Craftsman 917.387203 User Manual

Owner's Manual

[RAFTXMAN°

3.5 HORSEPOWER
20" SIDE DISCHARGE

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.

917.387203

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• EspaSol
° Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equipment

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

Warranty 2 Product Specifications 9
Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 11

Assembly 4 Storage 12
Operation 5 Troubleshooting 13
Maintenance Schedule 8 Repair Parts 30
Maintenance 8 Parts Ordering Back Cover

LIMITED ONE YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER

For one year from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,

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

If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty

applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.
This Warranty does not cover:.

• Expendable items which become wom during normal use, such as rotary mower

blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.

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

tained in the owner's manual.

Warranty service is available by retuming 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, ROEBUCKAND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179

TRAINING:

• Read this operator'smanual carefully.
Become familiarwiththe controlsand

know howto operate your mower
properly.Learn how toquicklystop

mower.

• Do notallow childrento use your mower.
Never allow adultsto use mower without

proper instructions.

• Keep the area ofoperation clear of all
persons, especiallysmall childrenand
pets.

• Use mower onlyas the manufacturer
intended and as described inthis manual.

• Do notoperate mowerif it has been

dropped or damaged inany manner.

Always have damage repairedbefore

usingyour mower.

• Do not use accessory attachments that

are not recommended by the manufac-

turer. Use of such attachments may be

hazardous.

• The blade turns when the engine is

running.

PREPARATION:

• Always thoroughly check 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 or eye
shields when starting and while using

your mower.

• 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 fill gas tank indoors, when the

engine is running or when the engine is

hot.Allowtl_eenginetocoolforseveral
minutesbeforefillingthegastank.Clean

offanyspilledgasolinebefore starting the

engine.

• Always make wheel height adjustments
before starting your mower. Never
attempt to do this while the engine is

running.

• Mow only in daylight 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
mn 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

leave or are not using your mower, or
before crossing driveways, walks, roads,
and any gravel--covered areas.

• Never direct discharge of material toward
bystanders nor allow anyone near the
mower while you are operating it.

• Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing
your mower, stop the engine and make

absolutely sure the blade and all moving
pads have stopped. Then disconnect the
spark plug wire and keep it away from the

spark plug to prevent accidental starting.

• Do not continue to run your mower if you

hit a foreign object. Follow the procedure
outlined above, then repair any damage

before restarting and operating you
mower.

• Do not change the govemor settings or
ove_peed the engine. Engine damage or

personal injury may result.

• Do not operate your mower if it vibrates

abnormally. Excessive vibration is an
indication of damage; stop the engine,

safely check for the cause of vibration

and repair as required.

• Do not run the engine indoors. Exhaust
fumes are dangerous.

• Never cut grass by pulling the mower
towards you. Mow across the face of

slopes, never up and down or you might
lose your footing. Do not mow exces-

sively steep slopes. Use caution when
operating the mower on uneven terrain
or when 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 mount-
ing 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
condition.

• Keep all safety devices in place and

working.

• To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine

free of grass, leaves or excessive grease

and oil.

• Check grass catcher often for deteriora-

tion and wear and replace worn bags.

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 in any

enclosure.

• Never store mower with fuel inthe 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.

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
The engine exhaust from this product

contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer, birth defects,
or other reproductive harm.

3

These accasscrlaswere availablewhen thislawn mowerwasproduced.Thay arealso

availableat mostSears retailoutletsandservicecenters. Most Sears storescan alsoorder
repairpertsfor you,whenyouprovidethe modelnumberofyourlawnmower. Some ofthese

accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

CUPPING DEFLECTOR

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS AIR FILTERS SPARK PLUGS

BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS ENGINE OIL

Read these instrudions 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 unaseambled

for shipping purposes. All parts such as nuts,
washers, bolts, etc., nesesea_y to complete the
assembly have been placed in the parts beg.
To ensure safe and proper operation of your

lawn mower, allparts andhardware you
assemble must be tightened securely. Use the
correct tools as necessary to ensure proper
tightness.

TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM

CARTON

• Remove loose parts included with mower.

• Cut down two end comers of carten and lay

end panel down tlat.

• Remove all pacing mate_als except

padding between upper and lower handle
and padding holding operator presence

control bar to upper handie.

MULCHERK]TS

SIDE DISCHARGE

GRASS CATCHERS

LAWN MOWERS

FOR

STABILIZER

GAS CANS

• Rolllewn moweroutofcartonand check
cartonthorougly foradd_ionallooseparts.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN
MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

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

• Raise handles untillower handle section

locks intoplace inmowing position.

• Remove protective padding, raise upper
handle section into place on lower handle

and tighten both handle knobs.

• Remove handle padding holding operator

presence control barto upper handle.

• Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted
for your mowing comfort. Referto 'Adjust

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

4

Operatorpresencecontrolbar

Upperhandle'@kifl upS/

handle

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN
MOWER. Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the
location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the product.

Learn and understand their meaning.

CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW Ct'_KE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS

OR WARNING ON OFF ANO FEET AWAY

:_peratorpresence control bar

Engine zone control
cable

Starter

H_dlek_b

Gasoline filler cap

Engine oil

filler plug

Air filter

_Discharge guard

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 Commis-
sion. 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 additionalfuel from the

carburetor to the cylinder for use when starting
a cold engine.

Starter handle - used for starling the engine.

5

The operationof anylawn mower can resultin
foreign objectsthrown intothe eyes, whichcan

resultinsevere eye damage. Always wear

safety glassesoreye shields while operating
your lawn mowerorperformingany adjust-

meritsorrepairs.We recommend awide

visionsafety mask over spectacles orstandard
safetyglasses.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED

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

able.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

CAUTION: Federalregulationsrequirean
enginesentrolto be inst_ed on thislawn

mowerinorderto minimizethe riskof blade
contactinjury.Donotunderany circumstances

attempttodefeat the function of the operator
control.The bladeturnswhen theengineis

running.

• Yourlawn mowerisequ'_l:_:lwithan

operatorpresencecontrolbarwhich
requirestheoperetorto be positioned

behindthe lawn mower handleto startand
operatethe lawnmower.

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

• Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels

for high cut.

• Adjust cutting height to suit your require-
ments. Medium position is best for most

lawns.

• To change cutting height, squeeze adjuster

lever toward wheel. Move wheel up or

down to suityour 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

tobe positionedbetweentheplatetabs.

Raise wheels for low cut

•Rernove engineoilp/ugandflutothe topof
slotinfiller hole.

• Use 20 ozs. of oil. Fortypeand gradeofoil
touse,see =ENGINE"inMaintenance
sectionofthis manual.

• Pouroil slowly. Do notoverfill

• Check oil levelbeforeeach use. Add oilif

needed.

• Reinsta_engineoilplugandtighten.

• Changethe oilafterevery25 hoursof
eperation or each seeson. You moyneed

tochangethe oilmoreoftenunderdusty,
dirtyconditions.

GAS

• Fillfuel tank. Use fresh, dean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87
octane. (Useof leaded gasolinewil
increase carbon and lead oxide deposits

and reduce valve rife). Do notmix onwith
gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that
can be used within 30 days 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
b/ended fueis (called gesohoi or using ethanol

or methanol) can attract moisture which leads
to separation and formation of acids during

storage. Acicfic 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, startthe engine and let it

run untilthe fuel lines and carburetor are

empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See
Storage Instructionsfor additional information.

Never use engine orcarburetor cleaner

products in the fuel tank or permanent

damage may occur.
CAUTION: Fillto bottom of gas tank filler

neck. DOnot overfill. Wipe off any spilled oil
or fuel. Do net store, spill or use gasoline near

an open flame.

Lowerwheels forhigh cut

Plate tab

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
OIL

Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in the

engine.

• Be sure mower is level and area around oil

fillis dean.

Gasoline filler cap

Oil filler plug

6

TO START ENGINE

• To start a cold 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.

• 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 operator

presence 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.

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 t° 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.

• For side discharge lawn mowers, cutting

in a counter-clockwise direction, starting
at the outside of the area to be cut,

spreads grass clippings more evenly
and puts less load on the engine. To

keep clippings off of walkways, flower
beds, etc., make the first cuts in a
clockwise direction.

• 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
with water and let dry before using.

• Keep top of engine around starter clear

and clean of grass clippings and chaff.
This will help engine air flow and extend
engine life.

7

s .v,c

Chec_ for Loose Fasteners Is/ I I_

Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher

i _/im

M CleanLawnMower

(Power-PropelledMowem) q/

O Clean Under Drive Cover

Ched_ drive belt/pulleys

S (Power-Propelled Mowers) I/

CheddShame_tReplaceBlade _1_,3

Lubrication Chad V'

CleanBattery/Recharge

IB o Mow 1 V'

E CheckEngineOilLevel

N ChangeEngineOil !,/1,2
G Clean Air Filter Ii/ 2

I Inspect Muffler _/

N aean orReplaceSparkPlug v

E ReplaceAirFilterPaperCartridge I/2

t - Changemoreoftenwhenopera,rigunderaheavyloadorinhighambie_tempera_
2- S_,_e mo_o_m wh*moperaingindktyor dustyconditions.

3. Replacebladu morno_n whenmowinginm_'y mL

4. Cl_ge 48hoursate_l ot uu0n.

GENERALRECOMMENDATIONS

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,
clean or 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 "LUBRICA-

TION CHART").

DA"rES

LUBRICATION CHART

Wheel
adjuster (_ Engine oil

(_ Brake

spring

(_ Discharge bracket

guard

(_ Handle bracket hinge pin

mountingpin
(_ Spray lubricant
(_ Refer to MAINTENANCE"ENGiNE"

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,

powered graphite type lubricant sparingly.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL NUMBER 917.387203

SERIAL NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
HORSEPOWER: 3.5
DISPLACEMENT: 9.05CU. IN.

GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.25 QUARTS

UNLEADED REGULAR

OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH): SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)

SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)

OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS.

SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030") CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM
VALVE CLEARANCE: INTAKE: .004 - .008

EXHAUST: .004 - .008

SOLID STATE IGNITION

AIR GAP: .0125 IN.

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS.

The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal attached to the roar of the

lawn mower housing.Record both serial number and date of purchase in space
provided above.

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when
performing any maintenance.

TIRES

• Keep tiros 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

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

• Tum lawn mower on its side. Make sure
air filter and carburetor are up.

• Use a wood block between blade and

mower housing to prevent blade from

tuming when removing blade bolt.

• Protect your hands with gloves and/or
wrap 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

• Position the blade adapter on the engine

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

• Position blade on the blade adapter

aligning the two (2) holes in the blade

with the raised lugs on the adapter.

• Be sure the trailing edge of blade

(opposite sharp edge) is up toward the

engine.

• Install the blade bolt with the 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, tuming 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 sharpening

blade - but if you do, be sure the blade is
balanced.

Care should be taken to keep the blade
balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause

eventual damage to lawn mower or
engine.

• The blade can be sharpened with a file

or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt

to sharpen while on the mower.

• To check blade balance, drive a nail into

a beam or wall. Leave about one inch of

the straight nail exposed. Place center

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

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

Blade Crankshaft
adapter'P'-_ keyway

Key

Crank-

shaft

bolt

Lock Blade

washer edge adapter

Hardened
washer

GRASS CATCHER
(If purchased as an accesssory)

• 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 manufac-
turer approved replacement catcher.

Give the lawn mower model number
when ordering.

ENGINE
LUBRICATION

Use only high qualitydetergent oil rated with

API service classification SF, SG orSH.
Select the oirs SAE viscosity grade according

to your expected operating temperature.

SAE VISGOS_TY GRADES

-26* ._o- 6- lO- 20- 30-

TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

NOTE: Althoughmulti-viscosityoils(5W30,
10W30 etc.)improvestarlingincoldweather,

thesemulti-viscosityoilswillresultinincreased

oilconsumptionwhen usedabove32°F.
Checkyourengineoillevelmorefrequentlyto

avoidpossibleenginedamagefrom running

lowon oil.

Change ff=eoil after every 25 hours of

operatlen 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 13ghten oilplug securely each
time you check the oillevel.

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

• Disconnect spark plugwire from spark plug
and place wire where itcannot come in

contact with spark plug.

• Be sure lawn mower is on level surface.

• Oil willdrain more freely when warm.

• Catch oil in a suitable container.

• Remove bottom oildrain plug.

• After oil has drained completely, replace oil

drain plug and tighten securely.

• Refill engine with oil. Pour slowly. Do not
over fill.

• Fillto top of slot inside of fillerhole.

• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.

J

Drain plug

NR RLTER
Your engine will not run property and may be

damaged by using a dirty air filter. Clean the
element after every 25 hours of operation,

more often if mower is used invery dusty, dirty

conditions.
TO CLEAN AIR FILTER ELEMENT

• Remove the air filter by tuming counter-
clockwise to the stop and pull away from

collar.

10

• Remove filter from inside of cover.

• Clean the inside of the cover and the collar
to remove any dirtaccumulation.

• Insert new filterinto cover.

• Put air tilter cover and filterintocollar
aligning the tab with the slot.

• Push in on cover and turn clockwise to

tighten.

Collar

Turn
counter-

Slot

Airfilter

Tab

Airfilter cover

MUFFLER
Inspect and 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 .030 inch.

_Tum

clockwise
to tighten

CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep

mower housing free of built-up grass and
trash. Clean the underside ofyour mower after
each use.

CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire from
spark plug and place wirewhere itcannot
come in contact with the spark plug.

• Turn lawn mower on its side. 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 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 de 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.

CAUTION: BEFORE PERFORMINGANY

SERVICE OR ADJUSTMENTS:

• Release controlbar.

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

• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug

and place where itcannot come in contact
with plug.

LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

See 'frO ADJUST cUTrlNG 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 possibilitythat objects will be thrown out of
the rear of the mower into the operator

mowing position. If the deflector becomes
damaged, itshould be replaced.

DISCHARGE GUARD
The discharge guard attached to the

discharge opening of your lawn mower, is

provided to prevent the possibility of injury

resulting from objects being thrown out of the

discharge opening into the operator mowing
posi_on. If the discharge guard becomes

damaged, it should be replaced.

TO ADJUST HANDLE
Your lawn mower handle can be raised or

lowered for your mowing comfort. 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 will have to be turned over.

• Remove the cable clips

• Remove the controls and operator presence

control barfrom the upper handle.

• Remove the starter rope guide from the

lower handle.

• Remove hairpin cotters.

• Disconnect the lower handle from the

handle brackets.

• Tum the handle over and reassemble the
hairpin cotters that have been removed.

• Reassemble the starter rope guide.

• Reassemble the controls and the operator

presence control bar to the upper handle.

CAUTION: The operator presence controlbar
must pivotfreely to permit blade brake

engagement when control bar is released. Do
not overtighten the fasteners holding the

11

controlatotheupperhandle.

• Tochangefrommediumlowtohigh
positiononlytheupperhandlesectionwill

have to be turned over.

• To change from medium low to low posHion,
only the lower handle sectionwill have to be

Medium
high

Medium
low

High ow

Lowerhandle

Mounting
bracket

Squeeze to

remove

Hairpinclip

ENGINE

CARBURETOR
Yourcarburetor has a non-adjustable fixed

main jet for mixture control. If your engine
does not operate properly due to suspected

carburetor problems, take your lawn mower to
an authorized service center for repair and

adjustment.

ENGINE SPEED

The engine speed has been factory set. Do
not attempt to increase engine speed as it

may result in personal injury. If you believe the

engine is runningtoo fast ortoo slow, take
your lawn mower to an authorized service

Immediately prepare your lawn mower for
storage at the end of the season orif the unit
willnot be used for 30 days or more.

LAWN MOWER

When lawn mower is to be stored for a perled
oftime, clean itthoroughly, remove alldirt,
grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean, dry area.

• Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEAN-
ING" in the Maintenance section of this

manual).

• Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance

secl_onof this manual.

• Be _,um that all nuts, boifs, screws, and pins
are securely fastened._ Inspect moving

parts for damage, breakage and v_ar.

Replace if necessary.

• Touch up all rusted or chipped paint

surfaces; sand lightlybefore paintJng.

HANDLE

You can fold your lawn mower handle for
storage.

• Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower

handle toward each other until the lower
handle clears the handle bracket, then

move handle forward.

• Loosen upper handle mounting bolts
enough to allow upper han_e to be folded

backL

IMPORTANT: When folding the handle for
storage or transportation, be sure to foldthe
handle as shown or you may damage the

controlcables.

• When setling up your handle from the
storage pos_on, the lower handle will

automatically lock into the mowing position.

Squeeze to fold

/I

Mounting pin

Hairpin cotter

Operator presence control bar

Upper handle_

Mowing

position

Lower
handle

12

ENGINE

FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent

gum deposits from forming in essential fuel
system parts such as carburetor, fuel filter,
fuel hose, or tank during storage. Also,

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.

• Drain the fuel tank.

• Start the engine and let it run untilthe fuel

linesand carburetor are empty.

• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
productsin the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.

• Use fresh fuel next season.

NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable
alternative in minimizing the formation of fuel
gum deposits during storage. Add stabilizer to

gasoline in fuel tank or storage container.
Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizer

container. Run engine at least 10 minutes

after adding stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to
reach the carburetor. Do not drain the gas

tank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.

ENGINE OIL

Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with

clean engine oil. (See"ENGINE" inthe

Maintenance section of this manual).
CYLINDER

• Remove spark plug.

• Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oilthrough spark
plug hole into cylinder.

• Pull starter handle slowly a few times to
d'_ribute oil.

• Replace with new spark plug.

OTHER

• Do not store gasoline from one season to
another.

• Replace your gasoline can ifyour can starts
to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your gasoline will
cause problems.

• If possible, store your unitindoors and cover

itto give protectionfrom dust and dirt.

• Cover your unitwith a suitable protective
cover that does not r_in moisture. Do not

use plastic. Plastic cannot breathe which
ailews condensation toform and will cause

your unitto rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover mower whi_e
engine and exhaust areas are stillwarm.

CAUTION: Never store the lawn mower with
gasoline in the tank insidea building where

fumes may reach an open flame or spark.
Allow the engine to cool before storing in any

enclosure.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM

Does not start

CAUSE

• Dirty air filter.

• Out of fuel.

• Stale fuel.

• Water in fuel.

• Spark plug wire is

disconnecte(L

• Bad spark plug.

• Loose blade or broken blade

adapter.

• Control bar in released

position.

• Control bar defective.

CORRECTION

• Clean/replaceairfilter.

• Rflfuel tank.

• Draintankand refillwith

freshdean fuel.

• Drainfueltankand

carburetorand refilltank
withfreshgasoline.

• Connectwire to plug.

• Replace spark ping.

• Tighten blade bolt or

replace blade adapter.

• Depress controlbar to

hand_.

• Replace control bar.

13

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM

CAUSE

CORRECTION

Loss of power

Poor cut - uneven

Exoessive

vibration

• Rear of lawn mower housing
or curling blade dragging

in heavy grass.

• Cuttingtoo much grass.

• Dirty air filter.

• Bu_lup of grass, leaves,

and trash undermower.

• Too much oil in engine.

• Waildng speed too fast.

•Wom, bent or loose blade.

• Wheel heights uneven.

• Buildup of grass, loaves
and trash under mower.

• Worn, bent or loose blade.

• Bent engine crankshafL

• Set to "Higher Cut"

pos_on.

• Set to =Higher Cut"

position.

,• Cloan/replace air filter.

• Clean underside of mower

hous j.

I• Check oillevel.
_. Cut at slower walking

speed.

• Replace blade. "13ghten
blade bell

• Set allwheels at same
height

• Clean underskJeof
mower housing.

• Replaceblade.T_hten
bladebe_

• Contactan au_orized
servicecenter,

Starter rope hard

to pull

Grass catcher
not filling (if so

equipped)

Hard to push

• Engineflywheelbrakeis on
whencontrolbar isreleased.

• Bent engine crankshaft.

• Bladeadapterbroken.

• Bladedraggingingrass.

• Cutting height too low.

• Lift on blade worn off.

• Catcher not venting air.

• Grass istoo high or wheel
height is too low.

• Rear of lawn mower

housing or blade dragging
in grass.

• Grass catcher too full.

• Handle height positionnot

right for you.

• Depress control bar to
upper handle before

pulling starter rope

• Contact an authorized
service center.

• Replace blade adapter.

• Move lawn mower to cut
grass or to hard surface

to start engine.

• Raise cutting height.

• Replace blade.

• Clean grass catcher.

• Raise cutting height.

• Raise rear of lawn mower

housing one (1) setting

higher,

• Empty grass catcher

• Adjust handle height to

suit.

14

29

ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NO. 917.387203

39

36

14

24

0

,35

34

15

36

53

52

ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NO. 917.387203

KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

1 86902
2 153638
3 851201X004
4 165451X479
8 157081X479
7 131959

8 850733X004

9 750097
10 153892
12 66426
13 51793
14 136376
15 752052
18 128415
17 63601
19 851855

21 88602
22 150215
23 140543

24 750088X007
25 87584X004

26 151665X479
27 151667X479

28 61537

29 146630

31 700331X004
32 87877
33 145935X004

Control Bar 34 62335
Rope Guide 35 142748

Engine Washer 36 700263
Upper Handle 37 83923

Lower Handle 39 800090
Handle Bolt 5/16-18 x 1-3/4 41 149741
Up-Stop Bracket 42 85463

Hex Washer Head Screw #10-24 x 1/2 43 751592
Engine Zone ControlCable 44 150406

Wire Tie 46 163928

HairpinCotter 49 851084

STD. Knobs 60 850263

DischargeGuard 51 851074
Rivet 52 850972
Locknut 1/4-20 53 850977

Torsion Spdng 85 700839X479

Hinge Deflector 56 ......

Hinge Rod
Rear Deflector . - 166476

Wheel AdjustingBracket - - 161058
Deflector Bracket

Handle BracketAssembly(Right) Available accessories not includedwith lawn mower:,
Handle BracketAssembly(Left) - - 71 33077 Grass Catcher

Washer . - 71 33623 Gas Can (2.5 gal.)

Spacer -. 71 33500 Fuel Stabilizer
SelectorSpring . - 71 33300 SAE 30W OII (20 oz.)

Selector Knob - - 71 33417 Dust Shield

Axle Arm Assembly - - 7l 33316 Mower Cover

KEY PART
NO. NO, DESCRIPTION

BellevllleWasher
Shoulder Belt

Wheel and Tire Assembly
Nut

Hubcap
Thread Cuffing Screw 5/16-18 x 3/4

Danger DeCal
Locknut 3/8-16

Hex Head Thread Rolling Screw 3/8-16 x 1-1/8
LawnMower Housing
Hex Head Screw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 (Grd, 8)

Helical Lock Washer 3/8

Hardened Washer

Blade 20"
Blade Adapter

FrontBaffle

Engine (See Breakdown) Craftsman
Model 143.993500

Owner's Manual
Warning Decal (Not Shown)

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.993500

O_370K

370C

416

130

135

120

110_

1Ol

119

_174

178

32

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.993500

KEY

KEY PART

NO, NO. DESCRIPTION

1 37280

2 2_._7
6 3,3._'_4

7 36557

12 36775

12A 36558

12B 36694

14 _'8277
15 30589
16 34839A
17 31335

18 651018
19 36281

20 32600
30 36793

40 35544A

35545A
35546

41 35541

35542

35543

42 35547A

35548A
35549

43 20381
45 36777
46 3261OA

48 27241
50 37032
52 29914
69 35261
70 32612C

72 36083
75 27897
80 30574A
81 30590A
82 -30591

83 30588A
86 650488
89 611004
90 611112
92 650815
93 650816

100 34443B
101 610118

103 651007
110 37047

119 37028

120 36825
125 36779

Cylinder 126 36781
(Incl.2,20 & 150)

Dowel Pin 130 6021A
Breather Element 135 35395

Breather Assay.
(Ind. 6 & 12A) 150 31672

Breather Tube 151 31673

Breather Cover& Tube 151A 40017
(Ind. 12B) 169 36783

BreatherTube Elbow 172 36784

Washer 174 30200

Governor Rod (Ind. 14) 178 29752
Governor Lever
Governor Lever Clamp 182 6201

Screw, Torx T-15, 184 26756
8-32 x 19/64"

Extension Spdng 185 36785
Oil Seal 186 32653

Crankshaft 189 650839

Piston,Pin & Ring Set 191 36559A
(Std.)
Piston,Pin & Ring Set 195 610973
(.010" OS) 207 34336
Piston,Pin & Ring Set 216 33086
(.020" OS) 223 650451

Piston& Pin Ass'y. (Std.) 224 36786
(Incl. 43) 238 650832
Piston& Pin Assay. 239 34338
(.010" OS) (Ind.43) 241 35797
Piston& PinAss'y. (.020" 245 35066
OS) (Incl.43) 250 35065

RingSet (Std.) 260 36834
RingSet (.010" OS) 261 30200
RingSet (.020 OS) 262 650831
PistonPin Retaining 275 36790

Ring 277 650988
Connecting RodAss'y. 285 35000A
(Ind. 46) 287 650926
ConneCtingRodBolt 290 34357

Valve Lifter 292 26460
Camshaft (NCR) 300 35586

Oil PumpAss'y. 301 36246

• MountingFlange Gasket 311 27625

MountingFlange (Incl. 313 34080

72 thin 83) 37OA 36261
Oil Drain Plug 370(3 37199

Oil Seal 370K 36695

Govemor Shaft 380 640173
Washer 390 590737
Governor Gear Ass'y. 400 37029A

(Incl.81)

Governor Spool 416 36085

Screw, 1/4-20 x 1-1/4"
Flywheel Key 417 650821
Flywheel

Bollavtile Washer 900

Flywheel Nut
SolidState Ignition
Spark Plug Cover 900

Screw, Torx T-15,

10-24 x 15/16"

GroundWire

° CylinderHead Gasket

CylinderHead

Exhaust Valve (Std.)

(ind. 151)

PART

NO.

NO.

NOTE: This engine could have been builtwith 590694

starter

DESCRIPTION

Intake Valve (Std.)
(Ind. 151)

Screw, 5/16-18 x 1-1/2=
ResistorSpark
Plug(RJ19LM)
Valve Spring

Valve Spring Cap
Intake Valve Seal

• Valve Cover Gasket
Valve Cover

Screw, 10-24 x9/16"

Nut & LockWasher,
1/4-28

Screw, 1/4-28x 7/8"

• Carburetor To Intake

Pipe Gasket
Intake Pipe
Governor Link
Screw, 1/4-20x 3/8"
S.E. Brake Bracket

(Inc1.195)
Terminal

Thmttie Link

R.P.M. AdjustingLever
Screw, 1/4-20 x 1"

° Intake Pipe Gasket

Screw, 10-32 x 49/64"

* AirCleaner Gasket

AirCleaner Collar
AirCleaner Filter
AirCleaner Cover

BlowerHousing
Screw, 10.24 x 9/16"

Screw, 114-20x1/2"
Muffler

Screw, 1/4-20x 2-5/16"

StarterCup
Screw, 8-32 x21/64"

FuelLine
FuelUna Clamp

FuelTank (Incl.292&301
FuelCap
Oil Fill Plug
Spacer
LubricationDecal
Primer Decal
Starter Decal

Carburetor (Ind.184)
Rewind Starter

Gasket Set

(Incl. Items Marked *)

Spark Arrestor Kit (Incl.

417)(Optional)
Screw, 10-32 x 1/2"

(Optional)
Replacement Engine

750830, order from

71-999

Replacement S/B

750829, order from

71-999

RPM High 2900 to 3200

33

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.993500

KEY
NO.

B--

16
25

27
28
29
30
31
35
40

44
48
60

1

2
4

5
6
7

PART

NO. DESCRIPTION

640173
631615

631767
631184
631183

631616

650506
631807

631700
631024
632019
631028
631021
631022
632047A

631937A
631334
631027
632760

Carburetor (Incl. 184 of Engine Parts List
Throttle Shaft & Lever Assembly
Throttle Retum Spring

• Dust Seal Washer (Throttle)

• Dust Seal (Throttle)

Throttle Shutter

* Shutter Screw

Fuel Fitting
Float Bowl

• Float Shaft
Float

• Float Bowl "O" Ring

• Inlet Needle, Seat & Clip (Incl.31)

Spring Clip

Primer Bulb/Retaining Ring

High Speed Bowl Nut

• BowlNut Washer

* Welch Plug,AtmosphericVent

Repair kit (Incl. Items Marked * in Notes)

34

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.993500

B--5

0--2

KEY
NO.

B--

11
12

13

1
2

3
4
5
6
7

8

PART

NO.

590694
590599A

59O6OO

59O696

59O6O1
590697
590698 -
590699

590700

59O695
590535

590701

DESCRIPTION

Recoil Starter
Spdng Pin (Incl. 4)

Washer
Retainer

Washer
Brake Spdng

Starter Dog

DogSpring

Pulley& Rewind Spdng

Ass'y.

StarterHousing Ass'y.
(40 degree grommet)
Starter Rope ( 98" X 9/
64"dia.)

StarterHandle

V--14

KEY
NO.

mm

3
6
7
8

PART
NO.

590737
590740

590616
590617
590618A

DESCRIPTION

RewindStarter
Retainer

Starter Dog
Dog Spring
Pulley & Rewind Spring
Ass'y

11

12

590687A
590535

12

Starter HousingAss'y

(40 degree grommet)
StarterRope (Length 98"

x9/64" d_a.)

13
14

590701
590760

StarterHandle
Spring Clip

35

Fortherepairor replacementpartsyouneed
delivereddirectlyto yourhome
Call7 am-7 pm,7daysaweek

1-800-366-PART

(1-800-366-7278)
Para ordenar piezas con entrega a

domicilio - 1-800-659-7084

For in-house major brand repair service
Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-4-REPAIR

(1-800-473-7274)
Para pedir servicio de reparaci6n a

domicilio- 1-800-676-5811

For the location of a Sears Parts and
Repair Center in your area

Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-488-1222

For information on purchasing a Sears
Maintenance Agreement or to inquire
about an existing Agreement
Call 9 am - 5 pm, Monday-Saturday

1-800-827-6655

When requesting service or ordering
parts, always provide the following

information:

• Product Type • Part Number
Model Number • Part Description

mnlmmm

mmmmmm

SEARS

Amenca's Repazr Speciatzsts

166476 09.14.98 VB Printedin U.S.A.