Craftsman 917.389020 User Manual [en, es]

Owner’s Manual

ROTARY LAWN MOWER

625 Series Briggs & Stratton Engine

21" Multi-Cut

Model No.

917.389020

Espanol, p. 18

CAUTION:

Read and follow all

Safety Rules and Instructions before operating this equipment

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.

Visit our Craftsman website: www.sears.com/craftsman

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Warranty........................................................	2	Maintenance.........................................	11-13
Safety Rules..............................................	2-4	Service and Adjustments...........................	14
Product Specifications..................................	4	Storage.................................................	15-16
Assembly / Pre-Operation.............................	6	Troubleshooting...................................	16-17
Operation.................................................	7-10	Repair Parts.........................................	34-41
Maintenance Schedule..............................	11 Sears Service.................................		Back Cover

WARRANTY

2-YEAR FULL WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN LAWN MOWER

If this Craftsman Lawn Mower fails due to manufacturer defects in material or workmanship within two years from the date of purchase, return it to any Sears store, Parts & Repair Center or other Craftsman outlet for free repair (or replacement if repair proves impossible).

This warranty applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase if this Lawn Mower is ever used for commercial or rental purposes.

This warranty does not cover:

•Expendable items that 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 crackshafts and the failure to assemble, operate or maintain this Lawn Mower according to all supplied product instructions.

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, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

SAFETY RULES

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throw­ ing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

ALook for this symbol to point out impor­ tant safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!!

YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

A WARNING: In order to prevent ac­ cidental starting when setting up, trans­ porting, adjusting or making repairs, always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot come in contact with plug.

AWARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancerand birth defects or other reproductive harm.

AWARNING: Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

A CAUTION: Muffler and other engine parts become extremely hot during operation and remain hot after engine has stopped. To avoid severe burns on contact, stay away from these areas.

I.GENERAL OPERATION

•Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual(s) before starting. Be thoroughly 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 dis­ charge opening at all times.

•Only allow responsible individuals, who are familiar with the instructions, to oper­ ate the machine.

•Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc., which could be picked up and thrown by 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 bare­ foot 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.

•Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Material may richochet back toward the opera­ tor. Stop the blade when crossing gravel surfaces.

•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 ap­ proved 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; walk, never run.

•Disengage the self-propelled mech­ anism or drive clutch on mowers so equipped before starting the engine.

•If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and check immediately for the cause. Vibra­ tion is generally a warning of trouble.

•Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operating mower.

II.SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to slip & fall accidents which can result in severe in­ jury. 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 foot­ ing could cause slipping.

III.CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. A/everassume that children will remain where you last saw them.

•Keep children out of the trimming area and under the watchful care of another responsible adult.

•Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.

•Before and while walking backwards, look behind and down for small children.

•Never allow children to operate the ma­ chine.

•Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

IV. SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

Use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.

•Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of ignition.

•Use only an approved container.

•Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow engine to cool before refueling.

•Never refuel the machine indoors.

•Never store the machine or fuel contain­ er where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light such as a water heater or on other appliances.

•Never fill containers inside a vehicle, on a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on the ground away from your vehicle before filling.

•Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel such equipment with a portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.

•Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.

•If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately.

•Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas cap and tighten securely.

V. GENERAL SERVICE

•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 equip­ ment 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 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 set­ ting or overspeed the engine.

Maintain or replace safety and instruc­ tion labels, as necessary.

AWARNING: This lawn mower is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.

In the state of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest Sears Parts & Repair Center (See the REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Serial Number:

Date of Purchase:

Gasoline Capacity / Type:	1.6 Quarts (Unleaded Regular)
Oil Type (API SG-SL):	SAE 30 (above 32°F); SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F)
Oil Capacity:	20 Ounces
Spark Plug (Gap: .030")	Champion RJ19HX
Blade Bolt Torque:	35-40 ft. lbs.

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

Repair Protection Agreements

Congratulations on making a smart pur­ chase. Your new Craftsman® product is designed and manufactured for years of dependable operation. But like all prod­ ucts, it may require repair from time to time. That’s when having a Repair Protec­ tion Agreement can save you money and aggravation.

Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement now and protect yourself from unexpected hassle and expense.

Here’s what’s included in the Agreement:

•Expert service by our 12,000 profe­ sional repair specialists.

•Unlimited service and no charge for parts and labor on all covered repairs.

•Product replacement if your covered product can’t be fixed.

•Discount of 10% from regular price of service and service-related parts not covered by the agreement; also, 10% off regular price of preventive mainte­ nance check.

• Fast help by phone - phone sup­ port from a Sears representative on

products requiring in-home repair, plus convenient repair scheduling.

Once you purchase the Agreement, a simple phone call is all that it takes for you to schedule service. You can call anytime day or night, or schedule a service ap­ pointment online.

Sears has over 12,000 professional repair specialists, who have access to over 4.5 million quality parts and accessories. That’s the kind of professionalism you can count on to help prolong the life of your new purchase for years to come. Purchase your Repair Protection Agreement today!

Some limitations and exclusions apply. For prices and additional information call 1-800-827-6655.

Sears Installation Service

For Sears professional installation of home appliances, garage door openers, water heaters, and other major home items, in the U.S.A. call 1-800-4-MY-HOME®.

ACCESSORIES

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

LAWN MOWER PERFORMANCE

ASSEMBLY / PRE-OPERATION

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 assem­ bled 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 tight­ ened securely. Use the correct tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness. All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., necessary to complete the assembly have been placed in the parts bag.

TO REMOVE MOWER FROM CARTON

1.Remove loose parts included with mower.

2.Cut down two end corners of carton and lay end panel down flat.

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

4.Roll lawn mower out of carton and check carton thoroughly for additional loose parts.

HOW TO SET UP YOUR MOWER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so as not to pinch or damage control cables. 1. Raise handles until lower handle section

locks into place in mowing position. 2. Remove protective padding, raise up­

per handle section into place on lower handle and tighten both handle knobs.

3.Remove handle padding holding operator presence control bar to upper handle.

Your lawn mower handle can be adjusted for your mowing comfort. Refer to “AD­ JUST HANDLE” in the Service and Adjust­ ments section of this manual.

TO ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER

1.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.

2.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.

1 / X x ) /1 i/	/ >K Frame
'/ \	handle

XA'

' / Ai//A'

Vinyl	Frame
bindings ^	opening

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 ALL SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER. Compare the illustrations with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

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

Starter

handle

Grass catcher

Gasoline filler cap

Air filter

Mulcher door

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

Operator presence control bar

Handle knob

Engine oil cap with dipstick

Primer

Spark plug

Muffler

Housing

Wheel adjuster (on each wheel)

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 Com­ mission. A WARNING: 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.

Mulcher door - allows conversion to discharging or bagging operation.

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

Starter handle - used for starting engine.

FORESIGHT IS BEnER

THAN NO SIGHT

SAFETY GLASSES

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 oper­

ating your lawn mower or performing any adjustments or repairs. We recommend a standard safety glasses orwide vision safety mask worn over spectacles.

HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER

ENGINE SPEED

Engine speed was set at the factory for optimum performance. It 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 CUTTING HEIGHT

Raise wheels for low cut and lower wheels for high cut, adjust cutting height to suit your requirements. Medium position is best for most lawns.

• To change cutting height, squeeze ad­ juster 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.

LEVER BACKWARD	Plate tab
TO LOWER MOWER

LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER Lever

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 dis­ charge deflector under door as shown.

•Mower is now ready for discharging operation.

•To convert to mulching or bagging opera­ tion, discharge deflector must be removed and mulcher door must be closed.

TO CONVERT MOWER

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

REAR BAGGING

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

MOWER IS NOW READY FOR DISCHARGING

8 OPERATION

SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER WHEN

CONVERTING YOUR LAWN MOWER FOR MULCHING -

1.Rear door closed.

2.Mulcher door closed.

FOR REAR BAGGING -

1.Grass catcher installed.

2.Mulcher door closed.

FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -

1.Rear door closed.

2.Discharge deflector installed. ACAUTION: 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.

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.

NOTE: Do not drag the bag when empty­ ing; it will cause unnecessary wear.

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

ADD OIL

Your I awn mower 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 heavily from the muffler on startup.

1.Be sure lawnmower is level.

2.Remove oil dipstick from oil fill spout.

3.You receive a container of oil with the unit. Slowly pour the entire container down the oil fill spout into the engine.

NOTE: Initial oil fill requires only 18 oz. due to residual oil in engine from the manufacturers 100% quality testing. When changing oil you may need 20 oz. 4. Insert and tighten dipstick.

IMPORTANT:

•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. See “TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL” in the Mainte­ nance section of this manual.

ADD GASOLINE

•Fill fuel tank to bottom of tank filler neck. Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel fresh­ ness.

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 metha­ nol) 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. Empty 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.

TO STOP ENGINE

•To stop engine, release operator pres­ ence control bar.

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.

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

A CAUTION: Do not use de-thatcher blade attachments on your mower. Such attachments are hazardous, will damage your mower and could void your warranty.

•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 cut­ ting 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. 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 recut­ ting action of the blades.

•Avoid cutting your lawn when it is wet. Wet grass tends to form clumps and interferes with the mulching action. The best time to mow your lawn is the early afternoon. At this time the grass has dried, yet the newly cut area will not be exposed to direct sunlight.

•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.

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 sec­ ond cut, mow across (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.

10

MAINTENANCE

	MAINTENANCE	EACH	EACH	10	25 HOURS	100	BEFORE
	SCHEDULE	BEFORE	AFTER	EVERY	EVERY	EVERY
		USE	USE	HOURS	OR SEASON	HOURS	STORAGE
L	Check for Loose Fasteners
	Clean / Inspect Grass Catcher *
A
	Check Tires
fir
N	Check Drive Wheels ***
	Clean Lawn Mower ****
M	Clean under Drive Cover ***
O	Check Drive Belt / Pulleys ***
W	Check / Sharpen / Replace Blade
E
	Lubrication
R
	Clean and Recharge Battery **
	Check Engine Oil level	s
E	Change Engine Oil				^,2
H	Clean Air Filter
G
	Inspect Muffler
1
	Replace Spark Plug
N
	Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge					1/2
E
	Empty fuel system or add Stabilizer

* (if so equipped)	1 - Change more often if operating under a heavy load or in high outdoor temperatures.
** Electric-Start mowers	2	- Service more often if operating in dirty or dusty conditions.
*** Power-Propelled mowers	3	- Replace blades more often when mowing in sandy soil.
**** Use a scraper	4	- Charge 48 hours at end of season.
to clean under deck	5 - And after each 5 hours of use.

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 unit as instructed in this manual.

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

At least once a season, check to see if you should make any of the adjustments described in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

•At least 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.

BEFORE EACH USE

•Check engine oil level.

•Check for loose fasteners.

LUBRICATION

Keep unit well lubricated

(See “LUBRICATION CHART”).

LUBRICATION CHART

® Spray lubricant

@ See "ENGINE" in Maintenance section.

IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will attract dust and dirtthatwill shorten the life of the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel they must be lubricated, use only a dry, powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.

11

LAWN MOWER

Always observe safety rules when per­ forming 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. A CAUTION: Use only a replacement blade approved by the manufacturer of your mower. Using a blade not approved by the manufacturer of your mower is hazardous, could damage your mower and void your warranty.

TO REMOVE BLADE

1.Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with 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 hardware (bolt, lockwasherand hardened washer).

TO REPLACE BLADE

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

2.Be sure the trailing edge of blade (oppo­ site sharp edge) is up toward the engine.

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

4.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 heat treated. If bolt needs replacing, replace only with approved bolt shown in the Repair Parts section of this manual.

TO SHARPEN BLADE

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

GRASS CATCHER

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

•Check your grass catcher often for dam­ age or deterioration. Through normal use it will wear. If catcher needs replac­ ing, replace only with approved replace­ ment catcher shown in the Repair Parts section of this manual. Give the lawn mower model number when ordering.

ENGINE

LUBRICATION

Use only high quality detergent oil rated with API service classification SG-SL. Select the oil's SAE viscosity grade according to your expected operating temperature.

SAE VISCOSITY GRADES

F -20	0	30 32 40 60	80 100
C -30 -	20 -10 0 10 20 30 40
	TEMPERATURE RANGE ANTICIPATED BEFORE NEXT OIL CHANGE

NOTE: Although multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30 etc.) improve starting in cold weather, these multi-viscosity oils will result in increased oil consumption when used above 32°F. Check your engine oil level more frequently to avoid possible engine damage from running low on oil. 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.

12

TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL

NOTE: Before tipping lawn mower to drain oil, empty 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 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 re­ move any oil trapped inside of engine.

Install cartridge, then replace cover making sure the tabs are aligned with the slots in the back plate. Fasten screw securely.

Back plate

MUFFLER

Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it could create a fire hazard and/or damage.

4.Wipe off any spilled oil from lawn mower or side of engine.

5.Slowly pour oil down the oil fill spout, stopping every few ounces to check the oil level with the dipstick.

6.Stop adding oil when you reach the FULL mark on the dipstick. Wait a minute to allow oil to settle.

7.Continue adding small amounts of oil, rechecking the dipstick until oil level settles at FULL. DO NOT overfill, or engine will smoke heavily from the muf­ fler on startup.

8.Always be sure to retighten oil dipstick before starting engine.

9.Reconnect spark plug wire to plug.

AIR FILTER ^

Your engine will not run properly and may

be damaged by using a dirty air filter.
Replace the air filter cartridge every 100	,
hours of operation or every season, which- '
ever occurs first. Service air cleaner more
often under dusty conditions.	,

TO CLEAN AIR FILTER

1.Loosen screw and tilt cover to remove. •

2.Carefully remove cartridge.

3.Clean by gently tapping on a flat sur­ face. If very dirty, replace cartridge.

ACAUTION: Petroleum solvents, such as kerosene, are not to be used to clean car­ tridge. They may cause deterioration of the cartridge. Do not oil cartridge. Do not use pressurized air to clean or dry cartridge, -j 3

SPARK PLUG

Replace spark plug at the beginning of each mowing season or after every 100 hours of operation, whichever occurs first. Spark plug type and gap setting are shown in the “PRODUCT SPECIFIC­ ATIONS” section of this manual.

CLEANING

IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower housing free of built-grass and trash. Clean the underside of your mower after each use.

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

•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 short­ ened engine life.

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

A WARNING: To avoid serious injury, before performing any service and adjustments:

1.Release control bar and stop engine.

2.Make sure the blade and all moving parts have completely stopped.

3.Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire 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 mower, is provided to minimize the possibility that objects will be thrown out of the rear of the mower into the operator mowing position. If the deflector becomes damaged, it should be replaced.

TO ADJUST HANDLE

The handle can be mounted in a high or low position. The mounting holes in the bottom of lower handle are off center for raising or lowering the handle.

1. Remove upper handle and all wire tie(s) securing cable(s) to lower handle.

2. Remove hairpin cotters from lower handle bracket mounting pin.

3.Squeeze lower handle in to remove it from mounting pins.

4.Turn lower handle over to raise or lower handle.

5.Squeeze lower handle in and position holes onto mounting pins on handle

bracket.

6. Reassemble upper handle and all parts removed from lower handle.

SQUEEZE

TO ADJUST

Lower handle

Mounting pin

Handle

bracket Hairpin cotter

Mowing	Mowing
position	position

Hairpin cotter

Mounting'

Piri LOW POSITION HIGH POSITION

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 engine is running too fast or too slow, take your mower to a Sears or other qualified service center for repair and adjustment.

CARBURETOR

Your carburetor is not adjustable. If your engine does not operate properly due to sus­ pected carburetor problems, take your lawn mower to a Sears or other qualified service center for repair and/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 a Sears or other

qualified service center, which has proper equipment and experience to make any necessary adjustments.