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.
• Repaim 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 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, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
SAFETY RULES
Safety standards require operator pres
ence 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.
• Do not operate mower if it has been
• Do not use accessory attachments that
TRAINING:
• Read this operator’s manual carefully.
Become familiar with the controls and
know how to operate your mower
properly. Learn how to quickly stop
mower.
• Do not allow children to use your mower.
Never allow adults to use mower without
proper instructions.
• Keep the area of operation clear of all
persons, especially small children and
pets.
• Use mower only as the manufacturer
intended and as described in this manual.
• The blade turns when the engine is
dropped or damaged in any manner.
Always have damage repaired before
using your mower.
are not recommended by the manufac
turer. Use of such attachments may be
hazardous.
running.
PREPARATION;
• Always thoroughly check the area to be
mowed and clear it of all stones, sticks,
wires, bones, and other foreign dbjects.
These objects wit! be thrown by the blade
and can cause severe injury.
• Always wear safety glasses or eye
shield when starting and while using
your mower.
Page 3
• Dress property. 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 fili gas tank indoors, when the
engine is running or when the engine is
hot. Aliow the engine to coot for several
minutes before filling the gas tank. Clean
off any spilled gasoline before starting the
engine.
• Always make wheel height adjustments
before starting your mower. Never
attempt to do this while the engine is
running.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.
• Never cut grass by pulling the mower
• Never operate your mower without
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE:
• Check the blade and the engine mount
• Check all bolts, nuts and screws at
OPERATION:
• Keep your eyes and mind on your mower
and the area being cut. Do not let other
interests distract you.
• Do not mow wet or slippery grass. Never
run while operating your mower. Always
be sure of your footing — keep a firm
hold on the handles and walk.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge
opening at all times.
• Always stop the engine whenever you
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
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 mn 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 mn the engine indoors. Exhaust
fumes are dangerous.
• Keep all safety devices in place and
• To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine
• Check grass catcher often for deteriora
• Always keep a sharp blade on your
• Allow engine to cool before storing in any
• Never store mower with fuel in the tank
towards you. Mow across №e 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.
proper guards, plates, grass catcher or
other safety devices in place.
ing bolts often to be sure they are
tightened properly.
frequent inten/als for proper tightness to
be sure mower is in safe working
condition.
working.
free of grass, leaves or excessive grease
and oil.
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.
mower.
enclosure.
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.
ACAUTiON: 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.
AWARNING: The engine exhaust from
this product contains chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
Page 4
ACCESSORIES
These accessories were available when this
lawn mower was produced. They are also
available at most Sears retail outlets and
sen/ice centers. Most Sears stores can also
LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE
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.
MUFFLERS
BELTSBLADES
BLADE ADAPTERS
ASSEMBLY
Read these instructions and this manual in
its entirety before you attempt to assemble
or operate your new lawn mower. Your new
• Roll lawn mower out of carton and check
lawn mower has been assembled at the
factory with the exception of those parts left
unassembled for shipping purposes. All
parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc.,
necessary to complete the assembly have
been placed in the parts bag. To ensure
safe and proper operation of your lawn
mower, all parts and hardware you as
semble must be tightened securely. Use the
HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN
MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handles carefully so
as not to pinch or damage control cables.
• Raise handles until lower handle section
correct tools as necessary to ensure proper
tightness.
• Remove protective padding, raise upper
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
• Remove loose parts included with
mower.
• Cut down two end comers of carton
and lay end panel down flat.
• Remove all packing materials except
padding between upper and lower
• Remove handle padding holding operator
• Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted
AIR FILTERS
WHEELSENGINE
SPARK PLUGS
OIL
handle and padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
carton thoroughly for additional loose
parts.
locks into place in mowing position.
handle section into place on lower
handles and tighten both handle knobs.
presence control bar to upper handle.
for your mowing comfort. Refer to "Adjust
Handle" in the Service and Adjustment
section of this manual.
Page 5
Operator presence
control bar
Upper handle
Lift up
Lower
handle
Mowing
position
TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging or
discharging:
• Open rear door and remove mulcher
plug. Store mulcher plug in a safe place.
• You can now install catcher or optional
clipping deflector.
• To return to mulching operation, install
mulcher plug into discharge opening of
▲CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without mulcher plug in place or approved
clipping deflector or grass catcher in place.
Never attempt to operate the lawn mower
with the rear door removed or propped
open.
Page 6
OPERATION
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 tiiis 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 DAI
CAUTION ENGINE
OR WARNING ON
Starter handle
Handle knob
Grass catcher
CM=F
OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS
AND FEET AWAY
Operator presence control bar
Engine zone control cable
Engine oil cap
with dipstick
Primer
Mulcher plug
Gasoline filler cap
Lawn mower housing
Wheel adjuster
(on each wheel)
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears rotary w^k-b^ind power lawn mowers conform to tiie safety standards of the American
National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The blade
turns when the engine is
Operator Presence Control Bar- must be
held down to frie handle to steirt the engine.
Release to stop the engine.
Primer - pumps additional fuel from the
l^rjjHTnjngjj^
Starter Handle - used for starting the engine.
Mulcher Plug - located at the discharge
opening must be removed when converting to
bagging or discharging operation.
carburetor to the cylinder for use when starting
a cold engine.
Page 7
The operation of any iawn mower can result in
Lower Wheels for High Cut
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 adjust
ments or repairs. We recommend a wide
vision safety mask over spectacles or standard
safety glasses.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED CONTROL
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.
TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER
• Close the flip lid. Rip lid must be closed
while operating lawn mower.
• Ut the rear door on the mower housing and
place the grass catcher frame onto the
formed tabs on tiie rear door hinge bracket
• The grass catcher is secured to ^ 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.
• Your lawn mower is equipped witti an
operator presence control bar which
requires the curator to be positioned
behind the lawn mower haridle to start and
Hinge
bracket
operate the lawn mower.
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
• Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels
for high cut.
Formed
tabs
• 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 suit your requiremer^. Be sure all wheels
are in the same setting.
NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned when
plate tab inserts into hole in lever. Also, 9-
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER
• To remove grass cateher, release operator
presence control bar to stop engine.
• Lift up rear door and remove the grass
cateher by the handle.
NOTE: Do not drag the bag when emptying;
position adjusters (if so equipped) allow lever
to be positioned between the plate tabs.
Rear door
Grass cateher
Page 8
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
OIL
Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in the
engine.
• Be sure mower is level and area around oil
fill is clean.
• Remove engine oil cap and fill to the full line
on the dipstick.
• Use 20 ozs. of oil. For type and grade of oil
to use, see “ENGINE” in Maintenance
section of this manual.
• Pour oil slowly. Do not over fill.
• Check oil level before each use. Add oil if
needed. Fill to full tine on dipstick.
• To read proper level, tighten engine oil cap
each time.
• Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.
• 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.
GAS
• Rll 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.
WARNING: Experience indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using
ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture
which leads to separation and formation of
adds 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 fuel tank, start the engine
and let It run until fuel lines and carburetor are
empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See
Storage Instructions for additional information.
Never engine or carburetor cleaner
products in fuel tank or permanent damage
may occur. _
Engine oil
cap
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
start‘ng an engine which has already run for
a few minutes.
• Hold operator presence control bar down to
the hai^le and pull starter handle quicidy.
Do not allow starter rope to snap back.
• To stop engine.release operator presence
control bar.
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 attempting to start
and do not repeat priming steps.
MOWING TIPS
• Under certain conditions, such as very
tall grass, it may be necessary to raise
the height of cut to reduce pushing effort
and to keep from overloading the engine
and leaving clumps of grass clippings. It
may also be necessary to reduce
ground speed and/or run the lawn
mower over the area a second time.
• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the
width of cut by overlapping previously
cut path and mow slowly.
• For better grass bagging and most
cutting conditions, the engine speed
should be set in the fast position.
• When using a rear discharge lawn
mower in moist, heavy grass, clumps of
cut grass may not enter the grass
catcher. Reduce ground speed (push
ing 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.
Gasoline
filler cap
8
Page 9
MULCHING MOWING UPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up grass and trash,
Qean UNDERSIDE OF MOWER HOUSING
after each use. See "Cleaning" in
MAINTENANCE section of this manual.
• The special mulching blade will recut the
grass clippings many times and reduce
them in size so that as they fall onto the
lawn they will disperse into the grass and
not be noticed. AJso, the mulched grass will
biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for
the lawn. Always mulch with your highest
engine (blade) speed as this will provide the
best recutting action of the blades.
• Avoid 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 and the newly cut
area will not be exposed to the direct sun.
For best results, ac^ust 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 ttie
engine and leaving clumps of mulched
grass. For extremely heavy mulching,
reduce your width of cut, mow slowly and
raise the rear of the lawn mower one wheel
adjuster setting higher than the front
Certain types of grass and grass conditions
may require that an area be mulched a
second time to completely hide the
clippings. When doing a second cut, mow
across or perpendicular to tiie 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.
MAX 1/3
Page 10
MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
FILL IN DATES
AS YOU COMPLETE
REGULAR SERVICE
Check for Loose Fasteners
Clean/lnspect Grass Catcher
(If EquippM)
Clean Lawn Mower
M
Clean Under Drive Cover
0
(Power-Propelled Mowers)
^llf
ww
Check cMve belt/hulleys
E
(Power-Prooelied Mowers)
R
Check/Sharpen/Heplace Blade
Lubrication Chart
Clean Battery/Recharw
(Electric Start Mowers)
Check Engine Oil Level
E
Chartge Engine Oil
N
Clean Air Rlter
G
Inspect Muffler
1
Clean or Replace Spark Plug
N
Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge
E
1 • Chan90 when operating undar ■ heavy load or in high ambient temperalures.
2' Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty condltior^.
3 - Replace bladee more often when mowing In eandy soik
4 • Charge 48 hours at er>d of season.
GENERAL RECOMMENDARONS
The wairanty on this lavvn rnower cloes not
cover items teat have been subjected to
operator abuse or negligence. 1b receive full
v^ue from tee warranty; operator must maintain
mower as instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit
Al) adjustments in tee Service arid
Adjustments section of this manual should be
checked at least once each season.
• Orrceayear, replace the spark plug, replace
air filter element and check Wade for wear. A
new spark plug atK) clean/new air fitter
Always observe safety rules when performing
any maintenarxje.
TIRES ,
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemiCcJs 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. lbs.
Page 12
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 Crank shaft
adapter ^_________ keyway
Blade,
NOTE: Although mult*—^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
NOTE; Before tipping lawn mower to drain
oil, drain fuel tank by running engine until
fuel tank is empty.
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
• Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a
• Tip lawn mower on its side as shown
Blade
Bolt / \ \ \ Crank
Lockwasher Hardened ' Blade shaft
weisher Trailing adapter
GRASS CATCHER
• The grass catcher may be hosed with
water, but must be dry when used.
• Wipe off any spilled oil on lawn mower
• Fill engine with oil. Fill only to the “FULL”
• Replace engine oil cap.
• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark
• Check your grass catcher often for damage
or deterioration. Through normal use it will
wear. If cateher needs replacing, replace
only with a manufacturer approved
replacement catcher. Give the lawn mower
rTKxJel number when ordering.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated
with API service classification SF, SH or
SG. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade
according to your expected operating
temperature.
SAC VISCOSrTY GRADES
30* 93T «r
TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICtPATED BEFORE NEXT OH, CHANGE
I I [
Your engine will not mn 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.
TO CLEAN AIR FILTER
• Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove.
• Carefully remove cartridge.
• Clean by gently tapping on a flat
ACAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as
kerosene, are not to be used to clean
cartridge. They may cause deterioration of
12
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
dean surface.
and drain oil into a suitable container.
Rock lawn mower back and forth to
remove any oil trapped inside of engine.
and on side of engine.
line on the dipstick. DO NOT OVER
FILL
Container
surface. If very dirty, replace cartridge.
Page 13
the cartridge. Do not oil cartridge. Do not
use pressurized air to clean or dry
cartridge.
• Install cartridge, then replace cover
making sure the tabs are aligned with
the slots in the back plate. Fasten
screw securely. Back
plate
Cover
^ tabs
Cartridge
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.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built—up grass and
trash. Clean underside of mower housing
after each use.
ACAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come in contact with the spark
plug.
• Clean the underside of your lawn mower
by scraping to remove build-up of grass
and trash.
• Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runs
hotter and shortens engine life.
• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of all gasoline, oil,etc.
• We do not recommend using a garden
hose to clean lawn mower unless the
electrical system, muffler, air filter and
carburetor are covered to keep water
out. Water in engine can result in
shortened engine life.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS
ACAUTION: Before performing any
service or adjustments:
• Release control bar and stop engine.
• Make sure the blade and all moving
parts have completely stopped.
• Disconnect spark plug wire fromspark
plug and place where it cannot come in
contact with plug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in
the Operation section of this manual.
REAR DEFLECTOR
The rear deflector, attached between the
rear wheels of your lawn mower, is
provided to minimize the possibility that
objects will be thrown out the rear of the
lawn mower into the operator's mowing
position.
If the rear deflector becomes damaged, it
should be replaced.
TO ADJUST HANDLE
Your lawn mower handle c^ 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 bar from the upper
handle.
• Remove the starter rope guide from the
upper handle.
• Remove hairpin cotters.
• Disconnect the lower handle from the
handle brackets.
• Turn 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.
ACAUTION: The operator presence
control bar must pivot freely to permit
blade brake engagement when control bar
is released. Do not over tighten the
fasteners holding the controls to the upper
handle.
• To change from medium low to high
position only the upper handle section
will have to be turned over.
13
Page 14
To change from medium low to low
position, only the lower handle section
will have to be turned over.
Sewn hem
tubular frame
TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER
• Insert leg of tubular frame through front
opening of grass catcher and thread
frame into sewn hem of bag.
NOTE: Keep bag hem gathered on the
straight leg of the tubular frame.
• When frame comes out the other end of
sewn hem, immediately work the end of
frame down inside the bag as shown in
inset.
• Slide sewn hem evenly around the
tubulat frame until both ends of frame
are exposed out of the front opening.
• Assemble lower frame to tubular frame
as shown. Be sure handle is outside of
bag and frames are fully seated as
shown in inset.
• 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.
• Close the flip lid. Flip lid must be closed
while operating lawn mower.
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.
Sewn hem
Flip lid
Lower frame
(Frames must
be fully
seated)
ENGINE
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has a non-adjustable fixed
main jet for mixture control. If your engine
does not operate properly due to sus
pected carburetor problems, take your
lawn mower to an authorized service
center for repair or adjustment.
IMPORTANT; Never tamper with the
engine governor, which is factory set for
the proper engine speed. Overspeeding
the engine above the factory high speed
scan be dangerous. If you think the
engine-governed high speed needs
adjusting, contact your nearest authorized
service center, which has proper equip
ment and experience to make any
necessary adjustments.
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.
14
Page 15
STORAGE
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 is to be stored for a period
of time, clean it ttioroughly, remove all dirt
grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean, dry area.
• Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEANING"
in the Maintenance section of this rrianual).
• Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
• Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and pins
are securely fastened. Inspect moving
parts for damage, breakage arid wear.
Replace if necessary.
• Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces: sand lightly before 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 bolts
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 may damage the
control cables.
• When setting up your handle from the
storage position, the lower handle wll
automatically lock into the mowing position.
Lower
Handle
Squeeze to fold
Handle
Bracket
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent gum
d^josits from forming in essential fuel system
parts such as carburetor, fuel filter, fuel hose,
or tank during storage. AJso, experience
indcates that alcohol biend^ fuels (called
gasohd or using etttanol or methanol) can
attract moisture which leads to separation and
formation of adds during storage. Acidic gas
can damage the fuel system of an engine
white in storage.
> Drain the fud tank.
• Start the engine and let it run until the fuel
lines and carburetor are empty.
• Never use engine or carburetor deaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
• Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stabiKzer 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 stabifizer to
reach the carburetor. Do not drain the gas
tank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (v#i encpne warm) and replace wth
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.
Hairpin
Cotter
Operator Presence
Control Bar
• Replace with new spark plug.
OTHER
• Do not store gasoline from one season to
another.
• Replace your gasoline can if your can starts
Upper Handle
to rust. Rust and/or dirt in your gasoline will
cause problems.
• If possible, store your unit indoors and cover
Fold Backward
Mowing Position
it to give protection from dust and dirt
Fold Forward
For Storage
Lower Handle
15
Page 16
• 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 aid will cause
your unit to rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
engine and exhaust areas are still warm.
ACAUnON: Never store the lawn mower
with gasoline in the tsunk inside a building
where fumes may reach an qpen flame or
spark. Allow tile engine to cool before storing
in any enclosure.
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEM
Does not start
CAUSE
CORRECTION
• Dirty air filter.• Clean/replace air filter.
• Out of fuel.• nil fuel tank.
• Stale fuel.• Drain tank and refill with
fresh clean fuel.
• Water in fu^.• Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refill tank
with fresh gasoline.
• Spark plug wire is
• Connect wire to plug.
disconnected.
• Bad spark plug.• Replace spark plug.
• Loose blade or broken blade• Ttghten blade bolt or
adapter.
replace blade adapter.
• Control bar in released• Depress control bar to
position.handle.
• Control bar defective.• Reffece control bar.
16
Page 17
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART
PROBLEMCAUSE
Loss of power
• Rear of lawn mower housing
or cutting blade dragging
in heavy grass.
• Cutting too much grass.
• Dirty air fitter.
1* Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.
• Too much oil in engine.
• WalMng speed too fast.
Poor cut - uneven
• Worn, bent or ioose biade.
• Wheel heights uneven.
• Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
•
Excessive
vibration
• Worn, bent or loose blade.
• Bent engine crankshaft.
CORRECTION
• Set to “Higher Cut”
position.
• Set to “Higher Cuf
position.
• Clean/replace air filter.
• Clean underside of mower
housing.
* Check oil level.
• Cut at slower walking
speed.
• Replace blade. Tighten
blade bolt.
• Set all wheels at same
height
• Clean underside of
mower housing.
• Replace blade. Tighten
blade bolt.
• Contact an authorized
service center.
Starter rope hard
to puli
Grass catcher
not failing (if so
equipped)
Hard to push
• Engine flywheel brake is on
when control bar is released.
• Bent engine crankshaft.
• Blade adapter broken.
• Blade dragging in grass.
• Cutting height too low.
• Lift on blade worn off.
• Catcher not venting air.
• Grass is too high or wheel
height is too low.
• Rear of lawn mower
housing or blade dragging
in grass.
• Grass catcher too full.
• Handle height position not
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.
17
Page 18
33
Page 19
CO
CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NO. 917.387402
Page 20
CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER - ■ MODEL NO. 917.387402
CO
Cil
KEY
PART
NO.NO.DESCRIPTION
186902Control Bar
2165451X479
3150425Mulcher Plug
4
132001
5157081X479
7131959Handle Bolt
866426
9
51793
10136376Handle Knob
11
162778
750097Hex Washer Head Screw 10-24 x 1/2
13
14
86899X004Up-Stop Bracket
15
63601
1657143Wave Washer
17151023Rear Door Assembly Kit
18156374X479Back Plate
19150050Self Tapping Screw 10-24 x 5/8
Clipping Deflector
Gas Can (2.5 gal.)
Fuel Stabilizer
SAE30W01l(20oz.)
DustSNeld
Mower Cover
Page 21
BRtGGS & STRATTON
MODEL NUMBER 12H802-2675-E1
124
36
Page 22
BRIGGS & STRATTON
MODEL NUMBER 12H802-2675~E1
635
37
* REQUIRES SPECIAL TOOLS
TO INSTALL. SEE REPAIR
INSTRUCTION manual.
Page 23
BRIGGS & STRATTON
MODEL NUMBER 12H802-2675-E1
38
Page 24
BRIGGS & STRATTON
MODEL NUMBER 12H802-2675-E1
39
Page 25
BRIGGS & STRATTON
MODEL NUMBER 12H802-2675-E1
KEY
NO.
1
2
3
4
5
7
8
9
9A
10
11
12
13
15
16
20
22
23 492177
24 222698
25 499429
26 499425
27
28
29
32
33
34
35
40
45
46
47
51
PART
NO.
493260
399269
299819
493279
214368
272916
495786
272481
272238
94650
231933
272198
94547
94720
498565
94388
399781
94220
94612
499430
499431
499432
499426
499427
499428
263190
499423
499424
94699
262651
262652
262224
93312
262204
498275
493737
272199
DESCRIPTION
Cylinder Assembly
Bushing, Cylinder
* Seal, Oil
Sump, Engine
Head, Cylinder
‘* Gasket, Cylinder Head
Breather Assembly
" Gasket, Valve Cover
* Gasket, Baffle Plate
Screw, Hex Head
Tube, Breather
* Gasket, Crankcase
Screw, Cylinder Head
Plug, Oil Drain
Crankshaft
Timing Gear Key
* Seal, Oil
Screw, Hex Head
Screw, Hex Head
(Used in Hole Nearest
Breather)
Flywheel
Key, Rywheet
Piston Assembly,
Standard Size
Piston Assy. (.010* O.S.)
Piston Assy. (.020* O.S.)
Piston Assy. (.030“ O.S.)
Ring Set. Piston,
Standard Size
Ring Set (.010“ O.S.)
Ring Set (.020* O.S.)
Ring Set (.030“ O.S.)
Lock, Piston Pin
Pin, Piston. Standard
Size
Rod, Connecting
Screw, Connecting Rod
Valve, Exhaust
Valve, Intake
Spring, Valve
Retainer, Valve Spring
Tappet, Valve
Gear, Cam
Slinger, Oil
* Gasket, Intake Elbow
KEY
NO.
54
55
56
58
60
65
81
95
104231371
110
117
121
12494525
125
127
130
131
133
134
137
163272653
187
188
188A
202
209
** Included In Carburetor Kit (498260)
*** Included in both Carburetor Kit (498260),
**** Included in both Gasket Set (497316),
NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S. inches
PART
NO.
94526
4974420
498144
280399
281434
94696
223664
94098
—
494870
498260
498170
—
224908
493267
398187
398188
...
492790
398540
94644
262579
263044
* Included in Gasket Set (497316)
and Carburetor Gasket Set (498261)
and Valve overhaul Gasket Set (498528).
1 inch = 25.4 mm
DESCRIPTION
Screw. Hex Head
Housing, Rewind Starter
Pulley, Rewind Starter
Rope, Rewind Starter
(Cut To 88-5/8")
Grip, Starter Rope
Screw, Phillips
Lock, Muffler Screw
Screw, Round Head
** Pin, Float Hinge
*** Gasket, Sealing (Sold in
Kit Only)
Jet, Main
Carburetor Kit
Screw, Carburetor