Craftsman 917773705 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

IC..FTSMnWl

WHEELED WEEDTRIMMER

6.0 Horsepower

22 Inch Cut

Model No.

917.773705

• EspaSol, 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

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

Safety Rules .......................................... 2-4

Product Specifications .............................. 5

Assembly / Pre-Operation ........................ 5

Operation ............................................... 6-8

Maintenance Schedule ............................. 9

Maintenance ........................................ 9-12

Service and Adjustments ................... 13-14

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

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

Repair Parts ....................................... 32-38

Sears Service .......................... Back Cover

LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN WEEDTRIMMER For two (2) years from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Weedtrimmer is main-

tained, lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instruc- tions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or workmanship.

If this Craftsman Weedtrimmer 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 rotating lines, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.

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

tained in the owner's manual.

Warranty service is available by returning the Craftsman Weedtrimmer to the nearest

Sears Parts & Repair Center 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, Roebuck and Co., Dept. 817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

_i, WARNING: This trimmer 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 ap-

plicable 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 service center (see the REPAIR PARTS section of this manual).

The operation of any trimmer 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 trimmer or performing any

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

Ai:i,Look for this symbol to point out

important safety precautions. It means

CAUTION!H BECOME ALERT!H YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

Ar_,WARNING: In order to prevent ac-

cidental starting when setting up, trans- porting, adjusting or making repairs, always disconnect spark plug wire and

2 place wire where it cannot contact plug.

_I,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

reproductive harm.

_i, 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 instruc-

tions on the machine and in the manual 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 all parts of your body away from

muffler and spinning line. A hot muffler can cause serious burns.

• Only allow responsible individuals, who

are familiar with the instructions, to operate the machine.

• Stay away from breakable objects, such

as house windows, auto glass, green- houses, etc.

• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,

toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the spinning lines.

• Be sure the area is clear of other people

before trimming, particularly small chil- dren and pets. Stop machine if anyone

enters the area.

• Wear appropriate clothing such as a

long-sleeved shirt or jacket. Also wear long trousers or slacks. Do not wear

shorts.

• Do not wear loose clothing which could

get caught in this equipment.

• Do not operate the machine when bare-

foot or wearing open sandals. Always wear work gloves and sturdy footwear.

Leather work shoes or short boots work well for most people. These will protect

the operator's ankles and shins from small sticks, splinters, and other debris,

and improve traction.

• Do not pull machine backwards unless ab- solutely necessary. Always look down and

behind before and while moving backwards.

• Do not operate the machine without

proper guards, plates 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.

• Never use blades, wire, or flailing devices. This unit is designed for line trimmer use

only. Use of other accessories or attach-

ments will increase the risk of injury.

• Stop the rotating trimmer head when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads.

Wait for the cutting lines to stop rotating.

• Stop the engine (motor) whenever you

leave the equipment and allow it to cool, before cleaning, repairing or inspecting

the unit. Be sure the trimmer head and all moving parts have stopped.

• Operate 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. Al- ways be sure of your footing: keep a firm

hold on the handle and walk; never run.

• 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 oper- ating machine.

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents which can result insevere injury.

All slopes require extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not trim it.

DO:

• Trim 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 trim on wet grass. Reduced foot-

ing could cause slipping.

III. CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the opera- tor is not alert to the presence of chil-

dren. Children are often attracted to the

machine and the trimming 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 adult.

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

• Before and while moving backwards, look behind & 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.

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

with the engine running. Allow engine to cool before refueling. Don't 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.

- Move away from fueling site before starting engine.

• Never run trimmer 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 spark plug to prevent ac- cidental starting.

• Keep nuts and bolts, especially trimmer

head and engine 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 buildup. Clean oil or fuel

spillage. Allow machine to cool before cleaning or storing.

• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.

• Do not change the engine governor set- ting or overspeed the engine.

• Clean and replace safety and instruction decals as necessary.

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 support from a Sears technician on products

requiring in-home repair, plus conve- nient 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®.

SerialNumber: Dateof Purchase:

GasolineCapacity/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

Trimmer Line Length: 18.75 Inches (0.155 Inch Diameter)

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

Read these instructions and this manual in its entirety before you attempt to assemble

or operate your new trimmer.

IMPORTANT: This trimmer isshipped WITH-

OUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine. Your new trimmer has been assembled

at the factory with the exception of those

parts left unassembled for shipping

purposes. All parts such as nuts, wash- ers, bolts, etc., necessary to complete the assembly have been placed in the parts

bag. To ensure safe and proper operation of your trimmer, all parts and hardware

you assemble must be tightened securely.

Use the correct tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness. When right hand (RH) or left hand (LH) is

mentioned in this manual, it means when you are in the operating position (standing

behind the handle).

Loose Parts Packed Separately

HOWTO SET UP YOUR TRIMMER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so

as not to pinch or damage control cables.

1. Loosen handle knob enough to allow upper handle to be unfolded from the

shipping position.

2. Raise upper handle section intoplace on lower handle and tighten handle knob.

3. Remove handle padding holding trim- mer head control bar to upper handle.

Your trimmer handle can be adjusted for your trimming comfort. Refer to "ADJUST

HANDLE" in the Service and Adjustments

section of this manual.

handle

Bottle of oil

Trimmer Lines (2) Sets

(0.155 diameter

x 18.75 inches long)

REMOVE TRIMMER FROM CARTON

1. Remove loose parts includedwith trimmer.

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

3. Remove all packing materials.

4. Roll trimmer out of carton and check car-

ton thoroughly for additional loose parts.

LIFT UP

Handle

knob

handle

KNOW YOUR TRIMMER

READ THIS OWNER'S MANUAL AND ALL SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING

YOUR TRIMMER. Compare the illustrations with your trimmer to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

These symbols may appear on your trimmer or in literature supplied with the product. Learn

and understand their meaning.

ENGINE OFFFAST SLOW CAUTION FUEL OIL

AVOIDSERIOUS

INJURYORDEATH

Throttle control

Starter handle

Gasoline cap _

Air filt,

Primer

IMPORTANT: This trimmer is shipped

WITHOUT OIL OR GASOLINE in the engine. Trimmer head control bar - must be held

down to the handle to engage trimmer

head. Release to stop the trimmer head.

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

Trimmer head control bar

Engine oil cap with dipstick

Muffler

Trimmer head

line

Throttle control - used for starting and stopping the engine and allows you to se- lect either FAST or SLOW engine speed.

Starter handle - used for starting the engine.

TO ADJUSTTRIMMING HEIGHT

_CAUTION: Stop the engine and wait for

all moving parts to stop. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire

where it cannot come in contact with plug. The height of cut can be set to six (6) dif-

ferent positions ranging from 1-1/2 inches

Theoperationofanytrimmercan resultin

foreignobjectsbeingthrown intotheeyes,

whichcan resultinsevereeyedamage.

Alwayswearsafetyglassesoreyeshields

while operatingyourtrimmeror performing

any adjustmentsor repairs. Werecom-

mendstandardsafetyglassesora wide

visionsafetymaskwornoverspectacles.

to 3 inches. Recommended cutting height for the average yard is 2 inches.

1. To adjust trimming height, push in the locking plate tab and move trimmer

head up or down to desired position.

2. Release tab and be sure head is locked into one of the six (6) height

positions.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRIMMER

ENGINE SPEED

The engine speed is controlled by a throt- Adj tie located on the side of the upper handle. Trimmer

FAST position is for starting and normal Head

trimming. SLOW is for light trimming and fuel economy. STOP is for stopping the Locking

engine. Plate Tab

_\\\\\\

SLOW

FAST

TRIMMER HEAD DRIVE CONTROL

Your trimmer is equipped with a trimmer

head drive control bar which will require

the operator to be positioned behind the trimmer handle to operate the trimmer.

• Trimmer head rotation is controlled by holding the trimmer head control bar

down to the handle.

• Trimmer head rotation will stop when the control bar is released.

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

ADD OIL

Your trimmer is shipped without oil in the engine. For type and grade of oil to use,

see "ENGINE" in the Maintenance section of this manual.

Ar_CAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with

oil, or it will smoke heavily from the muffler on startup.

1. Be sure trimmer 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.

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.

ADD GASOLINE

• Fill fuel tank to bottom of gas 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 quanti-

ties that can be used within 30 days to

assure fuel freshness.

CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or

fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline

near an open flame.

_k,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. 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.

NOTE: In cooler weather it may be necessary to repeat priming steps. In warmer weather overpriming 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.

Starter handle

Gasoline filler _ / Engine

TO STOP ENGINE

• To stop engine, move throttle control

lever to STOP position.

TO START ENGINE

1. To start a cold engine, push primer three (3) times before trying to start. Use a

firm push. This step is not usually neces-

sary when starting an engine which has already run for a few minutes.

2. Move throttle control lever to FAST position.

3. Hold upper handle firmly and pull starter handle quickly. Do not allow

starter rope to snap back.

TRIMMING TIPS

• Set the throttle control in the FAST posi- tion. If the weeds or grass are tall and thick, operate the trimmer at a slower

walking speed.

• Frequently clean the underside of the trimmer to remove any grass build up.

Keep top of engine around starter clear

and clean of grass clippings and chaff. This will help engine air flow and extend

engine life.

• For best results and longer lasting line,

use the ends of the line to do the cutting. This is easily done by moving slowly through very thick and heavy weeds.

• Use the left side of trimmer when trim- ming along fences, walls, flowerbeds

and other such objects.

• If trimmer lines become too short, it will

take longer to complete the job. If trim-

mer lines are worn to less than half their

original length, they should be replaced.

See "TO REPLACE TRIMMER LINE" in

the Maintenance section of this manual.

• Trimmer head contact with concrete, as- phalt or other hard surfaces may cause premature wear of the ball on bottom of

trimmer head.

AS YOU COMPLETE

REGULAR SERVICE

CheckforLooseFastenem I/' I/'

I_ CleanTrimmer tl/ I/'

MI Clean Under Engine Cover I/= t/

Zl_ Check Drive Belt/Pulleys

R Check / Replace Trimmer Lines I_s

Check Engine Oil Level I_

HE ChangeEngineOil t/'1,2

Clean Air Filter I_ = Inspect Muffler l/

Clean or Replace Spark Plug I_ Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge 1/'2

1 - Change moreoftenwhenoperaitng undera heavylead oFin highambienttemperatures. 2 - Servicemore oftenwhenoperatingindirtyordustyconditions.

3 - Replacetrimmerlines whenthey haveworn to halftheirodginallength.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this trimmer does not

• Followthe maintenance schedule in this manual.

cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, operator must

maintain trimmer as instructed in this manual.

BEFORE EACH USE

1. Check engine oil level.

2. Check for loose fasteners.

3. Clean under engine cover.

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

LUBRICATION

To prolong the useful life of your trimmer, change engine oil as recommended in this

section of Owner's Manual.

section of this manual.

• At least once a year, replace the spark plug and replace air filter element. A new spark plug and clean/new air filter

element assure proper air-fuel mixture and help your engine run better and last longer.

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.

TRIMMER

Always observe safety rules when per- forming any maintenance.

TIRES

• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect control chemicals which can harm rub-

ber.

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

TRIMMER LINE

For best results, replace trimmer lines

when they have worn to half their original

length. Use .155 inch diameter trimmer line. Cut new trimmer line length to 18-3/4

inches. After new line is installed on

trimmer head, check all lines so they do

not vary more then one (1) inch in length.

This is important to make sure the trim-

mer head is balanced and will not vibrate

abnormally. _WARNING: Use only the specified

trimmer line. Do not use other materials such as wire, string, rope, etc. Wire can

break off during trimming and become a

dangerous missile that can cause serious

injury.

TO CUT LINE TO PROPER LENGTH

NOTE: Trimmer line pre-cut to proper length is available for this unit; see the Repair Parts section of this manual. If trimmer line is purchased in bulk, it must

be cut to 18-3/4 inches before using. Use

the built-in length guage as follows:

1. From front of trimmer, place the end of spooled trimmer line at the mark on the

side of the debris shield as shown.

2. Wrap trimmer line around front of chas- sis cover to other side and cut at the

"22" mark (your unit's width of cut).

REPLACE TRIMMER LINE

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

2. Remove worn trimmer line from line carrier plate.

3. Fold new, cut to length, trimmer line in half and insert folded end through

carrier plate opening to back side of retainer clip.

4. With folded end of line at back side of retainer clip, pull line outward until line

is fully seated under the retainer clip.

5. Repeat on other side of carrier plate.

6. Check all lines to be sure they are the same length.

7. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.

Trimmer

line

Chassis cover

WRAP

LINE

a,ROUND

Debris New

shield End of trimmer

mark spooled line line

Carrier plate opening

Retainer

clip

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.

SAEWSCOS_T¥GRADES

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°E 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 unit

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 trimmer 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 trimmer on its side as shown and drain oil into a suitable container. Rock

trimmer back and forth to remove any oil trapped inside of engine.

Containe_

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

5. Fill engine with oil (See "ADD Oil" in the Operation section of this manual).

6. Replace engine oil cap.

7. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark plug.

AIR FILTER

Your engine will not run properly and may

be damaged by using a dirty air filter. Replace the air filter 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.

_kCAUTION: 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.

4. Install cartridge, then replace cover

making sure the tabs are aligned with

the slots in the back plate. Fasten

screw securely.

Back

Cover

Cartridge Cover tabs

MUFFLER

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

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

trimmer free of built-up grass and trash. Clean the underside of your trimmer after

each use.

ACAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire

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

• Turn trimmer on its side. Make sure air filter and carburetor are up. Clean the

underside of your trimmer 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 trimmer unless the elec-

trical system, muffler, air filter and car-

buretor are covered to keep water out. Water in engine can result in shortened engine life.

+ 28 hidden pages

Craftsman 917773705 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual