Craftsman 917379401 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

]CRIIFTSMHW]

5.5 HORSEPOWER 22" REAR DISCHARGE

POWER PROPELLED

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.

917.379401

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Espafiol

• Repair Parts

NOTE: Engines which are certified to comply with California and U.S. EPA emission regulations

for SORE (Small Off Road Equipment), are certified to operate on regular unleaded gasoline,

and include the following emission control systems: Engine Modification (EM), and Three-way

Catalyst (TWC) (If so equipped).

AVISO: Los motores homologados para cumplircon la reglamentaci6n sobre emisiones de California y de la Agencia de Protecci6nAmbiental estadounidense (EPA) para equipos

pequefios no cimulantes (SORE) funcionan con gasolina normal sin plomo, e incluyen los siguientes sistemas de controlde emisiones: modificaci6n del motor (EM) y catalizador de tdple

acci6n (TWC) (en caso de tenerlo).

The D.O.M. decal includes engine life specifications for the emissions-related useful life period of

your engine. This period relates to the emission compliance life as certified by EPA/CARB. To find the life period specification for your engine, please match one of the following letters with the

letter printed on your D.O.M. decal: (C) 125 hours, (B) 250 hours, (A) 500 hours.

La calcomanfa D.O.M. incluye especificaciones sobre la duraci6n del motor para el perfodo de vida dtil de su motor relaccionado con emisiones. Este perfodo se relaciona con la duraci6n en

conformidad con las emisiones seg_JnIo certificado por EPNCARB. Para hallar la especificaci6n del perfodo de vida de su motor, mire cudl de las siguientes letras viene impresa en su calcomanla D.O.M.: (C) 125 horas, (B) 250 horas, (A) 500 horas.

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

Warranty ................................................. 2

Safety Rules ........................................ 2-4

Assembly ............................................. 4-5

Operation ............................................. 6-9

Maintenance Schedule ........................ 10

Maintenance .................................... 10-13

Product Specifications .......................... 11

Service and Adjustments ................. 13-15

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

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

Repair Parts ..................................... 34-43

Parts Ordering ........................ Back Cover

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 workman- ship.

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 and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions

contained in the owner's manual.

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

Sears Service CenterlDepartment 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, Roebuck and Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, Illinois 60179

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in

serious injury or death.

h GENERAL OPERATION

• Read, understand, and follow all

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

oughly 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 discharge opening at all times.

• Only allow responsible individuals, who are familiar with the instructions, to

operate the machine.

• Clear the area of objects such as

rocks, toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc.,

which could be picked up and thrown

by the 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

barefoot 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.

• 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

approved 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

untilthe 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 and walk; never

run.

• Disengage the self-propelled mecha-

nism or drive clutch on mowers so equipped before starting the engine

(motor).

• If the equipment should start to vibrate

abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and check immediately for the cause. Vibration 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 and fall accidents which can result in

severe injury. 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-ofts, ditches or embankments. The operator could lose

footing or balance.

• Do not trim excessively steep slopes.

• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced footing could cause slipping.

II1. 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

machine.

• Use extra care when approaching blind

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

IV. SERVICE

• 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.

• Never run a machine inside a closed area.

• 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 acciden-

tal starting.

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep

equipment in good condition.

• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.

• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to cool before

storing.

• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary,

before restarting.

• Never attempt to make wheel height adjustments while the engine (motor) is

running.

• 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.

Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and

use extra caution when servicing them. Do not change the engine governor

setting or overspeed the engine.

A,Look for this symbol to point out

important safety precautions, it means CAUTIONI![ BECOMEALERT!]! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

_, CAUTION: Always disconnect spark

plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug in order to prevent

accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs. _,WARNING" Engine exhaust, some of

its constituents, and certain vehicle

components contain or emit chemicals

known to the State of California to cause

cancer and birth defects or other repro-

ductive 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 bums on contact, stay away from these areas.

These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears retailoutlets and service

centers. Most Soars stores can also order repair parts for you, when you provide the model number of your lawn mower. Some of these accessories may not applyto your lawn mower.

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

' '

CLIPPING DEFLECTOR

FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

BELTS BLADES

MULCHER KITS

_// GRASS CATCHERS

_/ SIDE DISCHARGE

AIR FILTERS

BLADE ADAPTERS

LAWN MOWERS

WHEELS

STABILIZER

FOR

GAS CANS

SPARK PLUGS

ENGINE OIL

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

assemble or operate your new 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 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

4 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 fiat.

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.

Or control bar

Upper

Lift u

Mowing position

Lower handle

HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWN MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

IMPORTANT: Unfold handles carefully so as not to pinch or damage control cables.

1. Raise handles until lower handle section locks into place in mowing

position.

2. Remove protective padding, raise

upper 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 "Adjust

Handle" in the Service and Adjustment section of this manual.

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS 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 deflector.

• To return to mulching operation, install mulcher plug into discharge opening of

mower.

_CAUTION: Do not run your lawn

mower without muicher plug in place or approved clipping deflector or grass catcher in place. Never attempt to

operate the lawn mower with the rear door removed or propped open.

Mulcher

TO PREPARE BATTERY

NOTE: Your battery must be charged before you can start your lawn mower.

1. Disconnect engine battery connector

(male) from battery connector (female)

2. Connect battery charger connector

(male) to battery connector (female).

3. Plug battery charger into 110 volt A.C.

outlet.

4. Leave battery charger connected for 24 hours before starting your engine for the first time.

5. After charging, connect engine

connector (male) to battery connector

(female). Your engine has an integral alternator for partial charging. Connect your battery

charger to charge battery as required. IMPORTANT: The engine alternator will

not charge a discharged battery. At the end of the mowing season the

battery should be charged for 48 hours to protect the battery during winter storage. &CAUTION: Always disconnect the

engine connector (male) from the battery connector (female) to prevent accidental starting when transporting or storingyour

lawn mower after the season.

Engine

connector

(Male

Battery

charger

-y

charger

connector

5 Battery connector (Female) (Male)

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND 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.

_ symbolsmayappearon yourlawn_ or In literaturesupped withthe product.Learn and

understandtheirmeaning.

CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS

OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY

-Operator presence control bar

Key start

Engine zone

control cable

Auxiliary starter

Grass catch_

Mulcher plug

Engine oil cap with dipstick

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE inthe engine.

"Drive control lever

-Handle knob

Gasoline filler cap

Airfilter

Primer

Muffler

Drive cover

Wheel adjuster (on each wheel)

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 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 starting

the engine.

Drive control lever - used to engage power- propelled forward motion of lawn mower.

Mulcher plug - Located at the rear discharge opening. Must be removed to convert to

bagging or discharging operation. Key start switch- used for starting the

engine.

The operation of any lawn

mower can result inforeign objects thrown into the eyes, which can result in

severe eye damage.

Always wear safety glasses or eye

shields while operating your lawn mower or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a wide vision safety

mask over spectacles or standard safety glasses.

HOWTO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED 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 cimumstances 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 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

clown to handle to continue 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 control bar Drive

control

TO ADJUST CU'i-rlNG 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

adjuster lever toward wheel. Move

wheel up or down to suit your require-

ments. 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.

Lower Wheels for High Cut

Raise Wheels for Low Cut Lever

TO A'n'ACH GRASS CATCHER

1. Lift the rear door of the lawn mower

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

2. The grass catcher is secured to the lawn mower housing when the rear door is lowered onto the grass catcher

frame.

•,CAUTION: Do not runyour lawn

mower without clipping deflector or

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

the rear door removed or propped open.

Pivot ' Rear

Grass

catcher

handle

To engage Drive control drive control disengaged 7

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 emptying; it will cause unnecessary wear.

Grass

frame

handle

Bag handle

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

ADD OIL Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in

the engine. Engine holds 20 oz. of oil.

For type and grade of oil to use, see "ENGINE" in Maintenance section of this

manual.

1. Be sure lawnmower is level and area around oil fill is clean.

2. Remove engine oil cap and fill to the full line on the dipstick. Pour oil slowly.

Do not over fill.

NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into engine

for accurate reading. To read proper level, tighten engine oil cap, then remove it to

read the dipstick.

3. Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.

• 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.

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular

unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane. Do not mix oil with gaso- line. Purchase fuel in quantities that

can be used within 30 days to assure

fuel freshness.

AWARNING: 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 storage of 30 days or longer, Drain 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 Instructionsfor additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel

tank or permanent damage may occur.

A 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.

Gasoline

filler cap

Engine oil cap

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

product and should be considered

normal.

1. To start a cold engine, push primer three (3) times before trying to start.

Use a firm push. This step is not

usually necessary when starting an engine which has already run for a

few minutes.

2. Hold operator presence control bar down to the handle.

3. Turn electric start key clockwise to crank engine.

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.

1. To start engine using the auxiliary starter handle, follow the steps above.

Exchange the use of the start key for

starter handle. Pull starter handle quickly. Do not allow starter rope to

snap back.

TO STOP ENGINE

• To stop engine, release operator

presence control bar.

NOTE: In cooler weather itmay 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

• 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

clippings. It may also be necessary to

reduce 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

cutting 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

overlap to collect the clippings on the next pass.

• Pores in cloth grass catchers can become filled with dirt and dust with

use and catchers will collect less grass. To prevent this, regularly hose catcher

off withwater 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

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 recutting action of the blades.

• Avoid cuttingyour 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 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. If the lawn is overgrown itwill 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 mulching, reduce your width of cut by overlapping previously cut path and mow slowly.

MAX 1/3

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

mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a

second cut, mow across or perpendicu-

lar 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

FILL IN DATES AS YOU COMPLETE

REGULAR SERVICE

Check for LooseFasteners _ If Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher

(If Equipped) V _

i Clean Lawn Mower

(Power-PropelledMowers)

O Clean Under DriveCover

Checkdrivebelt/pulleys

E (Power-PropelledMowers} ¥1

Check/SharperVReptaceBlade _,_3

LubricationChart

Clean Battery/Recharge

fElectric Start Mowers1 I_ I,/4

y ySERV,CE DATES

E Check En_line Oil Level (_4' N Change Engine Oil Ik#1.2

G Clean Air Filter II/ 2

Inspect Muffler

N clean or Replace Spark Plug

Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge li/2

1-Changemoreoftenwhen operatingundera heavyloador _nhighambienttemperatures.

2 -Servicemoraoftenwhenoperatingindirtyordustyconditions. 3 -Replacebladesmoreo_enwhenmowingin sandysoil.

4 -Charge48hoursatendof 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.

All 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 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 =LUBRI-

CATION CHART").

(_) Wheel adjuster

(_) Handle bracket mounting pins door hinge

(_) 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-lubricat-

ing bearings. If you feel they must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered

graphite type lubricant sparingly.

LUBRICATION CHART

wheel)

(_) Brake

spring

bracket

oil

(!) Rear

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

SERIAL NUMBER: DATE OF PURCHASE:

GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.5 QUARTS (UNLEADED REGULAR) OILTYPE (API-SF-SJ): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: 20 OUNCES SPARK PLUG (GAP: .030") CHAMPION RN4C

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS.

• The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal on the rear of the mower housing. Record both serial number and date of purchase in space provided above.

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when perform- ing any maintenance.

TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect

control chemicals which can harm rubber.

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

tire damage.

BLADE CARE For best results, mower blade must be

kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged blades.

TO REMOVE BLADE

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

NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and check the key inside hub of blade

adapter. The key must be in good condi-

tion to work properly. Replace adapter if

damaged.

TO REPLACE BLADE

1. Position the blade adapter on the engine 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

(opposite 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 grade 8 heat treated.

TO SHARPEN BLADE NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen-

ing 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, ddve 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.

Blade adapter Crankshaft

Blade

bolt

washer

Trailing edge Blade adapter

shaft

GRASS CATCHER

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

• Check your grass catcher often for

damage or deterioration. Through normal use it will wear. If catcher

needs replacing, replace only 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 in the drive wheel area and must be cleaned to

free drive wheels.

If necessary to clean the drive wheels, check both front wheels,

1. Remove hubcaps, hairpin cotters and

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 your nearest

Sears or other qualified service center.

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 Texaco

Starplex Premium 1 Grease, Part No.

750369. Do not substitute.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated

with API service classification SF-SJ.

Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your expected operating

temperature.

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°1:. 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

operation 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, drain 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 spark 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

remove any oil trapped inside of

engine.

4. Wipe off any spilled oil from lawn

mower or side of engine.

5. Fill engine with oil. See "ADD OIL" in

the Operation section of this manual.

6. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.

Container\

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. Do not wash air filter.

TO CHANGE AIR FILTER

1. Remove the air filter by turning counter-clockwise to the stop and pull

away from collar.

2. Remove filter from inside of cover.

3. Clean the inside of the cover and the collar to remove any dirt accumula-

tion.

4. Insert new filter into cover.

5. Put air filter cover and filter into collar aligning the tab with the slot.

6. Push in on cover and turn clockwise to tighten.

Collar Clip Turn counter-

clockwise to

remove

Air filter

Turn

=lockwise

Air filter cover"

MUFFLER Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it

could create a fire hazard and/or dam-

age. SPARK PLUG

Replace spark plugs at the beginning of

to tighten

each mowing season or after every 100

hours of operation, whichever occurs first.

Spark plug type and gap setting are shown in "PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS"

in Maintenance section of this manual.

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 spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it

cannot come in contact with the spark

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 shortened

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.

• I,CAUTION: 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 where it cannot come

in contact with plug.

LAWNMOWER

TO ADJUST cu'n'ING HEIGHT

See "TO ADJUST CUFFING HEIGHT" in the Operation secUon 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 will 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

1. Remove drive cover. Remove belt

from gaarcasa 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.

6. Install new belt by reversing above steps.

7. Always use factory approved belt to assure fit and long life.

Drive cover Belt

Push

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 parts

attached to lower handle.

2. Remove hairpin cotters from lower

handle bracket mounting pin.

3. Squeeze lower handle in to remove it

from mounting pins.

4. Turn lower handle over to raise or lower handle.

5. Squeeze lower handle in and position holes onto mounting pins on handle

bracket.

6. Reassemble upper handle and all

parts removed from lower handle.

Mowing ,-"

position _ "l

Mowing position

High position

Low position

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 vinylbindings are too stiff,hold

them in warm water for a few minutes. If

bag gets wet, let it dry before using.

_CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower

without clipping deflector or approved grass catcher in place. Never attempt to

operate the lawn mower with the rear door removed or propped open.

Catcher

frame

handle

\ Frame

opening

ENGINE

ENGINE SPEED

Your engine speed has been factory set.

Do not attempt to increase engine speed or it may result in personal injury. If you

believe that the engine is running too fast or too slow, take your lawn mower to a

Sears or other qualified service center for repair and adjustment.

+ 30 hidden pages

Craftsman 917379401 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual