Craftsman 917.387258 User Manual

Owner's Manual

ICRRFTSMRN'[

4.0 HORSEPOWER
20" REAR DISCHARGE

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.

917.387258

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• EspaSol

• Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all

Safety RuSesand Instrucuo,os
before operating this equilot_r_ rlE

Sears, Roebuck and Co,, Hoffman Estates,_'lL-'BO'lff_

Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman

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

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

Assembly .............................................. 4

Operation .............................................. 6

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

Maintenance ......................................... 10

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 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 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

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

Service and Adjustments ...................... 14

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

Troubleshooting ................................... 17

Repair Parts .......................................... 36

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

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

circumstances.
TRAINING:

• Read this operator's manual carefully

Become fam ar w th the contro s and"
know how to operate your m6wer

properly. Learn how !0 quickly stop
mower. -

• Do not allow chi!dren.to.use your mower.

Never allow adults to use mower without ..
proper instructions. -

• Keep the area of operation clear of all i
persons, especially _rhall"(_fi_idren and :

pets ..................

• Use mower anufacturer

intended and .0.s.described in this"
ma_hual.

onry

a's"the

• Do not operate mower if it has been
dropped or damaged in any manner.
Always have damage repaired before
using your mower.

• Do not use accessory attachments that
are not recommended by the manufac-
turer. Use of such attachments may be

hazardous.

• The blade tums 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

i

when barefoot or wearing open sandals.
Wear only solid shoes with good traction

when mowing.

2

• Checkfueltank before starting engine.

Do not fill gas tank indoors, when the

engine is running or when the engine is

hot. Allow the engine to cool 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 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

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 dis-

charge opening at all times.

• Always stop the engine whenever you

leave or are not using your mower, or
before crossing driveways, walks, reads,
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
parts 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 governor settings or

overspeed 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
excessively 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
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
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 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.

ALook for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions_ It means

CAUTION!!! 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

The engine exhaust from this product
contains chemicals known to the State of

California to cause cancer, birth defects,
or other reproductive harm.

Theseaccessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not

shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears retail outlets and service

centers. 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.

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CLIPPING DEFLECTOR

FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

i SIDE DISCHARGE

I LAWN MOWERS

MULCHER KITS

GRASS CATCHERS

STABILIZER

FOR

GAS CANS

MUFFLERS

BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS

Read these instructionsand this manual in its
entirety before you attempt to assemble or

operate your new lawn mower.
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped

WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.
Your new lawn mower has been 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 inthe pads bag. To ensure safe
and proper operation of your lawn mower, all
parts and hardware you assemble must be
tightened securely. Use the correcttools as

necessary to ensure proper tightness.

AIR FILTERS

WHEELS

SPARK PLUGS

ENGINE OIL

TOREMOVELAWNMOWER FROM

CARTON

• Remove loose parts includedwith mower.

• Cut down two end comers of carton and

lay end 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 thoroughly for additional loose

pads.

4

HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWN MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

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.

• Remove protective padding, raise upper

handle section into place on lower handle
and tighten both handle knobs.

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

• Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted
foryour mowing comfort. Refer to "Adjust

Handle" in the Service and Adjustment

section of this manual,

Operator presence control

Upper handle

bar _k pz_

Liftup iftu /' y

_, position

i Mowing

Lower handle

5

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
Iqcation of various controls and adiustments. Save this manual for futur_ reference.

These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literaturesuppliedwith the product.Leam and
understand there meaning.

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

OR WANNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY

Engine zone

control cable

Starter handle

Handle knob

Grass

Engine oil plug

Operator presence control bar

filler cap

Air filter

Primer

Lawn mower housing

Ljduster

(on each wheel)

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower isshipped

WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the American

National Standards Instituteand 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.
Starter handle - used for starting the engine.

6

The operation of any lawn

mower can result in foreign

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 USEYOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED

The engine speed was set at the factory

for optimum performance. Speed is not
adjustable.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

ACAUTION: Federal regulations require
an engine control to be installed on this

lawn mower in order to minimize the risk

of blade contact injury. Do not under any

circumstances attempt to defeat the
function of the operator control. The blade

turns when the engine is running.

• Your lawn mower is equipped with an
operator presence control bar which

requires the operator to be positioned
behind the lawn mower handle to start and

operate the lawn mower.

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

• Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels
for high cut.

• Adjust cutting height to suit your require-

ments. Medium positionis best for most
lawns.

• To change cutting height, squeeze adjuster

lever toward wheel. Move wheel up or
down to suit your requirements. Be sure all
wheels are in the same setting.

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

allow lever to be positioned between the
plate tabs.

TO A'n'ACH GRASS CATCHER

• Close the lifttop lid. Lift top lid must be
closed while operating lawn mower.

• Lift the rear door on the mower housing
and place the grass catcher frame onto the
formed tabs on the rear door hinge

bracket.

• The grass catcher is secured to the lawn

mower housing when the rear door is

lowered onto the grass catcher frame.
ACAUTION: 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.

Hinge

Rear door

Grass catcher
frame

Formed

tabs

TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER

• To remove grass catcher, release operator
presence control bar to stop engine.

• Liftup rear door and remove the grass

catcher by the handle.

NOTE: Do not drag the bag when
emptying; it will cause unnecessary wear.

Lower Wheels for High Cut

Raise Wheels for Low Cut

Plate Tab

Lever

7

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

OIL

Your lawn mower is shipped withoutoil in

the engine.

• Be sure mower is level and area around oil
fill isclean.

• Remove engine oil plug and fill to the

top of slot in filler hole.

NOTE: Allow oil to settle down into engine
for accurate reading.

• Engine holds 20 ozs. of oil. For type and

grade of oilto use, see "ENGINE in

Maintenance section of this manual.

• Pour oilslowly. Do not over fill.

• Check oil level before each use. Add oil if

needed.

• 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 gasoline.

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 Instructions for
additional information. Never use engine
or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel

tank or permanent damage may occur.

ACAUTION: 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 plug

TO START ENGINE

• 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.

• 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.

8

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 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.

9

F,LL,NDATES

AsYOUCOMP'ETE

REGU RSERVICE ">"

Check for Loose Fasteners !/ l/

Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher

(If Equipped) !/ i__

M Clean Lawn Mower

(Power-Propelled Mowers) _1

O Clean Under Drive Cover

Check drive belt/pulleys

E (Power-Propelled Mowers) I_

Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade V' 3

Lubrication Chart I_ I/

Clean Battery/Recharge
/Electric Start Mowers / I_ 1_4

E Check Engine Oil Level I/
N Change Engine Oil ll/1.2

G Clean Air Filter ll/ =

I Inspect Muffler i/

N Clean or Replace Spark Plug

E Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge I/2

1 - Change more oftenwhen operatingunder a heavy load or in high ambienttemperatures.

2 - Se_'lce more oftenwhenoperatingin dirtyor dusty conditions.
3 oReplace bladesmore oftenwhen mowing insandysoil.
4 - Charge 48 hours at and ofseason,

v'

_A

TES

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 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").

LUBRICATION CHART

(i) Wheel adjuster Engineoil

\

\Brake

spring

bracket

'"@Rear door hinge

(_) Handle bracket mounting pin

(]) Spray lubricant
(_) Refer to Maintenance "ENGINE" section.

IMPORTANT: Do not oil orgrease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricantswill attract

dust and dirtthat will shortenthe life of the self
lubricatingbearings. If you feel they must be

lubricated, use only a dry, powdered graphite
type lubricantsparingly.

10

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

SERIALNUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE

GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE:

OILTYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):

OIL CAPACITY:

SPARK PLUG IGAP: .030")
VALVE CLEARANCE:

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 rear of the

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

1.25 QUARTS
UNLEADED REGULAR

SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)

20 OZS.

CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM

INTAKE: .004 - .008
EXHAUST: .004 - .008

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when performing
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

• 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 a wood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from

turning when removing blade bolt.

• Protect your hands with gloves and/or
wrap blade with heavy cloth.

• Remove blade bolt by turning counter-
clockwise.

• 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, turning clockwise.

• The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 ft. Ibs.

11

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
treated.

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen-
ing blade - but if you Uo, 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. Crank

Blade _ _ shaft
adapte r_(_ _j_keyway

Blade / \ I\_"_"_ u_'_Crank
bolt / \' ' '_ I..7 _-"" shaft

Lecl_ \ Tra]lin 13lade
washer Hardened edge adapter

washer

GRASS CATCHER

• The grass catcher may be hosed with

water, but must be dry when used.

• Check your grass catcher oftenfor

damage or deterioration, Through non'hal
use itwillwear. If catcher needs replacing,

replace only with a manufacturer approved
replacement catcher. Give the lawn

mower model number when ordering.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated

with API service classification SF, SG or

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

temperature.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils
(5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in
cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils
will result in increased oil consumption
when used above 32°F. Check your
engine oil level more frequently to avoid
possible engine damage from running

low on oil.
Change the oil after every 25 hours of

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

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

• Be sure lawn mower is on level

surface.

• Oil will drain more freely when warm.

• Catch oil in a suitable container.

• Remove bottom oil drain plug.

• After oil has drained completely,

replace oil drain plug and tighten

securely.

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

• Fill to top of slot inside of filler hole.

• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark

plug.

Drain plug

.20=

•30" -20" -I0" o" 10" 20" 30"
TEMPERATURE RANGEANTICIPATEDBEFORE NEXTOIL CHANGE

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properly and may
be damaged by using a dirty air filter.

Replace the air filter every year, more

often if you mow in very dusty, dirty
conditions. Do not wash air filter.

TO CHANGE AIR FILTER

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

from collar.

• Remove filter from inside of cover.

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

• Insert new filter into cover.

• Put air filter cover and filter into collar

aligning the tab with the slot.

• Push in on cover and turn clockwise to

tighten.

Collar Trun counter

clockwise to

Clip tighten

sl t

Air filter Turn

clockwise to

Air filter cover remove

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 starteasier and run better. Set
spark plug gap at .030 inch.

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.

• 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 keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runs

hotterand 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
electricalsystem, muffler, airfilterand

carburetor are covered to keep water out.
Water in engine can result in shortened

engine life.

13

_,CAUTION: Before performing any

service and adjustments:

• Release control bar and stop engine.

• 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 'q-O 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 possibilitythat objects will be

thrown out the rear of the lawn mower into the

operator's mowing position. Ifthe rear
deflector becomes damaged, it should be
replaced.

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.

• Remove upper handle and all parts

attached to lower handle.

• Remove hairpin cotters from lower

handle bracket mounting pin.

• Squeeze lower handle in to remove it

from mounting pins.

• Turn lower handle over to raise or lower

handle.

• Squeeze lower handle in and position

holes onto mounting pins on handle
bracket.

• Reassemble upper handle and all parts
removed from lower handle.

°_

\

Lower

handle

Rotate

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

• 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.

• Slip vinyl bindings over frame.

NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold

them in warm water for a few minutes. If

bag gets wet, let it dry before using.
ACAUTION: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

\

\

Mowing ,..
position F-',

I I

Low position

Mowing ..,
position /('7

I I

High position

Rigid Bottom

14

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 an
authorized service center for repair and
adjustment.

CARBURETOR

Your carburetor 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/or adjustment.

IMPORTANT: never tamper with the
engine governor, which is factory set for

proper engine speed. Overspeeding the
engine above the factory high speed
setting can be dangerous, if you think the
engine-governed high speed needs
adjusting, contact your nearest authorzed
service center, which has proper
equipment and experience to make any
necessary adjustments.

15

Immediately prepare your lawn mower for
storage at the end of the season or if the unit
will not be used for 30 days or more.

LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower isto be stored for a period

of time, clean itthoroughly,remove all dirt,

grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean, dry area.

• Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEAN-

ING" in the Maintenance section ofthis

manual).

• Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance
section of this manual.

• Be sure that all nuts, belts, screws, and pins

are securely fastened. Inspect moving
parts for damage, breakage and wear.

Replace if necessary.

• Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightlybefore painting.

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 belts
enough to allow upper handle to be folded

back.

IMPORTANT: When folding the handle for
storage or transportation, be sure to fold the

handle as shown or you any damage the
control cables.

• When setting up your handle from the
storage position, the lower handle will

automatically lock into the mowing position.

Lower
handle

Handle

Squeeze to fold

bracket

Operator presence control bar

\

Upper
handle

Fold foward

for sto_._iy _

/_',_ ,,S) /41_'Fold

_' "_ / backward

Lower _l o
handle v

I_ Mowing

"_" position

ENGINE

FUELSYSTEM
IMPORTANT: Itisimportantto prevent gum
depositsfrom forming in essential fuel system

partssuch as carburetor,f fuel filter,fuel hose
or tank during storage. Also, experience

indicatesthat alcohol blended fuels ( called
gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can

attract moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids duringstorage. Acidic gas

can damage the fuel system of an engine

while in storage.

• Drain the fuel tank.

• Start the engine and let it run until the fuel
lines and carburetor are empty.

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

• Use fresh fuelnextseason.

NOTE: Fuelstabilizerisan acceptable
alternativeinminimizingtheformationoffuel

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 stabilizerto

reach the carburetor. Do not drain the gas

tank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.

Hairpin

co_er

4_

ENGINEOIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with

clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in the
Maintenance section of this manual),
CYLINDER

• Remove spark plug.

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

• Pull starter handle slowly a few times to
distribute oil.

• Replace with new spark plug.

OTHER

• Do not store gasoline from one season to
another.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM CAUSE

• Replace your gasoline can if your can
starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your

gasoline will cause problems.

• If possible, store your unit indoors and
cover it to give protection from dust and dirt.

• Cover your unit with a suitable protective
cover that does not retain moisture. Do

not use plastic. Plastic cannot breathe
which allows condensation to form and will

cause your unit to rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while

engine and exhaust areas are still warm.

ACAUTION: Never store the lawn
mower with gasoline in the tank inside a

building where fumes may reach an open

flame or spark. Allow the engine to cool

before storing in any enclosure.

CORRECTION

Does not start

Loss of power

1. Dirty air filter.

2. Out of fuel.

3. Stale fuel.

4. Water in fuel.

5. Spark plug wire is
disconnected•

6. Bad spark plug.

7. Loose blade or broken blade

adapter.

8. Control bar in released

position.

9. Control bar defective•

1. Rear of lawn mower housing I
or cutting blade dragging

in heavy grass.

2. Cutting too much grass.

3. Dirty air filter.

4. Buildup of grass, leaves,

and trash under mower.

5. Too much oil in engine.

6. Walking speed too fast.

;1. Clean/replace air filter•

2. Fill fuel tank.

3. Drain tank and refill with
fresh clean fuel.

4. Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refill tank

with fresh gasoline.

5. Connect wire to plug.

6. Replace spark plug.

7. Tighten blade bolt or

replace blade adapter.

8. Depress control bar to

handle.

9. Replace control bar.

1. Set to "Higher Cut"

position.

2. Set to =Higher Cut"

position.

3. Clean/replace air filter.

4. Clean underside of mower

housing.

5. Check oil level.

6. Cut at slower walking

speed.

Poor cut - uneven

1. Worn, bent or loose blade.

2. Wheel heights uneven.

3. Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.

17

1. Replace blade. T'_jhten

blade bolt.

2. Set all wheels at same
height

3. Clean underside of
mower housing.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM CAUSE

CORRECTION

Excessive

vibration

Starter rope hard

to pull

Grass catcher
not filling (if so

equipped)

Hard to push

1. Worn, bent or loose blade.

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

1. Engine flywheel brake is on
when control bar is released.

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

3. Blade adapter broken.

4. Blade dragging in grass.

1. Cutting height too low.

2. Lift on blade worn off.

3. Catcher not venting air.

1. Grass is too high or wheel

height is too low.

2. Rear of lawn mower
housing or blade dragging

in grass.

3. Grass catcher too full.

4. Handle height position not
right for you.

1. Replace blade. Tighten
blade bolt.

2. Contact an authorized
service center,

1. Depress control bar to
upper handle before

pulling starter rope.

2. Contact an authorized
service center.

3. Replace blade adapter.

4. Move lawn mower to cut
grass or to hard surface.

1. Raise cutting height.

2. Replace blade.

3. Clean grass catcher.

1. Raise cutting height.

2. Raise rear of lawn mower

housing one (1) setting
higher.

3. Empty grass catcher.

4, Adjust handle height to

suit.

18

ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NUMBER 917.387258

57

11

17

34

28

18

23

3233

43

42

43

4O

37

37

44

4O

25

32

39

36 38

37

43

4O

38

39

43

39

6O

ROTARY LAWN MOWER MODEL NUMBER 917.387258

KEY PART
NO. NO.

1 86902

2 165452X479
4 132001

5 157081)(479
7 131959
8 66426
9 51793

10 136376

11 156577
13 750097
14 850733X004
15 63601

17 147613
18 700357X479
19 150050
21 54583
22 700063X479

23 88652
24 700363X479
25 144875)(479
26 140657
28 151512)(479
29 151511X479
31 150078
32 7(X)325X007
33 14663O
34 128415
35 87877
36 7(X)331X004
37 145935X004

28 62335

39 142748

40 146248
42 8,3923

DESCRIPTION

ControlBar
UpperHandle

RopeGuide

LowerHandle
HandleBolt
Wire'lie

HairpinCotter
HandleKnob

EngineZoneControlCable
HexWasherHead Screw10-24x 1/2

Up-StopBracket
Lock,nut 1/4-20

Rear DoorAssemblyKit
BackPlate

SerfTappingScrew 10-24 x5/8
HexHeadTappingScrew 1/4-20x 112

RearBaffle
HingeScrew 1/4-20x 1-1/4

Side Baffle
DischargeBaffle

RearDeflector
HandleBracketAssembly(Left)

HandleBracketAssembly(Right)
Screw 5/16-18 x 3,/4

WheelAdjustingBracket
Spacer
PopRivet

SelectorKnob
Balector Spdng

AxleArmAssembly
BellevilleWasher

ShoulderBolt
WhealandTireAssembly

HexFlangeLocknut

KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

43 774OO
44 85463

45 150406
46 170496
47 751592

50 170489
51 851084

52 850263
53 851074
54 850972
55 850977

57 166072

58 ......

Hubcap
DangerDecal

HexHeadThread RollingScrew 3/8-16 x 1

Lawn Mower Housing (incl. Key #18, 22, 24, 44, 50)
Locknut 3/8-16
Front Baffle

Hex Head Machine Screw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 (Grd.8)
Helical Lockwasher 3/8

Washer
Blade20"

BladeAdapter
Grass Bag
Engine (See Breakdown)

Craftsman Model No.143.994022

59 88614
60 17600406

- - 161058
° - 174923

Throat Frame
Serrated Hex Screw 1/4 x 20 Tr

Waming Decal (NotShown)

Owner'sManual

Availableaccessoriesnotincludedwithlawnmower:

71 33303 Clipping Deflector
7133623 Gas Can (2.5 gal.)

7133500 Fuel Stabilizer
71 33000 SAE 30W Oil (20 oz.)
7133417 DustShield
7133316 MowerCover

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NO. 143.994022

-- 370K

370C

4O0

182

130

185

135

120

119

125

126

110_

101

195

/

38

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NO. 143,994022

KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

1 37280
2 26727
6 33734
7 36557

12 36775
12A 36558

12B 36694
14 28277

15 30589
16 34839A

17 31335
18 651018

19 36281

20 32600
30 36793
40 35544A
40 35545A

40 35546
41 35541

41 35542
41 35543

42 35547A
42 35548A
42 35549
43 20381

45 36777
46 32610A

48 27241
50 37032

52 29914
59 35261

70 326!2C
72 36083

75 27897

30 30574A
31 30590A
32 30591

33 30588A
36 650488

39 611004

_0 611112
)2 650815
)3 650816
_00 34443B
_01 61O118

_03 651OO7
_10 37O47

119 37026
_20 36825

Cylinder (Incl. 2,20 & 150) 125 37288
Dowel Pin
Breather Element 126 37289

Breather Ass'y. (Incl. 6 & 12A) 130 6021A
Breather Tube 135 35395

Breather Cover & Tube (Incl. 150 31672

12B) 151 31673
Breather Tube Elbow 151A40017
Washer 169 36783

Governor Rod (Incl. 14) 172 36784
Governor Lever 174 30200

Governor Lever Clamp 178 29752
Screw, Torx T-15, 8-32 x 19/ 182 6201
64" 184 26756

Extension Spring
Oil Seal 185 36785

Crankshaft 186 32653

Piston, Pin & Ring Set (Std.) 189 650839

Piston, Pin & Ring Set (.010" 191 36569A
OS) 195 610973

Piston, Pin & Ring Set (.020" 207 34336
OS) 216 33086

Piston & Pin Ass'y. (Std.) (Incl. 223 650451

43) 224 36786

Piston & Pin Ass'y. (.010" OS) 238 650932

_ncl. 43) 239 34338

iston & Pin Ass'y. (.020" OS) 241 35797

(Incl. 43) 245 35066

Ring Set (Std.) 250 35065

Ring Set (.010" OS) 260 36834

Ring Set (.020 OS) 261 30200

Piston Pin Retaining Ring 262 650831

Connecting Rod Ass'y. (Incl. 275 36790A

46) 277 650988

Connecting Rod Bolt 285 35000A

Valve Lifter 287 650926

Camshaft (NCR) 290 34357

Oil PumpAss'y. 292 26460

Mounting Flange Gasket 300 35586

Mounting Flange (Incl. 72 thru 301 36246

83) 311 27625

Oil Drain Plug 313 34080

Oil Seal 370A 36261

Governor Shaft 370C 37199

Washer 370K 36695

Governor GearAss'y. (Incl. 81) 380 640174

Governor Spool 390 590737

Screw, 1/4-20 x 1-1/4" 400 37029A

Flywheel Key

Flywheel 416 36085

Belleville Washer

Flywheel Nut 417 650821

Solid State Ignition 900 ---

Spark Plug Cover

Screw, Torx T-15, 10-24 x 15/ 900 ----

16"

Ground Wire

Cylinder Head Gasket

Cylinder Head

KEY PART
NO. NO.

NOTE: This engine could have been built with

590694 starter.

DESCRIPTION

Exhaust Valve (Std.) (Incl.

151)
Intake Valve (Std.) (Incl. 151)

Screw, 5/16-18 x 1-1/2"

Resistor Spark Plug (RJ19LM)

Valve Spring
Valve Spring Cap

Intake Valve Seal

Valve Cover Gasket
Valve Cover

Screw, 10-24 x 9/16"

Nut & Lock Washer, 1/4-28
Screw, 1/4-28 x 7/8"
Carburetor To Intake Pipe

Gasket

Intake Pipe
Governor Link

Screw, 1/4-20 x 3/8"

S.E. Brake Bracket (Incl. 195)
Terminal

Throttle Link

R.P.M. Adjusting Lever

Screw, 1/4-20 x 1"

Intake Pipe Gasket

Screw, 10-32 x 49/64"

Air Cleaner Gasket
Air Cleaner Collar
Air Cleaner Filter
Air Cleaner Cover

Blower Housing

Screw, 10-24 x 9/16"

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

Muffler

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

Starter Cup

Screw, 8-32 x 21/64"

Fuel Line

Fuel Line Clamp

Fuel Tank (Incl. 292 & 301)

Fuel Cap

Oil Fill Plug

Spacer

Lubrication Decal

Pdmer Decal

Starter Decal

Carburetor (Incl. 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 Short Block
750829A,
order from 71-999

RPM High 2900 to 3200

NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S.
inches 1 inch = 25.4 ram).

39

C'R._FTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NO. 143.994022

KEY PART

NO. NO.

----640174

1 631615

2 631767
4 631184 *

5 631183 °
6 640070

7 650506 o
16 631807
17 651025
18 630766

20 640018

20A 640053
25 631867
27 631024 *

28 632019

29 631028 °

30 631021 *
31 631022
35 36045A

36 640080
36A 632766

37 632547 *
40 640175
44 27110A
47 630748 *

48 631027 *
48A 631027 *
60 632760

40

DESCRIPTION

Carburetor

_ncl. 184 of Engine Parts List)

hrottle Shaft & Lever Assembly

Throttle Return Spdng

Dust Seal Washer
Dust Seal (Throttle)

Throttle Shutter

Shutter Screw

Fuel Fitting
Throttle Crack Screw/Idle Speed Screw
Tension Spring

Idle Restdctor Screw

Idle Restdctor Screw Cap
Float Bowl

Float Shaft
Float

Float Bowl "O" Ring
Inlet Needle, Seat, & Clip (Incl. 31)

Spring Clip
Primer Bulb/Retainer Ring

Main Nozzle Tube
Carburetor Tube

"O" Ring, Main Nozzle Tube
High Speed Bowl Nut

Bowl Nut Washer

Welch Plug, Idle Mixture Well
Welch Plug, Atmospheric Vent

Welch Plug .

Repair kit (Incl. Items Marked )

4O

• • J

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NO. 143.994022

KEY PART
NO. NO.

DESCRIPTION

----590694
1 590599A

2 590600
3 590696
4 590601
5 590697

6 590698
7 590699
8 590700

11 590695
12 590535
13 590701

Recoil Starter

Spring Pin (Incl. 4)
Washer

Retainer

Washer
Brake Spring

Starter Dog
Dog Spring
Pulley & Rewind Spring Ass'y.
Starter Housing Ass'y.

(40 degree grommet)
Starter Rope
( 98" X 9/64" dia.)

Starter Handle

KEY PART
NO. NO.

----590737
3 590740
6 590616

7 590617
8 590618A

11 590687A
12 590535

13 590701
14 590760

41

DESCRIPTION
Rewind Starter

Retainer

Starter Dog
Dog Spnng

Pulley & Rewind Spring Ass'y
Starter Housing Ass'y (40
degree grommet)

Starter Hope
_Length 98" x 9/64" dia.)

arter Handle

Spdng Clip

SERVICE NOTES

42

SERVICE NOTES

For repair of major brand appliances in your own home...

no matter who made it, no matter who sold it!

1-800 -4-MY-HOME sMAnytime, day or night

(1-800-469-4663)

www.sears,com

To bring in products such as vacuums,

lawn equipment and electronics for repair, call for

the location of your nearest Sears Parts & Repair Center.

1-800-488-1222 Anytime, day or night

www sears corn •

For the replacement parts, accessories and owner's manuals

that you need to do-it -yourself, call .! _................

Sears PartsDirect sM

800 366 PART 11p CST, ....

" " " 6 a.m. - .m.

(1 800 366 7278) .......- - - 7 days a week ...........

com/psrtsdirect ..........www.sears. :r

To purchase or inquire about a Sears Service Agreement:

1-800-827-6655

7 a.m. - 5 p.m. CST, Mon. - Sat.

Para pedir servicio de reparaci6n a domicilio, Au Canada pour service en fran_tais:

y para ordenar piezas con entrega a domicilio: 1-877-LE-FOYER _

1-888-SU-HOGAR s_ (1-877-533-6937)

(1.....888 784 6427)

SEARS

,HomeCentral " }

© Sears, Roebuck and Co,

® RegisteredTrademark/ TMTrademarkofSeam, Roebuckand Co.
® Marca Registrada/ _ Maroe de F,_bdcade Seam, Roebuckand Co.

r ....

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174923 05.23.00 VB Printedin U.S.A.