Craftsman 917378870 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

CRAFTSMAN°

6.75 Horsepower 21" Rear Discharge

Model No.

917.378870

Espa_o[, p. 18

CAUTION:

Read and follow a[[

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 ................... 14-15

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

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

Repair Parts ....................................... 35-43

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

mMPORTANT: 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.

&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. &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.

&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. _, 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 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 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. Never direct discharged material toward

anyone. Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Material may richochet back toward the opera- tor. Stop the blade when crossing gravel

surfaces. 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 atcohol or drugs. Never operate machine in wet grass. Always be sure of your footing: keep a

firm hold on the handle; walk, never run. Disengage the self-propelled mech-

anism or drive clutch on mowers so equipped before starting the engine.

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.

H. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to slip & fail accidents which can result in severe in-

jury. 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 foot-

ing could cause slipping.

ill. 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.

IW SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

Use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.

Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of ignition. Use only an approved container. Never remove gas cap or add fuel with

the engine running. Allow engine to cool

before refueling. Never refuel the machine indoors.

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.

Neverfill containersinsidea vehicle,on atruckortrailerbedwith a plasticliner.

Alwaysplacecontainersontheground

awayfromyour vehiclebeforefilling. Removegas-poweredequipmentfrom

thetruck ortrailerandrefueliton the

ground. Ifthis is not possible,then refuelsuchequipmentwitha portable

container,ratherthanfrom a gasoline

dispensernozzle. Keepthe nozzleincontactwiththe rim ofthe fuel tankor containeropeningat alltimes untilfueJingiscomplete. Do notusea nozzlelock-opendevice. Iffuelisspilledonclothing,change

clothing immediately.

NeveroverfillfueJtank. Replacegas

cap andtightensecurely.

V, GENERAL SERVICE

Neverrun a machineinsidea closed area.

Nevermakeadjustmentsor repairswith theengine(motor)running.Disconnect thesparkplugwire,andkeepthe wire

awayfromthe plugto preventaccidental starting.

Keepnutsand bolts,especiallyblade

attachmentbolts,tight andkeepequip-

mentin goodcondition. Nevertamperwith safetydevices.Check

their properoperationregularly.

Keepmachinefree ofgrass,leaves,or

otherdebrisbuild-up.Cleanoil or fuel spillage.Allowmachinetocool before

storing. Stopandinspectthe equipmentifyou

strikeanobject.Repair,if necessary,

beforerestarting.

Neverattemptto makewheelheight adjustmentswhilethe engineis running. Grasscatchercomponentsare subject to wear,damage,anddeterioration, whichcould exposemovingpartsor allowobjectsto bethrown.Frequently checkcomponentsand replacewith

manufacturer'srecommendedparts, whennecessary.

Mowerbladesaresharp and cancut. Wrapthe blade(s)or weargloves,and

useextracautionwhenservicingthem.

Donotchangethe enginegovernorset- ting oroverspeedtheengine.

Maintainor replacesafetyand instruc- tion labels,as necessary.

SeriaJNumber: Dateof Purchase:

GasolineCapacity/Type: 1.6Quarts (UnleadedRegular) OilType(APISG-SL): SAE30 (above32°F);SAE5W-30(below32°F)

OilCapacity: 20 Ounces SparkPlug(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 yourseff 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 appiyo

For prices and additional information call 1o800°827=6655o

Sears Instamlation Service

For Sears professional installation of home appliances, garage door openers, water

heaters, and other major home items, in the U.S.A. call l oS00=4=iVIYoHOiVIE®o

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

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

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. mMPORTANT: 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.

TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM

CARTON

1. Remove loose parts included with mower.

2. Cut down two end corners of carton and lay end panel down flat.

3. Remove all packing materials except padding between upper and lower handle and padding holding operator presence control bar to upper handle.

4. Roll lawn mower out of carton and check carton thoroughly for additional

loose parts.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

mMPORTANT: 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 controUbar

UFT

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 mNSTALL 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

Operator presence controU bar

_Drive control lever

Handle knob

Starter handle

Engine oil cap with dipstick

Primer

Grass catcher

Muffler

Gasoline filler cap

Air filteu

Wheel adjuster (on each wheel Housing mMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine. MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUmREMENTS

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

SA_ETYGLASSESmowercan resultin 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 recom- mend a standard safety glasses or wide

vision safety mask worn over spectacles.

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGmNESPEED

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

adjustable. ENGmNE ZONE CONTROL

_CAUTmON: 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.

DRmVE CONTROL

* Self-propelling is controlled by holding

the operator presence control bar down to the handle and pushing the drive

control lever forward until it clicks; then releasing the lever.

* Forward motion will stop when the 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. To keep drive control engaged when turning corners, push down on handle and lift front wheels off ground while turning lawn mower.

TO ADJUST CUTTmNG 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.

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 mubher. 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 or discharging

operation, remove grass catcher and

close rear door. ACAUTmON: 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

Plate tab

Grass

catcher

handle

Operator )resence control bar Drive

TO ENGAGE

DRIVE

CONTROL

DISENGAGED 8

control

DRIVE NOTE: Do not drag the bag when empty-

CONTROL ing; it will cause unnecessary wear.

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.

Grass

catcher

frame

handb

Bag handb

BEFORE STARTmNG ENGINE

ADD OraL

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.

CAUTmON: 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. mMPORTANT:

* Check oil level before each use. Add oil

if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.

* Change the oil after every 25 hours of

operation or each season. You may need to change the oil more often

under dusty, dirty conditions. See "TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL' in the Mainte-

nance section of this manual.

ADD GASOUNE

* 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 CAUTmON: Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline

near an open flame.

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 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 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: Do not usede-thatcher

bladeattachmentsonyour mower.Such attachmentsarehazardous,will damage

your mowerandcouldvoidyourwarranty. ,_Undercertainconditions,such asvery

tall grass,it maybe necessaryto raise theheightof cut to reducepushing effortandto keepfromoverloadingthe engineandleavingclumpsof grassclip- pings.It mayalso be necessaryto re- ducegroundspeed and/orrunthe lawn

moweroverthe areaa secondtime. Forextremelyheavycutting,reducethe

widthofcut byoverlappingpreviously cut pathandmowslowly. Forbettergrassbaggingandmostcut- tingconditions,the enginespeedshould be set inthe FASTposition. Whenusinga reardischargelawn mowerin moist,heavygrass,clumps ofcut grassmaynotenterthe grass catcher.Reducegroundspeed (pushing speed)and/or runthe lawnmowerover

theareaasecondtime.

Ifatrailof clippingsis left onthe right

sideof a reardischargemower,mowin aclockwisedirectionwith a smallover-

lapto collectthe clippingson the next pass.

Poresincloth grasscatcherscan be- comefilledwithdirt anddustwith use

andcatcherswill collectlessgrass.To preventthis, regularlyhosecatcheroff

withwater andlet dry beforeusing. Keeptop of enginearoundstarter clear

andclean ofgrassclippingsandchaff. Thiswillhelpengineairflow andextend enginelife.

MULCHING MOWING TiPS

iMPORTANT:Forbest performance,

keepmowerhousingfreeof built-up grassandtrash.See"CLEANING"inthe

Maintenancesectionof this manual. ,_The specialmuJchingbladewill recut

the grassclippingsmanytimesand

reducethem in sizesothat astheyfall ontothelawnthey willdisperseinto

the grassand not be noticed. Also,the

mulchedgrasswill biodegradequickly

to providenutrientsfor the lawn. Always

mulchwithyour highestengine (blade) speedasthis willprovidethe bestrecut- ting actionofthe blades. Avoidcuttingyour lawnwhen it iswet. Wet grasstendsto formclumps and

interfereswiththe mulchingaction. The

besttime to mowyour lawn istheearly

afternoon. At thistimethe grass has

dried,yetthe newlycut area willnot be exposedto directsunlight.

Forbestresults,adjustthe lawnmower cutting heightso thatthe lawn mower cuts off onlythe top one-thirdofthe

grassblades. If the lawnis overgrownit will be necessaryto raisethe heightof cut to reducepushingeffortand to keep from overloadingthe engineandleaving

clumpsof mulchedgrass.Forextremely

heavygrass,reduceyour widthof cut

byoverlappingpreviouslycut pathand

mowslowly.

Certaintypesof grassandgrass conditionsmayrequirethatan areabe

mulcheda secondtimetocompletely

hidethe clippings. Whendoinga sec-

ondcut, mowacross(perpendicular)to thefirstcut path.

Changeyourcutting patternfrom week to week. Mownorthto southoneweek

then changeto east towest thenext week. This willhelppreventmattingand

grainingofthe lawn.

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-Propelled mowers

**** Use a scraper

to clean under deck

1 - Change more often if operating under a heavy load or in high outdoor temperatures. 2 - Service more often if operating in dirty or dusty conditions, 3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil, 4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season.

5 - And after each 5 hours of use.

BEFORE AFTER EVERY EVERY EVERY BEFORE

EACH EACH 10 25HOURS 100

USE USE HOURS OR SEASON HOURS STORAGE

11_,2

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover items that have been subjected to

operator abuse or negligence. To receive

full value from the warranty, operator must

maintain unit as instructed in this manual. Some adjustments will need to be made

periodically to properly maintain your unit.

At least once a season, check to see if you should make any of the adjustments

described in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual.

At least once a year, replace the spark plug, clean or replace air filter element and check blade for wear. A new spark plug and clean/new air filter element assure proper air-fuel mixture and help your engine run better and last longer.

Follow the maintenance schedule in this manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

', Check engine oil level. * Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION Keep unit well lubricated

(See "LUBRICATION CHART").

LUBRICATION CHART

adjuster (on

each wheel)

{1} Rear door

{1} Handle bracket mounting pins

Spray lubricant

See '"ENGINE'" in IVlaintenance section.

mlVIPORTANT: 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

graphite type lubricant sparingly.

Wheel

hinge

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when per- forming any maintenance.

TmRES * 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.

DRmVE 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, 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 a bent or damaged blade.

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.

The recommended tightening torque is 35-40 ft. Ibs.

mMPORTANT: 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 Crank

bolt \

Harden_

washer

/ \ shaft

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.

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 heaw 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 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 Elf Mul-

tis EP00. Do not substitute.

keyway

LUBRmCATmON 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 VISCOSITY GRADES

-20 0 30 32 40 60 80 100

-io -2; -1; ; 1; _o _o 4;

TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

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

cold weather, these muki-viscosity oils will

result in increased oil consumption when used above 32°R 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. AmR FmLTER

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.

ACAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such

as kerosene, are not to be used to clean

cartridge. They may cause deterioration

of the cartridge. Do not oil cartridge. Do not use pressurized air to clean or dry

cartridge.

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

the slots in the back plate. Fasten screw securely.

Back I

Slots

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.

mMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-grass and

trash. Clean the underside of your mower

after each use.

_aI.CAUTmON: 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.

_il, WARNmNG: 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 CUTTmNG 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 DRmVE 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. Install new belt on gearcase pulley.

5. Reinstall 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 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.

Mowing _, Mowing position ["1 :)osition

• . _ I \I

cotter "--_ _ "_ Hand.e

Mounting" _:--_ bracket

/ /

14 LOW POSiTiON HiGH POSiTiON

+ 30 hidden pages

Craftsman 917378870 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual