Craftsman 917387390 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual
IC..FTSMnWl
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
6.5 Horsepower 22" Side Discharge
Model No.
917.387390
EspaSol, p. 18
CAUTION: Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this equipment
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman
Warranty ................................................... 2
Safety Rules .......................................... 2-4
Product Specifications .............................. 4
Assembly / Pre-Operation ........................ 6
Operation ............................................. 7-10
Maintenance Schedule ........................... 11
Maintenance ...................................... 11-13
Service and Adjustments ........................ 14
Storage .............................................. 15-16
Troubleshooting ................................. 16-17
Repair Parts ....................................... 34-39
Sears Service .......................... 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 workmanship.
If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty
applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase. This Warranty does not cover:
Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.
Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent 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 returning the Craftsman power mower to the nearest Sears
Parts & Repair Center in the United States. This warranty applies only while this product is used in the United States.
This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
Sears, Roebuck And Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throw- ing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
A_,WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and
_¢LLookfor this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!H BECOME ALERT!H YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State
of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash
hands after handling. _i, WARNING: In order to prevent ac- cidental starting when setting up, trans-
porting, adjusting or making repairs,
always disconnect spark plug wire and
place wire where it cannot contact plug.
CAUTION: Muffler and other engine parts become extremely hot during operation and remain hot after engine has stopped. To avoid severe burns on contact,
stay away from these areas.
_,WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle compo-
nents contain or emit chemicals known
to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive
harm.
2
I. GENERAL OPERATION
Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the
manual(s) before starting. Be thoroughly 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 dis-
charge opening at all times.
Only allow responsible individuals, who are familiar with the instructions, to oper-
ate 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 bare- foot 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 ap- proved 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 until the 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 mech- anism 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. Vibra- tion 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 cau- tion. 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-offs, ditches or embankments. The operator could lose
footing or balance.
Do not trim excessively steep slopes.
Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced foot- ing could cause slipping.
III. CHILDREN Tragic accidents can occur ifthe 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 ma- chine.
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
3 from the plug to prevent accidental starting.
Keepnutsandbolts,especiallyblade attachmentbolts,tightand keepequip-
mentingood condition.
Nevertamperwithsafetydevices.Check theirproperoperationregularly.
Keep machine free of grass, leaves,or otherdebrisbuild-up.Cleanoilorfuelspill- age.Allowmachinetocoolbeforestoring.
Stop andinspectthe equipmentifyou strikean object.Repair,if necessary, beforerestarting.
Neverattempttomakewheelheightadjust-
Grasscatchercomponentsaresubject to wear,damage,anddeterioration,
whichcouldexposemovingpartsor allowobjectsto be thrown.Frequently checkcomponentsand replacewith
manufacturer'srecommendedparts,
whennecessary.
Mowerbladesaresharpandcan cut. Wraptheblade(s)or weargloves,and
useextracautionwhenservicingthem.
Donotchangethe enginegovernorset- ting or overspeedtheengine.
mentswhiletheengine(motor)isrunning.
SerialNumber: Dateof Purchase:
GasolineCapacity/Type: 1.6 Quarts (Unleaded Regular)
Oil Type (API-SF-SJ): SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F) Oil Capacity: 20 Ounces Spark Plug (Gap: .030") Champion RJ19LM or J19LM
Blade Bolt Torque: 35-40 ft. Ibs.
The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal on the rear of the lawn mower housing. Record both serial number and date of purchase in space provided above.
Repair Protection Agreements
Congratulations on making a smart pur- chase. Your new Craftsman® product is
designed and manufactured for years of dependable operation. But like all prod-
ucts, it may require repair from time to
time. That's when having a Repair Protec- tion Agreement can save you money and
aggravation.
Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement now and protect yourself from unexpected hassle and expense.
Here's what's included in the Agreement:
Expert service by our 12,000 profe- sional repair specialists.
Unlimited service and no charge for parts and labor on all covered repairs.
Product replacement if your covered product can't be fixed.
Discount of 10% from regular price of service and service-related parts not covered by the agreement; also, 10% off regular price of preventive mainte-
nance check.
Fast help by phone - phone support from a Sears technician on products
requiring in-home repair, plus conve- nient repair scheduling.
Once you purchase the Agreement, a simple phone call is all that it takes for you
to schedule service. You can call anytime day or night, or schedule a service ap-
pointment online. Sears has over 12,000 professional repair specialists, who have access to over 4.5 million quality parts and accessories. That's the kind of professionalism you can count on to help prolong the life of your new purchase for years to come. Purchase your Repair Protection Agreement today! Some limitations and exclusions apply.
For prices and additional information
call 1-800-827-6655. Sears Installation Service
For Sears professional installation of home appliances, garage door openers, water heaters, and other major home items, in
the U.S.A. call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.
4
These accessories 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. Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
CLIPPING
__ DEFLECTORS
_\\ \\\ FOR FOR
\\ GRASS CATCHERS GRASS CATCHERS
LAWN MOWERS LAWN MOWERS
REAR DISCHARGE SIDE DISCHARGE
FOR STABILIZER
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS AIR FILTERS SPARK PLUGS
BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS ENGINE OIL
5
Read these instructions and this manual in its entirety before you attempt to assemble
or operate your new lawn mower.
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE inthe engine. Your new lawn mower has been as-
sembled at the factory with the excep- tion of those parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and
proper operation of your lawn mower, all
parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools
as necessary to ensure proper tightness. All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc.,
necessary to complete the assembly have
been placed in the parts bag.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM CARTON
1. Remove loose parts included with mower.
2. Cut down two end corners of carton and lay end panel down flat.
3. Remove all packing materials except padding between upper and lower handle and padding holding operator presence control bar to upper handle.
4. Roll lawn mower out of carton and check carton thoroughly for additional
loose parts.
HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWN MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so
as not to pinch or damage control cables.
1. Raise handles until lower handle sec- tion locks into place in mowing position.
2. Remove protective padding, raise up- per handle section into place on lower handle and tighten both handle knobs.
3. Remove handle padding holding operator presence control bar to upper
handle.
Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted for your mowing comfort. Refer to "AD- JUST HANDLE" in the Service and Adjust-
ments section of this manual.
Operator presence control bar
LIFT UF
Mowing position
Lower handle
TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a mulcher. To convert to bag- ging or discharging, see "TO CONVERT MOWER" in the Operation section of this manual).
6
KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND ALL 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 CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER,KEEP HANDS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
3resence control bar
,Handle knob
Starter handle
Primer
Gasoline
filler cap
guard
Air filtc
Wheel adjuster (on each wheel)
Muffler
Housing
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped 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 Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Com-
mission. 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.
Starter handle - used for starting engine. 7
Primer - pumps additional fuel from the
carburetor to the cylinder for use when starting a cold engine.
Theoperationof any lawn mowercanresultin foreign objectsthrownintothe eyes,whichcan resultin
severeeye damage.Always wearsafetyglassesor eyeshieldswhile operatingyour lawnmowerorperforming anyadjustmentsor repairs.Werecom- menda standardsafetyglassesor wide visionsafetymaskwornoverspectacles.
HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER ENGINE SPEED The engine speed was set at the factory
for optimum performance. Speed is not adjustable.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
I,CAUTION: Federal regulations require an engine control to be installed on this
lawn mower in order to minimize the risk of blade contact injury. Do not under
any circumstances attempt to defeat the function of the operator control. The blade
turns when the engine is running.
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 requirements. Medium position is best for most lawns.
To change cutting height, squeeze ad-
juster lever toward wheel. Move wheel
up or down to suit your requirements. Be sure all wheels are in the same set-
ting.
NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned when plate tab inserts into hole in lever.
Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped) allow lever to be positioned between the plate tabs.
LEVER BACKWARD TO LOWER
_ MOWER
Lever
Plate
TO CONVERT MOWER
Your lawn mower is shipped ready to be used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging or discharging:
Lift discharge guard and remove mulcher plate.
Mower can now be used for side dis- charge or optional grass catcher can be
attached.
To return to mulching operation, simply
reinstall mulcher plate as shown.
_I,CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without discharge guard, approved grass catcher or mulcher plate in place.
Discharge
Housing Hooks opening
Mulcher
Tab
tab
k
FORWARDTO RAISE MOWER
8
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
ADD OIL
Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in the engine. For type and grade of oil to
use, see "ENGINE" in the Maintenance
section of this manual. 4[_CAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with oil, or itwill smoke heavily from the muffler
on startup.
1. Be sure lawnmower is level.
2. Remove oil dipstick from oil fill spout.
3. You receive a container of oil with the unit. Slowly pour the entire container
down the oil fill spout into the engine.
4. Insert and tighten dipstick.
IMPORTANT:
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. See "TO
CHANGE ENGINE OIC' in the Mainte- nance section of this manual.
ADD GASOLINE
Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler neck.
Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel fresh-
ness.
CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or
fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline
near an open flame.
CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels
(called gasohol or using ethanol or metha-
nol) 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. Empty the gas tank, start
the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel
next season. See Storage Instructions for additional information. Never use engine
or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.
oil cap
Gasoline filler cap
Primer
TO STOP ENGINE
To stop engine, release operator pres- ence control bar.
TO START ENGINE NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the
engine, a small amount of smoke may be present during the initial use of the prod-
uct and should be considered normal.
1. 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 and pull starter
handle quickly. Do not allow starter rope to snap back.
NOTE: In cooler weather it may be neces- sary 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 attempt- ing to start and do not repeat priming steps.
9
MOWING TIPS
_i_CAUTION: Do not use de-thatcher
blade attachments on your mower. Such attachments are hazardous, will damage
your mower and could void your warranty.
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 clip-
pings. It may also be necessary to re- duce 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 cut- ting conditions, the engine speed should
be set in the FAST position.
For side discharge lawn mowers, cutting
in a counter-clockwise direction, start- ing at the outside of the area to be cut,
spreads grass clippings more evenly and puts less load on the engine. To
keep ctippings off of walkways, flower beds, etc., make the first cuts in a clock-
wise direction.
Pores in cloth grass catchers can be- come 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.
MULCHING MOWING TIPS IMPORTANT: For best performance,
keep mower housing free of built-up grass and trash. See "CLEANING" in the
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 recut-
ting action of the blades.
Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet grass tends to form clumps and
interferes with the mulching action. The best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon. At this time the grass has
dried, yet the newly cut area will not be exposed to direct sunlight.
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 it
will be necessary to raise the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep
from overloading the engine and leaving clumps of mulched grass. For extremely
heavy grass, reduce your width of cut by overlapping previously cut path and
mow slowly.
MAXI_
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 sec-
ond cut, mow across (perpendicular) 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.
10
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE /_:t,_°_o_y
AS YOU COMPLETE S
Lubrication I/ CheckTires I_ CheckDriveWheels
(Power-Propelled Mowers) I/'
Check for Loose Fasteners I_ Ik/ Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher
(If Equipped) _
W Clean Lawn Mower _ l/
RE Clean Under Drive Cover(Power-Propelled Mowers)
Check drive belt/pulleys (Power-Propelled Mowers)
Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade Clean Battery/Recharge IElectdc Start MowersI
E Check Engine Oil Level
Change Engine Oil
v'
l/
v'3 i/
l/ v',
1_1,2
V'=
GI Clean Air Filter
Inspect Muffler
N Replace Spark Plug
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge
1- Change moreoftenwhenopem6ngundera heavyloador inhighambienttemperatures.
2 -Servicemoraoftenwhen operatingindirtyordustyconditions, 3 - Replacebladesmoreoftenwhen mowinginsandysoil,
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 unit as instructed in this manual. Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit.
At least once a season, check to see if you should make any of the adjustments
described in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.
At least once a year, replace the spark plug, clean or replace air filter element and check blade for wear. A new spark plug and clean/new air filter element assure proper air-fuel mixture and help your engine run better and last longer.
Follow the maintenance schedule in this manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
Check engine oil level.
Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRICATION CHART").
11graphite type lubricant sparingly.
i/
If
I\ ) Discharge
_" J pin
_ Spray lubricant
See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will
attract dust and dirtthatwill shorten the life of the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel they
must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered
i/
i/=
4 -Charge48 hoursatend of season. 5 -And alter each5 hoursof use.
LUBRICATION CHART
Wheel
adjuster (on
each wheel)
-- -- ;ne oil
..._ l" guard hinge
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when per- forming any maintenance.
TIRES
Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chemicals which can harm rub-
ber.
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 condition to work
properly. Replace adapter if damaged.
TO REPLACE BLADE
1. Position the blade adapter on the en- gine crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter
and crankshaft keyway are aligned.
2. Position blade on the blade adapter aligning the two (2) holes in the blade with the raised lugs on the adapter.
3. Be sure the trailing edge of blade (op- posite sharp edge) is up toward the engine.
4. Install the blade bolt with the lock washer and hardened washer into
blade adapter and crankshaft.
5. Use block of wood between blade and lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, turning clockwise.
The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 ft. Ibs.
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is heat treated. If bolt needs replacing, replace only with
approved bolt shown in the Repair Parts section of this manual.
Blade adapter Crankshaft
Key _ keyway
Blade
Blade shaft bolt / \
washer Trailing edge Blade adapter
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.
GRASS CATCHER
(If purchased as an accessory)
The grass catcher may be hosed with water, but must be dry when used.
Check your grass catcher often for dam- age or deterioration. Through normal
use it will wear. If catcher needs replac- ing, replace only with approved replace-
ment catcher shown in the Repair Parts
section of this manual. Give the lawn
mower model number when ordering.
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.
SAE VISCOSITY GRADES
IO0
12
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