Craftsman 917378851 Owner’s Manual
Owner's Manual
CRAFTSMAN°
6.75 Horsepower
Power-Propelled
21" Rear Discharge
Model No.
917.378851
oEspa_ol, p. 18
CAUTION'.
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions
before operating this equipment
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman
U.S.A.
Warranty ................................................... 2
Safety Rules .......................................... 2-4
Product Specifications .............................. 4
Assembly / Pre-Operation ........................ 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-t 5
Storage .............................................. 15-t6
Troubleshooting ................................. 16-t7
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/8t7 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,
_Look for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!!
YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
AWARNmNG: 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.
AWARNING: 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.
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.
_i, 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.
L GENERAL OPERATmON
o Read,understand,andfollowall
instructionson the machineand inthe
manual(s)beforestarting.Bethoroughly
familiarwith thecontrolsandthe proper
useof the machinebeforestarting.
o Do notput handsorfeetnearor under
rotatingparts.Keepclearof thedis-
chargeopeningat alltimes.
o Only allowresponsibleindividuals,who
arefamiliarwiththe instructions,to oper-
atethemachine.
o Clearthe areaof objectssuch as rocks,
toys,wire, bones,sticks,etc.,which
couldbe pickedup andthrownbyblade.
o Be surethe area isclearofother people
beforemowing.Stopmachineif anyone
entersthearea.
o Do notoperatethe mowerwhenbare-
footor wearingopen sandals.Always
wearsubstantialfootwear.
o Do notpull mowerbackwardsunless
absolutelynecessary.Alwayslookdown
and behindbeforeandwhile moving
backwards.
o Neverdirectdischargedmaterialtoward
anyone.Avoiddischargingmaterial
againsta wall or obstruction. Material
mayrichochetbacktowardthe opera-
tor. Stopthe bladewhen crossinggravel
surfaces.
o Do notoperatethe mowerwithout
properguards, plates,grasscatcheror
othersafetyprotectivedevicesin place.
o See manufacturer'sinstructionsfor
properoperationandinstallationof
accessories.Only useaccessoriesap-
provedbythe manufacturer.
o Stopthe blade(s)whencrossinggravel
drives,walks,or roads.
o Stopthe engine(motor)wheneveryou
leavethe equipment,beforecleaningthe
moweror uncloggingthe chute.
o Shutthe engine(motor)off andwait until
thebladecomestocompletestopbefore
removinggrasscatcher.
o Mowonly indaylightorgoodartificial
light.
o Do notoperatethe machinewhileunder
theinfluenceof alcohol or drugs.
o Neveroperatemachinein wet grass.
Alwaysbe sureof yourfooting:keepa
firm holdon the handle;walk,neverrun.
o Disengagethe self-propelledmech-
anismor driveclutchon mowersso
equippedbeforestartingtheengine.
o Ifthe equipmentshouldstartto vibrate
abnormally,stoptheengine(motor)and
checkimmediatelyforthe cause.Vibra-
tion is generallya warning of trouble.
o Alwayswear safetygogglesor safety
glasseswith sideshieldswhenoperating
mower.
H.SLOPE OPERATmON
Slopesare a majorfactorrelatedto slip &
fall accidentswhichcan resultin severein-
jury.All slopesrequireextracaution.If you
feel uneasyon a slope,do not mow it.
DO:
o Mowacrossthe face of slopes:never
up anddown.Exerciseextremecaution
whenchangingdirectionon slopes.
o Removeobstaclessuchas rocks,tree
limbs,etc.
o Watchfor holes,ruts,or bumps.Tall
grass canhideobstacles.
DO NOT:
o Do not trim near drop-offs, ditches or
embankments. The operator could lose
footing or balance.
o Do not trim excessively steep slopes.
o Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced foot-
ing could cause slipping.
HI. 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.
o Keep children out of the trimming area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
o Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area.
o Before and while walking backwards,
look behind and down for small children.
o Never allow children to operate the ma-
chine.
o Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
inV.SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE
Use extreme care in handling gasoline.
Gasoline is extremely flammable and the
vapors are explosive.
o Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes
and other sources of ignition.
o Use only an approved container.
o Never remove gas cap or add fuel with
the engine running. Allow engine to cool
before refueling.
o Never refuel the machine indoors.
o Never store the machine or fuel contain-
er where there is an open flame, spark
or pilot light such as a water heater or on
other appliances.
o Never fill containers inside a vehicle, on
a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner.
Always place containers on the ground
away from your vehicle before filling.
o Remove gas-powered equipment from
the truck or trailer and refuel it on the
ground. If this is not possible, then
refuel such equipment with a portable
container, rather than from a gasoline
dispenser nozzle.
o Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim
of the fuel tank or container opening at
all times until fueling is complete. Do
not use a nozzle lock-open device.
o If fuel is spilled on clothing, change
clothing immediately.
o Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas
cap and tighten securely.
V. GENERAL SERVICE
o Never run a machine inside a closed
area.
o 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.
o Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep equip-
ment in good condition.
o Never tamper with safety devices. Check
their proper operation regularly.
o Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
storing.
o Stop and inspect the equipment if you
strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.
o Never attempt to make wheel height
adjustments while the engine is running.
o 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.
o Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing them.
o Do not change the engine governor set-
ting or overspeed the engine.
o Maintain or replace safety and instruc-
tion labels, as necessary.
Serial Number:
Date of Purchase:
Gasoline Capacity / Type: 1.6 Quarts (Unleaded Regular)
Oil _y'pe (API SG-SL): 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.
o 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:
o Expert service by our 12,000 profe=
sional repair specialists.
o Unlimited service and no charge for
parts and labor on all covered repairs.
o Product replacement if your covered
product can't be fixed.
o Discount of t0% from regular price of
service and service-related parts not
covered by the agreement; also, 10%
off regular price of preventive mainte-
nance check.
o 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 1-800-827-6855.
Sears mnstaHation 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
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
STABILIZER
FOR
,_ GRASS CATCHERS
SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS
AIR FILTERS
SPARK PLUGS
BELTS BLADES
BLADE ADAPTERS
5
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
WFHOUT 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.
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
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.
Catcher
frame
handle
Frame
opening
TO iNSTALL ATTACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mubher. To convert mower to
bagging, see "TO CONVERT MOWER" in
the Operation section of this manual.
KNOWYOUR 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
m
Operator presence control bar
-Drive control lever
Handle knob
Starter
handle
Engine oil cap with dipstick
Primer
Grass
catcher
MuffHer
Gasoline filler cap
Air filte_
Wheel adjuster (on each wheel' Housing
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WFHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine,
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the
American National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Com-
mission. The blade turns when the engine is running.
Operator presence control bar- must Drive control lever- used to engage
be held down to the handle to start the power-propelled forward motion of mower,
engine. Release to stop the engine, Primer- pumps additional fuel from the
Starter handle - used for starting engine, carburetor to the cylinder for use when
starting a cold engine,
Theoperationof any lawn
SAFETYGLASSESmowercan resultinforeign
objectsthrownintothe
eyes,which can resultin
severeeyedamage.Always
wear safetyglassesor eyeshieldswhile
operatingyour lawnmoweror performing
anyadjustmentsor repairs.Werecom-
menda standardsafetyglassesor wide
visionsafetymaskwornoverspectacles.
HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINESPEED
The engine speed was set at the factory
for optimum performance. Speed is not
adjustable.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
_;I,CAUTION: Federal regulations require
an engine control to be installed on this
lawn mower in order to minimize the
risk of blade contact injury. Do not under
any circumstances attempt to defeat the
function of the operator control. The blade
turns when the engine is running.
o 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
o 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.
o Forward motion will stop when the op-
erator 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 con-
tinue mowing without self-propelling.
o To keep drive control engaged when
turning corners, push down on handle
and lift front wheels off ground while
turning lawn mower.
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEmGHT
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.
o 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, %position adjusters (if so equipped)
allow lever to be positioned between the
plate tabs.
LEVER BACKWARD
TO LOWER MOWER
LEVER FORVVARD TO RAISE MOWER Lever
Plate tab
TO CONVERT MOWER
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mutcher. To convert to bagging:
o 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,
• iLCAUTmON: 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,
Pivot pins Rear
Grass
catcher
handle
Operator
TO ENGAGE
)resence control bar Drive
\ \. _. ontro,
DRIVE
CONTROL
N *'_ CONTROL
DISENGAGED 8
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 handte and bag handle.
NOTE: Do not drag the bag when empty-
ing; it will cause unnecessary wear.
Grsss
catcher
frame
handle
Bag
handle
BEFORE STARTmNG ENGmNE
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.
NOTE: Initial oil fill requires only 18 oz.
due to residual oil in engine from the
manufacturers 100% quality testing. When
changing oil you may need 20 oz.
4. Insert and tighten dipstick.
IMPORTANT:
o Check oil level before each use. Add oil
if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.
o Change the oil after every 25 hours of
operation or each season. You may
need to change the oil more often
under dusty, dirty conditions. See "TO
CHANGE ENGINE OIL' in the Mainte-
nance section of this manual.
ADD GASOLINE
o 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.
AI_ CAUTmON: Wipe off any spilled oil or
fueI. Do not store, spill or use gasoline
near an open flame.
A CAUTmON: 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.
Engine
oil cap
Gasoline
filJer cap
Primer
TO STOP ENGmNE
o 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 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.
NOTE: In cooler weather it may be neces-
sary 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 attempt-
ing to start and do not repeat priming
steps.
MOWING TIPS
A CAUTION: Donotusede-thatcher
bladeattachmentson your mower.Such
attachmentsarehazardous,will damage
your mowerand couldvoidyourwarranty.
, 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 over-
lap 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
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 TraPS
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.
o 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.
o 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.
1/3
, Certain types of grass and grass
conditions may require that an area be
mulched a second time to completely
hide the clippings. When doing a sec-
ond cut, mow across (perpendicular) to
the first cut path.
, Change your cutting pattern from week
to week. Mow north to south one week
then change to east to west the next
week. This will help prevent matting and
graining of the lawn.
10
MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE
Check for Loose Fasteners
_ Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher *
Check Tires
_ Check Drive Wheels
Clean Lawn Mower ....
M Clean under Drive Cover ***
O Check Drive Belt / Putleys ***
W Check / Sharpen / Replace Blade
_ ubrication
Clean and Recharge Battery **
Check Engine Oil level
E Change Engine Oil
N Clean Air Filter
_ Inspect Muffler
N Replace Spark Plug
E Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge
Empty fuel system or add Stabilizer
* (if so equipped)
** Electric-Start mowers
*** Power-Propelbd mowers
**** Use a scraper
to clean under deck
1 - Change more often if operating under a heavy load or in high outdoor temperatures.
2 - Service more often if operating in dirty or dusty conditions,
3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil,
4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season.
5 - And after each 5 hours of use.
BEFORE AFTER EVERY EVERY EVERY BEFORE
EACH EACH 10 25HOURS 100
USE USE HOURS OR SEASON HOURS STORAGE
_,2
GENERAL RECOMMENDATmONS
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.
o 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.
o Follow the maintenance schedule in this
manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
o Check engine oil level.
o Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRmCATmON
Keep unit well lubricated
(See "LUBRICATION CHART").
LUBRICATION CHART
Wheel
adjuster (on
each wheel)
Engine oil
{1} Rear door
hinge
{1} Handle bracket mounting pins
Spray lubricant
See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will
attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life of
the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel they
must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered
11graphite type lubricant sparingly.
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when per-
forming any maintenance.
TIRES
o Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm rubber.
o 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 inthe 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, Iocknuts & 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, 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 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 & attaching hardware
(bolt, lock washer & 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.
o 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
Lockwasher
Blade '
Blade
bolt
/
'
..... Crank
Harden_ ., "-.
washer Trailing edge Blade adapter
TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening
the blade - but if you do, be sure the blade
is balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade bal-
anced.An unbalanced blade will cause even-
tual damage to lawn mower or engine.
o The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while on the mower.
o 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
o The grass catcher may be hosed with
water, but must be dry when used.
o 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 ordenng.
GEAR CASE
o 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.
o 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.
o if lubricant is required, use only Elf Mul-
tis EP00. Do not substitute.
12
keyway
shaft
LUBRICATmON
Use only high quality detergent oil rated with
API service classification SG-SL. Select the
oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your
expected operating temperature.
SAE VlSCOSITY GRADES
F -20 0 30 32 40 60 80 100
C -30 -2; -1; ; 1; 10 30 4;
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°F. Check your engine oil
level more frequently to avoid possible
engine damage from running low on oil.
Change the oil after every 25 hours of op-
eration orat least once a year if the mower
is not used for 25 hours in one year.
Check the crankcase oil level before
starting the engine and after each five (5)
hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plug
securely each time you check the oil level.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain
oil, empty fuel tank by running engine until
fuel tank is empty.
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with plug.
2. Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a
clean surface.
3. Tip lawn mower on its side as shown
and drain oil into a suitable container.
Rock lawn mower back and forth to re-
move any oil trapped inside of engine.
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.
_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
Slots
Lip
Container
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.
13
CLEANING
iMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-grass and
trash. Clean the underside of your mower
after each use.
_al,CAUTmON: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come in contact with plug.
o Clean the underside of your lawn mower
by scraping to remove build-up of grass
and trash.
o Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runs
hotter and shortens engine life.
AI:i_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 HEmGHT
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. 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 DRmVE BELT
1. Install new belt on engine pulley.
2. Reinstall debris shield and blade.
3. Return mower to upright position.
4. Instafl new belt on gearcase pulley.
5. Reinstall drive cover.
NOTE: Always use factory approved belt
to assure fit and long life.
o Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of all gasoline, oil, etc.
o 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 DRmVE 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
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 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.
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