Craftsman 917773754 Owner’s Manual

Owner's Manual

CRAFTSMAN°

E I

6.75 Horsepower

Inch Cut

Model No. 917,773754

Espahol, p. 18

Read and follow all

Safety Rules and instructions before operating this equipment.

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

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

U.S.A.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 VVeedtrimmer 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

_,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.

_t, Look for this symbol to point out

important safety precautions. It means

CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!!

YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

_,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.

AWARNmNG:Engineexhaust,some

of itsconstituents,andcertainvehicle

componentscontainor emitchemicals

knownto theStateof Californiato

causecancerandbirth defectsor other

reproductiveharm.

A CAUTmON:Mufflerand otherengine

partsbecomeextremelyhot during operationand remainhotafterenginehas

stopped.Toavoidsevereburnsoncontact,

stayawayfromthese areas.

L GENERAL OPERATmON

* 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 wMle 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.

H. SLOPE OPERATmON

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 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.

Ill.CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur ifthe opera- torisnotalertto the presence of chil-

dren. Children are often attractedto the machine and the trimming activity.Never

assume thatchildrenwillremain where

you lastsaw them. ,,Keep childrenout ofthe trimming area

and under the watchful care ofanother

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 yourseff from unexpected hassle and expense.

Here's what's included in the Agreement:

E×pert 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; atso, 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 e×ciusions apply. For prices and additional information

call 1-800=827=6655.

Sears mnstalmation Service

For Sears professional instal/aden 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: 1.25Quarts(UnleadedRegular) OilType(API-SF-SJ): SAE30 (above32°F);SAE5W-30(below32°F) OilCapacity: 20 Ounces SparkPlug(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.

mlVlPO RTA NT: This trimmer is shi pped 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

HOW TO SET UP YOUR TRHVlMER

TO UNFOLD HANDLE

HVIPORTANT: 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 into place 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.

Upper handUe

Bottle of oH

REMOVE TRIMMER FROM CARTON

1. Remove loose parts included with 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.

Trimmer Lines (2) Sets

(0,155 diameter

x 18.75 inches long)

UFT UP

Handle

knob

Lower

handle

KNOW YOUR TRmMMER 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

AVOIDSERIOUSINJURYORDEATH

CAUTION ENGINE OFF

their meaning.

FAST SLOW

FUEL OIL

Throttb controU

Starter handb

Handb knob

Engine oil cap w/dipstick

mMPORTANT: This trimmer is shipped Trimmer line

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 controU bar

Gasoline cap

Engine cover

Air fluter

Primer

Muffler

cover

Trimmer head

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.

SAFETYGLASSES

The operation of any trimmer can result in foreign objects being 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 recom- mend standard safety glasses or a wide

vision safety mask worn over spectacles.

HOW TO USE YOUR TRmMMER ENGmNE SPEED

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

FAST position is for starting and normal trimming. SLOW is for light trimming and fuel economy. STOP is for stopping the engine.

TO ADJUST TRmMMmNG HEmGHT _CAUTmON: 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

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.

Adj

Trimmer

Head

Locking PUateTab

SLOW

FAST

TRIMrvIER 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. A CAUTmON: DO NOT overfill engine with

oil, or it win 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.

ADDGASOUNE

• 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.

A CAUTmON: Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline

near an open flame.

_CAUTmON: 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 handb

Gasoline filler cap

Engine oil cap

TO STOP ENGmNE * To stop engine, move throttle control

lever to STOP position.

TO START ENGmNE

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.

• 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, fiowerbeds

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.

MAINTENANCE

FILL IN DATES /__ _(b_'_. _'£._ _r AS YOU COMPLETE /__O_'J SE.RVICE

REGULAR SERVICE /__'/%'4 _"y%" 4¢,.,_/_/" DATES

T Check for Loose Fasteners

R Clean Trimmer

M Clean Under Engine Cover 1_2

v' v'

Check Drive Belt / Pulleys

R Check / Replace Trimmer Lines 1_3

Check Engine Oil Level V'

E Change Engine Oil I/'1,2

Clean Air Filter ll_ 2

II Inspect Muffler I_

Clean or Replace Spark Plug Replace Air Filter Paper Cartridge 1_2

1 - Change moreoften when operating under a heavy load or inhigh ambient temperatures. 2 - Service more often whenoperating in dirty or dusty conditions.

3 - Replace trimmerlines when they have worn to half theiroriginal length.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS

The warranty on this trimmer does not

,, Follow the 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.

Alwaysobservesafetyruleswhenper- formingany maintenance.

TmRES

Keeptiresfreeof gasoline,oil, or insect controlchemicalswhichcan harmrub-

ber. Avoidstumps,stones,deepruts,sharp

objectsand otherhazardsthat may causetire damage.

TR(MMERL(NE

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.

AWARNmNG: 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).

TO REPLACE TRIMMER LINE

1. 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

\ROUND

Debris New

shield End of trimmer mark spooled line line

Carrier plate

opening

clip

LUBRmCATmON 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 VISCOSITY GRADES

NOTE: Although multi-viscosky oils (5W30, 10W30 etc.)improve starting in

cold weather, these muki-viscosity oils will

result in increased oil consumption when used above 32°R 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,

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 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.

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

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

6. Replace engine oil cap.

7. Reconnect spark plug wire to spark

plug.

AIR FmLTER Your engine will not run properly and may

be damaged by using a dirty air filter. Re- place the air filter every 100 hours of op-

eration or every season, whichever occurs first. Service air cleaner more often under

dusty conditions. Do not wash air filter. TO CHANGE AIR FILTER

1. Remove the air filter by turning clock- wise to the stop and pull away from

collar.

2. Remove filter from inside of cover.

3. Clean the inside of the cover and the collar to remove any dirt accumulation.

4. Insert new filter into cover.

5. Put air filter cover and filter into collar aligning the tab with the slot.

6. Push in on cover and turn counter- clockwise to tighten.

Collar

Clip

TURN CLOCKWISE

REMOVE

Slot

Air filter

Tab

Air filter cover

CLOCKWISE TO TIGHTEN

TURN

COUNTER-

Container

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.

HV1PORTANT: For best performance, keep

trimmer free of built-up grass and trash.

Clean the underside of your trimmer after

each use. ACAUTmON: Disconnect spark plug wire

from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in contact with the 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 gar- den hose to clean trimmer 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.

CLEAN UNDER ENGmNE COVER Clean under engine cover before each

use, or more frequently in heavy cutting or dirty conditions. Engine cover screen and engine air intake screen must be kept free

of dirt and chaff to prevent engine damage from overheating. Be sure engine is cool before cleaning.

1. Unscrew knob on top of cover.

2. Lift cover up and away from engine.

3. Clean cover and cover screen thor- oughly.

4. Clean top of engine and air intake screen.

5. Replace engine cover and tighten

knob securely. Be sure the front tabs of

engine cover are located in the slots in engine housing.

Knob

Engine cover

Starter rope

Threaded stud

Engine

cove r

screen

Air intake screen

Housing slots

+ 28 hidden pages

Craftsman 917773754 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual