Craftsman 917378990 Owner’s Manual
Owner's Manual
CRAFTSMAN°
5.5 Horsepower
Power-Propelled
21" Rear Discharge
Model No.
917.378990
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 U.S.A.
Visit our Craftsman website:www.sears.com/craftsman
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:
o Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower
blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.
o 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-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/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,
_I,WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and
_]bLook for this symbol to point out im-
portant safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!!
YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
_]bWARNING: 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 contact plug.
_I,WARNmNG: 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.
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 machineandin the
manual(s)beforestarting.Bethoroughly
familiarwith thecontrolsandthe proper
useof the machinebeforestarting.
o Do notputhandsor feetnearor under
rotatingparts.Keepclearof the dis-
chargeopeningat all times.
o Only allowresponsibleindividuals,who
arefamiliarwiththe instructions,to
operatethe machine.
o Clearthe areaof objectssuch as rocks,
toys,wire, bones,sticks,etc., which
couldbe pickedup andthrown bythe
blade.
o Be surethe area is clearofother people
beforemowing.Stopmachineif anyone
entersthe area.
o Do notoperatethe mowerwhen bare-
footor wearingopen sandals.Always
wearsubstantialfootwear.
o Do notpullmowerbackwardsunless
absolutelynecessary.Alwayslookdown
andbehindbeforeandwhile moving
backwards.
o Do notoperatethe mowerwithout
properguards,plates,grasscatcheror
othersafety protectivedevicesin 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,beforecleaning
themoweror uncloggingthe chute.
o Shutthe engine(motor)off andwait
untilthe bladecomesto completestop
beforeremovinggrasscatcher.
o Mowonly indaylightorgoodartificial
light.
o Do notoperatethe machinewhile under
theinfluenceof alcohol or drugs.
o Neveroperatemachineinwetgrass.
Alwaysbe sureof yourfooting:keepa
firm holdon the handle andwalk;never
run.
o Disengagethe self-propelledmech-
anismor driveclutchon mowersso
equippedbeforestartingthe engine
(motor).
o Ifthe equipmentshouldstartto vibrate
abnormally,stopthe engine (motor)and
checkimmediatelyfor the cause.Vibra-
tion is generallya warning of trouble.
o Alwayswear safetygogglesor safety
glasseswith side shieldswhenoper-
atingmower.
H. SLOPE OPERATmON
Slopes are a major factor related to slip
and fall accidents which can result in
severe injury. All slopes require extra cau=
tion. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not
mow it.
DO:
o Mow across the face of slopes: never
up and down. Exercise extreme caution
when changing direction on slopes.
o Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
o Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
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
footing 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 ma-
chine and the mowing activity. Neveras-
sume 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
machine.
o Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
inV.SERVICE
o Use extra care in handling gasoline and
other fuels. They are flammable and
vapors are explosive.
- Use only an approved container.
- Never remove gas cap or add fuel
with the engine running.
Allow engine to cool before refueling.
Do not smoke.
- Never refuel the machine indoors.
- Never store the machine or fuel
container inside where there is an
open flame, such as a water heater.
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.
3
o Keepnutsandbolts,especiallyblade
attachmentbolts,tight andkeepequipm
mentin goodcondition,
o Nevertamperwith safetydevices,Check
their properoperationregularly.
oKeep machine free of grass, leaves,or
otherdebrisbuildmup.Cleanoilorfuelspill_
age.Allowmachinetocool beforestoring,
o Stop andinspecttheequipmentif you
strikean object,Repair,if necessary,
beforerestarting.
o Neverattempttomakewheelheightadjusb
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,
mentswhiletheengine(motor)isrunning,
Serial Number:
Date of Purchase:
Gasoline Capacity / Type: 1,0 Quarts (Unleaded Regular)
Oil Type (API SG-SL): SAE 10W30
Oil Capacity: 18.5 Ounces
Spark Plug (Gap: ,030") NGK BPR6ES
Valve Clearance (± 0,04 mm): Intake: 0,015 mm; Exhaust: 0,020 mm
Blade Bolt Torque: 36_44 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
Congratu/ations on making a smart pur-
chase. Your new Craftsman® product is
designed and manufactured for years of
dependable operation, But like all prodm
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:
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 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 imhome 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 Installation Service
For Sears professiona/ instaflation of home
appliances, garage door openers, water
heaters, and other major home items, in
the U,S,A, call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.
Theseaccessorieswereavailablewhenthis lawnmowerwasproduced. They are not
shipped with your mower. Theyare alsoavailableat mostSearsretailoutletsand
servicecenters, Someof theseaccessoriesmaynot applyto yourlawn mower,
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CLIPPING
DEFLECTORS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
STABILIZER
GAS
CANS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS
BELTS BLADES
AIR FILTERS
BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
SPARK PLUGS
ENGINE OIL
5
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 assem-
bled at the factory with the exception of
those parts left unassembled for shipping
purposes. All parts such as nuts, washers,
bolts, etc., necessary to complete the as-
sembly have been placed in the parts bag.
To ensure safe and proper operation of
your lawn mower, all parts and hardware
you assemble must be tightened securely.
Use the correct tools as necessary to
ensure proper tightness.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
1. Remove loose parts included with
mower.
2. Cut down two end corners of carton
and lay end panel down flat.
3. Remove all packing materials except
padding between upper and lower
handle and padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
4. Roll lawn mower out of carton and
check carton thorougly for additional
loose parts.
Operator presence
control bar
Upper
LiFT
UP
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: Jf 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
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.
Frame
opening
TO iNSTALL ATTACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to
be used as a mulcher. To convert to bag-
ging or discharging, see "TO CONVERT
MOWER" in the Operation section of this
manual.
KNOWYOUR LAWN MOWER
READTHISOWNER'SMANUALANDALL SAFETYRULESBEFOREOPERATING
YOURLAWNMOWER.Comparethe illustrationswith your lawnmowertofamiliarize
yourselfwith the locationof variouscontrolsandadjustments, Savethis manualfor
futurereference.
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
DR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
Operator presence control bar
Drive control lever
Starter
handle
Grass
Engine oil cap
with dipstick
Muffler
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine,
Handle knob
Gasoline filler cap
valve lever
Wheel adjuster (on each wheel)
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears rotary walkmbehind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the
American National Standards Institute and the U,S. Consumer Product Safety Comm
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 poweFpropelled forward motion of lawn
engine. Release to stop the engine, mower,
Starter handle - used for starting engine, 7
The operation of any lawn
SA_ETYGLASSESmower can result in for-
eign 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 perform-
ing any adjustments or repairs. We recom-
me nd standard safety glasses or a wide vision
safety mask worn over spectacles.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGmNESPEED
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.
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-propeJling 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.
Operator
_nce control bar Drive
control
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, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)
allow lever to be positioned between the
plate tabs.
LEVER BAC KW,'ARD
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 mulcher. To convert to bagging:
o Lift rear door of the lawn mower and
place the grass catcher frame hooks
onto the door pivot pins.
o To convert to mulching or discharging
operation, remove grass catcher and
close rear door.
_I;i,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
Catcher frame hook
Grass
catcher
handle
TO
ENGAGE
DRWE
CONTROL
\,_ CONTROL
_ISENGAGED
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 STARTmNG ENGmNE
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.
CAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with
oil, or it will smoke on startup.
1. Be sure lawnmower is level.
2. Remove oil dipstick from oil fill spout.
3. You receive a container of oil with the
unit. Slowly pour the entire container
down the oil fill spout into the engine.
4. Insert and tighten dipstick.
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.
Oil fill cap /
dips
Gasoline
filler cap
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. Pur-
chase fuel in quantities that can be used
within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.
A CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or
fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline
,_ar an open flame.
CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called
gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can
attract moisture which leads to separation
and formation ofacidsduring 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 tan k
or permanent damage may occur.
TO STOP ENGINE
o To stop engine, release operator pres-
ence control bar. Wait until blade and
all moving parts have stopped and turn
fuel valve to OFF position if you do not
intend to restart the engine soon.
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. Be sure fuel valve is in the ON position.
2. Move choke lever to ON (1\1) position.
3. Hold operator presence control bardown
to the handle and pull starter handle quick-
ly. Do not allow starter rope to snap back.
NOTE: The choke lever automatically
begins moving to the OFF position when
operator presence control bar is held
down to handle.
OFF lever
Upper
mark mark
9
Fuel valve lever
MOWING TraPS
o Undercertainconditions,suchasvery
tall grass,it maybe necessaryto raise
theheightof cutto reducepushing
effortand to keepfromoverloadingthe
engineand leavingclumpsof grassclip-
pings.It mayalso be necessaryto rem
ducegroundspeedand/orrun the lawn
mowerovertheareaa secondtime.
o Forextremelyheavycutting,reducethe
width of cut byoverlappingpreviously
cut pathand mowslowly.
o Forbettergrassbaggingandmostcutm
ting conditions,theengine speedshould
be set inthe fast position.
o Poresinclothgrasscatcherscanbe_
comefilledwith dirtand dustwith use
andcatcherswill collectlessgrass.To
preventthis, regularlyhosecatcheroff
with waterand let dry beforeusing.
o Keeptop of enginearoundstarterclear
andcleanof grassclippingsandchaff.
Thiswill helpengineairflow andextend
enginelife.
MULCHmNG MOWmNGTiPS
iMPORTANT: For best performance,
keep mower housing free of built-up
grass and trash. See "CLEANING" in the
Maintenance section of this manual.
o 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 wilt 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 one4hird 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.
' MAX 1/3
o 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 secm
ond cut, mow across (perpendicular) to
the first cut path.
o 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-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
qb#_,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.
LUBRmCATION
Keep unit well lubricated
(See "LUBRICATION CHART").
LUBRmCATmON CHART
Wheel
adjuster (on
each wheel)
Engine oil
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 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.
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.
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,
Key .
Crankshaft
keyway
Lockwasher
Blade "
/
Blade
bolt
washer
Trailing edge
\
Blade adapter
Crank
shaft
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower 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 and attaching hardware
(bolt, lock washer, hardened washer).
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.
TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening
your mower 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 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 ordering.
12
GEARCASE
o Tokeepyourdrivesystemworking
properly,the gear caseandarea around
thedrive shouldbe keptcleanand free
oftrash build-up. Cleanunderthe drive
covertwice 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
MULTIS EP00. Do not substitute.
Maintenance, repair, or replacement of the
emission control devices and systems, which
are being done at the customers expense,
may be performed by any non-road engine
repair establishment or individual. Warranty
repairs must be performed by an authorized
engine manufacturer's service outlet.
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
Oil fill cap /
dipstick
Upper _
mark_
Lower _z
mark
4. Wipe off any spilled oil from lawn
mower or side of engine.
5. Fill engine with oil. Slowly pour oil
down the oil fill spout into the engine.
6. Wait one minute to allow oil to settle.
Use guage on oil fill cap!dipstick for
checking level. Insert dipstick into the
tube and rest the oil fill cap on the tube.
DO NOT thread the cap into the tube
when taking reading.
7. Continue adding small amounts of
oil and rechecking the dipstick until it
reads full. DO NOT overfill, or engine
will smoke on startup.
8. Always be sure to retighten oil fill cap/
dipstick before starting engine.
9. Reconnect spark pJug wire to plug.
I,
°F -20 0 30 32 40 60 80 100
°c -do -20 -1_ _ 1_ _0 _0 40
TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE
NOTE: Multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30
etc.) improve starting in cold weather, and
you should check your engine oil level fre-
quently to avoid possible engine damage
from running low on oil.
Change the oil after every 25 hours of opera-
tion or at least once a year if the lawn mower
is not used for 25 hours in one year.
Check the crankcase oil level before
starting the engine and after each five (5)
hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plug
securely each time you check the oil level,
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain
oil, 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 oil fill cap/dipstick; 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.
AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly and may be
damaged by using a dirty air filter. Replace
the air filter every 100 hours of operation or
every season, whichever occurs first. Service
air cleaner more often under dusty conditions.
TO CLEAN AIR FILTER
1. Remove cover.
2. Carefully remove cartridge.
3. Clean by gently tapping on a flat sur-
face. If very dirty, replace cartridge.
_I, 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.
13
MUFFLER
Inspectandreplacecorrodedmuffleras it
couldcreatea fire hazardand/ordamage.
SPARKPLUG
Replacesparkplug at the beginningof
eachmowingseasonor aftereveryt00
hoursof operation,whicheveroccurs
first. Sparkplug typeandgap setting
areshownin the "PRODUCTSPECIFIC-
ATIONS"sectionof this manual.
CLEANING
iMPORTANT: Forbestperformance,keep
mowerhousingfreeof built-upgrassand
trash.Cleanthe undersideof your mower
aftereachuse.
_I.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 DRmVECOVER
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,
_LWARNmNG: To avoid serious injury, before
performing any service or 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 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's mowing position. If the
deflector becomes damaged, it should be
replaced.
TO REMOVE DRmVEBELT
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.
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 all 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.
14
Loading...