Craftsman 917378521 Owner’s Manual
Owner's Manual
JCRRFTSMnN'I
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
5.5 Horsepower
Power-Propelled
21" Multi-Cut
Model No.
917.378521
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rulesand Instructions
beforeoperatingthisequipment
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
Visit ourCraftsman website:www.sears.com/craltsman
Warranty ............................................... 2
Safety Rules ...................................... 2-4
Assembly / Pre-Operation .................... 5
Operation ......................................... 6-10
Maintenance Schedule ...................... 11
Maintenance ................................. 11-14
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.
Product Specifications ........................ 12
Service and Adjustments .............. 14-15
Storage ......................................... 16-17
Troubleshooting ........................... 17-18
Repair Parts .................................. 37-45
Sears Service ...................... Back Cover
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.
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, Roebuck and 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.
ALook for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!H BECOMEALERT!!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
A CAUTION: Always disconnect spark
plug wire and place wire where it cannot
contact spark plug in order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs.
_I,WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of
its constituents, and certain vehicle
components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause
cancer and birth defects or other repro-
ductive harm.
AWARNING: 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.
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.
2
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
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
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.
II1. 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.
3
• 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 accessorieswere availablewhenthislawnmowerwas produced. They are not
shipped with your mower. They are also availableat mostSears retailoutletsandsewice
centers. Most Sears storescan alsoorderrepairpartsfor you,whenyou providethe model
numberofyourlawnmower. Some of these accessoriesmay notapply toyourlawnmower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS
CUPPING DEFLECTOR
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
'
MULCHERK_S
"
J
FOR
SIDE DISCHARGE
GRASS CATCHERS
LAWN MOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS AIR FILTERS SPARK PLUGS
BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS ENGINE OIL
STABILIZER
GAS CANS
4
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. All parts such as nuts,
washers, bolts, etc., necessary to com-
plete the assembly have been placed in
the parts bag. 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.
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 thorougly 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 "AD-
JUST HANDLE" in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual.
Operator I
control bar
UI
Mowing
position
Lower handle
TO INSTALL A'I-FACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to
be used as a mulcher. To convert to
bagging or discharging, see 'TO CON-
VERT MOWER" in the Operation section
of this manual).
5
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
Throttle/
choke
contr
Starter
handle
Grass catcher
Engine oil cap
with
Mulcher door
Operator presence control bar
Drive control lever
Handle knob
_asoline filler cap
Air filter
Housing
cover
adjuster (on each wheel)
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 down to the handle to start the
engine. Release to stop the engine.
Starter handle - used for starting the
engine.
Mulcher door - allows conversion to
discharging or bagging operation,
Drive control lever - used to engage
power-propelled forward motion of lawn
mower.
Throttle/choke control - used forstarting
the engine; & allows you toselecteither
CHOKE or FAST engine speed.
6
The operation of any lawn
mower can result in foreign
objects thrown into the
eyes, which can result in
severe eye damage.
Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields while operating your lawn mower
or performing any adjustments or repairs.
We recommend standard safety glasses
or a wide vision safety mask worn over
spectacles.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE CONTROL
The engine is controlled by a throttle
control located on the side of the upper
handle. CHOKE position is for starting a
cold engine and FAST position is for
starting a warm engine and normal
operation. The engine speed is not
adjustable. ,_
FAST.
CHOKE ,'" "'"
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 inju_. 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 holding
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 the drive control lever
only. Hold operator presence control
bar down against handle to continue
mowing without self-propelling.
rr" t
### t I
I( /,
_.T."
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 comers, push down on the
handle to lift the front wheels off the
ground while turning lawn mower.
control bar
TO
Adjustment ENGAGE DRIVE
button (on DRIVE CONTROL
underside) CONTROL DISENGAGED
DRIVE CONTROL ADJUSTMENT
Over time, the drive control system may
become "loose", resulting in decreased
speed. There is a button on the under-
side of the drive control housing to
increase tension on the drive cable.
Proceed as follows:
1. Turn unit off and disconnect spark
plug wire from spark plug.
2. Pull drive control lever all the way
back to the handle.
3. Push button on underside of drive
control. While holding button in,
return drive control lever to disen-
gaged position.
4. Release button.
5. Operate mower to test drive speed. If
condition becomes worse after the
above steps (forward speed has
become slower), your system was not
"loose". Repeating the above steps
will return your unit to the proper
adjustment and speed.
6. If condition fails to improve after the
above steps (forward speed remains
the same), your drive belt is worn and
should be replaced.
TO ADJUST cu'n'ING HEIGHT
Raise wheels for tow 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
7 plate tabs.
LOWER WHEELS FOR HIGH CUT
ACAUTION: 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.
RAISE WHEELS FOR LOW CUT
TO CONVERT MOWER
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to
be used as a mulcher. To convert to
bagging or discharging:
REAR BAGGING
• Lift rear door of the lawn mower and
place the grass catcher frame hooks
onto the door pivot pins.
• To convert to mulching or discharging
operation, remove grass catcher and
close rear door.
Pivot " Rear Grass
"------ catcher
Lever
handle
mulcher door
Catcher frame hook
SIDE DISCHARGING
• Rear door must be closed.
• Open mulcher door and install dis-
charge deflector under door as shown.
• Mower is now ready for discharging
operation.
• To convert to mulching or bagging
operation, discharge deflector must be
removed and mulcher door must be
closed.
SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER WHEN
CONVERTING YOUR LAWN MOWER
FOR MULCHING -
t. Rear door closed.
2. Mulcher door closed.
FOR REAR BAGGING -
1. Grass catcher installed.
2. Mulcher door closed.
FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -
1. Rear door closed.
2. Side discharge deflector installed.
Discharge
8
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
emptying; it will cause unnecessary wear.
Grass
catcher
frame
handle
Bag
handle
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.
• 1,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 (12 oz,) of the oil
from the container down the oil fill
spout into the engine.
4. 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.
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
• 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
_ldays to assure fuel freshness.
CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or
fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline
near an open flame.
_1=CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels
(called gasohol or using ethanol or
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.
Oil filler cap/dipstick
Gasoline
filler cap
Oil
cap
9
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. Be sure fuel valve is in the ON
position.
2. To start a cold engine, move handle
mounted throttle/choke control lever to
CHOKE position.
3. Hold operator presence control bar
down to the handle and pull starter
handle quickly. Do not allow starter
rope to snap back.
4. Slowly move throttle control lever to
FAST position after engine starts.
• To start a warm engine, move throttle
control lever to FAST position, then
follow steps above.
TO STOP ENGINE
To stop engine, release operator
presence 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.
ON
Fuel valve lever
• 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 c)ippings 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 _awn 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 recutting 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 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.
MOWING TIPS
• Under certain conditions, such as very
tail grass, it may be necessary to raise
the height of cut to reduce pushing
effort and to keep from overloading the
engine and leaving clumps of grass
clippings. It may also be necessary to
reduce ground speed and/or run the
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.
• 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
second cut, mow across or perpendicu-
lar 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
10 and graining of the lawn.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE _,,,____,,I
AsYouCOMP'ETE S RV'CE
REGULARSERVICE J__. _?'.._'_.._ f" DATES
Check forLoose Fasteners i#/ i/
Clean'InspectGrassCatcher
(If Equipped) _ _
M Clean Lawn Mower
O Clean Under Drive Cover(Power-Propelled Mowers) !/
Check drivebelVpulleys
RE (Power-Propelled Mowers) I#/
ChecldSharpen/Replace Blade _3
LubncationChart i/
Clean Baffe,'y/Recharge
ElectricStart MowersI _ VP4
! E Check En_lineOil Level !,/
N Change Engine Oil I/1,:_
G Clean Air Filter I/ 2
I InspectMuffler
N clean or Replace Spark Plug v'
E ReplaceAirFilterPaperCartridge V'2
1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures.
2 - Sen.ice more often when operating in dirty ordusty conditions.
3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy so!l,
4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season.
mill /lab
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 adjust-
ments will need to be made periodically
to properly maintain your unit.
All adjustments in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual
should be checked at least once each
season.
• Once a year, replace the spark plug,
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
1. Check engine oil level.
2. Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRI-
CATION CHART").
LUBRICATION CHART
adjuster (on
each wheel)
) door hinge pin
(_) Handle bracket mountingpins
(_) 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-lubricat-
ing bearings. If you feel they must be
lubricated, use only a dry, powdered
graphite type lubricant sparingly,
11
Wheel
ine oil
Mulcher
Rear door
hinge
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Serial Number:
Date of Purchase:
Gasoline Capacity / Type: 1.0 Quarts (Unleaded Regular)
Oil Type (API-SFoSJ): SAE 10W30
Oil Capacity: 18.5 Ounces
Spark Plug (Gap: .030") NGK BPR6ES
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 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.
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).
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 gdnding 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
Blade
Blade shaft
bolt Harden
12
washer Trailing edge Blade adapter
GRASS CATCHER
• The grass catcher may be hosed with
water, but must be dry when used.
• Check your grass catcher often for
damage or deterioration. Through
normal use it will wear. If catcher needs
replacing, replace only with a manufac-
turer approved replacement catcher.
Give the lawn mower model number
when ordering.
DRIVE WHEELS
Check front drive wheels each time
before you mow to be sure they move
freely.
The wheels not turning freely means
trash, grass cuttings, etc. are in the drive
wheel area and must be cleaned to free
drive wheels.
If necessary to clean the drive wheels, be
sure to clean both front wheels.
1. Remove hubcaps, hairpin cotters 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.
GEAR CASE
• To keep your drive system working
properly, the gear case and area
around the drive should be kept clean
and free of trash build-up. Clean under
the drive cover twice a season.
• The gear case is filled with lubricant to
the proper level at the factory. The only
time the lubricant needs attention is if
service has been performed on the
gear case.
• If lubricant is required, use only Texaco
Starplex Premium 1 Grease, Part No.
750369. Do not substitute.
SAE VISCOSFrY GRADES
.30 =20 .to 0 10 =20 30
_-MPIE_RE RA_E ANTIC_ATED B_ORE N_ OIL C_-NGE
NOTE: Multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30
etc.) improve starting in cold weather, and
you should check your engine oil level
frequently to avoid possible engine
damage from running low on oil.
Change the oil after every 25 hours of
operation or at least once a year if the
lawn mower is not used for 25 hours in
one year.
Check the crankcase oil level before
starting the engine and after each five (5)
hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plug
securely each time you check the oil
level.
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.
Oil filler cap/dipstick
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.
limit
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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. Remove cover.
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.
Filter Filter
Cover
Tabs
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 "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"
in Maintenance section of this manual.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For best performance,
keep mower housing free of built-up
grass and trash. Clean the underside of
your mower after each use.
_CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come in contact with the spark
plug.
• 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.
Tabs
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it
could create a fire hazard and/or dam-
age.
_&WARNING: To avoid serious injury,
before performing any service or adjust-
ments:
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.
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.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
See 'qO ADJUST CuT"rING 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's mowing position. If the
deflector becomes damaged, it should be
replaced.
14
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.
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.
_I,CAUTION: Do not run your lawn
mower without clipping deflector or
approved grass catcher in place. Never
attempt to operate the lawn mower with
the rear door removed or propped open.
Catcher
frame
handle
Drive
cover Belt
PUSH
TO ADJUST HANDLE
The upper handle may be adjusted to
four (4) different height positions.
1. Loosen both handle knobs only
enough to allow the upper handle to
pivot to the desired adjustment
position.
2. Tighten both handle knobs securely.
Handle
knob
\ Frame
opening
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 the engine is running too fast
or too slow, take your lawn 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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