Craftsman 917387610 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual
JCRAFTSMHN"JlVlOWER
ROTARY LAWN
4.25 Horsepower 22" Side Discharge
Model No.
917.387610
CAUTION:
before operating this equipment
Seam, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL60179 U.S.A.
Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman
Warranty ................................................. 2
Safety Rules ........................................ 2-4
Assembly / Pre-Operation ...................... 5
Operation ..................................... _....... 6-9
Maintenance Schedule ........................ 10
Maintenance .................................... 10-13
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER
For two years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,
lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in
the owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or workman- ship.
If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty
applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.
This Warranty does not cover:
Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower
blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.
Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions
contained in the owner's manual.
Product Specifications .......................... 11
Service and Adjustments ...................... 14
Storage ............................................ 15-16
Troubleshooting .............................. 16-17
Repair Parts ..................................... 34-39
Sears Service ......................... Back Cover
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 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, ROEBUCKAND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in
serious injury or death. _,Look for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means CAUTION!f! BECOMEALERTU! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
A WARNING: In order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs,
always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark
plug.
_kWARNING: Engine exhaust, some of
its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other repro-
ductive harm.
A,WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and
related accessories contain lead and
lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
A, 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.
2
h GENERAL OPERATION
Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the
manual(s) before starling. Be thor- oughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the machine before
starting.
Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of the
discharge opening at all times.
Only allow responsible individuals,
who are familiar with the instructions, to
operate the machine.
Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc.,
which could be picked up and thrown
by the blade.
Be sure the area is clear of other
people before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
Do not operate the mower when
barefoot or wearing open sandals. Always wear substantial foot wear.
Do not pull mower backwards unless
absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while
moving backwards.
Do not operate the mower.without
proper guards, plates, grass catcher or other safety protective devices in place.
See manufacturer's instructions for
proper operation and installation of accessories. Only use accessories
approved by the manufacturer.
Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel
drives, walks, or roads.
Stop the engine (motor) whenever you
leave the equipment, before cleaning the mower or unclogging the chute.
Shut the engine (motor) off and wait
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 mecha-
nism or drive clutch on mowers so equipped before starting the engine
(motor).
If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine (motor)
and check immediately for the cause. Vibration is generally a warning of
trouble.
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operat-
ing mower.
II. SLOPE OPERATION Slopes are a major factor related to slip
and fall accidents which can result in severe injury. All slopes require extra
caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do
not mow it.
DO:
Mow across the face of slopes: never up and down. Exercise extreme caution
when changing direction on slopes.
Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
DO NOT:
Do not trim near drop-offs, ditches or embankments. The operator could lose footing or balance.
Do not trim excessively steep slopes.
Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced footing could cause slipping.
III. CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator
is not alert to the presence of children.
Children are often attracted to the
machine and the mowing activity. Never
assume that children will remain where you last saw them.
Keep children out of the trimming area and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.
Before and while walking backwards, look behind and down for small
children.
Never allow children to operate the machine.
Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
3
IV. SERVICE
Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are flammable
and vapors are explosive.
-Use only an approved container.
- Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow
engine to cool before refueling. Do
not smoke.
-Never refuel the machine indoors.
- Never store the machine or fuel
container inside where there is an open flame, such as a water heater.
Never run a machine inside a closed area.
Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine (motor) running. Disconnect the spark plug wire, and
keep the wire away from the plug to
prevent accidental starting.
Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep equipment in good condition.
Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.
Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
storing.
Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
Never attempt to make wheel height adjustments while the engine (motor) is running.
Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and deterioration,
which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently
check components and replace with manufacturer's recommended parts,
when necessary.
Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing them.
Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed the engine.
These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not
shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears retailoutletsand service centers. Most Sears storescan 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 MULCHER KITS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS
GRASS CATCHERS
SIDE DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
AIR FILTERS
FOR
STABILIZER
GAS CANS
SPARK PLUGS
BELTS BLADES
©
BLADE ADAPTERS
4
WHEELS
;t
ENGINE OIL
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 in the engine.
Your new lawn mower has been as- sembled at the factory with the exception
of those pads 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, wash- ers, 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.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so
as not to pinch or damage control cables.
1. Raise handles until lower handle section locks into place in mowing
position.
2. Remove protective padding, raise
upper handle section into place on lower handle and tighten both handle
knobs.
3. Remove handle padding holding
operator presence control bar to upper handle.
Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted for your mowing comfort. Refer to
"ADJUST HANDLE" in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.
Operator cont_l bar
UP
LIFT UF
Mowing position
Lower handle
TO INSTALL ATTACHM ENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be used as a mulcher. To convert mower
to bagging or discharging, see "TO CONVERT MOWER" in the Operation
section of this manual.
5
KNOWYOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND 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.
iiiii
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
i
control bar
Handle knob
Starter handle
filler cap
Air filter
Primer
Engine oil cap with dipstick-
Muffler
Discharge g
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped Wheel adjuster (on each wheel)
WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.
Illll
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Bears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the Amedcan National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commis- sion. The blade turns when the engine is running.
Operator presence control bar- must be Primer - pumps additional fuel from the
held down to the handle to start the engine, carburetor to the cylinder for use when Release to stop the engine, starling a cold engine.
Starter handle - used for starting the engine. 6
Theoperationof any lawn mowercan resultinforeign
objectsthrownintothe eyes,whichcanresultin severeeye damage.
Alwayswearsafetyglassesor eye shieldswhileoperatingyour lawn mower
or performinganyadjustmentsor repairs. We recommendastandardsafety
glassesor widevision safetymaskworn over spectacles.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed was set at the factory for optimum performance. Speed is not adjustable.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL _CAUTION: Federal regulations require
an engine control to be installed on this lawn mower in order to minimize the risk
of blade contact injury. Do not under any 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 adjuster lever toward wheel. Move
wheel up or down to suit your require- ments. Be sure all wheels are in the
same setting.
NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned when plate tab inserts into hole in lever. Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)
allow lever to be positioned between the plate tabs.
TO CONVERT TO DISCHARGING
MOWER
Your 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 discharge or optional grass catcher can
be attached.
To return to mulching operation, simply reinstall mulcher plate as shown.
ACAUTION: Do not run your lawn
mower without discharge guard, ap- proved grass catcher or mulcher plate in
place.
Discharge "" guard
Housing
opening
Mulch
Hinge rod
LOWER WHEELS FOR HIGH CUT[_
.-_-----_ _ I I
_ =_ _ Plate
RAISE WHEELS FOR LOW CUT
7
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.
A CAUTION; DO NOT overfill engine with
oil, or it will smoke on startup.
1. Be sure lawnmower is level and area around oil fill is clean.
2. Remove oil dipstick from oil fill spout. Make sure that rim of spout is clean.
3. You receive a container of oil with the unit. Slowly pour 3/4 (15 oz.) of the oil
from the container down the oil fill
spout into the engine.
4. Wait one minute to allow oil to settle. Insert and tighten dipstick, then
remove it to check oil level.
5. Continue adding small amounts of oil and rechecking the dipstick until it
reads full. DO NOT overfill, or engine will smoke on startup.
6. Always be sure to retighten oil dipstick before starting engine.
Check oil level before each use. Add
oil if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.
Change the oil after every 25 hours of
operation or each season. You may
need to change the oil more often under dusty, dirty conditions.
ADD GASOLINE
Fill fuel tank 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
Adays to assure fuel freshness.
CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or
fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame. A, CAUTION: 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.
filler cap
Engine oil cap
TO START ENGINE
NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the
engine, a small amount of smoke may be
present during the initial use of the product and should be considered
normal.
1. To start a cold engine, push primer
three (3) times before trying to start.
Use a firm push. This step is not usually necessary when starting an engine which has already run for a
few minutes.
2. Hold operator presence control bar down to the handle and pull starter
handle quickly. Do not allow starter rope to snap back.
TO STOP ENGINE
To stop engine, release operator
presence control bar. NOTE: In cooler weather 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.
For side discharge lawn mowers, cutting in a counter-clockwise direction, starting at the outside of the area to be cut, spreads grass clippings more
evenly and puts less load on the engine. To keep clippings off of
w_alkways, flower beds, etc., make the first cuts in a clockwise direction.
Pores in cloth grass catchers can become filled with dirt and dust with
use and catchers will collect less grass. To prevent this, regularly hose catcher
off with water and let dry before using.
Keep top of engine around starter clear and clean of grass clippings and chaff.
This will help engine air flow and extend engine life.
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 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 aftemoon. At
this time the grass has dried and the newly cut area will not be exposed to the direct
sun.
For best results, adjust the lawn mower
cutting height so that the lawn mower cuts
off only the top one-third of the grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown 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.
MAX 1/3
Certain types of grass and grass condi-
tions 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 the firstcut path.
Change your cuttingpattern from week to
week. Mow northto southone week then change to east towest the next week. This
willhelp prevent matting and graining of
the lawn.
9
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE _o_ o_
,LL,NDATES
AsYOUCOMPLETE
REGULARSERV,CE
Check for Loose Fasteners
Clear_nspect Grass Catcher (If Equipped) if
M Clean Lawn Mower v'
_q'_._,_,"_/. _0_ SERVICE _7"_'4,_./_ DATES
v'
Clean Under Drive Cover(Power-Propelled Mowers) Check drive belt/pulleys
_ Power-Propelled Mowers)
Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade
Lubrication Chart
Clean Battery/Recharge IElectdc Start MowersI
E Check Engine Oil Level
N Change Engine Oil
G Clean Air Filter
n Inspect Muffler
N Clean or Replace Spark Plug
v'
v'
V',
,/
t/
_.2
1/2
E ReplaceAirFilterPaperCarLridge
1 - Change more ohen when operalJng under a haaw load or in high ambient temperatures.
2 - Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty co_ditions. 3 - Replace b4ades more often when rnow_g in sandy soil.
4 - Charge 48 hours at end of season,
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
(D Wheel adjuster
The warrantyonthis lawnmowerdoes not coveritemsthat have been subjectedto operatorabuse or negligence. To receivefull valuefrom the warranty,operatormust
maintainmower as instructedinthis manual. Some adjustmentswillneed to be made
periodically to properlymaintain your unit. All adjustments in the Service and Adjust-
ments sec'donof this manual should be checked at least once each season.
Once a year, replace the spark plug, clean or replace air filter element and check
I \ j \_
_" -)_ guard hinge pin
blade for wear. A new spark plug and
clean/new air filterelement assure proper air-fuel mixture and help your engine run
better and last longer.
Follow the maintenance schedule in this manual.
(_) Handle bracket mounting pins
_2
LUBRICATION CHART
each wheel)
{ _ -_ .I_ (_) Brake
/
I { _ spring bracket
-__ J" Discharge
j_ _(_) Engine oil
BEFORE EACH USE
Check engine oil level.
Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION Keepunitwelllubricated(See "LUBRICATION
CHART').
(_) Spray lubricant _) See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic wheel bearings. Viscous
lubricants will attract dust and dirt that
will shorten the life of the self-lubricat-
ing bearings. If you feel they must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered
graphite type lubricant sparingly.
10
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Serial number: Date of purchase:
Gasoline capacity / type: 1.5 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 resistor type 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 mower
housing. Record both serial number and date of purchase in space provided above.
LAWN MOWER Always observe safety rules when perform-
ing any maintenance.
TIRES
Keep tirestree of gasoline, oil, or insect
controlchemicals which can harm rubber.
Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts,sharp
objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage.
BLADECARE
For best results, mower blade must be kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged
blades. TO REMOVE BLADE
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure air filter and carburetor are up.
3. Use a wood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from
turning when removing blade bolt.
NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.
4. Remove blade bolt by turning counter- clockwise.
5. Remove blade and attaching hard- ware (bolt, lock washer and hardened
washer).
NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and check the key inside hub of blade
adapter. The key must be in good condi- tion to work properly. Replace adapter if
damaged.
TO REPLACE BLADE
1. Position the blade adapter on the engine crankshaft. Be sure key in
adapter and crankshaft keyway are aligned.
2. Position blade on the blade adapter
aligning the two (2) holes in the blade
with the raised lugs on the adapter.
3. Be sure the trailing edge of blade
(opposite sharp edge) is up toward
the engine.
4. Install the blade bolt with the lock washer and hardened washer into
blade adapter and crankshaft.
5. Use block of wood between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the blade bolt, turning clockwise.
The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 ft. Ibs.
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
treated. TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen- ing blade - but if you do, be sure the
blade is balanced. Care should be taken to keep the blade
balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause eventual damage to lawn mower
or engine.
The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower.
To check blade balance, 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 adapter Crankshaft
keyway
Blade
Blade shaft bolt
washer Trailing edge Blade adapter
11
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 damage or deterioration. Through
normal use it will wear. If catcher needs replacing, replace only with a
manufacturer approved replacement catcher. Give the lawn mower model
number when ordering.
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
F -20 0 30 32 40 60 80
c -3o -_ -_o G ,'o 2o 3o 4o
TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL NO| L. Before tipping lawn mower to
drain oil, drain fuel tank by running engine until fuel tank is empty.
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
2. Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a clean surface.
3. Tip lawn mower on its side as shown and drain oil into a suitable container.
Rock lawn mower back and forth to remove any oil trapped inside of
engine.
4. Wipe off any spilled oil from lawn
mower or side of engine.
5. Fill engine with oil. (See "ADD OIL" in the Operation section of this manual).
6. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark
plug.
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 orat 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.
,_ontainer
12
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