Craftsman 917378401 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

IC..FTSMnWl

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

6.75 Horsepower Power-Propelled

21" Rear Discharge

Model No.

917.378401

• EspaSol, p. 18

CAUTION:

Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this equipment

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

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

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

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

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

Assembly / Pre-Operation ..................... 5-6

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

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

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER For two years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,

lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in the

owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or workmanship.

If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty

applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase. This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent crank- shafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions con-

tained in the owner's manual.

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

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

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

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

Repair Parts ....................................... 34-43

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

Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman power mower to the nearest Sears

Parts & Repair Center in the United States. This warranty applies only while this product is used in the United States.

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

Sears, 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 a closed area.

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

spark plug wire, and keep the wire away

3 from the plug 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.Allowmachineto coolbeforestoring.

• Stop andinspecttheequipmentifyou strikean object.Repair,if necessary, beforerestarting.

• Neverattempttomakewheelheightadjust-

• Grasscatchercomponentsaresubject to wear,damage,anddeterioration,

whichcouldexposemovingpartsor allowobjectsto be thrown.Frequently checkcomponentsand replacewith

manufacturer'srecommendedparts,

whennecessary.

• Mowerbladesare sharpandcancut. Wrapthe blade(s)orweargloves,and

useextracautionwhenservicingthem.

• Donotchangethe enginegovernorset- ting or overspeedtheengine.

mentswhiletheengine(motor)isrunning.

SerialNumber: Dateof Purchase:

GasolineCapacity/Type: 1.6 Quarts (Unleaded Regular)

Oil Type (API-SF-SJ): SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F) Oil Capacity: 20 Ounces Spark Plug (Gap: .030") Champion RJ19LM or J19LM

Blade Bolt Torque: 35-40 ft. Ibs.

• The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal on the rear of the lawn mower housing. Record both serial number and date of purchase in space provided above.

Repair Protection Agreements

Congratulations on making a smart pur- chase. Your new Craftsman® product is

designed and manufactured for years of dependable operation. But like all prod-

ucts, it may require repair from time to

time. That's when having a Repair Protec- tion Agreement can save you money and

aggravation.

Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement now and protect yourself from unexpected hassle and expense.

Here's what's included in the Agreement:

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

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

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

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

nance check.

Fast help by phone - phone support from a Sears technician on products

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

Once you purchase the Agreement, a simple phone call is all that it takes for you

to schedule service. You can call anytime day or night, or schedule a service ap-

pointment online. Sears has over 12,000 professional repair specialists, who have access to over 4.5 million quality parts and accessories. That's the kind of professionalism you can count on to help prolong the life of your new purchase for years to come. Purchase your Repair Protection Agreement today! Some limitations and exclusions apply.

For prices and additional information

call 1-800-827-6655. Sears Installation Service

For Sears professional installation of home appliances, garage door openers, water heaters, and other major home items, in

the U.S.A. call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.

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

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CLIPPING

DEFLECTORS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

STABILIZER

_\\ \\\ FOR

\\ GRASS CATCHERS

LAWN MOWERS

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS AIR FILTERS SPARK PLUGS

BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS ENGINE OIL

Read these instructions and this manual in its entirety before you attempt to assemble

or operate your new lawn mower.

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped

WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.

Your new lawn mower has been as- sembled at the factory with the excep-

tion of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and

proper operation of your lawn mower, all

parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness. All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc.,

necessary to complete the assembly have

been placed in the parts bag.

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

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 handles until lower handle sec- tion locks into place in mowing position.

2. Remove protective padding, raise up- per 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 "AD- JUST HANDLE" in the Service and Adjust-

ments section of this manual.

Operator presence control bar

LIFT UF

Mowing position

Lower handle

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

1. Put grass catcher frame into grass bag with rigid part of bag on the bottom.

Make sure the frame handle is outside of the bag top.

2. Slip vinyl bindings over frame. NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold

them in warm water for a few minutes. If

bag gets wet, let it dry before using.

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS

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

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

TO PREPARE BATTERY NOTE: Your battery must be charged

before you can start your lawn mower.

1. Disconnect engine battery connector (male) from battery connector (female)

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

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

4. Leave battery charger connected for 24 hours before starting your engine

for the first time.

5. After charging, connect engine con- nector (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

_otect the battery during winter storage.

CAUTION: 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.

Charger connector Battery connector

(female)

Catcher frame

handle

Et Frame

opening

Engine connector (mate) Battery charger

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 ! start switch control

bar

Handle knob

Auxiliar'y starter handle

Grass

catcher

Gasoline filler cal:

Air filtel

Housing

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

,Engine oil cap with dipstick

Primer

Muffler

cover

Wheel adjuster (on each 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 U.S. Consumer Product Safety Com-

mission. The blade turns when the engine is running. Operator presence control bar - must

be held down to the handle to start the

engine. Release to stop the engine.

Primer - pumps additional fuel from the carburetor to the cylinder for use when starting a cold engine.

Auxiliary starter handle - used for start-

ing the engine.

Key start switch - used for starting the engine. Drive control bar - used to engage

7 power-propelled forward motion of mower.

Theoperationof any lawn mowercan resultin foreign objectsthrownintothe eyes,whichcan resultin

severeeye damage.Always wearsafetyglassesor eyeshieldswhile operatingyourlawn mowerorperforming any adjustmentsor repairs.We recom-

mendastandardsafetyglassesor wide

visionsafetymaskwornoverspectacles.

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED

The engine speed was set at the factory for optimum performance. Speed is not adjustable.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

A_'_CAUTION: Federal regulations require an engine control to be installed on this

lawn mower in order to minimize the

risk of blade contact injury. Do not under any circumstances attempt to defeat the function of the operator control. The blade turns when the engine is running.

• Your lawn mower is equipped with an

operator presence control bar which requires the operator to be positioned

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

DRIVE CONTROL

• Self-propelling is controlled by hold-

ing the operator presence control bar down to the handle and pulling the drive control bar up to the handle. The closer to the handle the bar is pulled, the faster

the unit will travel.

• Forward motion will stop when either the

operator presence control bar or drive control bar are released. To stop forward motion without stopping engine, release the drive control bar only. Hold operator presence control bar down against handle to continue mowing without self-propelling.

NOTE: If after releasing the drive control the mower will not roll backwards, push the mower forward slightly to disengage

drive wheels.

• 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

become "loose", resulting in decreased speed. There is a thumbscrew on the

underside of the drive control housing to

increase tension on the drive cable. Pro- ceed as follows:

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

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

3. Operate mower to test drive speed.

4. If condition fails to improve after the above steps (forward speed remains the same), your drive belt is worn and should be replaced.

NOTE: If mower begins to "creep" forward, the drive cable is too tight. Rotate thumb-

screw clockwise to loosen drive cable.

_rator presence control bar

control bar

DRIVE DRIVE CONTROL CONTROL

ENGAGED DISENGAGED

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 ad-

juster lever toward wheel. Move wheel

up or down to suit your requirements. 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.

LEVER BACKWARD TO LOWER MOWER

LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER Lever

TO CONVERT MOWER Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be

used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging:

• Lift rear door of the lawn mower and

place the grass catcher frame hooks

onto the door pivot pins.

• To convert to mulching operation, re-

_kmove grass catcher and close rear door.

CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower without rear door closed, clipping deflector or approved grass catcher in place. Never attempt to operate the lawn mower with the rear door removed or propped open.

Plate tab

Pivot )ins Rear Grass

_ catcher

handle

Catcher frame hook

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER

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

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

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

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

Grass

catcher

frame

handle

Bag handle

IMPORTANT:

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

• Change the oil after every 25 hours of

operation or each season. You may

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

CHANGE ENGINE OIE' in the Mainte-

nance section of this manual.

ADD GASOLINE

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

unleaded gasoline with a minimum of

87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.

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

ness.

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.

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

ADD OIL Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in

the engine. For type and grade of oil to

use, see "ENGINE" in the Maintenance

section of this manual.

CAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with

oil, or it will smoke heavily from the muffler on startup.

1. Be sure lawnmower is level.

2. Remove oil dipstick from oil fill spout.

3. You receive a container of oil with the unit. Slowly pour the entire container

down the oil fill spout into the engine.

4. Insert and tighten dipstick.

Engine

oil cap

Gasoline filler cap

Primer

TO STOP ENGINE

• To stop engine, release operator pres-

ence control bar.

TO START ENGINE

NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the

engine, a small amount of smoke may be

present during the initial use of the prod- uct and should be considered 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 al- ready run for a few minutes.

2. Hold operator presence control bar down to the handle and turn the start key.

IMPORTANT: Do not crank engine more

than five continous seconds between each time you try to start. Wait 5 to 10 seconds

between each attempt.

• To start engine using the rope starter,

follow the steps above. Exchange the use of the starter rope for start key. Pull starter handle quickly. Do not allow starter rope to snap back.

NOTE: In cooler weather itmay 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 may be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine and leaving clumps of grass clip- pings. It may also be necessary to re- duce ground speed and/or run the lawn

mower over the area a second time.

• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the

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

• For better grass bagging and most cut-

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

• When using a rear discharge lawn

mower in moist, heavy grass, clumps of cut grass may not enter the grass

catcher. Reduce ground speed (pushing • speed) and/or run the lawn mower over

the area a second time.

• If a trail of clippings is left on the right

side of a rear discharge mower, mow in a clockwise direction with a small overlap to collect the clippings on the next pass. •

• Pores in cloth grass catchers can be-

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

prevent this, regularly hose catcher off 10

with water and let dry before using.

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

MULCHING MOWING TIPS IMPORTANT: For best performance,

keep mower housing free of built-up grass and trash. See "CLEANING" in the

Maintenance section of this manual.

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

reduce them in size so that as they fall

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

mulched grass will biodegrade quickly

to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always

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

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

interferes with the mulching action. The

best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon. At this time the grass has dried, yet the newly cut area will not be exposed to direct sunlight.

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

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

mow slowly.

MAXI_

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 SCHEDULE /_:;,_°_o_y

AS YOU COMPLETE S

REGO RSERV,CE

Lubrication It#' CheckTires tf' CheckDriveWheels

(Power-Propelled Mowers) I_

Check for Loose Fasteners t_' Ikf Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher

(If Equipped) _

W Clean Lawn Mower _

RE Clean Under Drive Cover(Power-Propelled Mowers)

Check drive belt/pulleys (Power-Propelled Mowers)

Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade Clean Battery/Recharge IElectdc Start MowersI

E Check Engine Oil Level

Change Engine Oil

G Clean Air Filter

Inspect Muffler

N Replace Spark Plug

Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge

1- Changemoreoftenwhenopem6ngundera heavyloadorinhigh ambienttemperatures.

2 - Service moraoftenwhen operatingindirtyordustyconditions, 3 - Replacebladesmoreoftenwhen mowinginsandysoil,

V'=

4 - Charge 48 hoursatend ofseason. 5 - And aftereach5 hoursofuse.

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

Wheel

adjuster (on

each wheel)

;ne oil

(_) Rear door

hinge

(_) 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 dirtthatwill shorten the life of the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel they

must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered

11graphite type lubricant sparingly.

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when per- forming any maintenance.

TIRES

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

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

DRIVE WHEELS

Check 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.

1. Remove hubcaps, Iocknuts and washers.

2. Remove wheels from wheel adjusters.

3. Remove any trash or grass cuttings

from inside the dust cover, pinion and/

or drive wheel gear teeth.

4. Put wheels back in place.

NOTE: If after cleaning, the drive wheels do not turn freely, contact a Sears or other qualified service center.

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 hardware (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 (oppo- site sharp edge) is up toward the engine.

3. Install the blade bolt with the lock washer and hardened washer into

blade adapter and crankshaft.

4. Use block of wood between blade and lawn mower housing and tighten the

blade bolt, turning clockwise.

• The recommended tightening torque is

35-40 ft. Ibs.

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is heat treated.

If bolt needs replacing, replace only with

approved bolt shown in the Repair Parts section of this manual.

Blade adapter Crankshaft

Key _ keyway

Blade

Blade shaft bolt / \

washer Trailing edge Blade adapter

TO SHARPEN BLADE NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening

the blade - but ifyou do, be sure the blade is balanced.

Care should be taken to keep the blade bal- anced. An unbalanced blade will cause even-

tual damage to lawn mower or engine.

• The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower.

• To check blade balance, drive a nail into a beam or wall. Leave about one inch of

the straight nail exposed. Place center

hole of blade over the head of the nail. If blade is balanced, it should remain in

a horizontal position. If either end of the

blade moves downward, sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced.

GRASS CATCHER

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

• Check your grass catcher often for dam- age or deterioration. Through normal

use it will wear. If catcher needs replac- ing, replace only with approved replace- ment catcher shown in the Repair Parts

section of this manual. Give the lawn

mower model number when ordering.

GEAR CASE

• To keep your drive system working

properly, the gear case and area around the drive should be kept clean and free of trash build-up. Clean under the drive

cover twice a season.

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

the lubricant needs attention is if service

has been performed on the gear case.

• If lubricant is required, use only Texaco Starplex Premium 1 Grease, part num-

ber 750639. Do not substitute.

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

F -20 0 30 32 40 60 80 100

TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTECIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in

cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils will

result in increased oil consumption when used above 32°E Check your engine oil

level more frequently to avoid possible

engine damage from running low on oil. Change the oil after every 25 hours of opera-

tion orat least once a year ifthe lawn mower

is not used for 25 hours in one year.

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

hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plug

securely each time you check the oil level. TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain oil, empty fuel tank by running engine until fuel tank is empty.

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

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

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

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

6. Stop adding oil when you reach the FULL mark on the dipstick. Wait a

minute to allow oil to settle.

7. Continue adding small amounts of oil, rechecking the dipstick until oil level

settles at FULL. DO NOT overfill, or engine will smoke heavily from the

muffler on startup.

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

9. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.

AIR FILTER Your engine will not run properly and

may be damaged by using a dirty air

filter. Replace the air filter cartridge every

100 hours of operation or every season,

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 sur-

face. If very dirty, replace cartridge.

_I,CAUTION: 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

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

5. Slowly pour oil down the oil fill spout, stopping every few ounces to check the oil level with the dipstick.

Cover

Cartridge Cover tabs

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it

could create a fire hazard and/or damage.

SPARK PLUG Replace spark plug at the beginning of

each mowing season or after every 100

hours of operation, whichever occurs

first. Spark plug type and gap setting are shown in the "PRODUCT SPECIFIC-

ATIONS" section of this manual.

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep

mower housing free of built-grass and

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

_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.

_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 the

deflector becomes damaged, it should be

replaced.

TO REMOVE DRIVE BELT

1. Remove drive cover and belt keeper.

2. Remove beltfromgearcasepulleybypush- ing down on pulley and rolling belt off it.

3. Turn lawn mower on its side with air

filter and carburetor down.

4. Remove blade and 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 belt keeper and drive cover.

NOTE: Always use factory approved belt

to assure fit and long life.

• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of all gasoline, oil, etc.

• We do not recommend using a garden

hose to clean lawn mower unless the

electrical system, muffler, air filter and carburetor are covered to keep water out. Water in engine can result in short- ened engine life.

CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER

Clean under drive cover at least twice a season. Scrape underside of cover with

putty knife or similar tool to remove any build-up of trash or grass on underside of

drive cover.

Drive cover

Belt keeper

PUSH DOWN

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 wire tie(s) securing cable(s) to lower handle.

2. Remove trimplate from lower handle.

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

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

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

6. Squeezelowerhandleinandpositionholes onto mounting pins on handle bracket.

7. Reassemble trimplate to lower handle.

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

Mowing Mowing

f /

s_on )osition S _'

/ /

Mounting.- r_

14 p_n LOW POSITION HIGH POSITION

+ 30 hidden pages

Craftsman 917378401 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual