Craftsman 917.388410 User Manual

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Owner’s Manual

CRRFTSMRN^

6.75 HORSEPOWER

21" MULTI-CUT

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

Model No.

917.388410

Safety

Assembly

Operation

Maintenance

Español

Repair Parts

CAUTION:

Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this equipment

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL6017^

Visit our Craftsman website:

www.sears.com/craftsman

Warranty Safety Rules

Assembly.......................................

Operation.....................................

Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance................................

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2 2 4

6 Troubleshooting...................

10 Repair Parts 10

Product Specifications Service and Adjustments... Storage

Parts Ordering

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WARRANTY

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 returning the Craftsman power mower to the nearest Sears Service Center/Department in the United States. This warranty applies only while this product is in use in the United States. This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

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

SAFETY RULES

Safety standards require operator 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. 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 ail 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

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 parts. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.

• Always stop the engine whenever you leave or are not using your mower, or before crossing driveways, walks,

roads, and any gravel-covered areas.

• Never direct discharge of material toward bystanders nor allow anyone

near the mower while you are operating it.

• Before cleaning, inspecting, or 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 properly.

• 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 CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! 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.

^WARNING: The engine exhaust from

this product contains chemicals known to

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

ACCESSORIES

These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not

shipped writh your mower. They are also available at most Sears retail outlets and service centers. Most Sears stores can 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

MUFFLERS AIR FILTERS

BELTS BLADES

BLADE ADAPTERS

ASSEMBLY

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 parts left unassembled for shipping

purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation of your lawn mower, all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as neces sary to ensure proper tightness. All parts

such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., neces

sary to complete the assembly have been

placed in the parts bag.

SPARK PLUGS

WHEELS ENGINE OIL

TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM

CARTON

• Remove loose parts included with

mower.

• Cut down two end comers of carton and

lay end panel down flat.

• Remove all packing materials except padding between upper and lower handle and padding holding operator presence control bar to upper handle.

• 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.

• 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.

Operator presence control bar

Upper handle

Lift up

Lower handle

Mowing positton

3-Position handle adjustment

bracket

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS

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

bagging or discharging, see “To convert mower" in the OPERATION section of this manual.

OPERATION

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER. Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself v\^h the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this memual for future reference.

These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the product. Learn and understand their meaning.

____

CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE

OR WARNING ON OFF

Starter hand!

Handle knob

Grass catche

FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL

Operator presence control bar

Engine zone control cable

OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS

AND FEET AWAY

Gasoline filler cap

Primer

Air fiiter

Engine oil cap

with dipstick

Mulcher door

Lawn mower housing

IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.

Wheel adjuster

(on each wheel)

MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS Sears rotaiy walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the American

National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The blade

turns when the engine is running.

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

Release to stop the engine.

Primer - pumps additional fuel from the carburetor to the cylinder for use when starting a cold engine.

__________________

Starter Handle - used for starting the engine.

J The operation of any tawn mower

foreign objects thrown mmHI nto 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 USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED CONTROL The engine speed was set at the factory for

optimum performance. Speed is not adjust able.

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 require

ments. Medium position is best for most lawns.

• To change cutting height, squeeze adjuster lever toward wheel. Move wheel up or

down to suit your 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.

Lower Wheels for High Cut

REAR BAGGING

• Lift rear door of the lawn mower and place the grass catcher frame hooks onto the door pivot pins.

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

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 be

removed and mulcher door must be

closed.

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER

WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LAWN

MOWER

FOR MULCHING -

• Rear door closed.

• Mulcher door closed. FOR REAR BAGGING-

• Grass catcher installed.

• Mulcher door closed. FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -

• Rear door closed.

• Side discharge deflector installed.

^CAUTION: Do not run your 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.

TO CONVERT MOWER

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

Mulcher door

open

problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the fuel tank, start the engine and let it run until fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage Instructions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

^CAUTION: Rll 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.

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

on.

Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in the engine.

• Be sure mower is level and area around oil

fill is clean.

• Remove engine oil cap and fill to the full

tine 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 oil to use, see “ENGINE" in Maintenance section of this manual.

• Pour oil slowly. Do not over fill.

• Check oil level before each use. Add oil if

needed. Rll to full line on dipstidc

• To read proper level, tighten engine oil cap

each time.

• Reinstall engine oil cap and tighten.

• Change the oil after every 25 hours of operation or each season. You may need to change the oil more often under dusty, dirty conditions.

Engine oil cap

Gasoline filler cap

TO START ENGINE

• To start a cold engine, push primer three (3) times before trying to start. Use a firm push. This step is not usually necessary when starting an engine which has already run for a few minutes.

• Hold operator presence control bar down to the handle and pull starter handle quickly. Do not allow starter rope to snap

tock.

• 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.

ADDGASOUNE

• Rll fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline.

Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel

freshness.

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

moisture which leads to separation and

formation of acids during storage. Acidic

gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine

MOWINGTiPS

• 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.

• 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. Clean UNDERSIDE OF MOWER

HOUSING after each use. See "Cleaning" in MAINTENANCE section of this manual.

• The special mulching blade will recut the grass clippings many times and reduce them in size so that as they fall onto the lawn they will disperse into the grass and not be noticed. 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 dumps 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 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 mulching, reduce your

width of cut by overlapping previously

cut path and mow slowly.

• Certain types of grass and grass conditions may require that an area be

mulched a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a second cut, mow across or perpendicu lar to the first cut path.

• Change your cutting pattern from week to week. Mow north to south one week

then change to east to west the next week. This will help prevent matting and graining of the lawn.

Max 1/3

MAINTENANCE

Check for Loose Fasteners Clean/lnspect Grass Catcher

{If Equipped) Clean Lawn Mower

Clean Under Drive Cover

(Power-Propelled Mowers)

Check drive belt/pulleys

(Power-Prooelled Mowers)

Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade

Lubrication Chart

Clean Battery/Recharge (Electric Start Mowers)

Check Engine Oil Level

Change Engine Oil

Clean Air Filler

Inspect Muffler

Clean or Replace Spark Plug

Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge

1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures. 2 • Service more often when operating in dirty or dusty conditions. 3 - R^lace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.

4 • Charge 48 hours at 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 warranty, operator must maintain mower as intruded in this manual.

Some adjustments will need to be made periodically to properly maintain your unit. 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 fitter element and check blade for wea'. A new spark plug and clearVnew

air filter element assures proper air-fuel mixture and helps your engine run better and last longer.

• Follow the maintenance schedule in this

manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

0 SPRAY LUBRICANT

^ SAE 30 MOTOR OIL. REFER TO ENGINE

• Check engine oil level.

• Check for loose fasteners. LUBRICATION

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

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.

✓

✓ ✓

✓

✓ l-2 ✓ 2

✓ ✓ ✓

✓ 4

LUBRICATION CHART

Wheel

f adjusters

(i) Rear

door hinge

MAINTENANCE SECTION.

I Handle bracket

mounting pin

Brake spring bracket

(D Engine oil

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

SERIAL NUMBER DATE OF PURCHASE

GASOLINE CAPACITY/TYPE: 1.5 QUARTS

UNLEADED REGULAR

OILTYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):

OIL CAPACITY:

SPARK PLUG(GAP: .030") CHAMPION RJ19LM OR J19LM VALVE CLEARANCE:

SOLID STATE IGNITION

AIR GAP:

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.

SAE 30 (ABOVE 32“F)

SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32T) 20OZS.

INTAKE: .004 - .008 EXHAUST: .004 - .008

.0125 IN.

LAWN MOWER

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

turning when removing blade bolt.

• Protect your hands with gloves and/or

wrap blade with heavy cloth.

• Remove blade bolt by turning counter clockwise.

• Remove blade and attaching hardware (bolt, lock washer and hardened washer).

NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and

check the key inside hub of blade adapter.

The key must be in good condition to work properly. Replace adapter if damaged.

TO REPLACE BLADE

• Position the blade adapter on the engine crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter and crankshaft keyway are

aligned.

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

• Be sure the trailing edge of blade

(opposite sharp edge) is up toward the

engine.

• Install the blade bolt with the lock washer and hardened washer into blade adapter and crankshaft.

• Use block of wood between blade and

lawn mower housing and tighten the blade bolt, turning clockwise.

• The recommended tightening torque is

35-40 ft. lbs.

IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat treated.

TO SHARPEN BLADE

NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening blade - but if you do, be sure the blade is balanced.

Care should be taken to keep the blade

balanced. An unbalanced blade will

cause eventual damage to lawn mower or

engine.

• The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower.

• To check blade balance, drive a nail into a beam or wall. Leave about one inch of the straight nail exposed. Place center hole of blade over the head of the nail. If blade is balanced, it should

remain in a horizontal position. If either end of the blade moves downward, sharpen the heavy end until the blade

is balanced.

Blade adapter

Blade

Bolt f \ I \ Crank

Lockwasher Hardened ' ' Blade g^aft

Key^

washer Trailing adapter

edge

Crank shaft keyway

GRASS CATCHER

• 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 appro\^ replacement catdier. Give the lawn mower

model number when ordering.

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 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.

Container

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 VISCOSITY GRADES

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 CHANGE AIR FILTER

• Remove the air filter by turning clock

wise to the stop and pull away from

*F -20* 0* 30* 32* 40* ao* W 100*

TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

•c -act* -sv to* 0" io" lo- sor *o*

collar.

• Remove filter from inside of cover.

• Clean the inside of the cover and the

12 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 counterclock wise to tighten.

Colli

Turn

clockwise to remove

Slot

Air filter

Tab

Air filter cover

Turn counter—

clockwise

to tighten

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it

could create afire hazard and/or damage.

SPARKPLUG

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. ^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.

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

^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 CUTTING HEIGHT

See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in

the Operation section of this manual.

REAR DEFLECTOR The rear deflector, attached between the

rear wheels of your lawn mower, is provided to minimize the possibility that objects will be thrown out the rear of the lawn mower into the operator's mowing position.

If the rear deflector becomes damaged, it

should be replaced.

TO ADJUST HANDLE

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.

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 bag gets wet, let it dry before using.

^CAUTION: 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 frame

handle

Frame opening

ENGINE

CARBURETOR Your cartxiretor 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 repair or 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, if you 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 Your engine speed has been factory set. Do

not attempt to increase engine speed or it may result in personal injury. If you believe that the engine is running too fast or too stow, take your lawn mower to an authorized service center for repair and adjustment.

STORAGE

Immediately prepare your lawn mower for storage at the end of the season or if the unit will not be used for 30 days or more.

LAWN MOWER

When lawn mower is to be stored for a period of time, clean it thoroughly, remove all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a clean, dry area.

• Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEAN

ING" in the Maintenance section of this manual).

• Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance

section of this manual.

• Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and pins are securely fastened. Inspect moving parts for damage, breakage and wear. Replace if necessary.

• Touch up all rusted or chipped paint surfaces: sand lightly before painting.

HANDLE You can fold your lawn mower handle for

storage.

• You can fold your lawn mower handle for storage.

• Loosen the two (2) handle knobs on sides of the upper handle and sdlow heuidle 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.

Operator Presence

Control Bar ^

Upper Handle

Fold Fonward For Storage

Fold Backward

Mowing

Position

Lower Handle

Handle pin

3-Position Handle adjustment bracket

ENGINE

FUELSYSTEM IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent

gum deposits from forming in essential fuel 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

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM

CAUSE

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

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 wilt cause your unit to rust.

IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while

engine and exhaust areas are still warm.

^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. Dirty air filter.

2. Out of fuel.

3. Stale fuel.

4. Water in fuel.

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.

1. Clean/replace air filter.

2. Rl! fuel tank

3. Drain tank and refill with fresh clean fuel.

4. Drain fuel tank and carburetor and refill tank with fresh gasoline.

5. Connect wire to plug.

6. Replace spark plug.

7. Trghten blade bolt or replace blade adapter.

8. Depress control bar to handle.

9. Replace control bar.

TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

PROBLEM CAUSE

CORRECTION

Loss of power

Poor cut - uneven 1. Worn, bent or loose blade.

Excessive vibration

1. Rear of lawn mower housing

or cutting blade dragging in heavy grass.

2. Cutting too much grass.

3. Dirty air filter,

4. Buildup of grass, leaves,

and trash under mower.

5. Too much oil in engine.

6. Walking speed too fast.

2. Wheel heights uneven.

3. Buildup of grass, leaves

and trash under mower.

1. Worn, bent or loose blade.

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

1. Set to “Higher Cut”

position.

2. Set to “Higher Cuf

position.

3. Clean/replace air filter.

4. Clean underside of mower

housing.

5. Check oil level.

6. Cut at slower walldng

speed.

1. Replace blade. Tighten

blade bolt.

2. Set all wheels at same

height

3. Clean underade of

mower housing.

1. Replace blade. Tighten

blade bolt.

2. Contact an authorized

service center.

Starter rope hard topuil

Grass catcher 1. Cutting height too low. not filling (if so 2. Lift on blade worn off.

equipped) 3. Catcher not venting air.

Hard to push

1. Engine flywheel brake is on

when control bar is released.

2. Bent engine crankshaft.

3. Blade adapter broken.

4. Blade dragging in grass.

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 position not

light for you.

1. Depress control 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.

1. Raise cutting height.

2. Rase rear of lawn mower housing one (1) setting higher.

3. Empty grass catcher.

4. Adjust handle height to

suit.

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER - - MODEL NO. 917.388410

KEY

NO.

1 2

3 4 132001 5

10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

20 21 22

23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

PART

NO.

131696 166860X479 161105X479

63601

131959 66426 74780512

154132

165754

156577 750097 850733X004

136376 51793

147286

165946X479

17600406

167132X004

167133X004

165858

168360X004

166875 7511 S3

166236X479

166243x479 851856

152124

160835X007

19112222

165760

DESCRIPTION

Control Bar Upper Handle Lower Handle Rope Guide Locknut 1/4-20 Handle Bolt Wire Tie Hex Bolt 5/16-18 X 3/4 Hinge Bracket MulcherDoor Engine Zone Control Cable Hex Washer Head Screw #10-24 x 1/2 Up-Stop Bracket Handle Knob Hairpin Cotter Hinge Rod Support Bracket Screw Axle Arm Assembly - LF Axle Ann Assembly - RF Rear Skirt Selector Spring Rear Door Assembly Kit (Incl. Springs)

Locknut 5/16-18

Handle Bracket Assembly (Left) Handle Bracket Assembly (Right) Screw 1/4-20 x 3/8 Hinge Spring

Wheel Adjusting Bracket - Front

Spacer Clip on Discharge Guard .

KEY

NO.

87877

33 34 35 36 37 38 39 83923

77400

41 88652

42 165766 43 44 45

85463

63124

47 48 49

57143

73990500

52 166878

851084

53 54 850263

851074

55 56

851514

57 58 67

- * 161058

- -

PART

NO.

167130X004 166785 160828 151162 164362

165767 165912 150406

167131X004 151161

165833 161551

166113 165755

174409

DESCRIPTION

SeiectorKnob Axle Arm Assembly - LR Locknut 5/16-18 Shoulder Bolt 5/16-18 Wheel Assembly Shoulder Bolt Flanged Locknut

Hubc^

Hinge Screw Spring (LH) Spring (RH) Door Bolt Hex Head Thread Rolling Screw 3/8-16 x 1 Danger Decal Nut Axle Arm Assembly - RR Wheel Wave Washer Nut

Housing Assembly (Incl. Ref. #17, 18 & 46) Hex Head Screw 3/8-24 x 1-3/8 Grd. 8 Helical Lockwasher Hardened Washer 21" Blade Blade Adapter Adjustment Bolt Grass Bag Catcher Frame Engine - (See Breakdown) Craftsman 143.006714 Warning Decal (Not Shown) Owner's Manual

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE

MODEL NO. 143.006714

216^1®

250

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE

KEY

PART

NO. NO.

37465

2 26727 6 33734

36557

36775

12A

36558

12B 36694 14 28277 15 30589 16 34839A 17

31335

651018

19 36281

32600 30 37459 40 40027 41

40042 42 40006

20381

45 36777 46 32610A

48 27241

37460

52 29914

35261

70 3431 IE 72 30572

73 28833 75 27897 80 30574A 81 30590A 82

30591

30588A

650488 89 611004 90

611112 92

650815 93

650816

100 34443B 101 610118

103 651007

110

37047

119 36787

120

36825

125

36780

37288

126 36782

37289

130 6021A 135 35395 150 31672 151 31673 151A 40017

DESCRIPTION Cylinder (Incl. 2 & 20)

Dowel Pin Breather Element Breather Ass’y. (Incl. 6 & 12A) Breather Tube Breather Cover & Tube (Incl.

12B) Breather Tube Elbow Washer Governor Rod (Incl, 14) Governor Lever Governor Lever Clamp Screw, Torx T-15, 8-32 x 19/ OA* Extension Spring Oil Seal Crankshaft Piston, Pin & Ring Set (Std.) Piston & Pin Ass’y. (Std.) (Incl.

43)

Ring Set (Std.) Piston Pin Retaining Ring Connecting Rod Ass'y. (Incl.

46) Connecting Rod Bolt Valve Lifter Camshaft (MCR) Oil Pump Ass’y.

Mounting Flange Gasket

Mounting Flange (Incl. 72 thru

83) Oil Drain Plug (Incl. 73)

Drain Plug Gasket Oil Seal

Governor Shaft Washer

Governor Gear Ass’y. (Incl. 81)

Governor Spool

Screw, 1/4-20 x 1-1/4-

Flywheel Key

Flywheel

Belleville Washer

Flywheel Nut

Solid State Ignition

Spark Plug Cover

Screw, Torx T-15, 10-24 x 15/

16-

Ground Wire

Cylinder Head Gasket

Cylinder Head

Exhaust Valve (1/32“ OS)

(Incl. 151)

Exhaust Valve (Std.) (Incl.

151)

Intake Valve (1/32* OS) (Incl.

151)

Intake Valve (Std.) (Incl. 151)

Screw, 5/16-18 X 1-1/2‘

Resistor Spark Plug (RJ19LM) Valve Spring Valve Spring Cap

Intake Valve Seal

MODEL NO. 143.006714

KEY PART NO. NO.

169 36783 172 36784 174

30200

178

29752

182

6201

184

26756

185 37466 186 32653 189

650839 191 36559A 195

610973

207

34336

216

33086

223

650451

224

36786

238

650932 239 34338 241

36919 245

36905 250

36920 260

36980 261

30200 262 650831 263A 36921 275 37462 277

650988 285 35000A 287

650926 290

29774 292

26460 298 28763 300

36916

301

36246

305 35647 306 36996 307

35499

309 650562 310

35648

313 34080 347

651038

355 590701 370A 370C 37318 370R 37317 380 640271 390 590739 400 36792B

416 417 650760

900 900

NOTE: This engine could have been built with 590702 starter). NOTE: All component dimensions given in U.S. inches 1 inch 25.4 mm

36261

36085

—

DESCRIPTION Valve Cover Gasket

Valve Cover Screw, 10-24 x 9/16" Nut & Lock Washer, 1/4-28 Screw, 1/4-28 x 7/8“ Carburetor To Intake Pipe Gasket Intake Pipe Governor Link Screw, 1/4-20 X 3/8"

S.E. Brake Bracket (Incl, 195) Terminal Throttle Link

R.P.M. Adjusting Lever Screw, 1/4-20 X r

Intake Pipe Gasket Screw, 10-32 X 49/64“ Air Cleaner Gasket Air Cleaner Collar Air Cleaner Filter Air Cleaner Cover

Blower Housing

Screw, 10-24 X 9/16“

Screw. 1/4-20 X 1/2“

Starter Grill

Muffler

Screw, 1/4-20 X 2-5/16“

Starter Cup

Screw, 8-32 X 21/64-

Fuel Line

Fuel Line Clamp

Screw. 10-32 X 35/64“

Fuel Tank (Incl. 292 & 301)

Fuel Cap (Black)

Oil Fill Tube “0"-Ring “0"-Ring

Screw, 10-32 X 1/2“

Dipstick

Spacer

Screw, 10-32 X 51/64“

Starter Handle

Lubrication Decal

Primer Decal (3 X) Warning Decal

Carburetor (Incl. 184)

Rewind Starter Gasket Set (Incl. Items Marked *) Spark Arrestor Kit (Incl.

417) (Optional)

Screw, 8-32 x 3/8" (Optional)

Replacement Engine NONE

Replacement S/B 750865, order from 71-999

RPM High 2900 to 3200

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE

MODEL NO. 143.006714

KEY PART NO.

NO.

_____

640271

631615

631767

631184 *

631183 *

640070

650506 *

631807

651025

630766

640027

20A

640200 25 631867 27

631024 * 28

632019 29

631028 * 30 631021 * 31

631022 35

640259 36

640080 36A

632766 37

632547 * 40

640030

27110A *

630748 * 48 631027 * 60

632760B

DESCRIPTION

Carburetor (Incl. 184 of Engine Parts List)

Throttle Shaft & Lever Assembly Throttle Return Spring

Dust Seal Washer Dust Seal (Throttle)

Throttle Shutter

Shutter Screw

Fuel Fitting Throttle Crack Screw/ldle Speed Screw Tension Spring

Idle Restrictor Screw

Idle Restrictor Scrwe Cap (Black)

Float Bowl

Float Shaft

Float

Float Bowl “O" Ring

Inlet Needle, Seat, & Clip (Incl. 31)

Spring Clip

Primer Bulb/Retainer Ring

Main Nozzle Tube

Carburetor Tube

“O" Ring, Main Nozzle Tube

High Speed Bowl Nut

Bowl Nut Washer

Welch Plug, Idle Mixture Well

Welch Plug, Atmospheric Vent

Repair kit (Incl. Items Marked *)

CRAFTSMAN 4-CYCLE ENGINE

--------

-2

KEY PART

NO.

—

590702

590599A

590600

590696

590601

5 590697

590698

590699

590700

590703

590535

590701

MODEL NO. 143.006714

DESCRIPTION

Recoil Starter Spring Pin (Incl. 4) Washer Retainer Washer Brake Spring Starter Dog Dog Spring Pulley & Rewind Spring Ass’yStarter Housing Ass’y. (40 degree grommet) Starter Rope ( 98" X 9/64" dia.) Starter Handle

n «

KEY PART

NO. NO.

__ __

590739

590740

590616

590617

8 590618A

11 590638 12

590535

590701

590760

DESCRIPTION

Rewind Starter Retainer Starter Dog Dog Spring Pulley & Rewind Spring Ass’y Starter Housing Ass’y (40 degree grommet) Starter Rope(Length 98" x 9/ 64" dia.) Starter Handle Spring Clip

Get it fixed, at your home or ours!

For repair of major brand appliances in your own home...

no matter who made it, no matter who sold it!

1-800-4-MY-HOME Anytime, day or night

(1-800-469-4663)

www.sears.com

To bring in products such as vacuums,

lawn equipment and electronics for repair, call for

the location of your nearest Sears Parts & Repair Center.

1-800-488-1222 Anytime, day or night

www.sears.com

For the replacement parts, accessories and owner’s manuals

that you need to do-it-yourself, call Sears PartsDirect®*^!

1-800-366-PART 6 a.m.- 11 p.m. CST,

(1-800-366-7278) 7 days a week

To purchase or inquire about a Sears Service Agreement;

7 a.m. - 5 p.m. CST, Mon. - Sat.

Para pedir servicio de reparación a domicilio,

y para ordenar piezas con entrega a domicilio:

1-888-SU-HOGAR®«

(1-888-784-6427)

& Sears, Roebuck and Co.

WWW. sears. CO m/partsd i rect

1-800-827-6655

Au Canada pour service en français:

1-877-LE-FOYER®“

(1-877-533-6937)

HomeCentral

® Registered Trademark / ™ Trademark of Sears, Roebuck anò Co. ® Marca Registrada / Marca de Fábrica de Sears. Roebuck and Co,

ïr

174409 03.09.00 VB

Printed in U.S.A.

Craftsman 917.388410 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

CAUTION:

TABLE OF CONTENTS

WARRANTY

SAFETY RULES

ACCESSORIES

ASSEMBLY

TO INSTALL ATTACHMENTS

OPERATION

KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER

HOWTO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

TO CONVERT MOWER

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

ADDGASOUNE

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

LAWN MOWER

TIRES

BLADE CARE

GRASS CATCHER

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

ENGINE

MUFFLER

SPARKPLUG

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

LAWN MOWER

TO ADJUST HANDLE

ENGINE

STORAGE

LAWN MOWER

ENGINE