Craftsman 917379271 Owner’s Manual

oAssembly ,,Operation

° Customer

Responsibilities

oService

917.37927! DWNER'SMANUAL

Adjustments

Repair Parts

Caution: Read and Follow

all Safety Rules and Instructions

Before Operating

This Equipment

159811 02°20.97 VBL

Printed in U.SA.

Safe Operation Practices for Walk-Behind Mowers

IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE tS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY iNSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

SAFETY STANDARDS REQUIRE OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROLS TO MINIMIZE THE RISK OF INJURY, YOUR UNIT IS EQUIPPED WITH SUCH CONTROLS. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DEFEAT THE FUNCTION OF THE OPERATOR PRESENCE

CONTROLS UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE&

SAFETY RULES

TRAINING:

• Read this operatoI's manual carefully. Become familiar with the controls and know how to operate your mower properly.

Learn how to quickly stop mower.

• Do not allow children to use your mower. Never aliow adults to use mower without proper instructions..

• Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, especia}ly small children and pets.

• Use mower only as the manufacturer intended and as de- scribed in this manual.

- Do not operate mower if it has been dropped or damaged in

any manner, Always have damage repaired before using

your mower_

• Do not useaccessory attachmentsthat are notrecommended

by the manufacturer.. Use of such attachments may be

hazardous.

- The blade turns when the engine is running.

PREPARATION:

* Always thoroughlycheck the area to be mowed and clear it of

all stones, sticks, wires, bones, and other foreign objects._ These objects will be thrown by the blade and can cause severe injury.

* Always wear safety glasses oreye shields when starting and

while using your mower,

o Dress properly.. Do not operate mower when barefoot or

wearing open sandals.. Wear' only solid shoes with good traction when mowing.

, Check fuel tank before starting engine_ Do not filt gas tank

indoors, when the engine is runningorwhen theengine ishot. A!iow the engine to coot for several minutes before filling the gas tank.. Clean off any spilled gasoline before starting the engine.

- Always make wheel height adjustments before starting your mower, Never attempt to do this while the engine is running,

• Mow ontyindaylight or good artificial light.

OPERATION:

• Keep your eyes and mind on your mower and the area being

cut. Do not let other' interests distract you.

• Do not mow wet or slippery grass,. Never run while operating your mower. Always be sure of your footing- keep a firm hold

on the handles and walk.

° Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep

clear of the discharge opening at all times.

° Always stop the engine whenever you reave orare not using

your mower,or before crossingdriveways, walks,roads, and any graveFcovered areas°

• Never direct discharge of material toward bystanders nor

allow anyone near the mower while you are operating ito

° Before cleaning,inspecting,orrepairingyour mower, stop the

engine and make absolutely sure the blade and all moving partshave stopped. Then disconnect the sparkplugwireand

keep it away from the spark plug to prevent accidental

startingv

• Do not continue to run your mower' ifyou hit a foreign object. Follow the procedure outlined above, then repair any dam-

age before restarting and operating you mower.

. Do not change the governor settings or overspeed the

engine Engine damage or personal injury may result

° Do not operate your mower if it vibrates abnormally.. Exces-

sive vibration is an indication of damage; stop the engine,

safely check for the cause of vibrationand repair as required

Do not run the engine indoors, Exhaust fumes are danger-

OU&

Never cut grass by pulling the mower towards you, Mow across the face of slopes, never' up and down or you might

loseyourfooting. Do not mow excessively steep slopes Use caution when operating the mower on uneven terrain orwhen

changing directions - maintain good footing.

• Never operate your mower without proper' guards, plates, grass catcher or other safety devices in place..

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:

• Check the blade and the engine mounting bolts often to be sure they are tightened properly..

• Check all bolts, nuts and screws at frequent intervals for

proper tightness to be sure mower is in safe working condi-

tion.

• Keep all safety devices in ptace and workin9

• To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine free of grass,leaves

or'excessive grease and oil.

• Check grass catcher often for deterioration and wear and

replace worn bag& Use only replacement bags that are recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your mower_

• Always keep a sharp blade on your mower.

• Allow engine to cool before storing inany enclosure.

° Never store mower with fuel in the tank inside a building

where fumes may reach an open flame or an ignition source such as a hot water heater, space heater, clothes dryer, etc.

i IH'IIIUI

portant safety precautions. It means

CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERT!!! YOUR

Look for this symbol to point out im- SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

plug wire and place wire where it can-

not contact spark plug in order to pre-

!,,oAu oN:A,way d'sc°nne 'sPa'k

. repairs- _...................... _.........

vent accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making

A WARNING A

The en.gine exhaust from this product con- tains chemicals known to the State of Califor-

nia to cause cancer, birth defects, or other

reproductive harm., .................................

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Sears Lawn Mower° It has been designed, engineered and manufac- tured to give you the best possible dependability and

performance. Should you experience any problem you cannot easily

remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Authorized Service CentedDepartmenL We have competent, welt-

trained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair this lawn mower..

Please read and retain this manual.. The instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your lawn mower

properly° Always observe the "SAFETY RULES"..

MODEL NUMBER 917..379271

SERIAL NUMBER

DATEOF PURCHASE

THE MODELAND SERIAL NUMBERSWILL BEFOUND ON A DECAL ATTACHED TO THE REAR OF THE

LAWN MOWER HOUSING YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBERAND

DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE

FOR FUTURE REFERENCE°

PRODUCT SPECHFICATIONS

HORSEPOWER: 6_5 DISPLACEMENT: t2.56 CU..IN.

GASOLINECAPACITY 1o5QUARTS ANDTYPE: UNLEADEDREGULAR

OILTYPE (API-SF/SG): SAE 30 (ABOVE32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (below32°F)

OILCAPACITY: 27 OZS. SPARKPLUG: CHAMPIONJ19LM, RJ19LM

(GAP: _030") VALVECLEARANCE: INTAKE: .005"-_007"

EXHAUST: .007"-.009"

SOLIDSTATE IGNITION AIR GAP; o010IN.

BLADEBOLTTORQUE: 35-40 FT LBSo

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this product. Contact your nearest Sears store for details.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

- Read and observe the safety rules°

- Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for and using your lawn mower,. o Follow the instructions under "Customer Responsibilities" and "Storage" sections of this owner's manual

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 instructionsinthe owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in matedal 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 crankshafts andthe failure tomaintain

the equipment according to the instructions contained inthe owner's manual..

WARRANTY-SERVICE IS AVAILABLE BY RETURNING THE CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER TO THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER/DEPARTMENT iN THE UNITED STATES_ THIS WARRANTY APPLIES ONLY WHILE THIS PRODUCT IS IN USE 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, ROEBLICK AND CO.., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179

SAFETY RULES ............................................................ 2

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS ...................................... 3

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES ..................... 3, 12-14

WARRANTY .................................................................. 3

ASSEMBLY ................................................................... 6

OPERATION .................................................................. 8

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ...................................... 12

INDEX

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS ................................. 15

STORAGE ................................................................... 17

TROUBLESHOOTING ................................................. 19

REPAIR PARTS - LAWN MOWER ........................ 20-24

REPAIR PARTS - ENGINE .................................... 26-28

PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE .................................... 28

Accessories ..........................................5

Adjustments:

Carburetor, ..................................16

Drive Belt .................................. 15

Engine Speed .............................16

Handle Height .............................I6

Height of Cut .....................................9

Air Filter:

Replacement ..............................14

Service ............................................14

Assembly ................................................6

Blade:

Sharpening ..................................13

Replacement .............................13

Controls:

Drive Control ..................................8

Engine Zone Control ...................8

Engine Speed Control ................8

Operator Presence

Control Bar ................................. 8

Customer' Responsibilities ......3, 12-14

Air Filter', ................................... 14

Blade Care/Replacement ...... 13

Drive Wheels ...............................13

Engine .........................................14

Lubrication ..................................14

Spark Plug ......................................14

Cutting Levels .................................. 9

Engine:

Air Filter'. ..........................................14

Oil Change ...................................14

Oil Level ............................................14

Oil Type ..........................................14

Starting ..........................................10

Stopping ......................................10

Storage .......................................16

Fuel:

Capacity ............................................3

Storage .......................................16

Type ..................................................10

Handle Adjustment:

Assembly ..........................................6

Cutting Height .............................16

Lubrication:

Engine .......................................14

Lawn Mower .............................12

Maintenance Agreement ..................3

Maintenance Schedule ................... 12

Mowing Tips ........................................10

Oil:

Engine ............................................12

Storage .................................... 16

Operation:

Drive Control ...................................9

Engine Control ...................................9

Grass Catcher o............................9

Mower ......................................... 9

Operator Presence

Control Bar. ......................................9

Options:

Accessories ....................................5

Repair Parts:

Engine .....................................26-28

Lawn Mower .............................20-24

Responsibilities, Customer.. 3, 12-14

Safety Rules ..............................................2

Service and Adjustments ..................15

Carburetor ......................................16

Ddve Belt .....................................15

Engine Speed .............................16

Handle .........................................16

Spark Plug .........................................14

Specifications .....................................3

Speed Control:

Engine .........................................8

Staffing the Engine ...........................10

Stopping the Engine ...........................10

Storage ......................................................16

Trouble Shooting Chart ........................19

Warranty .................................................3

i_, illl,,,,,,,lll,ll,II'I'I""IIII"H'

LAWN MOWE

These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced,. They are also available at most Sears retail outlets

and service centers. Most Sears stores can also order repair parts for you, when you provide the model number of your lawn mower° Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.

ACCESSO ES

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CLIPPING DEFLECTOR

FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

MULCHER KITS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

STABILIZER

GAS CANS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

BELTS BLADES

AIR FILTERS SPARK PLUGS

BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS ENGINE OIL

Readthese instructions and this manual in its entirety

before you attempt to assemble or operate your new lawn mower° Your new lawn mower has been assembled 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 assembly have been placed in the parts bag. To ensure safe and proper

operation of your lawn mower, all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely_ Use the correct

tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness_

OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROLBAR

UPPER HANDLE

LIFT UP

TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM

CARTON

* Remove loose parts included with mower.

= Cut down two end corners of carton and layend panel

down flat.

- Remove all packing materials except padding between upper and lower handle and padding holding operator

presence control bar to upper handle..

° Roll lawn mower out of carton and check carton thor-

oughly for additional loose parts.

HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWN MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE (See Fig. 1)

IMPORTANT: UNFOLD HANDLES CAREFULLY SO AS NOT TO PINCH OR DAMAGE CONTROL CABLES,

• Raise handles until lower handle section locks into place in mowing position.,

° Raise upper'handle section intoplace on lower handle,

remove protective padding and tighten both handle knobs

• Remove handle padding holding operator presence control bar to upper handle.

• Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted for your

mowing comfort. Refer to "Adjust Handle" in the Service and Adjustment section of this manual,,

NOTE: For' shipping purposes, the rear' wheels on your lawn mower are not adjusted to the same position as the

front wheels. Before operating mower adjust all wheels to the same cutting height position.

MOWING POSITION

LOWER HANDLE

FIG. 1

MULCHER PLUG

FIG. 2

CAUTION; Do not run your lawn mower without mulcher plug in place or ap-

proved clipping deflector or grass catcher in place, Never attempt to op- erate the lawn mower with the rear door

removed or propped open,

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS

(See Fig. 2)

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a

mulcher. To convert to bagging or discharging:

• Open rear door and remove mulcher plug. Store mulcher plug in a safe place_

• You can now install catcher or'optional clipping deflec- tor.

• To return to m_chingoperation, instail mulcher plug

into discharge opening of mower° Besure all tabs are

seated properly°

OPERATION

KNOW YoUR LAWN MowER .... ...............

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER° Compare the illustrationswith 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.

CAITrlON ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OtL DANGER, KEEP HANDS

OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY

.ll.i lllll.i ...ll_ llll . i ............................................................. .m.i .. ,l,,i

OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL BAR

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL CABLE

STARTER HANDLE

HANDLE KNOB

ENGINE OIL CAP W/DIPSTICK

GRASS CATCHER

DRIVE CONTROL LEVER

DRIVE COVER

MULCHER PLUG GASOLINE CAP

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL

HOUSING

PRIMER /

WHEEL ADJUSTER (ON EACH WHEEL)

FIG. 3

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 Commission. The blade turns when the engine is running.

OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL - must be held

downto the-handie_to startthe-engine_Release_to-stoplhe _

engine.

PRIMER - pumps additional fuel from the carburetor to the cylinder for use when starting a cold engine,,

STARTER HANDLE - used for starting the engine,

DRIVE CONTROL LEVER - used to engage power_pro-

-pelted-forward-motion-of-iawnmower.

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL - located on the side of the

engine which allows you to select either fast (._) or slow

(,41.) engine speed, MULOHER PLUG - must be removed to convert to bagging

or discharging operation°

OPERATION

,, ............ ill l ill ii,l,i, i i i ill ii i ,,, ,,,,,...... L . i lllnnllll i llllllll i,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

result in severe eye damage, Atways wear safely glasses or eye shields while operating your

I The operation of any lawn mower carl result in foreign objects thrown intothe eyes, which can

lawn mower' or performingany adjustments or'repairs_ We recommend a wide vision safety

mask over the spectacles or standard safety glasses_

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

CAUTION: Do not runyour lawn mower without muicher plate in place and door

closed or without anapproved clipping deflector or' grasscatcher in place.

Never attempt to operate the lawn mower with the rear door removed or

propped open.

ENGINE SPEED (See Fig. 4)

The engine speed is controlledby a lever located on the side of the engine,, Fast (._) position is for' starting the

engine, normal cutting, and better grass bagging° Stow (-€=_)positionisfor light cutting,trimmingandfuel economy.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

iiiiillllllll illl,ii illlll

CAUTION: Federal regulations require anengine control to be installed on this

risk of blade contact injury. Do not lawn mower in order to minimize the

under any circumstances attempt to defeat the function ofthe operator con-

trot.The blade turns when the engine is running.

Your lawn mower is equipped with an operatorpres-

ence control bar which requires the operator to be positioned behind the lawn mower handle to start and operate the lawn mower.

LOWER WHEELS FOR HIGH CUT

RAISE WHEELS FOR LOW CUT

PLATE TAB

FIG. 5

TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER (See Fig, 6)

• ClosethefliplidoFliplidmustbeclosedwhileoperatinglawn mower.

• Liftthe reardooronthemowerhousing and placethe grass catcherframe onto theformedtabs on the rear door'hinge

bracket.

° The grass catcher issecured to the lawn mower housing

whenthe rear doorisloweredontothegrasscatcherframe_

i,ii JJiilJJJ ...........

CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower

grass catcher in place. Never attempt to operate the lawn mower with fuherear door

without clipping deflector or approved

removedor propped open,

REAR DOOR

BRACKET

PRIMER

FIG. 4

TO ADJUST cu'n'ING HEIGHT (See Fig. 5)

* Raise wheelsfor low cut and lower wheelsfor high cut.

- Adjust cutting height to suit your requirements. Me-

dium position is best for most lawns°

, To change cutting height, squeeze adjuster lever' to-

ward 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.

FORMED TABS

FIG. 6

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER (See Fig. 7)

° Toremovegrasscatcher,releaseoperatorpresencecontrol

bar to stop engine.

° Liftupreardoorand removethe grasscatcherbythe handle.

° Do notdragthebag whenemptying; itwillcause unneces-

sary wear.

8 FIG. 7

OPERATB

DRIVE CONTROL (See Fig. 8)

• 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 release the lever°

• Forward motion will stop when the operator 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 to 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.

OPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL BAR

DRIVE CONTROL

CONTROL

_NGAGE DRlyE,,CONTROL

DRIVE CONTROL DISENGAGED

DRIVE

FIG. 8

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

OIL (See Fig, 9)

Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in the engine_

• Be sure mower islevel and area around oil fill is clean.

° Remove engine oil cap w/dipstick and fill to the full line

on the dipstick°

• Use 27 ozs. of oil. Fortypeandgradeofoiltouse, see

"ENGIN E" in Customer Responsibilities section of this

manual°

• Pour oil slowly, Do not over fill.

° Check oil level before each use. Add oil if needed. Fill

to full line on dipstick.,

o To read proper level, tighten engine oil cap each time.

. Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten, . After the fi_'sttwo (2) hours of mowing, change the oil,

and every 25 hours thereafter. You may need to change the oil more often under dusty, dirty conditions,

ADD GASOLINE (See Fig. 9)

° Fill fuel tank, 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 30days to assure fuel freshness.

IMPORTANT; WHEN OPERATING iN TEMPERATURES BELOW 32°F(0°C), USE FRESH, CLEAN WINTER GRADE

GASOLINE TO HELP INSURE GOOD COLD WEATHER

STARTING,, WARNING: Experience indicates that alcohol blended

fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of

acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage To avoid engine problems,the fuel system should be emptied before stor- age of 30 days or longer, Drain the gas tank, start the

engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Usefresh fuel next season See Storage Instruc-

tions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent

damage may occur,

CAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any

spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

iii ,,11 ii i, i I I I II ,i i

TO START ENGINE

o To start acold engine, push primer five (5) 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,,

° Move engine speed control lever to fast (,_) position. ° Hold operator presence control bar down to the handle

and pull starter handle quickly. Do not allow starter rope to snap back.

• To stop engine, release operatorpresence control bar, 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.

GASOLINE FILLER CAP

ENGINE OIL CAP

W/DIPSTICK

FIG. 9

OPERATION

MOWING TIPS

• Under certain conditions, such as very tallgrass, itmay

be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep fromoverloadingthe engine and leaving clumps of grass clippings°

• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of cut and raise the rear of the lawn mower housing one (1)

wheel adjuster setting higher than the front for better discharge of grass,.

• For better' grass bagging and most cutting conditions, the engine speed should be set inthe fast (_) position.

o 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_

• Ifatrailofgrass clippings isleft on the rightside ofarear discharge lawn mower, mow in a clockwise direction

with a small overlap to collect the clippings on the next pass.

• Keep top of engine around starter clear and clean of grass clippings and chaff. This will help engine air flow

and extend engine life.

° Pores in cloth grass catchers can becomefilled with dirt

and dust with use and catcher's will collect less grass. To prevent this, regu!arly hose catchers off with water

and let dry before using.

MAX 1/3

MULCHING MOWING TIPS

IMPORTANT: FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP MOWER HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND

TRASH. SEE "CLEANING" IN CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES SECTION OF THIS MANUAL.,

• The special mulching blade wilt recut the grass clip- pings many times and reduce them in size so that as

they fall onto the tawn 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 wil! provide the best recutting action of the

blades.

• Avoid cutting yourlawn when it iswet. Wet grass tends to form dumps and interferes with the mulching action.

The best time to mow your lawn isthe early afternoon., At this time the grass has dried and the newly cut area

will not be exposed to the direct sun_

° For best results, adjust the lawn mower' cutting height

so that the lawn mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass blades (See Fig. 10). If the lawn is overgrown itwill be necessary to raise the height ofcut

to reducepushing effort and to keep from overloading

the engine and leaving clumps of mulched grass,, For

extremely heavy mulching, reduce your width of cut by overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly..

• Certain types of grass and grass conditions may re-

quire that an area be mulched a second time to corn- pletely hide the clippings. When doing a second cut,

mow across or 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 towest the

next week.. This will help prevent matting and graining

of the lawn.

FIG, 10

CUSTOMER RESPONSNBBLmTmES

i,l,lni i ,an ........................................

AsYOUCOMPLETE ........

REGULAR SERVICE /_y V_%/_._x_') _.q/'_ _'4_._ ._£ SERVICE D,DATES

Check for Loose Fasteners _ 6/' 6/ ......... I "

Clean/inspect Grass Catcher

(If,Equi,P,ped) = 6f 6/' 6/

M €lean,,,,Lawn,Mower O Clean Under Drive Cover(power-Propelled Mowers)

(Power-P,ropelled Mowers)

E Check drive belt/pulleys

,,CheckdSharpen/Replace Blade

Lubrication Chart

Clean Battery/Recharge

(Electric Start Mowers.).............

E v"

Check,,Engine Oil Level,,

Change Engine Oil

N : e/1,2 ,

G Clean Air Filter ..........

i Inspect Muffler

N Clean or Replace Spark Plug

E Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge _2

,,,,i .....................

1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures 2 - Service more often when Operating in dirty or dusty conditions.,

3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil. 4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover items that

have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence.. To receive full value from the warranty, operator must maintain mower as instructed in this manual

Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to properly maintain your unit,,

AII adjustments in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual should be checked at least once each season.

. Once a year, replace the spark plug, replace air filter

element and check blade for wear. A new spark plug and clean!new air filter element assures proper air-fuel

mixture and helps 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"),,

(_) WHEEL

_HAN/DLE BRACKET

,(_SPRAY-LUBRtCANT

(_) REFER TO CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES "ENGINE"

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 GRAPHITE TYPE LUBRICANT SPARINGLY

v' v' v'4

LUBROCATUON CHART

(_) REAR DOOR

MOUNTING PIN

SECTION°

HINGE

(_) ENGINE OIL

'I'1

LITIES

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when performing any mainte- nance.

TIRES

* Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chemi-

cals which can harm rubber°

o Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp objects and

other' hazards that may cause tire damage.

BLADE CARE

For best results, mower blade must be kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged blades.

TO REMOVE BLADE (See Fig_ 1t) ° Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place

wire where it cannot come in contact with spark plug.

• Turn lawn mower on its side._Make sure air filter and carburetor are up_

• Use awood block between blade and mower housing to prevent blade from turning when removing blade

boil

° Protect your hands with gloves and/orwrap blade with

heavy cloth.

• Remove blade bolt by turning counter-clockwise. Use a 9/16" box or open-end wrench_

° Remove blade and attaching hardware (bolt, lock

washer' and hardened washer),

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

condition to work properly. Replace adapter if damaged,. TO REPLACE BLADE (See Fig. 11)

° Position the blade adapter-on the engine crankshaft..

Be sure key in adapter and crankshaft keyway are aligned..

• Position blade on the blade adapter aligningthe two (2) holes inthe blade with the raised lugs onthe adapter.

• Be sure the trailing edge of blade (opposite sharp edge) is up toward the engine_

° Install the blade bolt withthe lock washer'and hardened

washer into blade adapter and crankshaft.

• 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 ISGRADE 8 HEATTREATED_

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

TO SHARPEN BLADE

Care should-be .taken to-keel_the-bladebalanced. An unbalanced blade will cause eventual damage to lawn mower or engine_ o

° The blade can besharpened with a file or on a grinding

wheel° Do not attempt to sharpen while onthe mower.

• Tocheck blade balance, drive anail intoa 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° 12

BLADE ADAPTER

BLADE

HARDENED WASHER

LOCK WASHER EDGE

TRAIUNG

BLADE ADAPTER

SHAFT

KEYWAY

"CRAN_

SHAFT

FIG. 11

GRASS CATCHER

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

° Check your grass catcher' often for damage or deterio-

ration. Through normal use it will wear_. If catcher needs replacing, replace onty with a manufacturer approved replacement catcher_ Give the lawn mower

model number when ordering°

DRIVE WHEELS

Check front drive wheels each time before you mow to be sure they move freely,,

The wheels not turning freely means trash, grass cuttings,

etc. are inthe drive wheel area and must be cleaned to free drive wheels,

If necessary to clean the ddve wheels, check both front wheels..

• Remove hubcaps, hairpin cotters and washers,

• Remove wheels from wheef adjusters.. ° Remove any trash or grass cuttings from inside the

dust cover, pinion and/or drive wheel gear teeth,

• Put wheels back in place.

• If after cleaning, the drive wheels do not turn freely, contact your nearest authorized service center.,

GEAR CASE

• To keep your drive system working properly, the gear

case and area around the drive should be kept clean

-and-freeof-trash-build_up, Clean.under.the drive cover twice a season.

The gear case is fitted 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 lubricantis required, use only Texaco Starplex Pre- mium 1 Grease, Part No, 750355. Do not substitute°

CUSTOMER BILHTIES

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated with API service

classification SF or SGo Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your expected operating temperature,

SAE VISCOSITY GRACES

,qm_mmR_

GF " _20= 0= 30 _ 32" 40" 60a 80" 100 _

TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTiCiPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30 etc. improvestarting incord 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 the first two hours of operation and

ever,/25 hours thereafter or at least once a year ifthe 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 (See Fig° 12)

NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain oil, drain fuel tank by running engine until fuel tank is empty, . Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place

wire where it cannot come in contact with spark plug.

. Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a clean surface.

- Tip lawn mower on its side and drain oil into a suitable

container,, Rock lawnmower back and forth to remove any oil trapped inside of engine°

• Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower and on side of engine.,

o Fill engine with oil. Fill only to the "FULL" line on the

dipstick. DO NOT overfill.

• Replace engine oi! cap.

• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.,

AIR FILTER

o Swing cover up and tighten cover knob (Do not

overtighten),

i, i, ,,u 'LH_ _l I /

as kerosene, are not to be used to clean cartridge. They may cause dete- rioration of the cartridge. Do not oil

CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such !

cartridge. Do not use pressurized air to clean or dry cartridge.

AIR FILTER COVER

COVER

HINGE _

FIG. 13

KNOB

MUFFLER

Inspectand replace corroded muffler as it could create a

fire hazard and/or damage..

SPARK PLUG

Change your spark plug each year to make your engine start easier and run better. Set spark plug gap at _030inch,

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: FOR BEST PERFORMANCE, KEEP MOWER HOUSING FREE OF BUILT-UP GRASS AND

TRASH. CLEAN THE UNDERSIDE OF YOUR MOWER AFTER EACH USE.

CAUTION: Disconnect sparkplug wire

from spark plug and place wire where

itcannot come in contact with the spark

plug. ....................................

CONTAINER

FIG. 12

Your engine will not run properly and may be damaged by

using a dirty air filter. Replace the air filter every year, more often ifyou mow in

very dLisT_i.-dFrt_-665diti_-nS5-fiSt-_]ilt eT....

TO CHANGE AIR FILTER (See Fig. 13)

• Loosen cover knob. ° Swing cover clown and remove from hinge.

• Pull paper filter out of air cleaner body..

• Clean air cleaner cover and body.

• Install a new paper filter_

• Reinstall cover to air cleaner body° Be sure hinge is assembled properly.

Turn lawn mower on itsside. Make sure air filter and carburetor are up. Clean the underside of your lawn

mower by scraping to remove build*up of grass and

trash.

• Clean engine often to keeptrash from accumulating, A clogged engine runs hotter and shortens engine lifeo

° Keep finished surfaces and wheels free of all gasoline,

oil,etc.

- We do not recommend using a garden hose to clean

.....tawrrmowerunless=the_lectfical-system, muffler, air

filter and carburetor are covered to keep water ouL Water in engine can result in shortened engine life,

CLEAN UNDER DRIVE COVER Clean under drive cover at least twice a season, Scrape

underside ofcover with putty knife orsimilar tool to remove any build-up of trash or grass on underside of drive cover°

...... -.:.:..... i ii IILIIIIII IIl'l:lllllllll '1"1 , 'llllllllll I IIIllll IIl'll I Llll LIIll III

SE AND ADJUSTMENTS

,llll,llll,llJi tll'l'l IIIII ............................................................... ............ t,tllt, ,

CAUTION: BEFORE PERFORMING ANY SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS:

- Release control bar.

• Make sure the blade and all moving parts have completely stopped. ° Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place 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 lawn mower, is provided to minimize the possibility

that objects wilt be thrown out the rear of the lawn mower into the operator's mowing position, if the rear deflector becomes damaged, it should be replaced.

TO REMOVE/REPLACE DRIVE BELT

(See Fig. 14)

• Remove drivecoversRemove beltby pushingdownon

gear case pulley and roll belt off_

• Turn lawn mower on its side with carburetor and fuel cap up.

• Remove blade.

• Remove debris shield.

= Remove belt from engine pulley on crankshaft,

• Install new bell by reversing above steps,,

° Always use factory approved belt to assure fit and long

life.

TO ADJUST HANDLE (See Figs. 15 Thru 17) Your lawn mower handle can be raised or loweredfor your

mowing comforL Four (4) positions are available: high, medium high, medium low and low. Handles are shipped

mounted in the medium low position° ° To change from medium low to medium high position,

the upper and lower handle sections wilt have to be

turned over (See Fig._15B). ° Remove cable clips° ° Remove the controls and operator presence control

bar from the upper handle. ° Remove the starter rope guide from the lower handle_

° Remove hairpin cotters° ° Disconnect the lower handle from the handle brackets

(See Fig. 17).,

° Turn the handle over and reassemble De hairpin

cotters that have been removed°

• Reassemble the starter rope guide. o Reassemble the controls and the operator presence

control bar to the upper handle°

DRIVE COVER

BELT i

DOWN

PUSH I

FIG. 14

SHIPPING POSITION

MEDIUM LOW MEDIUM HIGH

FIG. 15A FIG, 15B

S_HIGH

LOW

14 FIG. 16A FIG, 16B

ERVnCE AND ADJUSTMENTS

i ::_:._-illlll,ll_lll,_, ii ill_/

CAUTION: The operator presence con- trol bar must pivotfreelyto permit blade

brake engagement when control bar is released. Do not over tighten the

fasteners holding the controls to the

upper handle.

To change from medium low to high position only the upper handle section will have to be turned over (See

Fig. 16A).

To change from medium low to tow position, only the lower handle section will have to be turned over (See

Fig,,16B)o

LOWER HANDLE

SQUEEZE TO REMOVE

HANDLE BRACKET

HAIRPIN CLIP

ENGINE

ENGINE SPEED

Your engine speed has been factory set. Do not attempt to increaseengine speed or it may result inpersonal injury_

Ifyou believe that theengine is running too fast ortoo slow,

take your lawn mower to an authorized service center for

repair and adjustment, CARBURETOR

Your carburetor is not adjustable.. Ifyour engine does not

operate properly due to suspected carburetor problems,

take your lawn mower to an authorized service center for

repair and/or adjustment. IMPORTANT; NEVER TAMPER WITH THE ENGINE

GOVERNOR, WHICH IS FACTORY SET FOR PROPER ENGINE SPEED OVERSPEEDINGTHE ENGINE ABOVE

THE FACTORY HIGH SPEED SETTING CAN BE

DANGEROUS IF YOU THINK THE ENGINE-GOVERNED HIGH SPEED NEEDS ADJUSTING, CONTACT YOUR NEAREST AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER, WHICH HAS

PROPER EQUIPMENT AND EXPERIENCE TO MAKE ANY NECESSARY ADJUSTMENTS..

FIG. 17

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Craftsman 917379271 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual