Craftsman 917388670 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual
JCRnFTSMRN"i
ROTARYLAWNMOWER
4.0 Horsepower 21" Rear Discharge
Model No.
917.388670
CAUTION:
before operatingthis equipment
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman
Warranty ................................................. 2
Safety Rules ........................................ 2-4
Assembly / Pre-Operation ...................... 5
Operation ............................................. 6-9
Maintenance Schedule ........................ 10
Maintenance .................................... 10-13
LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWER MOWER For two years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,
lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or workman-
ship. If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty
applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase. This Warranty does not cover:
Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.
Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions
contained in the owner's manual.
Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman power mower to the nearest Sears Service Center/Department in the United States. This warranty applies only
while this product is used in the United States. This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which
vary from state to state. SEARS, ROEBUCKAND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
Product Specifications .......................... 11
Service and Adjustments ................. 13-14
Storage ............................................ 15-16
Troubleshooting .............................. 16-17
Repair Parts ..................................... 34-39
Sears Service ......................... Back Cover
IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in
serious injury or death.
_l,Look for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOMEALERTH! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
_, WARNING: in order to prevent accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs, always disconnect spark plug wire and
place wire where it cannot contact spark plug.
_,WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle
components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause
cancer and birth defects or other repro-
ductive harm.
_,WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and
related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Wash hands after handling.
_, CAUTION: Muffler and other engine parts become extremely hot during operation and remain hot after engine
has stopped. To avoid severe bums on
contact, stay away from these areas.
2
I.GENERAL OPERATION
Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the
manual(s) before starting. Be thor-
oughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the machine before
starting.
Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of the
discharge opening at all times.
Only allow responsible individuals,
who are familiar with the instructions, to
operate the machine.
Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc.,
which could be picked up and thrown by the blade.
Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.
Do not operate the mower when barefoot or wearing open sandals. Always wear substantial foot wear.
Do not pull mower backwards unless absolutely necessary. Always look
down and behind before and while moving backwards.
Do not operate the mower without proper guards, plates, grass catcher or
other safety protective devices in place.
See manufacturer's instructions for proper operation and installation of
accessories. Only use accessories approved by the manufacturer.
Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads.
Stop the engine (motor) whenever you leave the equipment, before cleaning the mower or unclogging the chute.
Shut the engine (motor) off and wait until the blade comes to complete stop
before removing grass catcher.
Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Never operate machine in wet grass. Always be sure of your footing: keep a
firm hold on the handle and walk; never run.
Disengage the self-propelled mecha- nism or drive clutch on mowers so
equipped before starting the engine (motor).
If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine (motor)
and check immediately for the cause.
Vibration is generally a warning of
trouble.
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operat-
ing mower.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to slip
and fall accidents which can result in severe injury. All slopes require extra
caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it.
DO:
Mow across the face of slopes: never
up and down. Exercise extreme caution
when changing direction on slopes.
Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
DO NOT:
DO not trim near drop-offs, ditches or
embankments. The operator could lose
footing or balance.
Do not trim excessively steep slopes.
Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced footing could cause slipping.
Ill. CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children.
Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never
assume that children will remain where you last saw them.
Keep children out of the trimming area
and under the watchful care of another responsible adutt.
Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area.
Before and while walking backwards,
look behind and down for small
children.
Never allow children to operate the
machine.
Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
3
IV, SERVICE
Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are flammable
and vapors are explosive.
-Use only an approved container.
-Never remove gas cap or add fuel
with the engine running. Allow
engine to cool before refueling. Do
not smoke.
-Never refuel the machine indoors.
-Never store the machine or fuel container inside where there is an
open flame, such as a water heater.
Never run a machine inside a closed area.
Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine (motor) running.
Disconnect the spark plug wire, and keep the wire away from the plug to prevent accidental starting.
Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep
equipment in good condition.
Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.
Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before storing.
Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.
Never attempt to make wheel height adjustments while the engine (motor) is
running.
Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with
manufacturer's recommended parts,
when necessary.
Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing them.
Do not change the engine governor
setting or overspeed the engine.
These accessories were available when this lawn mower was produced. They are not shipped with your mower. They are also available at most Sears 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
- )
CLIPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS
GRASS CATCHERS
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
LAWN MOWERS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS AIR FILTERS SPARK PLUGS
_I GRASS CATCHERS
MULCHER KITS
i/ FOR
I LAWN MOWERS
i
SIDE DISCHARGE
STABILIZER
GAS CANS
BELTS BLADES BLADE ADAPTERS WHEELS ENGINE OIL
4
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 pans left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and
proper operation of your lawn mower, all parts and hardware you assemble must
be tightened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to ensure proper
tightness. All parts such as nuts, wash- ers, bolts, etc., necessary to complete the
assembly have been placed in the parts bag.
TO REMOVE LAWN MOWER FROM
CARTON
1. Remove loose parts included with mower.
2. Cut down two end corners of carton and lay end panel down flat.
3. Remove all packing materials except padding between upper and lower
handle and padding holding operator presence control bar to upper handle.
4. Roll lawn mower out of carton and
check carton thoroughly for additional
loose parts.
HOWTO SET UPYOUR LAWN MOWER
TO UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so
as not to pinch or damage control cables.
1. 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.
2. Remove protective padding, raise upper handle section into place on
lower handle and tighten both handle knobs.
3. Remove any packing material from
around control bar.
Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted for your mowing comfort. Refer to "AD-
JUST HANDLE" in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual. Operator I
control bar
UP
LIFT UI
Mowing position
Lower handle
Handle pin
Handle
bracket
TO INSTALL A'I-rACHMENTS Your lawn mower was shipped ready to
be used as a mulcher. To convert to bagging, see "TO CONVERT MOWER" in the Operation section of this manual).
J
5
KNOWYOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND ALL SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER. Compare the illustrationswith your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with
the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the
product. Learn and understand their meaning.
CAUTION ENGINE ENGINE FAST SLOW CHOKE FUEL OIL DANGER, KEEP HANDS
OR WARNING ON OFF AND FEET AWAY
Operator presence control bar
knob
Starter handle
Engine oil cap with dipstick
Grass
Muffler
Gasoline filler ca
Airf
Wheel adjuster
Primer (on each wheel)
IMPORTANT: This lawn mower is shipped WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine.
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Sears rotary walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the
American National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commis- sion. The blade turns when the engine is running.
Operator presence control bar- must be 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. 6
The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects thrown into the
eyes, which can result in
severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields while operating your lawn mower
or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a standard safety glasses or wide vision safety mask worn over spectacles.
HOWTO USEYOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed was set at the factory for optimum performance. Speed is not
adjustable. ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
ACAUTION: Federal regulations require
an engine control to be installed on this lawn mower in order to minimize the risk
of blade contact injury. Do not under any
circumstances attempt to defeat the function of the operator control. The blade turns when the engine is running.
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 CUTrlNG HEIGHT
Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for high cut, adjust cutting height to suit your requirements. Medium
position is best for most lawns.
To change cutting height, squeeze
adjuster lever toward wheel. Move wheel up or down to suit your require-
ments. Be sure all wheels are in the same setting.
NOTE; Adjuster is properly positioned when plate tab inserts into hole in lever. Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)
allow lever to be positioned between the plate tabs.
LOWER WHEELS FOR HIGH CUT
TO CONVERT MOWER
Your lawn mower was shipped readyto be
used as a mulcher.To convert to bagging:
Lift rear door of the lawn mower and place the grass catcher frame hooks onto the
door pivot pins.
To convert to mulching operation, remove
grass catcher and close rear door.
_IbCAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower without rear door closed, clipping
deflector or approved grass catcher in
place. Never attempt to operate the lawn mower with the rear door removed or
propped open.
Pivot pins Rear Grass
catcher
handle
Catcher frame hook
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER
1. Lift up on grass catcher using the frame handle.
2. Remove grass catcher with clippings from under lawn mower handle.
3. Empty clippings from bag using both frame handle and bag handle.
NOTE: Do not drag the bag when
emptying; it will cause unnecessary wear.
/
Grass
catcher
- frame
handle
I
Bag handle
RAISE WHEELS FOR LOW CUT Lever
7
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
ADD OIL Your lawnmower is shipped without oil in
the engine. For type and grade of oil to
use, see "ENGINE" in the Maintenance
section of this manual. A CAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with
oil, or it will smoke on startup.
1. Be sure lawnmower is level and area around oil fill is clean.
2. Remove oil dipstick from oil fill spout. Make sure that rim of spout is clean.
3. You receive a container of oil with the unit. Slowly pour 3/4 (15 oz.) of the oil
from the container down the oil fill spout into the engine.
4. Wait one minute to allow oil to settle. Insert and tighten dipstick, then
remove it to check oil level.
5. Continue adding small amounts of oil and rechecking the dipstick until it
reads full. DO NOT overfill, or engine
will smoke on startup.
6. Always be sure to retighten oil dipstick before starting engine.
Check oil level before each use. Add
oil if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.
Change the oil after every 25 hours of
operation or each season. You may need to change the oil more often
under dusty, dirty conditions.
ADD GASOLINE
NOTE: Before filling fuel tank, remove and discard the debris plug that is inside
the tank.
Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler
neck. Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with a
minimum of 87 octane. Do not mix oil
with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30
days to assure fuel freshness. A CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline
near an open flame.
A CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or
methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can
damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the
engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel
next season. See Storage Instructions for additional information. Never use engine
or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel
tank or permanent damage may occur.
oil cap
filler cap
(Discard
debris plug
inside)
Primer
TO START ENGINE
NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the
engine, a small amount of smoke may be present during the initial use of the product and should be considered
normal.
1. To start a cold engine, push primer three (3) times before trying to start.
Use a firm push. This step is not
usually necessary when starting an engine which has already run for a
few minutes.
2. Hold operator presence control bar down to the handle and pull starter
handle quickly. Do not allow starter rope to snap back.
8
TO STOP ENGINE
To stop engine, release operator
presence control bar.
NOTE: In cooler weather it may be necessary to repeat priming steps. In
warmer weather over priming may cause flooding and engine will not start. If you
do flood engine, wait a few minutes before attempting to start and do not
repeat priming steps.
MOWING TIPS
Under certain conditions, such as very tall grass, it may be necessary to raise
the height of cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the
engine and leaving clumps of grass clippings. It may also be necessary to
reduce ground speed and/or run the lawn mower over the area a second
time.
For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the width of cut by overlapping previously
cut path and mow slowly.
For better grass bagging and most cutting conditions, the engine speed
should be set in the FAST position.
When using a rear discharge lawn mower in moist, heavy grass, clumps of
cut grass may not enter the grass catcher. Reduce ground speed
(pushing speed) and/or run the lawn mower over the area a second time.
If a trail of clippings is left on the right side of a rear discharge mower, mow in
a clockwise direction with a small overlap to collect the clippings on the
next pass.
Pores in cloth grass catchers can become filled with dirt and dust with
use and catchers will collect less grass. To prevent this, regularly hose catcher
off with water and let dry before using.
Keep top of engine around starter clear and clean of grass clippings and chaff.
This will help engine air flow and extend engine life.
MULCHING MOWING TIPS IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up grass and
trash. See "CLEANING" in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
The special mulching blade will recut the grass clippings many times and reduce
them in size so that as they fall onto the lawn they will disperse into the grass and not be noticed. Also, the mulched grass
will biodegrade quickly to provide nutrients for the lawn. Always mulch with your
highest engine (blade) speed as this will provide the best recutting action of the
blades.
Avoid cutting your lawn when it is weL 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 height so that the lawn mower cuts off only the top one-third of the grass
blades. If the lawn is overgrown it will be necessary to raise the height of cut to
reduce pushing effort and to keep from overloading the engine and leaving clumps of mulched grass. For extremely
heavy grass, reduce your width of cut by overlapping previously cut path and mow
slowly.
MAX 1/3
Certain types of grass and grass condi- tions may require that an area be mulched
a second time to completely hide the clippings. When doing a second cut, mow
across or perpendicular to the 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.
9
REGULAR SERVICE VICE DATES
Check for Loose Fasteners tf i_'
Clean/InspectGrass Catcher
(If Equipped)
a clean Lawn Mower _ _,_
O Clean Under Drive Cover
(Power-Propelled Mowers) Check drive belt/pulleys
RE (Power-Propelled Mowers) I_
Cheek]Sharpen/Replace Blade _ 3
Lubrication Chart _ If
Clean Battery/Recharge tElectric Start Mowers! It_ If4
E Cheek Engine Oil Level _'
N Change EngineOil V11.2
G Clean Air Filter I_ 2
I Inspect Muffler V'
Clean or Replace Spark Plug
_i Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge _2
1 - Change more often when operating under a heavy load or in high ambient temperatures.
2 - Selvice more oflen when operating in dirty ordusty conditior_. 3 - Replace 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 instructed in this manual. Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit. All adjustments in the Service and Adjust-
ments section of this manual should be
checked at least once each season.
Once a year, replace the spark plug, clean or replace air filter element and check
blade for wear. A new spark plug and clean/new air filter element assure proper
air-fuel mixture and help your engine run better and last longer.
Follow the maintenance schedule in this manual.
LUBRICATION CHART
adjuster (on
each wheel)
ne oil
Rear door
hinge
BEFORE EACH USE
Cheek engine oil level
Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION Keep unit well lubricated (See "LUBRICATION
CHART").
(_) Handle bracket mounting pins
(_) Spray lubricant
(_) See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease
plastic wheel bearings. Viscous
lubricants will attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life of the self-lubricat-
ing bearings. If you feel they must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered
graphite type lubricant sparingly.
10
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Serial number:
Date of purchase: Gasoline capacity / type: 1.6 quarts (Unleaded Regular)
Oil type (API-SF-SJ): SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)
Oil capacity: 20 ounces Spark plug (gap: .030") Champion RJ19LM or J19LM
Blade bolt torque: 35-40 ft. Ibs.
The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal on the rear of the mower housing• Record both serial number and date of purchase in space provided above.
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when 3erform- ing any maintenance.
TIRES
Keep tiresfree 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
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
2. Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure air filter and carburetor are up.
3. Use a wood block between blade and mower housing to prevent blade from
turning when removing blade bolt.
NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves
and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.
4. Remove blade bolt by turning counter- clockwise.
5. Remove blade and attaching hard-
ware (bolt, lock washer and hardened washer)•
NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and
check the key inside hub of blade adapter. The key must be in good condi- tion to work properly. Replace adapter if
damaged. TO REPLACE BLADE
1. Position the blade adapter on the engine crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter and crankshaft keyway are
aligned.
2. Position blade on the blade adapter aligning the two (2) holes in the blade
with the raised lugs on the adapter.
3. Be sure the trailing edge of blade
(opposite sharp edge) is up toward
the engine.
4. Install the blade bolt with the lock washer and hardened washer into
blade adapter and crankshaft.
5. Use block of wood between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the blade bolt, turning clockwise.
The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 ft. Ibs.
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat treated.
TO SHARPEN BLADE NOTE: We do not recommend sharpen-
ing blade - but if you do, be sure the blade is balanced.
Care should be taken to keep the blade balanced. An unbalanced blade will
cause eventual damage to lawn mower or engine.
The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen while on the mower.
To check blade balance, drive a nail
into a beam or wall. Leave about one inch of the straight nail exposed. Place
center hole of blade over the head of the nail. If blade is balanced, it should
remain in a horizontal position. If either
end of the blade moves downward, sharpen the heavy end until the blade
is balanced.
Blade adaptel Crankshaft
Ke keyway
Blade
\ \
Blade '!_ bolt Hardened ' ' /' - : / shaft
11
washer Trailing edge Blade adapter
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 approved replacement
catcher. Give the lawn mower model
number when ordering.
ENGINE LUBRICATION Use only high quality detergent oil rated
with API service classification SF-SJ. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your expected operating
temperature.
SAE VISCOSI]Y GRADES
.L_O
.30 .20 -10 0 10 20 30 40
TEMPERATURE RANGE AN33CIPATED 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 orat least once a year if the
lawn mower is not used for 25 hours in one year.
Check the crankcase oil level before starting the engine and after each five (5)
hours of continuous use. Tighten oil plug securely each time you check the oil
level.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to
drain oil, drain fuel tank by running engine until fuel tank is empty.
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with spark plug.
2. Remove engine oil cap; lay aside on a clean surface.
3. Tip lawn mower on its side as shown and drain oil into a suitable container.
Rock lawn mower back and forth to remove any oil trapped inside of
engine.
4. Wipe off any spilled oil from lawn mower or side of engine.
5. Fill engine with oil. (See "ADD OIL" in
the Operation section of this manual).
6. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark
plug.
12
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