Craftsman 917.388391 User Manual

Owner's Manual

CRAFTS[MAN"

6.0 HORSEPOWER
21" MULTI-CUT

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.

917.388391

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Espa_ol

• Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all
Safety Rules and Instructions

before operating this equipment

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179.

Visit ourCraftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman

Warranty 2 Product Specifications 11

Safety Rules 2 Service and Adjustments 13

Assembly 4 Storage 14

Operation 6 Troubleshooting 15
Maintenance Schedule 10 Repair Parts 34
Maintenance 10 Parts Ordering Back Cover

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER
For two years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,

lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in
the owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or workman-

ship.
If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty

applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.
This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower
blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent
crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions

contained in the owner's manual.

Warranty service is available by retuming the Craftsman power mower to the nearest

Sears Service Center/Department in the United States. This warranty applies only

while this product is in use in the United States.
This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which

vary from state to state.

SEARS, ROEBUCKAND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179

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

propedy. 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.

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

• Do not use accessory attachments that
are not recommended by the manufac-

turer. Use of such attachments may be
hazardous.

• The blade tums when the engine is

running.

PREPARATION:

• Always thoroughly check the area to be

mowed and clear it of all stones, sticks,

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

blade and can cause severe injury.

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

your mower.

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

2

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

• Check fuel tank before starting engine.

Do not fill gas tank indoors, when the
engine is running or when the engine is
hot. Allow the engine to cool for several
minutes before filling the gas tank.
Clean off any spilled gasoline before
starting the engine.

• Always make wheel height adjustments
before starting your mower. Never

attempt to do this while the engine is

running.

• Mow only in daylight or good artificial

light.

OPERATION:

• Keep your eyes and mind on your

mower and the area being cut. Do not
let other interests distract you.

• Do not mow wet or slippery grass.

Never run while operating your mower.

Always be sure of your footing - keep a

firm hold on the handles and walk.

• Do not put hands or feet near or under

rotating pads. 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 and all
moving parts have stopped. Then
disconnect the spark plug wire and
keep it away from the spark plug to
prevent accidental starting.

• Do not continue to run your mower if
you hit a foreign object. Follow the
procedure outlined above, then repair
any damage before restarting and

operating 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 propedy.

• Check all bolts, nuts and screws at
frequent intervals for proper tightness to

be sure mower is in safe working
condition.

• Keep all safety devices in place and
working.

• To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine
free of grass, leaves or excessive

grease and oil.

• Check grass catcher often for deteriora-
tion and wear and replace worn bags.
Use only replacement bags that are
recommended by and comply with
specifications of the manufacturer of

your mower.

• Always keep a sharp blade on your

mower.

• Allow engine to cool before storing in

any enclosure.

• Never store mower with fuel in the tank
inside a building where fumes may

reach an open flame or an ignition
source such as a hot water heater,

space heater, clothes dryer, etc.

ALook for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means

CAUTIONIH BECOMEALERTI!! YOUR
SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

/I, CAUTION: Always disconnect spark
plug wire and place wire where it cannot

contact spark plug in order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,

transporting, adjusting or making repairs.

_t,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 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 stores can also order repair parts for you, when you providethe model

number of your lawn mower. Some of these accessories may not apply to your lawn mower.

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

CUPPING DEFLECTOR

FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS

MULCHER KITS

STABILIZER

GRASS CATCHERS

FOR

REAR DISCHARGE

LAWN MOWERS

LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

MUFFLERS AIR FILTERS

BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS

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 OILOR 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 neces-

sary to ensure proper tightness. All parts
such as nuts, washers, belts, etc., neces-
sary to complete the assembly have been
placed in the pads bag.

FOR

SIDE DISCHARGE

GRASS CATCHERS

LAWN MOWERS

GAS CANS

SPARK PLUGS

ENGINE OiL

TO REMOVELAWNMOWERFROM

CARTON

• Remove loose parts included with

mowsr,

• Cut down two end comers of carton and

lay end panel down flat.

• Remove all packing materials except
padding between upper and lower
handle and padding holding operator

presence control bar to upper handle.

• Roll lawn mower out of carton and check
carton thoroughly for additional loose

pads.

4

HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN Operatorpresence

MOWER control bar
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 three 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.

Upper

Lower handle

3-posiUon

Handle

asjustment

bracket

Mowing position

Handle
pin

/

TO INSTALLATTACHMENTS

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to
be used as a mulcher. To convert to

bagging of discharging, see "To convert
mower" in the OPERATION section of this

manual.

5

KNOWYOUR 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

locationof various controls and adjustments. Save this manual forfuture reference.

These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the

product. Learn and understand their meaning.

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

OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY

Operator presence control
bar

Starter

Handle

Grass catcher

Gasoline filler cap

Engine zone control cable

Engine oil cap

,"with dipstick

Mulcher door Lawn mower housing

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped
WITHOUT OILOR GASOLINE inthe Wheel adjuster

en_line. (on each wheel)

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Sears rotanj walk-behind power lawn mowers conformto the safety standards of the American

National Standards instituteand the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commiss'_n. The blade
turns when the engine is running.

I

Operator Presence Control Bar- must be
held down to the handle to startthe engine.

Release to stop the engine.

Primer - pumps addrtionalfuel from the

carburetor to the cylinderfor use when

starlinga cold engine.
Starter Handle - used for startingthe engine.

6

can resultin foreign objects thrown

The operation of any lawn mower

into the eyes, which can result in

severe eye damage. Always wear safety
glasses or eye shields while operating your
lawn mower or performing any adjustments

or repairs. We recommend a wide vision
safety mask over spectacles or standard
safety glasses.

HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED CONTROL

The engine speed was set at the factory for

optimum performance. Speed isnot adjust-

able.

ENGINE ZONE CONTROL

_I=CAUTION: Federal regulations require
an engine control to be installed on this
lawn mower in order to minimize the risk

of blade contact injury. Do not under any
circumstances attempt to defeat the

function of the operator control. The blade
turns when the engine is running.

• Your lawn mower is equipped with an

operator presence control bar which
requires the operator to be positioned

behind the lawn mower handle to start and
operate the lawn mower.

TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT

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

• Adjust cutting height to suit your require-

ments. Medium positionis best for most
lawns.

• To change cuttingheight, 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 insertsinto hole in lever. Also, 9-
position adjusters (if so equipped) allow lever

to be positionedbetween the plate tabs.

REAR BAGGING

• Liftrear door of the lawn mower and place

the grass catcher frame hooks onto the
door pivotpins.

• To convert to mulching or discharging
operation, remove grass catcher and close

rear door.

Pivot pins

SIDE DISCHARGING

• Rear door must be closed.

• Open mulcher door and install discharge

deflector under guard as shown.

• Mower is now ready for discharging
operation.

• To convert to mulching or bagging
operation, discharge deflector must he
removed and mulcher door must he

closed.

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER

WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN

MOWER

FOR MULCHING -

• Rear door dosed.

• Muicher door closed.

FOR REAR BAGGING-

• Grass catcher installed.

• Muicher door dosed.

FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -

• Rear door closed.

• Side discharge deflector installed.

Lower Wheels for High Cut

Raise Wheels for Low Cut

TOCONVERTMOWER

Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher. To convert to hagging or

discharging:

ACAUTION: Do not runyour lawn mower
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.

7

door

Open
Mulcher _

Discharge

deflector

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
OIL

Your lawn mower is shipped without oil inthe
engine.

• Be sure mower is level and area around oil
flitis clean.

• Remove engine oil cap and fillto the full
line on the dipstick.

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

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

grade of oilto use, see =ENGINE" in
Maintenance section of this manual.

• Pour oilslowly. Do not over fill

• Check oil level before each use. AdO oil if
needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.

• To read proper level, tighten engine oHcap
each time.

• Reinstallengine 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 conci'dons.

GAS

NOTE: Before filling fuel tank, remove
and discard the debris plug that is inside

the tank.

• Fillfuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87

octane. Do not mix oHwith gasoline.
Purchase fuel in quantitiesthat can be
used within 30 days to assure fuel

AIN_d_I41NG: Experience indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract

moisturewhich leads to separation and

formation of acids duringstorage. Acidc 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 rununtilfuel

lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel
next season. See Storage Instructionsfor
additional information. Never use engine or
carburetor cleaner products infuel tank or
permanent damage may occur.

ACAUTION: Fill to bottom of gas tank

filler neck. Do not overfill. Wipe off any

spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use
gasoline near an open flame.

Gasoline filler Engine oil
cap cap

(Discard

debris plug

inside)

TO START ENGINE

• To start a cold engine, push primerthree

(3) times before tryingto starLUse a firm
push. This step is not usually necessary

when starting an engine which has already

runfor a few minutes.

• Hold operator presence control bar down
to the handle and pull starter handle

quicldy.Do not allow starter rope to snap
back.

• To stop engine, release operator presence

control bar.

NOTE: In cooler weather itmay be necessa_
to repeat pdming steps. In warmer weather
over priming may cause flood=ngand engine
willnot starL Ifyou do floodengine, wait a few

minutes before attempting to start and do not

repeatprmngstep

8

MOWINGTIPS

• Under certain conditione, such as very tall
grass, it may be necassary to raise the

height of cutto reduce pushing effort and to
keep from ovedoading the engine and

leaving dumps 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 previouslycut

path and mow slowly.

• For better grass begging and most cutting
conditions,the engine speed should be set

in the fast position.

• Pores in cloth grass catchers can become
filledwith dirtand dust with use and

catchers will collectless grass. To prevent
this, regularly hose catcher offwith 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 MOWINGTIPS
IMPORTANT: For best perfom'Bnce, keep

mower housing free of buiR-upgrass and
trash. Clean UNDERSIDE OF MOWER

HOUSING after each use. See "Cleaning"in

MAINTENANCE section ofthis manual.

• The special mulching blade will recurthe
grass clippings many times and reduce

them in size so that as they fallonto the
lawn they w'_ldisperse into the grass and

not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass will
biedegrade quicldyto provide nutrientsfor
the lawn. Always mulch with your highest
engine (blade) speed as this will provide
the best recurringaction of the blades.

• Avo'KIcuttingyour 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,adjust the lawn mower
cutting heightso that the lawn mower cuts

oft only the top one-third of the grass
blades. If the lawn is overgrown itwill 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 mu_ing, reduce your width of cut,

mow slowly and raise the rear of the lawn

mower one wheel adjuster setting higher
than the front.

* Cedain typas of grass and grass conddJons

may require that an area be mulched a

Secondtime to completely hkle the

clippings.When doing a second cut, mow

across or paqoondicular to the firstcut path.

• Change your cuttingpattem from week to

week. Mow northto south one week thon

change to east to weet the next week. This

wiUhelp prevent rnatting and graining of

the lawn.

9

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

FILL IN DATES

AS YOU COMPLETE

REGULAR SERVICE

Check forLooea Fasteners

Clean/Inspect Grass Catcher
(If Equipped)
Clean Lawn Mower

Clean Under DriveCover
(Power-Propelled Mowers)

Check ddva belt,_ulleys

(Power-PropelledMowers)

Ched,JSharpen/Repiace Blade

LubricationChart

Clean Battery/Recharge

IBectdc Start MowersI

Chec_ Engine Oil Level

Change Engine Oil

Clean Air Rlter

Inspect Muffler

Clean or Reldace Spark Ptug

Replace Air Rlter Paper Cartridge

1 - Change more oh_mwhen operagng under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures,

2 - S_Vice moto often when ope_eg In ditty o_ du_y ¢ondltio_.

3 - Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.
4 - Charge 48 ho_rs st end of season.

i/

v'

v'

I/"

I/2

3ERVICE DATES

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The wananty on this lawn mower does not
cover items that have been subjected to

operator abuse or negligence. To receive full
value from the warrant, operator must

maintain mower as instructed in this manual
Some adj_b'nents will need to be made

periodicallytopropedymaintainyourunit.

All adjustments in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual should be

checked at least once each season.

• Once a year, replace the spark plug,

replace air filterelementand check blade

for wear. A new spark plug and dean/new

air filterelement assures proper air-fuel
mixium and helps your engine mn better

and kx r.

• Fdk>w the maintenance schedde in this

manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

• Check engine oil level.

• Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION

Keep unit welt lubricated (See "LUBRICATION
CHART").

LUBRICATION CHART

Wheel
adjusters

J

Engine oil

Rear

door _Handle bracket

hinge mounting pin

(_) SPRAY LUBRICANT
(_) SAE 30 MOTOR OIL. REFER TO

ENGINE - MAINTENANCE SECTION.

IMPORTANT: Do notoil or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricantswill attract

dustand dirtthat willshorten the lifeof the self
lubricatingbearings. Ifyou feel they must be

lubricated, use only a dry,powdered graphite

typei (. cantspa ng .

10

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

MODEL NUMBER
SERIAL NUMBER

DATE OF PURCHASE
GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.6 QUARTS

UNLEADED REGULAR

OILTYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):

OIL CAPACITY:

SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030")
VALVE CLEARANCE:

SOLID STATE IGNITION
AIR GAP: .0125 IN.

BLADE BOLT TORQUE: 35-40FT. 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.

917.388391

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

20 OZS.

CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM
INTAKE: .004 - .008

EXHAUST: .004 - .008

LAWNMOWER

Always observe safety rules when performing

any maintenance.

TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil,or insect
control chemicals which can harm rubber.

• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts,sharp
objects and other hazards that may cause

tire damage.

BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be

kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged
blades.

TO REMOVE BLADE

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

• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make •
sure air filter and carburetor are up.

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

tuming 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 it damaged.
TO REPLACE BLADE

Position the blade adapter on the

engine crankshaft. Be sure key in

adapter and crankshaft keyway are
aligned.

Position blade on the blade adapter

aligning the two (2) holes in the blade
with the raised lugs on the adapter.

Be sure the trailing edge of blade
(opposite sharp edge) is up toward the

engine.

Install the blade bolt with the lock
washer and hardened washer into

blade adapter and crankshaft.
Use block of wood between blade and

lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, turning clockwise.
The recommended tightening torque is

35-40 ft. Ibs.

11

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
treated.
TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen-
ing blade o 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

Blade adapter

Blade Crank
Bolt aft

Hardened Trailing Blade
washer edge adapter

GRASS CATCHER

• The grass catcher may be hosed with
water, but must be dry when used.

• Chask your grass catcher often for damage
or deterioration. Through normal use it will
wear. ff catcher needs rep_cing, 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, SH or
SG. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade
according to your expected operating
temperature.

SAE VISCOSITYGRADES

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. "13ghtenoil 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

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 its side and drain oil

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

trapped inside of engine.

• Wipe off any 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.

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properly and may
be damaged by using a dirty air filter.
Replace the air filter every year, more

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

TO CLEAN AIR FILTER

• Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove.

• Carefully remove cartridge.

• Clean by gently tapping on a flat

surface. If very dirty, replace cartridge.

12

_CAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as

kerosene, are not to be used to clean
cartridge. They may cause deterioration
of 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

Lip

Slots

Cove r
tabs

Cover

Cartridge

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffleras 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 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.

_I_CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it

cannot come in contact with the spark
plug.

• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure
air filter and carburetor are up. Clean

the underside of your lawn mower by
scraping to remove build--up of grass

and trash.

• Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runs

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.

_I_CAUTION: 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 from spark

plug and place where it cannot come in

contact with plug.

LAWN MOWER

TO ADJUST CU'B'ING 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

The handle on your lawn mower has

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

• Squeeze the bottom ends of lower
handle towards each other until the pin

in handle can be inserted into one of
the three height adjustment holes.

pin

Low

3-posiUon

adjustment
bracket

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

• Put grass catcher frame into grass bag

with rigid part of bag on the bottom.

Make sure the frame handle is outside
of the bag top.

• Slip vinyl bindings over frame.
NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold

them in warm water for a few minutes. If

baggets wet, let it dry before using.

13

CAUTION: Donot run your lawnmower
without clipping deflector or approved

grass catcherin place. Never attempt to
operatethe lawn mower with the rear

door removed or propped open.

Catche; -

frame "'"_>._ _ \ \_

ENGINE _ opening

CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has a non-adjustable fixed

main jet for mixture control. If your engine
does not operate properly due to suspected

carburetor problems, take your lawn mower to
an authorized service center for repairor

aqustmenL

IMPORTANT: Never tamper with the engine
gevemor, which isfactoryset for proper

engine speed. Overspeeding the engine

above the factory high speed setting can be
dangerous, if you think the engine-governed

highspeed needs adjusting, contact your
nearest authorized service center, which has

proper equipment 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 runningtoo fast or too slow,
take your lawn mower to an authorized
service center for repair end adjustment.

Immediately prepare your lawn mower for
storage at the end of the season or if the unit

willnotbe used for 30 days or more.

LAWNMOWER

When lawn mower is to be stored for a period
of _rne, clean itthoroughly, remove all dirt,

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

• Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEAN-
ING" in the Maintenance sectionof this

manual).

* Lubricate as shown in the MsintenarK;e

section of this rnanual.

• Be sure that all nuts,bolts,ecrews, and pins
are securely fastened. Inspect moving

_ damage, breakage and wear.

if necassery.

• Touch up all rusted or chipped I.:__.'.'nt

surfaces; sand lightly before pemting.

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.

Low

Operator Presence Control Bar

Upp_

Fold Forward
For Storage

Lower Handle

Handle pin

/

3-position

Handle

adjustment

bracket

Fold

Backward

Mowing
Position

14

ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM

IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent
_luUmdeposits from forming in essential

el system parts such as carburetor, fuel

filter, fuel hose, or tank during storage.
Also, experience indicates that alcohol

blended fuels (called gasohol or using
ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture
which leads to separation and formation
of acids during storage. Acidic gas can

damage the fuel system of an engine
while in storage.

• Drain the fuel tank.

• Start the engine and let it run until the

fuel lines and carburetor are empty.

• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner

products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.

• Use fresh 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.

ENGINE OIL
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

i spark plug hole into cylinder.

Pull starter handle slowly a few times to
distribute oil.

• Replace with new spark plug.
OTHER

• Do not store gasoline from one season

to another.

• 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.

ACAUTION: Never store the lawn mower

with gasoline in the tank inside a building

where fumes may reach an open flame or
spark. Allow the engine to cool before

storing in any enclosure.

TROUBLESHOOTINGCHART

CAUSEPROBLEM

Doesnotstart

1. Dirty air filter.

2. Out offuel.
3, Stale fuel.

4. Water infuel.

5. Spark plug wire is
disconnected.

6. Bad spark plug.

7. Loose blade or broken blade
adapter.

8. Control bar in released

position.

9. Control bar defective.

CORRECTION

1. Clean/replace air filter.

2. Fill fuel tank.

3. Drain tank and refillwith
fresh dean fuel.

4. Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refilltank

with fresh gasoline.

5. Connect wire to plug.

6. Replace spark plug.

7. "13ghtenblade boltor

replace blade adapter.

8. Depress control bar to

handle.

9. Replace control bar.

15

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION

Lces of power

Poor cut - uneve_

Excessive
vlbr_on

Rear of lawn mower housing

or cutting blade dragging
in heavy grass.

.

Cutting too much grass.

3.

Dirty air filter.

4.

Buildupof grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.

5.

Too much oil in engine.

6.

Walking speed too fast.

1. Worn, bent or loose blade.

2. Wheel heights uneven.

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

1. Worn, bent or loose blade.

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

1. Setto"HigherCut"

position.

2. Set to =Higher Cut"

position.

3. Clean/replace air filter.

4. Clean underside of mower
housing.

5. Check oil level.

6. Cut at slower walking
speed.

1. Replace blade. "13ghten

blade bolt.

2. Set all wheels at same

height

3. Clean underside of

mower housing.

1. Replace blade. "13ghten

blade bolt.

2. Contact an authorized
service center.

Starterropehard

topull

Grass catcher
notfilling(ifso

equipped)

Ha_l to I_JSh

1. Engineflywheelbrakeison

whencontrolbarisreleased.

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

3. Blade adapter broken.

4. Blade dragging in grass.

1. Cutting heighttoo low.

2. Lift on blade wom off.

3. Catcher not venting air.

1. Grass is too high or wheel
height is too low.

2. Rear of lawn mower

housing or blade dragging
in grass.

3. Grass catcher too full.

4. Handle height _ not

rightfor you.

1. Depre,_ controlbar to
upper handle before

pulling starter rope.

2. Contact an authorized

service center.

3. Replace blade adapter.

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

1. Raise cutting heighL

2. Replace blade.

3. Clean grass catcher.

1. Raise cutting height.

2. Raiserear of lawn mower
housingone (1) setting

higher.

3. Emptygrasscatcher.

4. Adjusthandleheightto
suit.

16

67

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER-- MODEL NO. 917.388391

44

II

47

47

44

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER -- MODEL NO. 917.388391

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
3O

31
33

PART

NO.

131696
166860X479
161105X479

132001
636O1
131959
66426

74780512
154132
165754
162778
750097
86899X004

136376
51793
147286
165946X479
17600406

167132X004

167133X004

165858
168360X6O4

166875
751153

166236X479

166243X479
851856
152124
16O835X007

19112222
16576O
87877

KEY PART

DESCRIPTION

ControlBar 34 167130X6O4
UpperHandle 35 166785

LowerHandle 36 160828

RopeGuida 37 151162

Locknut 1/4-20 38 164362
HandleBolt 39 83923

WireTie 40 77400
Hex Bolt5/16-18 x3/4 41 88652
HingeBracket 42 165766

MulcherDoor 43 165767
EngineZoneControlCable 44 165912

Hex WasherHead Screw#10-24 x 1/2 45 150406
Up-StopBracket 46 85463

HandleKnob 47 63124
HairpinCotter 48 167131X004

HingeRod 49 151161
SupportBracket 50 57143

Screw 51 73990500
AxleArmAssembly- LF 52 166878

AxleArmAssembly- RF 53 851064

RearSkirt 54 850263

SelectorSpring 55 851074

Rear DoorAssemblyKit(Incl.Springs) 56 165833
Locknut5/16-18 57 851514

Handle BracketAssembly(Left) 58 161551
HandleBracketAssembly(Right) 67 166113

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

HingeSpdng 70 ......

WheelAdjustingBracket- Front
Spacer - - 161058

Clipon DischargeGuard - - 171283
SelectorKnob

NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

Available accessodes not included with lawn mower:

- - 71 33623 Gas Can (2.5 gal.)

- - 71 33500 Fuel Stabilizer

- - 71 33300 SAE 30W Oil (20 oz.)

AxleArmAssembly-LR

Locknut5/16-18
ShoulderBolt5/16-18

WheelAssembly

ShoulderBolt
FlangedLocknut

Hubcap
HingeScrew
Spdng(LH)

Spring(RH)
DoorBOlt

HexHeadThread RollingScrew3/8-16 x 1
DangerDecal

Nut

AxleArmAssembly- RR
Who_

WaveWasher

Nut

HousingAssembly(Incl.Ref.#17, 18 & 46)
Hex Head Screw3/8-24 x 1-3/8 Grd.8

HelicalLockwasher
HardenedWasher

21"Blade
BladeAdapter

AdjustmentBolt
GrassBag

CatcherFrame
Engine- (SeeBreakdown)

Briggs& Stratton12H802-2675-B1
WarningDecal(NotShown)
Owner'sManual

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12HS02-2675-B1

843

621

969

967

2_58

968

606

%_ 971A

971

529

_163

I i

%

124

130

95 I_//

127 _'_J617

110_ I

36

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12H802-2675-B1

46

;47

383

592_

22

'572 307

3O6

7

307

"A"REQUIRES SPECIAL TOOLS

TO INSTALL. SEE REPAIR

INSTRUCTION MANUAL.

37

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12H802-2675-B1

12

110

634 617

977 CARBURETOR GASKET SET

1095VALVEOVERHAUL

GASKETSET

104 110 127

134

617 634

121 CARBURETOR KIT

_188A

I

°

670A

38

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12H802-2675-B1

t

461

39

455

1019 LABEL KIT - EMISSION I

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE

MODEL NUMBER 12H802-2675-B1

KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

1 493260
2 399269
3 299819
4 493279

5 214368
7 272916
8 495786
9 272481

9A 272238

10 9465O
11 231933

12 272198
13 94547
15 94720
16 498565

94388

20 399781
22 9422O

94612

CylinderAssembly 54 94526
Bushing,Cylinder 55 4974420

* Seal, Oil 56 498144

Sump,Engine 58 280399
Head,Cyflnder

.... Gasket,CylinderHead 60 281434

BreatherAssembly 65 94696

***" Gasket, Valve Cover 81 223664

* Gasket, Baffle Plate 95 94098

Screw,HexHead 104 231371
Tube,Breather 110 - - -

* Gasket, Crankcase

Screw,CylinderHead 117 494870

Plug,Oil Drain 121 498260

Crankshaft 124 94525
TimingGear Key

* Seal, Oil 125 498170

Screw,HexHead 127 - - -
Screw,HexHead
(UsedinHoleNearest 130 224908
Breather) 131 493267

23 492177
24 222698

25 499429

Flywheel 133 398187
Key,Flywheel 134 398188

PistonAssembly,
StandardSize 137 - - -

499430
499431

4994,.°.2

26 499425

PistonAssy. (.010" O.S.)
PistonAssy. (,020" G.S.) 163 2726,53

PistonAssy. (.030" O.S.) 187 492790
Ring Set, Piston, 188 398540
StandardSize 188A 94644

499426
499427

499428

27 263190
28 499423

Ring Set (.010"O,S.) 202 262579
Ring Sat (.020" O.S.) 209 263044

RingSet (.030" O.S.)

Lock, Piston Pin

Pin,Piston,Standard **
Size

29 499424
32 94699

33 262651
34 262652
35 262224

40 93312
45 2622O4
46 498275

47 493737
51 272199

Rod,Connecting **.
Screw,ConnectingRod

Valve, Exhaust
Valve, Intake
Spdng,Valve
Retainer,Valve Spdng

Tappet,Valve
Gear,Cam

Slinger,Oil

* Gasket, Intake Elbow

KEY
NO.

PART
NO. DESCRIPTION

Screw,HexHead
Housing,RewindStarter

Pulley,RewindStarter
Rope,RewindStarter
(CutTo 88-5/8")
Gdp,StarterRope

Screw,Phillips
Lock,MufflerScrew

Screw,RoundHead

** Pin, RoatHinge

*** Gasket, Sealing(Soldin

KitOnly)
Jet, Main
CarburetorKit

Screw,Carburetor
Mounting

Carburetor

** Plug,Welch (SoldinKit

only)

Valve, Throttle

Shaft,Throttle
Float,Carburetor
Valve, Inlet (Includes
Scat)

*** Gasket,Bowl(SoldinKit

Only)

* Gasket, AirCleaner

Hose,Fuel
Screw,HexHead
Screw,HexHead

Unk, Governor
Spdng,Governor

IncludedInGasket Set (497316)
IncludedinCarburetorKit(498260)

IncludedInbothCarburetorKit(498260),
andCarburetorGasketSet(498261)

Includedin both GasketSet(497316),
and ValveoverhaulGasketSet (498528).

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

4O

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE MODEL NUMBER 12N802-2675-B1

KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

227 492349 Lever, Governor
230 67072 Washer, Thrust
258 94512 Screw, Hex Head

284 94511 Screw, Hex Head
300 497838 Muffler, Exhaust

304 493293 Housing, Blower
305 94744 Screw, Seres

306 224324 Shield,Cylinder
307 94515 Screw, Hex Head

332 94877 Nut, Rywheel
333 802574 Armature, Magneto

334 94731 Screw, Sems
337 802592 Plug, Spark

356 497833 Wire, Ground
358 497316 Gasket Set

363 19069 Puller, Flywheel

383 89838 Wrench, Spark Plug
387 496115 Primer, Carburetor

455 225121 Cup, Starter
456 281503 Retainer, Starter

459 281505 Pawl. Rachet

461 94943 Screw, Shoulder

515 263073 Spdng, Retainer
523 495264 Cap, Oil Filler

524 280393 * Seal, FillerTube
525 495265 Tube, OilFill
529 281299 Grommet

562 94852 Bolt, Governor Lever
572 224328 Baffle, Cylinder

592 231082 Nut, Hex
601 93053 Clamp, Hose
606 224815 Strap, Bracket

6(}8 497680 Starter, Rewind

Includes: 94904 Screw, Hex

94908 Nut, Hex
613 94231 Screw, Hex Head
615 94474 Fastener

616 263175 Crank, Governor
617 270344 *** Seal, Intake Elbow
620 499135 Bracket, Carburetor
621 396847 Switch, Stop

625 497465 Tube, Fuel Intake
634 - - - *** Washer, Shaft (Sold in

Kit Only)

KEY PART
NO. NO. DESCRIPTION

635 66538 Elbow,SparkPlug
670 280512 Spacer,FuelTank

670A 493823 * Spacer, Bracket

741 262598 Gear,Timing
842 280966 * Seal,O-Ring

843 272616 Sleeve,Lever
847 495263 TubeAssembly,Oil
851 493880 Terminal,IgnitionCable

869 213512 Seat, IntakeValve
870 213513 Seat, ExhaustValve

871 262001 Guide, ExhaustValve

63709 Guide, IntakeValve
922 262640 Spdng,Brake
923 493442 BrakeAssembly
930 497233 Guard,Finger

957 397974 Cap,FuelTank
966 496116 Base, AirCleaner

967 491588 Filter,Air
968 281340 Cover,AirCleaner

969 94872 Screw,HexHead
971 94873 Screw,HexHead

971A 94749 Screw,Hex Head

972 495224 Tank,Fuel
975 493640 Bawl,Float

977 498261 GasketSet, Carburetor

1019 494256 Label Kit,Emission
1095 498258 Gasket Set, Valve

Overhaul

2500 12J802-2915 ReplacementEngine

---- 498826 ReplacementShortblock

RPM Settings:

Included in Gasket Set (497316)

** Included in Carburetor Kit (498260)

*** Included in both Carburetor Kit (498260),

and Carburetor Gasket Set (498261)

.... Included in both Gasket Set (497316),

and Valve overhaul Gasket Set (498528).

Low: 1900-2100; High:
3000-3200

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

41

42

43

For in-home major brand repair service:

Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

1-800-4-MY-HOME s_ (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 lea pi_ces

1-800-665-4455

For the repair or replacement parts you need:

Call 6 am - 11 pm 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

r •

8EARS

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171283 10.14.99 VB Printedin U.S.A.