Craftsman 917.388360 User Manual

Owner's Manual

[RRFTSMRN

6.25 HORSEPOWER
21" MULTI-CUT

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.

917.388360

• Safety

• -Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Eepafiol

• Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equipment

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Visitour Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman

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

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

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

Operation .............................. ;............... 6

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

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

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 instructionsin
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 commereial 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/Depadment 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...................... 13

Storage ................................................. 15

Troubleshooting ................................... 16

Repair Parts .......................................... 34

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

Safety standards require operator
presence control to minimize the risk of

injury.Your unit is equipped with cuch
controls,do not attempt to defeat the
function of the operator presence controls

under any circumstances.

TRAINING;

• Read this operator's manual carefully.
Become familiar with the controls and

know how to operate your mower

properly. Leam 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.

• 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 turns when the engine is

running.

PREPARATION"

• Always thoroughly check the area to be
mowed and clear it of all stones, sticks,

wires, bones, and other foreign objects.
These objects will be thrown by the

blade and can cause severe injury.

• Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields when starting and while using
your mower.

• Dress properly. Do not operate mower
when barefoot or wearing open

2

sandals. Wear only solid shoes with
good traction when mowing.

• Check fuel tank before starling 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

rotatingparts. 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,
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 repair-

ing your mower, stop the engine and

make absolutely sure the blade end all

moving parts have stopped. Then
disconnect the spark plug wire and

keep itaway 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 your 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 tightnessto

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

CAUTIONII! BECOMEALERTf!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

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.

_I,WARNING: The engine exhaust from
this product contains chemicals known to

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

3

These accessorieswere availablewhen thislawn mower was produced. They are not
shipped with your mower.They are also availableat mostSears retailoutletsand service

centers. Most Sears storescan alsoorderrepairpartsfor you,when youprovidethe model
numberofyour lawnmower. Some oftheseaccessoriesmay notapplytoyourlawn mower.

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

CLIPPING DEFLECTOR

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS

BELTS BLADES

BLADE ADAPTERS

Read these instructionsand this manual in

its entiretybefore 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 exception of

those parts left unassembled for shipping

purposes. To ensure safe and proper
operationof your lawn mower, all parts and
hardware you assemble must be tightened

securely. Use the correct tools as neces-
saryto ensure propertightness. All parts

suchas nuts, washers, bolts, etc., neces-
sary to complete the assembly have been

placed in the parts bag.

MULCHER KITS

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

SIDE DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

GAS CANS

AIR FILTERS

WHEELS

SPARK PLUGS

ENGINE OIL

TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM

CARTON

• Remove loose parts included with
mower.

• Cut downtwo 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 controlbar to upper handle.

• Roll lawn mower out of carton;and check

carton thoroughlyfor additional loose
parts.

4

HOWTO SETUPYOUR LAWN
MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

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

• Raise lower handle section to operating
position and squeeze the bottom ends

of lower handle towards each other
until the pin in handle can be inserted
into one of the throe height adjustment

holes.

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

lower handle and tighten both handle
knobs.

• Remove any packing material from
around control bar.

• Your handles may be adjusted for your
mowing comfort. Refer to Service and
Adjustments section of this manual.

Operator
presence

Controlbar

handle

Liftup

Mowing
Lower
handle

Handle
pin

/bracket

posi_on

adjustment

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to

be used as a mulcher. To convert to
bagging or discharging, see =Toconvert

moweP in the OPERATION section of thi,,
manual.

5

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READTHIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN

MOWER. Compare the illustrationswith yourlawnmowertofamiliarizeyourselfwiththe
iocation ofvariousconb'oleand adiustmants. Save thismanualforfuturereference.

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

presence control

bar

controlcable

Handle

Primer

with dipstick

Mulcher door Lawn mower housing

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped

WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the Wheel adjuster

en_line. (on each wheel)
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the
National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The blade

turns when _ engine is running.

Operator Presence Control Bar- must be
helddown tothe handleto startthe engine.

Release to stopthe engine.

Pflmer - pumps additional fuel from the

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

Starter Handle - used forstarting the engine,

6

The opem..U.orlof any lawn mower

can resulttnforeign objectsthrown

intotheeyes, whichcan resultin

asvere eye damage. Always wear safety
glassesor eye shieldswhile operatingyour

lawnmoweror performingany adjustments
or repairs. We recommenda widevision

s_ety maskover spectaclesor standmd
safetyglasses.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL
The engine speedwas set at the factoryfor

optimumperformance. Speed isnotadjust-
able.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

•,CAUTION: Federal regulations require

an engine control to be installed on this

lawn mower in order to minimize the dsk

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 cu'rlrlNG HEIGHT

• Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels

for high cut

• Adjust cutting height to suit your require-

mentsoMedium position is 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.

Plate Tab

Lower Wheels for High Cut

REAR BAGGING

• Liftreardoor ofthe lawn mower and plao

the grass catcher frame hooks onto the

doorpivotl ns.

• To convert to mushing or discharging
' operation, remove grass catcher and

rear door.

Pivotpins

SIDE DISCHARGING

• Rear door must be closed.

• Open mulcher door and installdischarge
deflectorunder guardas shown.

• Mower is nowready for discharging

operation.

• To convert to mulchingor bagging

operation,dischargedeflectormustbe
removedand mulcherdoormustbe

closed,

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER

WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN

MOWER

FOR MULCHING -

• Rear door cloesd.

• Mulcher door closed.
FOR REAR BAGGING-

• Grass catcher installed.

• Muicher door dosed.

FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -

• Rear door closed.

• Side discharge deflector installed.

ACAUTION: Do not run your lawn mow(

without rear door closed or approved
grass catcher in place. Never attempt to

operate the lawn mower with the rear
door removed or propped open.

Lever

Raise Wheels for Low Cut

TO CONVERT MOWER
Yourlawn mower was shippedreadyto be

usedasa mulcher.Toconverttobaggingor

discharging:

door

7

Open
Mulcher Door

Discharge

deflector

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

OIL
Yourlawn mower isshippedwithoutoilin the
engine.

• Be sure mower is leveland area aroundoil

fillis clean.

• Remove engineoil cap and fillto the full

lineonthe dipstick.

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

• Engineholds 20 ozs.of oil. Fortype and
gradeofoilto use, see =ENGINE" in

Maintenancesectionof this manual.

• Pouroilslowly. Donotover fill

• Check oil level before each use. Addoilif

needed. Fillto fulllineon dipstick,

• To read properlevel,tighteneng'vneoilcap

each time.

• Reinstall engine oilcap and tighten.

• Change the oil afterevery 25 hours of

operationor each season. You may need
to changethe oil moreoften underdusty,

dirtyconcrdions.

ADD GASOMNE

• Fillfuel tank. Use fresh, clean,regular

unleadedgasolinewitha minimumof 87
octane. Do notmix oilwithgesoi'me.
Purchasefuel in quantitiesthatcan be
usedwithin30 daysto assurefuel

freshness.

_WARNING: Expedence 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.

_I_CAUTION: 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.

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 stader handle

quictdy. Do not allow starter rope to snap

beck.

• To stop engine, release operator presence

control bar.

NOTE: In cooler weather it may be
necessary to repeat pdming 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 aiid do not repeat
priming steps, Gasoline filler

cap

Engine oil
cap

8

MOWINGTIPS

• Undercertainconditions,suchas verytaU
grass,it may be necessaryto raisethe

heightof cutto reducepushingeffortandto
keep from overloadingthe engineend
leavingdumps of grassdippings. It may
also be necessaryto reducegroundspeed

and/orrunthelawnmower overthe area a

second time.

• Forextremelyheavy cutting,reducethe

widthofcutby overlappingpreviouslycut

pethandmowstowly.

• Forbetter grassbaggingand mostcutting
conditions,the enginespeed shouldbe set

inthefastposition.

• Poresin doth grasscatcherscan become
filladwithdirtand dustwithuseand

catchers willcollectless grass. To prevent
this,regularlyhose catcher offwithwater

and letdrybeforeusing.

• Keep top of engine aroundstarterclear
and claanof grass clippingsand chaff.

This willhelpengine air flowand extend

engine life.

MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance, ke_

mower housing free of built-up grass ant
trash. Clean UNDERSIDE OF MOWER

HOUSING after each use. See "Cleanin.€
in MAINTENANCE section of this manu_

• The specialmulching blade will recutthe

grassclippingsmany times and reduce
themin size sot_%_t_s theyfall ontothe

lawntheywilld_sperseintothe grassand
not be noticed.Also,the mulchedgrassw

biodegrade quicklyto providenutrientsto1
the lawn.Alwaysmulchwithyourhighest

engine(blade) speed as this will provide
the bestrecuttingac'donofthe blades.

• Avoidcuttingyour lawn when it iswet. We

grasstendsto form dumps and interferes
withthe mulching action.The besttime to
mow yourlawn is theearlyafternoon.At
this time the grass has driedand the newl
cut area will notbe exposedtothe direct

SUn.

• For best results,adjust the lawn mower
cuttingheightso that the lawnmowercuts

offonlythe top one-thirdofthe grass
blades.Ifthe lawnis overgrownitwillbe

necessaryto raisethe heightofcutto
reducepushingeffortand to keepfrom

overloadingthe engine and leaving
dumps of mulchedgrass.Forextremely

heavy mulching,reduceyourwidth ofcut,
mow slowlyand raisethe rear of the lawn

mowerc_e wheel adjustersettinghigher

tbanthe front.

• Certaintypes of grassand grasscorditior_
may requirethatan area be mulcheda

s :ond to

_. Whendeinga_xmd out,mow

acrossorpeq_x_rDculartothefirstout path

• Changeyour cutSngpattemfrom weekto
+week. MOw northto southene weekthan

changetoeast toweet the nextweek.This
willhelp preventmaffingand grainingof

the lawn.

1/3

9

MA,N,E,ANCESCHEOULE

AS YOU COMPLETE /__-_'_. O___ .....

Check for Loose Fastenem _
Clean/inspect Grass Catcher

(ffEquipped) _ _

a Clean Lawn Mower

CleanUnderDriveCover

Check ddve belt_0ulleys

_ IPower-PropenedMowem)

(Power.Propelled Mowers) V'

R Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade I_s

Lubrication Chart I_

C;ean Battery/RecharQe
IElectdc Start Mowers_ I/ 1_4

E CheckEnQineOil Level I_'

Change Engine Oil I/1.2

Inspect Muffler

Clean Air Filter _ =

N Cleanor ReplaceSparkPlug

ReplaceAir RlterPaperCadddge IS'=

1 ÷Change mornoftml when operasng under a heavyload or inhigh artY_enttemperatdres,
2 - Service more oftenwhen opemffng Indkty or _ conditions.

3 ° Replace bladu rnoreoften when mowing Insamly =ol

4. Charge 48 hoursal end of season.

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 w_, operator must
maintain mower as instructed in this manual.

Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit.

AU intheSew e and

Adjt_Vnentssectionofthismanual ,shouldbe

checked at least once each season.

• Once a year, replace the spark plug,

replace air filter element and check blade

for wea'. A new spark plug and clean/new
air filter element assures proper air-fuel

mixture and helps your engine run better

aed nger.

• Follow the maintenance schedule in this

manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level

• Check for loose faateners.

LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated (See 'LUBRICATION

CHART").

LUBRICATION CHART

Wheel

adjusters

3rake spdng

bracket

(_ Rear

door Handle bracket
hinge mountingpin

(_) SPRAYLUBRICANT

(_) SAE 30 MOTOR OIL REFER TO

ENGINE - 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 lubricating bearings. If you
feel they must be lubricated, use only a
dry, powdered graphite type lubricant

sparingly.

10

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL NUMBER 917.388360

SERIAL NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1_5 QUARTS

I ,

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

OIL CAPACITY: 20 OZS.
SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030") CHAMPION RJ19LM OR Jt 9LM

VALVE CLEARANCE: INTAKE: .004 - .008

SOLID STATE IGNITION
AIR GAP: .0125 IN.

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40 FT. LBS.

The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal attached to the rear of the
lawn mower housing.Record both serial number and date of purchase in space

provided above.

UNLEADED REGULAR

SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)

EXHAUST: .004 - .008

LAWNMOWER

Always observe safety rules when performing
any maintenance.

TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline,oil,or insect

controlchemicalswhk_hcan harm rubber.

• Avoidstumps,stones,deep ruts,sharp

objectsandother hazardsthat 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 o
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 tuming 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. 11

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.

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.

Crank shaft

keyway

Blade

Bolt crank

Lockwashar Hardened Blade shaft

washer Trailing adapter

GRASS CATCHER

edge

• The grass _ may be heaedwith

water, butmustbe drywhen used.

• Check yourgrasscatcher oftenfor damage

or deterioration.Through normal use it will

wear. If catcher needs replacing,replace

only with a manufacturerapproved

replacementcatcher.Give the lawnmower

model numberwhen ordering.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated

with API service classification SF, SH or
SG. Select the oil'sSAE viscosity grade
according to your expected operating

temperature.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

"30' -2O" -10" O' 10" 20" 30"

TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

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 revel

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

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

• Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a

clean surface.

• Tip lawn mower on itsside and drain oil

into a suitable container. Rock lawn
mower back and forth to remove any oil

trapped inside of engine.

• Wipe offany spilled oil on lawn mower

and on side of engine.

• Fill engine with oil_Fill only to the
"FULL" line on the dipstick. DO NOT

OVER FILL.

• Replace engine oil cap.

• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark

plug.

Container

AIR FILTER
Your engine willnot 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 cover by tuming

counterclockwise to the stop and pull

away from collar.

• Remove filter from inside of cover.

12

• 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 Clip

Air filter cover to tighten

Tum
counter--

remove

clockwise

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it

could create afire hazard and/or damage,

SPARK PLUG
Change your spark plug each year to

make your engine start easier and run
better. Set spark pluggap at .030 inch.

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance, ke_
mower housing free of built--up grass

and trash. Clean underside of mower
housing after each use.

_CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wit
from spark plug and place wire where it

cannot come in contact with the spark
plug.

• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sL

to

air filter and carburetor are up. Clean
the underside of your lawn mower by
scraping to remove build--up of grass

and trash.

• Clean engine often to keep trash from

accumulating. A clogged engine runs
hotter and shortens engine life.

• Keep finished surfaces and wheels fr_

of all gasoline, oil, etc.

• We DO NOT recommend using a

garden hose to clean lawn mower
unless the electrical system, muffler, 8

filter and carburetor arecovered to
keep water out. Water in engine can

result in shortened engine life.

ACAUTION: Before performing any
service or adjustmentsL

• 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 cu'rrlNG HEIGHT

See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in

the Operation section of this manual.

REAR DEFLECTOR

The rear defi_or,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.
If the rear deflector becomes damaged, it

should be replaced.

TO ADJUST HANDLE
The handle on your lawn mower has

three (3) height positions - adjust to heig
that suits you,

• Squeeze the bottom ends of lower

handle towards each other until the pir
in handle can be inserted into one of

the three height adjustment holes.

Handle pin

Low

3-posttiol

adjustrnel
bracket

13

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

• Put grass catcher frame into grass bag

with dgid 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 inwarm water for a few minutes. If
bag gets wet, let itdry 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 .--_

handle_ _/'_ \ _ ./k\\

ENGINE

CARBURETOR
Yourcarburetorhas a non-adjustsblefixed

mainjetfor mixturecontrol.Ifyourengine
does notoperate properlydueto suspected
carburetorproblems,take yourlawn mowerto
an authorizedservicecenterfor repairor

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, ifyou think the
engine-governed high speed needs

adjusting, contact your nearest authorized
service center, which has proper
equipment and experience to make any

necessary adjustments.

ENGINE SPEED

Yourenginespeed hasbeenfactoryset Do

not attemptto increaseenginespeedorit

may resultinpersonal injury.If youbelieve
that the engineis running too fast or too slow,

take your lawn mowerto an authonzed
service center for repairand adjustment.

opening

14

Immediately prepareyourlawn mower(or
storageat the end of the seasonor ifthe unit
willnotbe used for 30 daysor more.

LAWN MOWER

When lawn mower isto be storedfora period
oftime,cleanit thoroughly,removeall dirt,
grease,leaves,etc.Storeina clean, dryarea.

• Clean entirelawn mower (See "CLEAN-
ING"inthe Maintenancesectionofthis

manual).

• Lubricateas shownin the Maintenance

sectionof thismanual.

• Be surethat all nuts,belts, screws,and pins
are securelyfastened. Inspect moving

partsfor damage, breakage and wear.

Replaceif necessary.

• Touch up all rustedor chippedpaint
surfaces;sand lightlybeforepainting.

HANDLE

• You can fold your lawn mower handle
for storage.

• Loosen the two (2) handle knobs on

sides of the upper handle and allow
handle to fold down to the rear.

• Squeeze the bottom ends of lower

handle toward each other until pins in
handle clear the brackets and pivot

entire handle assembly forward and
allow it to rest on mower.

• When setting up your handle from the

storage position, the lower handle will

require manually locking into the
mowing position.

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

the handle as shown or you may damage
the control cables.

pin

/ 3-position

Handle
adjustment

bracket

Operator Presence

Upper

• Handle

Fold Forward'-'_

Control Bar

Mowing

Position

Lower
Handle

ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM

IMPORTANT: tt is important to prevent
gum deposits from forming in essential

fuel system parts such as carburetor, fue!

filter, fuel hose, or tank during storage.
Also, experience indicates that alcohol
blended fuels (called gasohol or using
ethanol or methanol) can attract moistur_
which leads to separation and formation

of acids during storage. Acidic gas can

damage the fuel system of an engine

while in storage.

• Drain the fuel tank.

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

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

• Use fresh fuel next season.

NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable
alternative in minimizing the formation of

fuel gum deposits during storage. Add

stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or
storage container. Always follow the mix

ratio found on stabilizer container. Run

engine at least 10 minutes after adding
stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to reach

the carburetor. Do not drain the gas tank

and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.

15

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.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM CAUSE

OTHER

• Do not store gasoline from one season

to another.

• 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 protec-

tive 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.
_I_CAUTION: 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 1. Dirtyairfilter.

2. Out offuel.
3, Stale fuel.

4. Water infuel.

5. Spark plugwire is
disconnected.

6. Bad spark plug.

7. Loose blade or brokenblade
adapter.

8. Controlbar in released

pceltJm.

9. Controlbar defective.

Loss ofpower 1. Rear of lawnmower housing

or cuttingblade dragging
in heavy grass.

2. Cuttingtoo muchgrass.

3. Dirtyair filter.

4. Buildupof grass,leaves,
and trash undermower.

5. Too much oilin engine.

6. Walkingspeed too fast.

1. Clean/replace air filter.

2. Fillfuel tank.

3. Drain tank and refillwith
fresh clean fuel.

4. Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refilltank

with eshgas .

5. Connect wire to plug.

6. Replace sparkplug.

7. Tightenblade boitor

replaceblade adapter.

8. Depresscontrolbarto

handle.

9. Replace controlbar.

1. Set to =Higher Cut"

position.

2. Setto =HigherCut"

position.

3. Clean/replaceair filter.

4. Clean undersideof mower
housing.

5. Check oil level.

8. Cut at slowerwalking
speed.

16

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION

Poor cut- uneven

Excessive

vibration

Starter rope hard
topull

Grass catcher
not filling (if so

equipped)

1. Worn, bent or loose blade.

2. Wheel heights uneven.

3. Buildupof grass,leaves
and trash undermower.

1. Worn, bent or loose blade.

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

1. Engine flywheel brake is on

when control bar is released

2. Bent engine cranksh_t.

3. Blade adapter broken.

4. Blade dragging in grass.

1. Cutting height too low.

2. Lift on blade wom off.

3. Catcher not venting _r.

1. Replace blade. Tighten

blade bolt.

2. Set all wheeis at same

height

3. Clean underside of

mower hou_ng.

1. Replace blade. TKjhten

blade bolt.

2. Contact an authorized
service center.

1. Depress contro! 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
to start engine

1. Raise cutting height.

2. Replace blade.

3. Clean grass catcher.

Hard to push

1. "Grass is too high or wheel

h_ight is too low.

•I 2. Rear of lawn mower

housing or blade dragging

in grass.

3. Grass _r too full.

4. Handlet_ght pes_onnot
rightforyou.

I. Raise cutting height.

. Raise rear oflawn mower

housingone (1) setting
higher.

3. Emptygrasscatcher.

4. Adjusthendleheightto

suit.

17

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER-- MODEL NO. 917.388360

49

34

4O

87

3O

\

4_

I

I

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER-- MODEL NO. 917.388360

KEY
NO.

1
2
3

4

5
6
7
8
9

10
11

12
13
14

15
16
17

18
19

2O
21
22
23
24

25
26
27
28
29

30
31
33

PART

NO.

131696

166860X479

161105X479
132001

636O1

131959

66426
74780512

154132
165754

156577
750097
850733X004

136376

51793

147286
165946X479
17600406

167132X004
167133X004
165858

168360X004
166875
751153

166236X479
166243x479
851856
152124
160835X007
19112222

165760

87877

KEY PART

DESCRIPTION NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

ControlBar 34 167130X004
UpperHandla 35 166785

LowerHandle 36 160828
RopaGuido 37 151162

Locknut 1/4-20 38 164362
Handle Bolt 39 83923

WlreTie 40 77400
Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 3/4 41 88652

Hinge Bracket 42 165766
MulcherDoor 43 165767

EngineZoneControlCable 44 165912
Hex Washer Head Screw #10-24 x 1/2 45 150406

Up-Stop Bracket 46 85463
HandleKnob 47 63124

HairpinCotter 48 167131X004
HingeRod 49 151161

SupportBracket 50 57143

Screw 51 73990500
Axle Arm Assembly. LF 52 166878
Axle ArmAssembly - RF 53 851064

Roar Skirl 54 850263
SelsctorSpring 56 851074

Rear Door AssemblyKit(Incl. Spdngs) 56 165833
Locknut5/16-18 57 851514

Handle Brecket Assembly(Left) 58 161551
Handle BracketAssembly (Right) 67 166113

Screw 1/4-20 x 3/8 68 165755

HingeSpdng 70 ......

Wheel AdjustingBracket - Front

Spacer - - 161058

Clipon Discharge Guard - - 171200
SelectorKncb

Axle Arm Assembly- LR

Locknut5/16-18
ShoulderBolt 5/16-18

WheelAssembly
ShoulderBoit

FlangedLocknut
Hubcap
HingeScrew

Spdng(LH)
Spring(RH)

DoorBolt
Hex Head Thread RollingScrew 3/8-16 x 1

DangerDecal
Nut

Axle Ann Assembly- RR
Whee_

WaveWasher
Nut

Housing Assembly(Incl. Ref. #17, 18 & 46)
Hex Head Screw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 Grd. 8

HelicalLockwasher
HardenedWasher
21"Blade

BladeAdapter

AdjustmentBolt
Grass Bag

CatcherFrame
Engine- (See Breakdown)

Craftsman143.006200

Waming Decal (NotShown)

Owner'sManual

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.006200

_--370K

4OO

416

185

130

178

120

119

125

126

1(

313

46

'7 1897

238 25O

36

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.006200

KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

1 37266 Cylinder (Incl. 2,20 & 150) 169 36783

2 26727 Dowel Pin 172 36784

6 33734 Breather Element 174 30200
7 36557 Breather Ass'y. (Incl. 6 & 12A) 178 29752

12 36775 Breather Tube 182 6201

12A 36558 Breather Cover & Tube 0nd. 184 26756
12B 36694 Breather Tube Elbow 185 36785

14 28277 Washer 186 32653

15 30589 Governor Rod (Incl. 14) 189 650839
16 34839A Governor Lever 191 36559A

17 31335 Governor Lever Clamp 195 610973
18 651018 Screw, Torx T-15, 8-32x 19/ 207 34336

19 36281 Extension Spring 223 650451

20 32600 Oil Seal 224 36786

30 36776 Crankshaft 238 650932
40 40004 Piston, Pin & Ring Set (Std.) 239 34338

40005 Piston, Pin & Ring Set (.010' 241 35797

41 36070 Piston & Pin Ass'y. (Std.) (Incl. 250 35065

36071 Piston & Pin Ass'y.(.0t0" 280 36980

42 40006 Ring Set (Std.) 282 650831

40007 Ring Set (.010" OS) 277 650988

43 20381 Piston Pin Retaining Ring 285 35000A
45 36777 Connecting Rod Ass'y. (Incl. 287 650926

46 32610A Connecting Rod Bolt 292 26460
48 27241 Valve Lifter 298 28763

50 37460 Camshaft (MCR) 300 36916
52 29914 Oil Pump Ass'y. 301 36246
69 35261 * Mounting Flange Gasket 305 35647
70 34311E Mounting Flange (Incl. 72 thru 306 36996

72 30572 Oil Drain Plug (Incl. 73) 309 650562
73 28833 Drain Plug Gasket 310 35648
75 27897 Oil Seal 313 34080

80 30574A Governor Shaft 325 37152
81 305g0A Washer 355 590701
82 30591 Governor GearAss'y. (Incl. 81) 370A 36261
83 30568A Governor Spool 370C 37318

86 650488 Screw, 1/4-20 x 1-1/4" 370K 36695
89 611004 Flywheel Key 370R 37317

90 611112 Flywheel 371 37269
92 650815 Belleville Washer 380 640262
93 650816 Flywheel Nut 390 590737

100 34443B Solid State Ignition 400 36792B

101 610118 SparkPlug Cover
103 651007 Screw, TorxT-15, 10o24X15/ 416 36085

110 37047 Ground Wire 417 650821

119 36787 Cylinder Head Gasket 900
120 36825 Cylinder Head 900

125 37288 Exhaust Valve (Std.) (Incl.
126 37289 Intake Valve (Std.) (Incl. 151)

130 6021A Screw, 5/16-18 x 1-1/2"
135 35395 Resistor Spark Plug (RJ19LM)

150 31672 Valve Spdng
151 31673 Valve Spring Cap

151A 40017 Intake Valve Seal

12B)

64" 216 33086

OS) 245 35066

43)
OS)(Incl. 43)

46) 290 29774

83,306). 307 35499

16"

151)

KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

261 30200
275 36790A

NOTE: This engine could have been builtwith
NOTE: All componentdimensionsgiven in U.S.

1 inch = 25.4 mm

* Valve Cover Gasket

Valve Cover
Screw, 10-24 x 9/16"
Nut & Lock Washer, 1/4-28

Screw, 1/4-28 x 7/8"
CarburetorTo Intake Pipe

Gasket

Intake Pipe

Governor Link

Screw, 1/4-20 x 3/8"
S.E. Brake Bracket(Incl. 195)

Termthal

Throttle Link

R.P.M.AdjustingLever

Screw, 1/4-20 x 1"

Intake Pipe Gasket
Screw, 10-32 x 49164"

Air Cleaner Gasket

Air C_eanerCollar
AirCleaner Filter
AirCleaner 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"
Fual Line

Fuel LineClamp
Screw, 10-32 x 35/64"
Fuel Tank (Incl. 292 & 301)

Fuel Cap

Oil FillTube

uO'-Ring
=O"-Ring

Screw, 10-32 x 1/2'
Dipstick

Spacer
Spdng Clip

Starter Handle (Black)
IdentificationDecal

PrimerDecal (3 X)
Starter Decal

Warning Decal

6.5 H.P.CraftsmanDecal

Carburetor(Incl. 184)
Rewind Starter

Gasket Set (Incl. Items
Marked *)

Spark ArrestorKit (Incl.

417)(Optional)

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

Replacement Engine NONE
Replacement S/B 750860,

order tram 71-999

RPM High2900 to 3200

590694 starter).
inches

37

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.0062_

III

KEY
NO.

16
17
18

2O

2OA

25
27

28
29
3O
31
35

36

36A

37
4O
44
47
48
6O

PART
NO, DESCRIPTION

640262 Carburetor

1

631615 Throttle Shaft & Lever Assembly

2

631767 Throttle ReturnSpdng
631184 * Dust Seal Washer

4

5

631183 * DustSeal (Throttle)

6

640070 Throttle Shutter

7

650506 * ShutterScrew

631807 Fuel Fitting
651025 Throttle Crack Screw/Idle Speed Screw

630766 TensionSpring
640018 Idle RestrictorScrew

640200 Idte Restrictor Scrwe Cap (Bracts)
631867 FloatBow1

631024 * Float Shaft
632019 Roat

631028 * FloatBowl "O"Ring
631021 * tn_etNeedle, Seat, & C_p (Incl.31)
631022 SpringCllp
640259 PdmerBulb/RetainerRing

640080 MainNozzle Tube
632766 CarburetorTube

632547 * =(3"Ring,Maln Nozzle Tube
640175 High Speed BowlNut
27110A • Bowl NutWasher
630748 * Welch Plug, IdleMixture Well

631027 * Welch Plug,AtmosphericVent
6327608 Repak kit (tnc_.Rerns Marked *)

(Incl. 184 of Engine Parts List)

36

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 143.006200

_-5

O_2

_--lJl

KEY
NO.

11

12

13

KEY
NO.

1
2
3

4

5

6

7

8

PART

NO.

590694
590599A
59O6OO
59O696

59(To01

59O697

590698
59O699
590700
590695

590535
590701

PART
NO.

DESCRIPTION

Recoil Starter
Spdng Pin (Incl.4)

Washer

Retainer

Washer

BrakeSpdng
StarterDog
DogSpdng

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

Starter Rope ( 98* X 9/64"dia.)
StaRerHandle

DESCRIPTION

mm

12

11

12

3
6
7
8

59O737
590740
590616

590617
590618A

590687A

59O535

RewindStarter
Retainer

Starter Dog

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

StarterRope

(Length 98" x9/64' dia.)
13
14

590701
59O760

StarterHandte

SpringClip

II tl1-7

39

For in-home major brand repair service:

Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-4-MY-Home sM(1-800-469-4663)

Para pedir servicio de reparaci6n a domicilio

1-800-676-5811

In Canada for all your service and parts needs call

Au Canada pour tout le service ou les pi_ces

1-800-665-4455

For the repair or replacement parts you need:

Call 6 am-11pm CST, 7 days a week

PartsDirect sM

1-800-366-PART (1-800-366-7278)

Para ordenar piezas con entrega a domicilio

1-800-659-7084

For the location of a Sears Parts and Repair Center

in your area:

Call 24 Hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-488-1222

For information on purchasing a Sears Maintenance

Agreement or to inquire about an existing Agreement:

Call 9 am-5 pm, Monday - Saturday

1-800-827-6655

SEAR8

171200 Rev.1 11.18.99 VB Printedin U.S.A,