G clean Air Filter _ 2

N Clean or Replace Spark Plug

Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge 1_2

1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures.

2 - Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions.

3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil. 4 - Charge 48 hours at end 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 Adjust-

ments section of this manual should be checked at least once each season.

• 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.

(_) Spray lubricant (_) See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section.

,or

LUBRICATION CHART

Wheel

adjuster (on

each wheel)

oil

Discharge

guard hinge pin

(_) Handle bracket mounting pins

LUBRICATION

Keep unitwell lubricated(See "LUBRICATION

CHART").

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease

plastic wheel bearings. Viscous

lubricants will attract dust and dirt that

will shorten the life of the self-lubricat-

ing bearings. If you feel they must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered

graphite type lubricant sparingly.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Serial number:

Date of purchase: Gasoline capacity / type: 1.6 quarts (Unleaded Regular) Oil type (API-SF-SJ): SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)

Oil capacity: 20 ounces Spark plug (gap: .030") Champion RJ19LM4 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 mower housing. Record both serial number and date of purchase in space provided above.

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when perform- ing any maintenance.

TIRES

• Keep tirosfree of gasoline, oil, or insect controlchemicals which can harm rubber.

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

tire damage.

BLADECARE

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).

NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and check the key inside hub of blade adapter. The key must be in good condi-

tion to work properly. Replace adapter if damaged.

TO REPLACE BLADE

1. Position the blade adapter on the engine 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

(opposite 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 grade 8 heat

treated. TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen- ing 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.

Blade adaptel Crankshaft

/ keyway

Blade

Blade 3rank bolt shaft

washer Trailing edge Blade adapter

GRASS CATCHER

(If purchased as an accessory)

• The grass catcher may be hosed with water, but must be dry when used.

• Check your grass catcher often for damage or deterioration. Through

normal use it will wear. If catcher needs replacing, replace only with a

manufacturer approved replacement

catcher. Give the lawn mower model

number when ordering.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated with API service classification SF-SJ.

Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your expected operating

temperature.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

-20 0 30 32 40 60 80 100

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

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

engine until fuel tank is empty.

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

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

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

Rock lawn mower back and forth to remove any oil trapped inside of

engine.

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

5. Fill engine with oil. (See "ADD OIL" in the Operation section of this manual).

6. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.

TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED 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°1:. 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 orat least once a year if the

lawn mower is not used for 25 hours in one year.

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

hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plug securely each time you check the oil

level.

Container

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

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

TO CLEAN AIR FILTER

1. Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove.

2. Carefully remove cartridge.

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

ACAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as

kerosene, 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.

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

the slots in the back plate. Fasten

screw securely.

Back

Lip

Cover

Ca_ridge Cover tabs

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it

could create a fire hazard and/or dam-

age.

SPARK PLUG

Replace spark plugs 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 "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS" in Maintenance section of this manual.

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance, kiip

mower housing free of built-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.

• 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

shortened engine life.

_1_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 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. DISCHARGE GUARD

The discharge guard, attached to the discharge opening of your lawn mower, is

provided to prevent the possibility of injury resulting from objects being thrown

out of the discharge opening into the operator mowing position. If the discharge guard becomes damaged, it should be

replaced.

TO REMOVE DRIVE BELT

1. Remove drive cover. Remove belt from gearcase pulley by pushing

down on pulley and rolling belt off it.

2. Turn lawn mower on its side with air filter and carburetor up.

3. Remove blade.

4. Remove debris shield.

5. Remove belt from engine pulley on crankshaft.

TO REPLACE DRIVE BELT

1. Install new belt on engine pulley.

2. Reinstall debris shield and blade.

3. Return mower to upright position.

4. Install new belt on gearcase pulley.

5. Reinstall drive cover.

NOTE: Always use factory approved belt

to assure fit and long life.

Lower handle

ROTATE

Drive

cover

Push

Belt

TO ADJUST HANDLE

The handle can be mounted in a high or

low position. The mounting holes in the

bottom of lower handle are off center for

raising or lowering the handle.

1. Remove upper handle and all parts attached to lower handle.

2. Remove hairpin cotters from lower handle bracket mounting pin.

3. Squeeze lower handle in to remove it from mounting pins.

4. Turn lower handle over to raise or lower handle.

5. Squeeze lower handle in and position holes onto mounting pins on handle

bracket.

6. Reassemble upper handle and all parts removed from lower handle.

Mowing

Mowing i-_ position /

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t JI [

Hairpin

Mounting - pin

LOW POSITION

HIGH POSITION

ENGINE

ENGINE SPEED Your engine speed has been factory set.

Do not attempt to increase engine speed or it may result in personal injury. If you

believe that engine is running too fast or too slow, take your mower to a Sears or

other qualified 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 a Sears or other qualified

• service center for repair and/or adjust-

ment. IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the

engine governor, which 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 a Sears or other qualified service center, which has proper

equipment and experience to make any

necessary adjustments.

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+ 30 hidden pages

Craftsman 917378030 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual