Craftsman 917378893 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

CRAFTSMAN°

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

6.25 Horsepower Power-Propelled

21" Rear Discharge

Model No.

917.378893

• Espahol, p. 19

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 ..................... 5-6

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

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

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

lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or workmanship.

If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.

This Warranty does not cover:

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

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

tained in the owner's manual.

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

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

Storage .............................................. 16-17

Troubleshooting ................................. 17-18

Repair Parts ....................................... 36-43

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

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

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

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

Sears, Roebuck And Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throw- ing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

ALook for this symbol to point out

important safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!!

YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED. AWARNING: 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.

&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.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all

instructions on the machine and in the manual(s) before starting. Be thoroughly

familiar with the controls and the proper use of the machine before starting.

• Do not put hands or feet near or under

rotating parts. Keep clear of the dis- charge opening at all times.

• Only allow responsible individuals, who

are familiar with the instructions, to oper- ate the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,

toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc., which could be picked up and thrown by 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 alcohol 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.

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to slip & fall 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.

III. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator

is not alert to the presence of children.

Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume

that children will remain where you last saw them.

• Keep children out of the trimming area and under the watchful care of another

responsible adult.

• Be alert and turn machine off if children

enter the area.

• Before and while walking backwards, look behind and down for small children.

• Never allow children to operate the ma-

chine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind

corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

IV. 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 containersinsideavehicle,on atruck or trailerbedwith aplasticliner. Alwaysplacecontainerson theground awayfromyourvehiclebeforefilling.

• Removegas-poweredequipmentfrom thetruckortrailer andrefueliton the

ground. Ifthis is notpossible,then refuelsuchequipmentwith a portable

container,ratherthan froma gasoline dispensernozzle.

• Keepthenozzlein contactwith therim ofthefuel tank orcontaineropeningat alltimes untilfuelingiscomplete. Do notuse anozzlelock-opendevice.

• Iffuel isspilledon clothing,change clothingimmediately.

• Neveroverfillfuel tank. Replacegas cap andtightensecurely.

V. GENERAL SERVICE

• Neverrun amachineinsidea closed area.

• Nevermakeadjustmentsorrepairswith theengine(motor)running.Disconnect thesparkplug wire,and keepthe wire awayfromtheplugto preventaccidental starting.

• Keepnutsandbolts,especiallyblade attachmentbolts,tightand keepequip- mentin goodcondition.

• Nevertamperwith safetydevices.Check their properoperationregularly.

• Keepmachinefree ofgrass,leaves,or otherdebrisbuild-up.Cleanoilor fuel

spillage.Allowmachineto coolbefore storing.

• Stopandinspectthe equipmentifyou strikean object.Repair,ifnecessary, beforerestarting.

• Neverattempttomakewheelheight adjustmentswhiletheengine isrunning.

• Grasscatchercomponentsaresubject

to wear,damage,anddeterioration, whichcouldexposemovingpartsor

allowobjectsto be thrown.Frequently

checkcomponentsand replacewith

manufacturer'srecommendedparts,

whennecessary.

• Mowerbladesare sharpandcancut.

Wrapthe blade(s)orwear gloves,and

useextracautionwhen servicingthem.

• Donotchangethe enginegovernorset-

ting oroverspeedtheengine.

• Maintainorreplacesafetyandinstruc-

tion labels,as necessary.

SerialNumber: Dateof Purchase:

GasolineCapacity/Type: 1.6Quarts(UnleadedRegular) OilType(APISG-SL): SAE30 (above32°F);SAE5W-30(below32°F) OilCapacity: 20 Ounces SparkPlug (Gap: .030") ChampionRJ19LMor J19LM

BladeBoltTorque: 35-40ft. Ibs.

• Themodeland serialnumberswill be foundona decalon the rear ofthe lawn mower housing. Recordbothserial numberand dateof purchasein spaceprovidedabove.

Repair Protection Agreements

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

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

ucts, it may require repair from time to time. That's when having a Repair Protec- tion Agreement can save you money and

aggravation.

Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement

now and protect yourself from unexpected

hassle and expense.

Here's what's included in the Agreement:

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

• Unlimited service and no charge for

parts and labor on all covered repairs.

• Product replacement if your covered

product can't be fixed.

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

nance check.

• Fasthelp by phone- phonesupport froma Searstechnicianon products requiringin-homerepair,plusconve- nientrepairscheduling.

OnceyoupurchasetheAgreement,a simplephonecall is all thatit takesforyou

to scheduleservice.Youcancall anytime

That'sthekindof professionalismyou can counton to help prolongthe lifeofyour

newpurchasefor yearstocome.Purchase

your RepairProtectionAgreementtoday!

Some limitations and exclusions apply.

For prices and additional information

call 1-800-827-6655.

dayor night,or schedulea serviceap- pointmentonline.

Searshasover 12,000professionalrepair specialists,who haveaccessto over4.5 millionqualityparts andaccessories.

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

Sears Installation Service

For Sears professional installation of home

appliances, garage door openers, water

heaters, and other major home items, in

the U.S.A. call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.

STABILIZER

GAS

CANS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS

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

or operate your new lawn mower.

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine. Your new lawn mower has been as-

sembled at the factory with the excep- tion of those parts left unassembled for

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

AIR FILTERS

WHEELS

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.

SPARK PLUGS

ENGINE OIL

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

Upl

LIFT

Mowing position

Catcher frame handle

"" Frame

opening

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be

used as a mulcher. To convert mower to bagging, see "TO CONVERT MOWER" in

the Operation section of this manual.

TO PREPARE BATTERY

NOTE: Your battery must be charged

before you can start your lawn mower.

1. Connect battery charger connector (male) to harness connector (female).

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

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

for the first time.

4. After charging, disconnect harness connector (female) from battery char- ger connector (male).

Connect your battery charger to charge

battery after each use.

IMPORTANT: The engine will not re- charge your battery. At the end of the mowing season the

battery should be charged for 48 hours to ,_otect the battery during winter storage.

CAUTION: Always disconnect the engine connector (male) from the battery connector (female) to prevent accidental starting when transporting or storing your

lawn mower after the season.

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.

\ connector _ _, \ connector

Engine \ Harness

__ (male) //0_/_\ (female)

_ connector (male)

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

Drive control lever

Operator presence control bar

Key .../ start

switch

////_////_J

Handle knob

Auxiliary Engine oil cap with dipstick starter

handle

Pr;mer

Muffler

Grass catcher

plug

Gasoline filler cap

cover

Air filter

Wheel adjuster

Housing (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 Com-

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

be held down to the handle to start the

engine. Release to stop the engine.

Primer - pumps additional fuel from the

carburetor to the cylinder for use when

starting a cold engine.

Auxiliary starter handle - used for start-

ing the engine. Key start switch - used for starting the

engine.

Drive control lever - used to engage

7 power-propelled forward motion of mower.

Theoperationof anylawn

SAFETYGLASSESmowercan resultinforeign

objectsthrownintothe

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

ENGINESPEED

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

adjustable. ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

_,CAUTION: Federal regulations require

an engine control to be installed on this lawn mower in order to minimize the

risk of blade contact injury. Do not under any circumstances attempt to defeat the

function of the operator control. The blade turns when the engine is running.

• Your lawn mower is equipped with an

operator presence control bar which requires the operator to be positioned

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

DRIVE 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 CUTTING HEIGHT

Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels

for high cut, adjust cutting height to suit your requirements. Medium position is

best for most lawns.

• To change cutting height, squeeze ad- juster lever toward wheel. Move wheel

up or down to suit your requirements. Be

sure all wheels are in the same setting.

NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned when plate tab inserts into hole in lever. Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)

allow lever to be positioned between the

plate tabs.

LEVER BACKWARD Plate tab TO LOWER MOWER

LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER Lever TO CONVERT MOWER

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be

used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging:

• Lift rear door of the lawn mower and

place the grass catcher frame hooks onto the door pivot pins.

• To convert to mulching operation, re- move grass catcher and close rear door.

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

the rear door removed or propped open.

Pivot pins Rear

Grass

catcher

handle

_Ope_ control bar Drive

,--:- _ _.._. _ontrol

"_ TO ENGAGE

\\'_ DRIVE _%'_ CONTROL

CONTROL DISENGAGED

Catcher frame hook TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER

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

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

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

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

Grass

catcher

frame

handle

Bag handle

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

ADD OIL

Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in the engine. For type and grade of oil to

use, see "ENGINE" in the Maintenance section of this manual.

CAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with

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

1. Be sure lawnmower is level.

2. Remove oil dipstick from oil fill spout.

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

down the oil fill spout into the engine.

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:

• 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.

Engine

oil cap

Gasoline

filler cap

ADD GASOLINE

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

unleaded gasoline with a minimum of

87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.

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

ness.

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

near an open flame.

A CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels

(called gasohol or using ethanol or metha- nol) can attract moisture which leads to

separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel

system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Empty the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel

next season. See Storage Instructions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

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 operatorpresence control bardown to the handle and turn the start key.

IMPORTANT: Do not crank engine more

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

between each attempt.

• To start engine using the rope starter,

follow the steps above. Exchange the

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

NOTE: In cooler weather it may be necessary

to repeat priming steps. In warmer weather over priming may cause flooding and engine

will not start. If you do flood engine wait a few minutes before attempting to start and do not repeat priming steps.

MOWING TIPS

CAUTION: Donot usede-thatcher

bladeattachmentson your mower.Such attachmentsarehazardous,willdamage

your mowerandcouldvoid yourwarranty.

• 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 TIPS

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

grass and trash. See "CLEANING" in the

Maintenance section of this manual.

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

reduce them in size so that as they fall onto the lawn they will disperse into

the grass and not be noticed. Also, the

mulched grass will biodegrade quickly

to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always

mulch with your highest engine (blade) speed as this will provide the best recut-

ting action of the blades.

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

interferes with the mulching action. The best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon. At this time the grass has dried, yet the newly cut area will not be

exposed to direct sunlight.

• For best results, adjust the lawn mower cutting height so that the lawn mower cuts off only the top one-third of the

grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown it will be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine and leaving

clumps of mulched grass. For extremely

heavy grass, reduce your width of cut

by overlapping previously cut path and

mow slowly.

MAXI_

• Certain types of grass and grass conditions may require that an area be

mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a sec- ond cut, mow across (perpendicular) to

the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow north to south one week

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

graining of the lawn.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

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

*** PoweFPropelled 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 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)

Engine oil

(_) Rear door

(_) 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 adry, powdered

1 1graphite type lubricant sparingly.

Wheel

hinge

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when per- forming any maintenance.

TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect

control chemicals which can harm rub- ber.

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

DRIVE WHEELS

Check front drive wheels each time before

you mow to be sure they move freely. The wheels not turning freely means

trash, grass cuttings, etc. are in the drive wheel area and must be cleaned to free

drive wheels. If necessary to clean the drive wheels, be

sure to clean both front wheels.

1. Remove hubcaps, Iocknuts and wash- ers.

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.

NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and check the key inside hub of blade adapter. The key must be in good condition to work

properly. Replace adapter if damaged. TO REPLACE BLADE

1. Position the blade adapter on the en- gine 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 (op-

posite 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 heat treated. If bolt needs replacing, replace only with

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

Blade adapter

Lockwasher _

Key

Crankshaft

BLADE CARE For best results, mower blade must be

kept sharp. Replace a bent or damaged blade.

A CAUTION: Use only a replacement

blade approved by the manufacturer of

your mower. Using a blade not approved

by the manufacturer of your mower is hazardous, could damage your mower and

void your warranty. 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 and attaching hard- ware (bolt, lock washer and hardened washer).

bolt Hardened

washer

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening blade - but if you do, be sure the blade is

balanced.

Care should be taken to keep the blade

balanced. An unbalanced blade will

cause eventual damage to lawn mower or engine.

• The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt

to sharpen while on the mower.

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

the straight nail exposed. Place center

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

a horizontal position. If either end of the blade moves downward, sharpen the heavy end until the blade is balanced.

_dge _

Crankshaft

GRASS CATCHER

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

• Checkyour grass catcher often for damage or deterioration. Through normal use it will wear. If catcher needs replacing, replace only with a manufacturer approved replace-

ment catcher. 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 Multis EP00. Do not substitute.

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain oil, empty fuel tank by running en- gine 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.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION 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-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 opera-

tion orat least once a year if the lawn mower

is not used for 25 hours in one year. Check the crankcase oil level before

starting the engine and after each five (5) hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plug securely each time you check the oil level.

Container

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.

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, which-

ever 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-

_il face. If very dirty, replace cartridge.

CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as

kerosene, are not to be used to clean car-

tridge. 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 plate

Slots

Lip

Cover

Cartridge Cover tabs

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it

could create a fire hazard and/or damage.

SPARK PLUG

Replace spark plug at the beginning of

each mowing season or after every 100

hours of operation, whichever occurs

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

ATIONS" section of this manual.

CLEANING

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

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

Ill, CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with plug.

• Clean the underside of your lawn mower by scraping to remove build-up of grass

and trash.

• Clean engine often to keep trash from accumulating. A clogged engine runs hotter and shortens engine life.

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

• We do not recommend using a garden hose to clean lawn mower unless the

electrical system, muffler, air filter and carburetor are covered to keep water

out. Water in engine can result in short-

ened engine life.

CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER Clean under drive cover at least twice a season. Scrape underside of cover with

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

drive cover.

_WARNING: To avoid serious injury,

before performing any service and adjustments:

1. Release control bar and stop engine.

2. Make sure the blade and all moving parts have completely stopped.

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

LAWN MOWER

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in

the Operation section of this manual.

REAR DEFLECTOR

The rear deflector, attached between the

rear wheels of your mower, is provided to minimize the possibility that objects will

be thrown out of the rear of the mower into the operator mowing position. If the

deflector becomes damaged, it should be

replaced.

+ 30 hidden pages

Craftsman 917378893 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual